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The "stunning" (LOL) conclusion to the Merquise saga. The story that took forever to write... Woo-hoo! Wow I'm being less than creative tonight. Enjoy the story. Feedback is always welcome.

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Thunder rumbled over the Amazon Island. Something quite unusual… not like the normal weather at all. Rain blew in through the window of Rae's tiny cell. She slammed it shut. Rae was in her final hours of solitary confinement. Being alone for a month had already changed her. Though she had a lot of time to think…everything was still mixed up in her mind. Rae had not fought her imprisonment. This surprised the amazons and even herself. The Amazons… sometimes Rae wondered what they thought. The most obvious answer would be that she was a traitor. She looked out of the window. They were right, she knew. After all, she had risen against Queen Cyan in order to protect that innocent man's life. She had been the one who caused all of that family's suffering. Why should they have to suffer even more? Rae felt in her heart that she had done the right thing. She didn't have to use weapons either. Weapons… would she ever pick one up again? Rae's feelings were confused now. She felt that she shouldn't pick up any weapons anymore. Perhaps it was Dave's influence. Rae remembered the bloody battlefield. So many people that she cared for had already died. Her mom, Dave, Loa. "Loa…" Rae whispered. "My friend who betrayed me. Yet I forgave you. I still do." The Amazons would be coming for her soon. Coming to let her out…into the world again. The cruel world. The legend that she couldn't control. Just like Loa. "Why the Hell did you leave me? I helped you! I helped you!" Rae screamed, her voice bouncing off the walls of the small cell. Her head was pulsing, her heart beating fast… and her right hand was hurting for some strange reason. Was she loosing her sanity? What was happening to her? Rae screamed again and suddenly drew her right arm back. Without thinking, she slammed the window with her fist. It shattered into millions of pieces. Rain began to pour into her cell once again. Rae sank to the ground, tears in her eyes. She held up her right hand. It dripped with blood… The blood slowly dripped down her hand…down her arm…and to the ground. Drip…drip…drip… Rae held her wounded hand over her heart and cried. They would be there within an hour… What would become of her then?
It was only a few hours later when two Amazon guards opened Rae's cell. The girl looked up at them with shadows in her eyes. They looked at each other, speechless. She looked deadly…dangerous. Yet Rae didn't attack. "It's time?" she simply asked. "Yes," one of them said. "Come on." Rae obeyed the two guards as they led her to the throne room. Queen Cyan was there as well as Olympia, the Enforcer. Cyan frowned when she saw the warrior…or ex warrior as Rae now claimed to be. "What happened now?" Cyan asked, eyeing Rae's hand. "I punched the window." Rae said, very matter of factly. Cyan sighed and shook her head. Olympia spoke. "You will have to pay for the repairs of the window…" "Very well," Rae replied. "Money is of no worth to me. Take all of my money for all that I care. I am through with you. May I go now?" "Go on Rae," Cyan said quickly. Rae bowed her head slightly and left the room. "My queen, I will not let my subordinates speak to me…or you like she did. She will be punished." "No, Olympia. She's suffering her own punishment now. I don't think that any punishment from us would make any impact on her. There's something wrong. Since she returned from that 'great war' as she calls it, she's been different. Let her be. We'll see what happens…"
Once out of confinement, Rae ran in the rain. She laughed, almost happy to be free. She ran all the way to her hut. It felt great to be able to run again…to be able to live. When she entered the hut she found Teflic (in his human form). "Rae!" he shouted and hugged her fiercely. "I've been waiting for you all of this time. Are you all right?" "I'm ok. What's wrong? "The legend Rae… I think that it's going to come true." "What?" "I can't be sure. I had a vision. You and Iber…died together." "How can that be? He's supposed to kill me, I thought." "I don't know what to make of it. I don't know what we must do now. What's this?" He took her bloody hand in his. "I smashed a window. My head was throbbing. I couldn't control it." "Gods…" "And my right arm has been hurting constantly for a while now." Teflic sat down. "What can I do now? I'm supposed to protect you, but I don't know where to turn." "We're in this together, Teflic." "Oh, I've got something else for you." "Huh?" "It's from Keith." He handed her a parchment. Rae examined it. "Dear Rae… How are you doing? We've got a new sport here in Orelia now. Please visit soon. I want to show you how the kingdom has prospered. Hope to see you. -Keith." She frowned. "Yeah…that was clear. Well, I guess we should go." "How do you propose to do that? You're under surveillance, Rae. Guards have been watching you. You'll never get to the portals." "I don't need to." "What?" "We are Merquise, Teflic. You know how to teleport…" "I can't. We're going to get in trouble. Now that Cyan knows of my existence… she knows what I can do…" "I don't give a care. I have to leave this place. Something's coming. I need to stop it." "Fine. But this is the only time." "Thank you Teflic."
"I need to learn more of the Merquise legend," Cyan muttered to herself once she was alone. She left the palace for the grand Amazon Library. She sat down with a pile of scrolls that she had found under the "Legends" section. "Merquise legend…" she read. "'In a time of anger and frustration Zeus sent a powerful lightning bolt to earth. That lightning bolt packed such force that it split a huge mountain in half. Over time the mountain wore away until two people were left standing in its place. Each held a sword. One was white and one was red. This was the beginning of the legend of a race of warriors. Warriors that, scholars have said, have the power to overcome any being, including the gods. This power lies dormant until a time of great turmoil is at hand…'" Cyan was silent. "A time of turmoil? How can that be? The gods aren't warring. Mostly everything is peaceful now… What's in store for Rae? I must speak with her at once!"
Meanwhile, Rae was busy throwing things into a bag. Her mother's scrolls about the legend, the pendant from her father, and not one weapon. Suddenly her eyes flickered and she looked up quickly. "Uh oh…" she muttered. "What is it?" Teflic asked. "The queen's coming! I can sense her coming! We need to go now!" She grabbed her bag and Teflic's arm as well. "Come on!" She and Teflic ran from the hut. "I don't understand, Rae! What's wrong?" "I can't face Cyan. I've betrayed Amazon law… I've been insubordinate, but I cannot take orders anymore!" "She trusts you Rae! She'll protect you! You know that!" "I can't put anyone else at risk!" They kept running through the forest until the reached the edge of the island. "We have to go to Orelia, Teflic," Rae said, gasping for air. Teflic never saw her like this… "You're afraid Rae? Weak… You're sick aren't you?" Rae nodded and burst into tears. "I don't know what it is, Teflic, but I keep getting this feeling deep in my soul. It aches… I think it's something with my legend. Pain keeps shooting up my right arm. And something is calling to me. It's telling me that I have to leave for now…and that I may not return. I'm afraid of it, but I cannot endanger the amazons!" "I understand. If I transport us off island, will you eventually return to talk to Cyan?" "Of course. Perhaps she'll be someone I meet on the journey." "All right then. Let's go." Teflic took Rae's hands into his own. He began to chant in an unknown language. It was the secret language of the guardians, and only they could chant it. Rae closed her eyes as she felt her surroundings bend…and change.
Cyan knocked on the door of Rae's hut. "Rae? Are you there? Teflic? Hello?" She opened the door and peered inside. The hut looked as if a tornado had hit it. Papers were everywhere. There were a few drops of blood spattered around the room…most likely from Rae's hand wound. It definitely looked as if something strange had happened in a short period of time. Cyan quickly walked to Rae's trunk and opened it. Her soldier uniform was still there as well as all of her weapons. "Where is that girl," she muttered. She scanned the hut once more and left it. Cyan searched around the island. The academy, the bell tower, the java hut… Rae wasn't anywhere to be found. Later that day, Cyan warily returned to the palace. Olympia immediately noticed this and questioned it. "My queen what's wrong?" Cyan sighed and sat down. "Rae is gone again." "How? That's impossible!" "I don't know, Olympia." "I need to get to my sparring class now." "That's all right. I'll be fine here." Olympia looked at her uncertainly and then left. Cyan put her head in her hands. It had to be Teflic. There was something about him… some hidden power that he didn't speak about. He was more than a guardian, Cyan was sure. But now Rae was nowhere to be found and Cyan was getting upset about that. True, she didn't know much about the Merquise legend (nobody did), but she had been through enough to know that Rae was standing on the edge of something crucial. "I wish I could help you Rae," Cyan said. "I really wish…that there was something that I could do."

Rae felt the wind blow through her hair as her surroundings melded into the kingdom of Orelia. Teflic was beside her, looking around the city. "We should go find Keith first," she told him. He nodded. "I think so too. Besides, I'm rather curious about this new sport that he mentioned in his letter." "Make way! Make way!" shouted a voice. "What?" Rae muttered and looked around. "Make way for the royal parade!" Teflic took Rae's hand and pulled her to one side of the street. A crowd had begun to form. Rae peered around the people. "What's going on?" Teflic asked. "I don't know yet. Nothing's happening…" Then men in armor began to march by. Some walked, while others rode horses that were just as dressed up as the men. Trumpets blared as they walked. "Make way for the king and the champion!" "The king!" Rae said, a hint of excitement in her voice. And there he was. He was riding on a white horse. Another man with dark hair and dark eyes rode beside him. "It's Keith, let's go!" Rae said to Teflic. "I'm right behind you." Rae and Teflic maneuvered through the crowd. "Keith!" she shouted, once she was sure that she was close to him. "Keith!" He looked in her direction. She jumped up and down and waved. Meanwhile, Teflic sighed. Rae seemed to change moods more and more lately. First she was desperate and depressed… now she seemed lighthearted once again. Keith had now caught sight of them and halted the entire parade. "Rae, is that really you?" Rae laughed and ran to him. Teflic followed. Keith caught Rae in a long embrace right in front of his people. "I'm so happy to see you again. Thank you for coming to visit," he whispered in her ear. Then he smiled at Teflic. "Teflic, it's good to see you again. You've been well, I presume?" "Hello Keith. I've been doing just fine," Teflic said, and smiled. "I've been having a rough time," Rae told Keith. "But I wanted to see you." "Let's get this parade moving!" Keith called. The parade began to move again. Keith walked beside his horse with Rae and Teflic. "Where is this parade headed?" Teflic asked. "Glad you asked. We're going to the arena. You two are just in time for that sport I was speaking about. It's called jousting. It's becoming quite popular." "Sounds interesting." Keith eyed Rae. "You have changed. The soldier outfit…" "I'm not into war anymore. I was hurt deeply in my last battle." "So…would you object to a sport with weapons?" She looked into his eyes. "I can't stop the world from playing with war. I can only stop myself." Keith was silent, but then turned to the man who had been riding beside them. "Lord Deveion, these are my good friends, Rae and Teflic." The man nodded to them. "Rae, Teflic… this is Lord Deveion, the champion of the joust." Rae moved so that she could walk beside the champion's horse. "You're the champion? So you're really good then?" He looked down at her. "Yes, I am." "Whatever," came a soft male voice from behind them. "Shhh, you'll get us in trouble again," said a female voice. Rae glanced behind her. Two teenagers, younger then she, were walking behind them. "Who are they?" she asked Deveion. "Them? Oh those two. They are my squires." "Shouldn't they be right here by your side?” "They are not worth even that," he replied. Rae raised an eyebrow and dropped behind to walk with the two teens. "Hello," she said cheerfully. The two cast her a doubtful glance. The boy had sandy blonde hair and blue eyes. The girl had short auburn hair and brown eyes. Both were dressed in breeches and tunics of Deveion's colors. "What do you want?" the boy asked. Rae was taken aback by his tone. "I'd like your names, if that's all right." The girl leaned over to the boy. "I think we can trust her. There's something good about her." The boy nodded. "My name is Basel. I'm fourteen years old. This is my first year as a squire." "My name is Lina. I'm also fourteen years old. This is my second year as a squire." "Two years? Why is that?" "Because many people don't believe that a girl can become a knight. But I'm going to so that I can support my family. I don't care what anybody thinks of me!" "I think that you're on the right track then," Rae said. "What do you know about it?" Lina asked. Rae looked down at her palm. "Oh plenty. Believe me when I say that." They neared the arena. "Rae, come back up here," Keith called. Rae smiled at the two squires. "I hope to see you guys later." "Ok," they simply said. Rae joined her friends once again. "Nice kids," she said. Teflic just nodded. Rae had grown up so quickly that he often forgot that she was only a few years older then those two squires. They reached the arena and Keith led Teflic and Rae to the royal box. They sat and Rae scanned the arena. "So… what's the deal with this?" she asked. "Just watch," Keith told her. Trumpets blared. Rae watched as Basel walked across what seemed to be the "playing field" (it was more like a circle full of sand). He faced the royal box. "Your Majesty, announcing the number one knight, Lord Deveion of Mendlin." Lord Deveion was on one side of the field. His armor shined as he sat up on his magnificent horse, a spear in one hand. Another knight came riding out to the middle of the field. "Your highness, I have nobody to announce me. Therefore, I am announcing myself as Kael of Evare, a newcomer to your kingdom." He rode back to his post. Keith nodded and waved his arm. It was time for the joust to begin. The men kicked their horses and began riding toward each other. Rae caught on quickly. "They're going to hit each other!?" She asked Keith, her eyes clearly upset. She turned just in time to see Kael take a hit from Deveion. "He could be killed!" "That's the sport, Rae." "Oh, I see. You like to watch people kill each other for sport?" "No!" "Well then, what do you call it?" Deveion hit Kael again. "Two hits!" shouted a man, presumably the announcer. Rae felt her blood boil. This was not right. But then Teflic placed a hand on her shoulder. "Please be calm. Nobody will get killed. This is all in fun. These men do this because they want to, not because they are forced to." Rae realized that she might have been overdoing it, but cringed anyway when Deveion hit Kael a final time. "Three hits in a row! Lord Deveion wins this match! We will now break and resume tomorrow." "Are you all right now, Rae?" asked Keith. "Yes. I'm sorry that I jumped your case." "Let's got congratulate the winner." The three made their way down to the knight's area. "Lord Deveion, congratulations on your victory," Keith said. "Thank you, your majesty." Teflic joined in on their conversation. Meanwhile, Rae went to the two squires. "I guess that was exciting. Did you enjoy yourselves?" she asked. Basel was rubbing his arm as if he was sore. "Yes, it was a good match." "Are you hurt?" Rae asked. Basel's eyes widened. "No, no! I'm fine!" he said quickly. Lina glanced at Rae and Rae gasped. "Where did you get that bruise on your cheek? It wasn't there before!" "I tripped and fell. I hit my face." "Are you all right?" "Yes, don't worry about me." "Basel! Lina!" came the sharp voice of Deveion. "Get back to work or else you will do double duty! Do not dawdle or disobey me!" The teens' eyes widened and they quickly scurried back to work. Rae narrowed her eyes. Something wasn't right about Deveion. She got a bad feeling from him. Then she heard the clanking of armor. Rae turned to see Kael, the defeated knight, walking stiffly with his horse. "Sir Kael?" she called and walked over to him. He looked up and Rae could not help but notice his eyes. They were deep brown and looked intelligent. "Who are you? What do you want of me?" "My name is Rae. I just wanted to tell you… not to give up. You did well today." "I lost…Rae…" His eyes looked at her quizzically. "What are you staring at?" "I feel as if I know you. But I'm positive that I don't." "I am the princess of the Kingdom of Rough Cove. I have never heard of Evare before though. Where is it?" Kael laughed, his brown eyes sparkling. "It is very far from here. Not many people know of it." Teflic was suddenly at Rae's side. "Keith wants to go now," he told her. "Give me a minute. Teflic, this is Kael of Evare. Kael, this is my friend Teflic." Kael extended his hand and Teflic grasped it. Suddenly Teflic felt coldness in his mind. He stared at Kael for a moment…feeling almost connected to him. But how could that be? "It's nice to meet you," he finally said. "Likewise. That goes for both of you," Kael replied. Rae smiled cheerfully. Teflic hadn't seen that smile in a long time. "We have to go," he whispered to her. "All right." Kael extended his arm and shook Teflic's hand. "I'll see you both at future tournaments?" he asked. "Most likely," Teflic said. Then Kael took Rae's hand. "I'll look for you," he told her. Then he kissed her hand. Rae drew her hand back, a bit shocked. Kael winked at her and then…he was gone. "Hello?" Teflic snapped his fingers in front of Rae's eyes. "Huh? Oh! Right, let's go." She began walking to Keith. He smiled when he saw her…that handsome smile that almost made Rae forget what her mission was. But…she couldn't stop thinking about Kael. He was mysterious, but she felt connected to him.
Kael jumped from his horse once he was away from the king and his companions. That girl, Rae… had such a strange energy coming from her. Could she be the one that he was looking for? Was she the one who was destined to release the sacred sword and save his world? Her eyes were beautiful…she was beautiful, he realized. He wanted to see her again. His heart was telling him that he must…
Keith and Rae walked down the halls of the castle. "You've been very quiet," he said. Then he looked at her face. No reaction whatsoever… "Yes, I'm sorry," she said. "Is there something wrong." "All right. I'll tell you. I betrayed Cyan, and…" "You did what?" Keith's voice was shocked. Rae and Cyan seemed to be good friends. What could have possibly happened? "You heard me. I wouldn't fight for the amazons. I'm not fighting anymore." "Why not? I thought that you were a Merquise warrior." They stopped walking and she faced him. "I am. And I'm not going to shed anymore blood if I can help it." "Wait a second. I read a lot of the Merquise legend. War is in your blood, Rae. I didn't think that you could run from it…" "Stop!" "What? What's wrong?" "Everyone keeps telling me that war is in my blood! How can I be at peace if I'm constantly reminded that I've been at war? I've been having visions, Keith! Visions of what might be the future." "And?" "And I'm afraid!" she blurted out. Then she gasped. She had just admitted weakness… something that she had been doing more and more often. "You're not well," Keith finally said, and put an arm around her shoulders. "I'm fine," she replied, her voice still shaky. "Are you well enough to attend a dinner tonight? It's a dinner for all of the knights." "I can make it. Did you tell Teflic?" "He knows." "All right. I'll be there." They walked in silence. Keith kept looking at Rae. He still had feelings for her, but… she was different. He had liked her better when she was…war like. Keith shook his head. He hated fighting, especially since his brother had been killed, but now… Rae seemed almost above him. How could they ever be on the same level again?
Later that day, Rae sat in her room thinking. That dinner was soon and she had promised that she would be there, but now she was rethinking it. "The knights are going to be there. Kael's going to be there…" Rae buried her face in her hands. "What am I doing? I don't even know the guy! I don't feel the same about Keith anymore either. I don't have time to think about this stuff! What's wrong with me?" "Ah, the turmoil of love…" Teflic's voice interrupted. "AH!" Rae fell off of the stool she was sitting on. "You heard that?" "Yeah…" "Geeze, I didn't even sense you coming. There's something so wrong here…" "Rae, I want you to be wary of Kael. I sense something from him, but I can't tell if it's good or bad. Just be cautious ok?" "Yeah. Thank you. I've been so out of it. I can't think about everything at once. The legend…Keith…Kael. It's so confusing." Teflic sighed. "I know. I'm having my own share of problems. It's hard to look out for you, but it's also hard to look out for myself." "Are you all right? Is there something that I can do?" Teflic shook his head, a slight smile on his face. "Just keep going. And watch yourself." "I will." "Do you want to go down to that dinner now." "Not really…" Rae sighed. "But I guess I have to. Come on. Let's go."
Rae and Teflic went to the dinner together. But Rae stopped before the doors of the big banquet hall. "Rae?" Teflic asked. "You go ahead. I'll be in there… in a minute." Teflic rolled his eyes and went into the banquet hall. Rae stood by the wall, her arms folded. "I need to go in… I don't want to go in… I need to go in!" "Hi Rae!" Rae turned to see Lina and Basel. "Hi you guys. How are you?" "Peachy," Lina said. Rae raised an eyebrow. "Really? From that tone, I'd say that things are far from peachy. Where are you supposed to be?" "Waiting on Deveion. That's what we squires are supposed to be doing anyway." "Don't you get a break?" "No," Basel muttered. "Deveion never cuts us a break. We always have to work. And if we don't, we…" "Basel!" Lina clamped a hand over his mouth. "Shut up!" "Wait," Rae said, growing suspicious. It was quite obvious what was happening with these two squires. "You aren't being treated like nobles at all. You guys are being abused aren't you?" The two squires were silent. Rae saw tears in Lina's eyes and Basel shifted uncomfortably. Rae didn't stop though. "If Deveion is abusing you, you shouldn't be his squires. Knighthood is about chivalry and honor isn't it? How can a knight be honorable if he's abusing his own squires?" "Please don't say anything," Lina said. "Why shouldn't I? This is not right!" "Because you don't know how tough life is for a woman warrior! I've been trying so hard to support my family. Deveion might be cruel, but I get my money." "Lina, I don't think that your family would approve of this type of treatment! They think that you're becoming a honest knight, but you're not." "You don't know how it is, Rae!" Rae grabbed Lina's wrist. "Come with me right now before I make a scene. You too, Basel." "But we'll get in trouble," Basel protested. "No you won't. I'll make sure of it." "Yeah right…" "Just move it," Rae said in a no nonsense tone. She dragged Lina down the hall and Basel followed. "Now look here," Rae said. She showed them her scarred palm. The two squires stared at her hand. Then Basel grabbed it. "By the gods, Lina! Do you know what we're looking at?" Lina shrugged. "Not really. I don't see the point of looking at a scar." Rae rolled her eyes. Basel was completely in awe as he explained the scar to Lina. "That's the symbol of the Merquise. Lina, every knight in training has to know about the legend of the Merquise family." "What are you getting at Basel?" "What I'm trying to tell you is that Rae knows what we're going through. She's a warrior! One of the most powerful warriors on this planet!" Lina turned to Rae, her eyes wide. "You are? No way…" "Believe it, Lina. I've got more scars to prove it." She rolled up her sleeves. "Scars on my arms from sword fights. Scar near my neck from being stabbed… Are you getting the picture?" "I'm understanding." Lina bowed her head. "I'm sorry." "So you see? I'll protect you from Deveion. You deserve better." Rae felt her heart pound as she listened to her own words. She had just promised to protect these kids. Yet she didn't want to pick up a sword. What could she do? "We'd better go to dinner now," she said bravely. "They're expecting us." This time the two squires smiled…the first time that Rae had seen them smile since she had met them.
Rae, Basel, and Lina were greeted with smiles when they entered the banquet hall. The only one who didn't smile was Deveion. He snapped at his two squires and they were by his side immediately. Rae saw fear in their eyes as she sat down next to Teflic. "Where have you been?" he whispered. "I was talking to those two." "Why?" "Lord Deveion is abusing them." "WHAT?" "You heard me. They live in fear. We should put a stop to it." "Are you sure of this?" "Yes. They told me about it themselves." Teflic nodded slowly. "I'll tell Keith," Rae said quickly. "Good idea." Rae got up to go to Keith when someone tapped her shoulder. She turned. It was… "Kael. Hello." "Hi Rae. It's nice to see you again." "It's nice to see you too. I've got important business to attend to. I'll talk to you later." "Right. I'm sorry that I bothered you." Rae smiled. "No, no you didn't bother me." "You're sure?" "Of course." Kael bowed and went back to the table. Rae went to Keith. "Keith there's something important that I want to tell you about." "Yes?" "It's about Deveion's squires, Lina and Basel." "What about them?" "They're being abused." "Do you have any proof?" "They told me." "Rae, you need to have solid proof in order for me to pursue it." "Look at them. Isn't that proof enough?" "I need more." Rae shook her head. "I can't believe it. I thought that you'd understand something like this." "I want to help them if it's true. If you get proof for me then I'll have him arrested." Rae stood up and glared at Keith. "You know, you're trying my patience. I'm going to leave before I get angry." Keith watched as Rae stalked out of the room. He turned to Teflic. "I don't understand what's wrong with her…" "I don't know either." "But you're her guardian. I thought that she tells everything to you." "Keith, there are secrets within Rae that none of us will ever know. There are secrets within us as well. We just have to accept that. I have a feeling that she hasn't been sleeping well lately. You know that she just got out of a month of confinement right?" "Yeah she mentioned it." "I think something happened during the final week. I think that she's on the verge of something untouchable to you or even me." "So you mean that we should just give her space?" "Yes, exactly." Keith turned back to his food. "All right, Teflic. I just hope that she's ok."
Rae didn't go far from the banquet hall. In fact, she went to the stables and hid. Deveion was abusing his squires, and she would do anything to prove it. He was definitely bad news as far as she was concerned. Rae huddled in one of the corners. Everything was so different now, it seemed. She felt tears in her eyes. But when she wiped her eyes she felt something else…blood. Rae gasped. Her right hand was bleeding. "What in Tartarus!" Then she heard voices. She pressed her hand against her shirt to try to stop the bleeding as she peered over one of the walls. "Get in here you two sorry sons of a bacchae!" "Deveion," Rae muttered, but stayed put. "What in Tartarus did you think you were doing with that Rae girl? She's dangerous." "Yeah. Only dangerous to you because she's on to you!" Lina shouted. Deveion's eyes seemed to flare as he swiftly smacked Lina across the face. The blow was so strong that it knocked her to the ground. Then he turned to Basel, who hadn't said a word, and kicked him forcefully. Rae couldn't take it anymore. She had vowed not to fight…with a sword. She had no sword, so now she felt as if she could do something. "Deveion!" she screamed. The man turned quickly and saw Rae standing on top of one of the stables, her shirt bloody and her hand dripping. "You," he growled. "Stay out of my business!" "No!" She jumped down. "You abuse your squires when you know that it's against the laws of the knight." "What do you know about knights?" "Plenty. Lord Deveion, you've met your match right here and right now." Meanwhile Lina and Basel had managed to crawl to each other and were huddled together, their eyes wide. Deveion laughed at Rae. "What can you do? You don't fight…" Rae held up her bloody palm. "You will now surrender yourself to the Merquise warrior." "I would…" Basel whispered. "Shut-up you moron! Imagine me, surrendering to a girl! Ha!" "I warned you," Rae said, and with that, she let loose on him. Deveion didn't have time to breathe. Rae kicked him with great force. He fell to the ground, as Lina had done. Rae shook her head and stepped on him with her boot. "Never underestimate the power of a girl." Then she slapped him hard. "This is for Lina. And that kick was for Basel. If I EVER see you near these squires again then I will kill you!" "Rae what's going on in here?" She turned to see Keith and Teflic standing in the doorway of the stables. "I told you. He was abusing them, and I put a stop to it." Teflic went to the squires and examined them. "She's right. Look here at this red mark on Lina's cheek. And Basel had this bruise." "Guards!" Keith shouted. A troop of men immediately rushed in. "Take Deveion away and put him in the jail right now." The men bowed and took Deveion into custody. Deveion glared at Rae… if looks could kill, she would have been dead. "What happens to us?" Lina asked timidly. Keith smiled at them. "You two will be guests here until you heal. Then I myself will find you a knight worthy of your services. Do you agree, Rae?" There was no reply. "Rae?" Keith asked. "Yeah." "Did he hurt you?" "No…" Rae felt her heart beating… pounding in her ears. Her vision began to blur. Then she turned to her friends, a wild look in her eyes. "I must go!" "What?" Teflic asked. "To find the answer!" Rae ran to the window and jumped through it. "We must go after her! She's endangering herself!" "What about giving her space?" "There are exceptions, Keith! She could get herself killed if she keeps going on like this!" Keith yelled for his men. "Men, get the squires some medical attention. Teflic and I will go after Rae. That's an order!"
Rae ran through the streets of Orelia. A light rain was falling. Suddenly she stopped. "What am I doing out here? I don't even know where I'm going." She tried to shake off the pounding in her head. "I want the answer! Where is it?" She kept running until suddenly…someone grabbed her shoulders. "Go away!" Rae screamed and flipped the person over. "Ow! Geeze…where'd you learn to throw like that?" Rae's heart jumped and she spun around. "Kael?" Indeed, Kael was lying on the muddy ground, a bit out of breath. "Hello again, Rae." Rae's eyes widened. "Gods! I'm sorry. Let me help you up." She pulled him up and he attempted to brush himself off. "You're strong," he finally said. "I….well, yeah. What are you doing out here?" "I was about to ask you the same question. King Keith has formed a search party for you. They're afraid that you might hurt yourself. Looks like you're all right." "Don't take me back," Rae said, panic in her voice. "I wasn't going to unless you wanted me to." "I don't want to endanger them. I don't know what has come over me. I can't tell if it's good or bad. I'd rather be on my own for their sake." "I understand." "You'd better go. I don't want to hurt you again." "No, I've come to help you." Rae eyed him warily. "What are you talking about?" "Rae, I can tell that you've been troubled. It's true that I don't know you, but I feel a presence from you. For example, you haven't been sleeping well lately…" Rae gasped. She hadn't slept well in a week. "I know of an old man on the outskirts of this kingdom. He can cure your insomnia… and perhaps give you some answers." "Why should I trust you?" "Have you had any better ideas?" Rae thought for a moment. Kael was virtually a stranger to her, yet she felt as if she could trust him with her life. "Very well, then. I'll go with you."
Kael led Rae through the streets until they reached the very edge of Orelia. This part of the kingdom was different. It seemed run down, but then again… looks could be deceiving. "Why is this part of the kingdom different?" Rae asked. "It's older. That's all that I know," Kael answered. "Kael, I don't know you at all. Could you tell me a bit about yourself?" "Ok. I'm eighteen years old and I come from a land that nobody can reach." "A land… what?" "Don't worry about it." Rae kept quiet. She didn't want to intrude on his private matters. After all, she hated when people did that to her. "Here we are," Kael said. Rae looked up at the building in front of them. It was made of stone, washed out and gray. But the front window was beautiful stained glass. "Wow," Rae breathed. "It's nice isn't it? But look… you think that it's beautiful, but look at the actual picture." Rae took a closer look. Two people were floating in the sky. Both had a sword through their hearts. "Gods! Why is it…that?" Kael shrugged. "This man believes that he has seen the end of the world. This is what it looks like according to him." "That's kind of strange," Rae admitted. "It's frightening though. This man has predicted things before that have come true. Strange or not, this guy might be able to help you." "Well then let's go talk to him." Kael knocked on the door. After a few moments, the door opened slowly revealing a man in long dark blue robes. His eyes were brown, as was his hair (plus a few gray streaks). "Knight Kael, it's good to see you again. What are you doing here at this time of night?" he said. "Hello Sperous. This is my friend Rae. She needs some direction." Rae smiled. "Hello sir." "It's nice to meet you, Rae. Please, both of you come in before you get soaked." Kael and Rae entered the house. Rae gasped. "It's beautiful!" The room was full of ornate couches and candles. The colors of the room were soft and comforting. Rae felt at home for some reason. "Sit down," Sperous said. "And tell me, what is troubling you?" "I feel as if something is coming," Rae said. "My right arm has been aching unnaturally. I haven't been sleeping well either." "Then the first thing you must do is sleep. I can hypnotize you… Perhaps the answers will begin to come to you if you clear your mind." "What do you think?" Kael asked. Rae was a bit nervous. But she needed an answer. "I'll do it," she said. "Lay down," Sperous instructed. Rae obeyed. "Close your eyes. Listen to my voice…" Rae closed her eyes slowly. "You will now drift off to a world of slumber. You feel peaceful… You feel free… The answers are all there if you know where to look…" Then he began to chant. Rae felt herself slip away into darkness. Something was coming.
Rae opened her eyes. She was standing on a stony plain. Everything was gray. She was dressed in a light purple gown, streaked with silver. "I've been here," she muttered. "Of course you have," said a voice. Rae turned. "Iber Finely? You again?" "Rae Merquise, you know that I can't stay away from you." Rae gasped. He looked different. He was dressed in black armor, trimmed with gold. He took a step toward her. "What's happening Iber? Something's going to happen." "I'll tell you what's going to happen! I'm going to kill you before the next full moon." "What?" "I've seen the future. I've seen you. And you will die." "It's not true!" "The sword, Rae. Unless you find the sword, you die. Either way, you die." "This must be a premonition…" "Heed my words. I know the legend. One stab saves the world. Two brings complete rebirth." "One stab saves the world. Two brings complete rebirth." "Remember that. I'll be waiting for you." Then he was gone. "Iber! Come back!" No answer. Just more darkness…
"She's been out for a while," Kael remarked. "Can't you see that there's a war going on inside her?" "There…is?" "Look," Sperous took Rae's hand. "She's the Merquise warrior of the legend." "No!" "Yes." "That's why I felt the connection!" "Connection?" "I was sent to deliver her to the legend." "What? That's impossible. Who sent you?" "I was told… in order to save my world, I must bring back the legendary Merquise warrior." "She cannot go anywhere, Kael. The time of her awakening is at hand. There's a prophecy. The Merquise warrior has another side. That side is sent to kill her. But… it wasn't always that way." "What do you mean?" "If you are truly her deliverer, then you will discover it yourself." Kael crossed his arms and leaned back. "All right then. How much longer is this going to take?" "As long as she needs to rest. She's going to need her strength."
“One stab saves the world. Two brings complete rebirth,” the man with dark hair and dark eyes muttered to himself. He descended upon Orelia in a calm and regal manner. As if he were above everything. Iber Finely was ready for the end. “You cannot stop it, Rae. We cannot stop it. Your life might as well be over now. You will not be able to awaken the sword in time.” He entered the palace. Nobody stopped him. In fact, nobody seemed to be aware of his presence. He walked to the throne room and entered it to find Keith. Keith was exhausted with worry for Rae. His friend had disappeared without a trace. His feelings for her were changing now. He loved her, no question about that, but it just seemed different. However, while nobody seemed to sense Iber, Keith did immediately. “Who are you?” he asked. “I am a friend of Ms. Merquise.” “You know Rae?” “That I do.” “Do you know where she is? She has gone missing.” Iber smiled. “Perhaps. Either way, you’ll find out soon.” He withdrew his sword. “Dark magic,” he whispered. Before Keith could react, a beam of black magic shot from the sword and enveloped him. Iber snapped his fingers and both disappeared from the throne room.
Kael jumped with a start when Rae sat up quickly. He peered at her. Her eyes were glassy and she breathed slowly, as if in a trance. “Hello? Rae? Are you all right?” He knelt before her. She looked at him and blinked. Then she threw her arms around his neck. “Kael! By the gods! That…the end…I think I saw it.” He held her tenderly. “Calm down. What did you see?” “Iber…my slayer. He mentioned a sword. I need to get the sword, but I don’t know where to find it. He told me that one stab will save the world and that two will bring rebirth. What does that mean?” Kael stood and pulled Rae to her feet. “You’ve been sleeping for three days now. The Merquise legend will come true.” “But what’s going to happen?” Kael shook his head. “I don’t know, but I’ll help you find out. Come. We must get back to the palace.” Rae nodded. Sperous entered the room. “Ah, you’re awake. Did you find what you were looking for?” “I believe that I did. Thank you, sir.” The man smiled kindly. “Be off, both of you. You’ve got a lot of work cut out for you.” The two left the house. Once they were gone Sperous snapped his fingers and transformed…into Zeus! “More work than you’ll ever know. The legend will not happen now. It’s too late. The sword shall not be received.”
Keith awoke; his head ached as if a ton had been dropped on it. “Where am I?” he groaned. Iber appeared in front of him. “You’re in Orelia’s tower.” “What have you done? Why have you kidnapped me?” “You’re the test.” “What are you talking about?” Iber leaned against the windowsill. “You’re part of Rae’s test. I was told to find you and bring you here. If Rae passes the test then she’ll receive the sword.” “Sword?” “The Merquise sword. However,” Iber faced Keith again, his eyes dark. “I will make sure that she does not receive it. If she does, our fates are all sealed.” “What do you mean by that?” “You just sit back and relax, your highness. It’ll all be over soon.”
"Oh!" Rae stopped running and Kael looked back at her. She looked scared. "Is something wrong?" "Yes. Something has shifted. There's a change. Can't you feel it?" Kael closed his eyes. "I can't…I don't know. What happened?" "He's here," Rae whispered. "Iber's somewhere in this city. I just know. Why has everything become so silent? Why has the sky clouded over so suddenly? It's him, Kael, it's him!" "Well, where is he then?" "I don't know. We need to get back to the palace now!" Rae began to run and Kael followed. She didn't stop to rest. She didn't even break a sweat once they had reached the palace. Lina and Basel greeted them. "Where have you been?" Lina asked. "Everyone has been looking for you," added Basel. "I'm sorry for worrying you guys," Rae said quickly. "But something's wrong. Where's Keith?" "That's the other thing," Lina said. "He disappeared." Rae's eyes went wide and she turned to Kael. "I told you! I…" Suddenly Rae cringed in pain. "Rae?" the three asked. Rae rotated her right arm slowly. "It's just sore. Must be a cramp. Where's Teflic?" "Right here." Rae looked up to see Teflic. Something in his eyes sent a chill down her spine. Never had he looked at her so coldly before. "Where were you? I went through Tartarus not knowing what might have happened to you! And you!" he turned to Kael, "If you were with her, why didn't you bring her back? Or at least inform us that she was all right!" "It's my fault," Rae said. "I told him not to." "Why Rae? What's gotten into you?" "Come with me." Rae took Teflic's arm and pulled him away. "I felt a change in something. Iber's here," she told him once they were away from the others. "So you felt it?" "Of course." Teflic sighed. "That's why I was so worried. About a day ago I felt his presence. Knowing that you had disappeared…and knowing that he's somewhere around here made me nervous. I'm just glad that you're ok. But…" "Keith has disappeared? Lina just told me. When did this happen?" "It was discovered late last night." "Iber must have him." "My thoughts exactly." "So what do we do? I assume that he left no trace…" "You're right." Rae nodded. "We'll find him. We'll find him if it's the last thing that I do." Iber watched as the two walked back to join their friends. "If it's the last thing you do, Rae? Oh believe me, it will be…"

Later That Evening…

Rae sat in her room watching a storm brew outside her window. Teflic also sat quietly, reading a book. "We need a clue," Rae finally said. "A hint…anything." "Not a trace," Teflic sighed and continued reading. The storm clouds twisted and swirled. Thunder rumbled in the distance as lightning flashed across the darkened sky. Suddenly the lightning twisted into… "What in Tartarus! Teflic, come quick!" Teflic dropped his book and joined Rae at the window. "Did you think of something?" he asked "No look!" Lightning cracked across the sky again. "By the gods…" Teflic whispered. "Did it just say what I thought it said?" "Yes." Sure enough, the lightning had formed into words. It was a message for Rae. And she read it aloud, just to make sure that it was real. "Rae Merquise, you know who this is. I've got the king and the test awaits you. Visit soon, for I am an impatient man." She rubbed her temples. "That's just great, but where," she muttered. The lightning flashed again. This time it brought a large tower to Rae's attention. In fact, it seemed to illuminate it for a split second. "The tower!" she shouted. "He's in the tower, Teflic! Come on! We have to get the others!"
"The tower?" You're certain?" Kael asked as he followed Rae and Teflic down the hallways of the palace. “I saw the message in the lightning just as clearly as she did,” Teflic replied. “We’re both certain that Keith must be there.” “What to do,” Rae muttered to herself, not paying attention to her friends. Then she stopped abruptly and faced the two men. “The time is here. We must go now.” “Right behind ya,” Kael said. They were about to leave the castle when they heard Basel shouting, “Wait for us!” He and Lina joined the small group. “I don’t want you two risking your lives for this,” Rae said sternly. “This could mean death, you know. I cannot allow you to come.” “But you must!” Lina shouted. “Yes. We want to become knights! Let us be noble by helping you save the king!” Rae looked at Teflic and Kael. They shrugged. She sighed, a bit frustrated. “All right. Just stay out of trouble.” “Yes!” The two whispered to each other excitedly. Rae rolled her eyes and they left the castle.
“She has accepted the challenge!” Iber shouted maniacally. “How can she accept a challenge if she hasn’t been challenged yet?” Keith asked. “Shut-up! You, a man of a small mind, could not understand! She has unknowingly accepted fate’s challenge.” “You’re insane.” Iber glared at Keith, fire in his eyes. “I am not insane. I’m Iber Finely. Get used to it.”
“The tower! We’re here!” Rae ran to the base of the stone tower. “It’s going to storm badly,” Basel said. “Are you sure that we should be here?” Lina asked. “If you two are going to be knights, you must learn to face your fears,” Teflic told them. The two nodded and stared at the tower in awe. “How are we going to get in? There’s no door,” Kael said. “Great,” Rae groaned. “This is just like Iber. No door…hmmm…” she walked around the tower, examining its details. “There are windows up there. And there’s only one way up. The vines.” “Are you insane?” Kael practically screamed. “Those are thorny vines. You’ll tear yourself up if you try to climb them.” “And do you have any better ideas?” Rae snapped. Kael was silent. “Teflic?” Rae asked. “I see no other way up. I suppose that you should try it.” Rae nodded. “Good. You all must stay here then and keep watch. I’m going up by myself.” She walked over to the stone wall and glanced up, measuring the distance. “Are you sure about that?” Teflic asked. “I am. This is my fight, you know. I’ll be fine. I’ve climbed the bell tower plenty of times. This’ll be nothing. Well, perhaps I’ll be a bit cut up once I reach the top, but in the long run…” “I understand,” Teflic replied. “And so I bid you good luck, Rae. If we find another way in, we’ll meet you up there.” “Right. Thank you.” Rae watched as Teflic went back to the others. Then she looked up. Lightning lit up the sky and the wind picked up. “It’s now or never,” Rae muttered. She found a crack in the side of the tower and began to pull herself up. She was making good time until she reached the middle of the tower. The wall didn’t have as many cracks in it and the thorny vines were dense. Rae knew that she’d have to suffer some pain to get to the top. So she said a silent prayer and continued on. A cry of pain escaped her lips when she landed on the thorns particularly hard. The sharp thorns scraped her arms and some drew blood. But she continued on. Keith was up there. Her friend was in danger. It was her duty, not as a soldier, but as an Amazon to rescue him. No, not even that. It was her duty to herself to rescue him. Finally she reached a window. Struggling and out of breath, Rae hoisted herself over the sill and landed with a thud on the stone floor. A flight of stairs wound up the tower. The tower itself was dark and cold. Rae felt Iber’s presence everywhere. She stood slowly, took a few calming breaths and began to ascend the stairs. The stairwell got narrower and narrower until they finally opened into a room. Rae knew that she was at the top of the tower. Then she saw Keith lying on the floor. “Keith!” she shouted and began to run to him. But then she stopped suddenly. Where was Iber? He had to be there somewhere in the shadows. Meanwhile, Keith had opened his eyes and now stared at Rae. She was looking around frantically. “Rae?” he whispered. She raised an eyebrow and then went over to him. “Are you all right?” she whispered. “Did he hurt you?” “I’ll be fine,” Keith replied firmly. “You must tell me if he hurt you! Your life could be in danger if he…” “I assure you that he has done nothing but ignore me and…” “Wait for you!” Rae stiffened at the sound of the voice…Iber’s voice. She turned and found him standing near the steps. “I won’t even ask,” she said. “It’s better that you don’t,” he replied. Rae studied Iber. His eyes were cold and dark. He was dressed completely in black and held a large sword in his right hand. The sword itself was a beautiful red and gold. Iber stared at Rae. “I see that you brought no weapon,” he commented. “You expected me to?” “A Merquise? Of course.” “Well, you’re wrong.” “We’re still going to fight.” “Oh really? It’s not a fair fight, you know.” Iber’s eyes darkened. “I don’t fight fair.” “I thought that you were noble.” “I am. I won’t hurt your friends if we fight. Even if you lose. There will no need to hurt your friends if you lose though…because you’ll be dead!” he laughed at his own words. “How dare you?” Keith spoke from behind Rae. Iber stopped laughing and glared at the young king. “Do not cross me.” “I run this kingdom. I cross whom I please. End this here.” “As you wish, your majesty!” Iber raised his sword to the sky and suddenly a huge blast of dark magic shot from it. The magic hit Keith dead on and the sheer force of it knocked Rae off her feet. “Keith!” Rae screamed. He was unconscious now. Rae faced Iber once again. “All right. We’ll fight. I won’t forgive you!” She charged at him. He brought his sword down on her. “I won’t let my training go to waste,” she hissed through clenched teeth. Despite the large wound in her side, Rae kicked Iber’s hand. He fell back for a moment. They glared at each other, panting heavily. “How does it feel to know that you’re going to die?” Iber asked. “It feels great,” Rae answered. This brought a look of confusion to Iber’s face, which was just what Rae wanted. She kicked him again, but he slashed the sword at her leg and she fell. At that moment she heard a cry of “Rae!” from the stairwell. Teflic, Kael, Lina, and Basel entered the room. Clearly, they had found a way in. Teflic gasped. Rae was fighting again… but still without a weapon. Was she insane? Was she even going to make it? He wanted to run out and protect her, but something stopped him. This was her fight. Something told him that a miracle was about to occur. He came to his senses fast enough to stop Kael from charging Iber. “They have to do this,” he told Kael. “Can’t you feel it?” Kael growled through clenched teeth. “I do. It’s just…hard to watch…” But that was all that they could do. Rae was strong, but not strong enough to win against Iber’s sword. That sword held a power. It seemed to come from a higher source…the gods? Iber slashed Rae to the ground and forced her to stay down with his boot. “You_won’t_win…” Rae whispered in pain. He bent over and looked into her eyes. His eyes met with hers and he studied them for a moment. Then he caressed her cheek. “I’m sorry, Ms. Merquise, but I’ve won. Good-bye. Until we meet again!” He raised his sword to the sky. The tower began to shake violently and the roof began to crumble. “Lightning summon!” The sky cracked in fury and a huge bolt of lightning shot down to the tower… to Rae. To end her life… “Nooooo!” Rae screamed and raised her arms in front of her face. “I can’t lose now!” The bolt of lightning hit. The group by the stairs cried out in anguish, but then stopped. The lightning hit Rae’s palms, but then… Teflic’s miracle occurred. As if possessed, Rae stood up straight. The lightning shot through her body and absorbed into her hands. She felt power…an awesome unexplainable power course through her veins. Iber fell backwards, his sword still in hand. Rae placed her palms together and then spread her arms apart. Then she raised her right arm into the air. The ‘M’s’ on her palms glowed brightly. She reached with her left hand, to her right palm and…a blinding light flooded the room. Everyone but Iber had to look away. When the light cleared Rae had a sword in her left hand. It was a sliver sword and it glowed brilliantly. But that wasn’t the only change… Rae’s attire had changed as well. She was dressed in a soldier outfit once again. It was burgundy and enhanced with gold. She also wore black leggings and black boots. Teflic and Kael collapsed to the ground, holding their heads. The truth was slowly coming. The light finally receded and Rae stared at the sword. I pulled this from my hand! Then she felt a tear in her eye. I’m sorry, Dave. I must fight. However, I will fight nobly and honorably. I will not slaughter mercilessly. Then she looked at Iber. He was shaking visibly, clearly fearful. “I take it that your plans have changed,” Rae said. Iber stood up and clapped. His sword disappeared. “I couldn’t stop it. The end will come now. The next time that we meet will be our day of destiny.” He stepped toward Rae and embraced her. She could have run him through with her sword then and there. But something stopped her. It wasn’t her conscience. Something told her that she needed Iber Finely. “Our day of destiny?” she asked. “My head,” he groaned and pulled away from her. “One stab…saves the world, but two brings rebirth… I…” he disappeared. Then a huge force hit Rae. “Oh!” she dropped to her knees as a wave of nausea washed over her. The sword disappeared into her hand once again. “Some truth will now be revealed,” a voice said.
Rae opened her eyes and found herself, Teflic, and Kael in a huge throne room. “This is the throne room of Zeus!” Teflic said. “You’re right, young guardian,” the voice said once again. Then Zeus appeared in front of the three. “What are we doing here? Why have you brought us here?” Rae demanded. “My dear Merquise warrior, don’t be angered. I will tell you some of your story.” “What?” “Listen. I created your ancestors hundreds of years ago. But when I split that mountain, the Merquise and Finely families were allies, not enemies. Both warriors were chosen to be my guardians. However, there was a feud. That feud resulted in the Finely warrior resigning as a warrior of the gods. So I drained them of their power. But…something went wrong. The Finelys returned one day with as much power as they had always had. This time they had returned to kill the Merquise.” “Why do you tell me this? And what of the sword?” “I tell you this because your soul accepted that sword. The Finely family has a sword of similar power as well. However, the extent of the power is unknown. It is said that once the Merquise and the Finelys receive that sword that they are unstoppable and can eliminate anything and anyone. They are led to a certain place by a guide,” he looked at Kael. “You, young man, are the guide of the Merquise. You lead the Merquise and the guardian to the spot where…something huge will happen. Catastrophic! Chaos!” “But that doesn’t explain why you brought us here,” Rae interrupted. “I brought you here because you have outstayed your welcome as a Merquise warrior. I created you, a monster, and now I shall destroy you!” “WHAT?” Zeus raised his arm. “I banish you with the power of lightning!” “You can’t do that!” Rae shouted and the sword was in her hand. She brought it down and it split the bolt in two. Zeus flinched. “I see now,” Rae muttered. “I can kill you. That’s why you’re afraid. Tell you what. You leave me and my friends alone and I’ll leave you in peace.” “Ha! I…” “Or I can kill you now.” Zeus frowned. “Oh, all right. You realize that if you stay alive the world will end.” “I think I can handle it. Teflic, Kael, let’s get out of here!” The men nodded and the three were teleported from the throne room. Zeus smiled a conniving smile. “I’ll let you be for now, Merquise. But when I make a mess I come back to clean it up.”
Rae, Teflic, and Kael reappeared in the tower. Kael collapsed to the stone floor, head in hands and in tears. Rae stood silently, very shaken. Teflic grabbed Rae into a huge hug and both began to cry. “We’ll be strong, Rae. We always are. Though we’re about to journey into the unknown, I know that we’ll make it and none of us will die.” Rae wiped her eyes and tried to compose herself. Lina and Basel had been attending to Keith and now Rae approached them. “How is he?” “He’ll live,” Basel replied, “But he’s seriously injured and needs medical help.” “And you?” Lina asked, “I don’t know what just happened, but you were awesome!” “I’ll tell you later. Right now we should get Keith back to the palace.” “Right.” The two squires began to hoist the king’s arms over their shoulders. “Let me help,” offered Teflic as he joined them. Meanwhile, Rae went over to Kael and knelt down next to him. “Will you be all right?” she asked. He nodded. He wasn’t crying anymore, but his face was tearstained and he looked somewhat troubled. “It’s silly of me, a knight, to cry like this. But when you received that sword I suddenly knew my purpose, where we have to go, and what might happen.” He shut his eyes momentarily. “But I am forbidden to tell you what’s going to happen. I have to keep it to myself until it happens and then I am to explain it to the world. But I don’t understand any of it right now.” “First of all,” Rae said, “Never think that it’s silly to cry. I thought the same thing once and I almost destroyed myself. Second, I have a feeling that we have a long journey ahead of us and I thank you before hand for being my guide whether you wanted to or not. So where do we have to go?” “North. We must travel by sea first until we get to the city of Teran. Once we get there we’ll receive a map and that will show us the way.” “All right. Let’s get going. Teflic and the others have already started bringing Keith home. I want to make sure that he’s really all right.” They both stood. Suddenly Kael grasped her wrist. “Tell me something before we go.” “Yes?” “Are you in love with Keith?” Rae was silent. She couldn’t seem to find words to express what was going on in her mind. “I don’t know,” she finally said. “Now let’s go. I don’t want to hear one more word of it…”
A day passed since the events in the tower and looked as if Keith was healing well. Rae went to visit him. The sun was bright once again. It was as if nothing had ever happened. “So,” Keith said once Rae was seated at his bedside, “I hear that I missed the great fight.” Rae laughed. “You missed nothing really.” “Not from what I’ve heard.” “Well, I guess you can say that this fight was a bit bigger than others. Anyway, I’ve come to see how you’re doing, but also to tell you something.” “I’m doing fine. I don’t think I’ll be on my feet for the next week though. What else?” “I’m leaving.” “Why?” “The battle in the tower showed me where I must go. I have to leave as soon as possible. Maybe tomorrow morning.” “I understand.” “Keith, do you still love me?” “What kind of question is that?” Rae sighed. “A serious one I guess. Please tell me the truth.” Keith hesitated for a moment. “I’ve been thinking about that. I rushed into things too soon. The truth is, I don’t know. I love you for who you are and respect you greatly…as my friend.” A smile spread across Rae’s face and she stood up. “Yes, that’s what I think of you too.” “But why did you ask?” “I just needed to know. Anyway, I better be going.” Basel and Lina entered the room. “Oops are we interrupting something?” Basel asked. “No I’m leaving,” Rae said. “I mean that I’m really leaving. Tomorrow morning.” The two squires stood in shock. “You can’t!” Lina cried. “I want to go with you! I want to fight like you!” “Lina, you’re a squire. You must follow a knight.” “Come here Rae,” Keith ordered. She turned to him. “Yes?” “Kneel.” “Huh?” “Just do it.” Rae knelt. Keith reached for the sword at his bedside. “Kneel as Rae Merquise. And rise as Sir Rae Merquise, Champion of Orelia.” Rae looked up at him. “Sir Rae Merquise?” “He knighted you!” Lina shouted. “All knights are addressed as ‘Sir’ whether they’re male or female!” Rae looked back at Keith. “Why did you knight me? I haven’t done a knight’s training or anything. I don’t deserve to be a Champion.” “Of course you do. Rae, you are a noble and compassionate person. You put your life on the line for others without question. And you are Champion because you saved these two squires from abuse and me from death. As the king, I say that it can be done.” Keith gestured to Lina. “And now this young squire has no knight to follow. However, I know of one who’s leaving tomorrow morning…” Rae nodded, slowly absorbing everything that just happened. “Lina, would you like to be my squire?” “YES!” Lina jumped into the air, her face beaming. “Thank you so much, Rae. What can I do for you first?” “Nothing. I’m treating you as my equal. You don’t have to serve me. How about you, Basel?” “Actually,” he said softly, “I was thinking about staying here and working for Keith. You know, someone has to monitor his progress. May I, your highness?” “Yes you may.” “Then we must prepare to say our good-byes,” Basel said and turned to Lina. “Let’s go talk.” “All right.” They left the room. Rae followed, but when she reached the door, looked over her shoulder. “You really made their day, Keith. I’m proud of that decision. I really am.”
The next morning came quickly and soon Rae, Teflic, Kael, and Lina were ready to leave Orelia. After saying good-bye to Keith and Basel, they were on their way. Kael informed them that they would have to travel North by ship, and Rae suggested that they go to Rough Cove. They were bound to get on a ship traveling north there since Rough Cove was the largest port kingdom in their region. But Rae had something else weighing her mind. She told Teflic about her thoughts privately and he agreed that she must follow through with her idea…to go to the Amazon Island first. Rae knew in her heart that it wasn’t right of her to run off again and she wanted to sincerely apologize for her deeds. So it was decided that Keith and Lina would go to Rough Cove and Rae and Teflic would meet them there.

Rae and Teflic appeared in front of the palace of the Amazon Island. Teflic didn’t bother to shape-shift back to a dog…there was nothing left to hide now. Olympia and the Amazon guards immediately surrounded them. “What are you doing here Rae?” Olympia asked, her expression cold. “I am here to speak with the Queen. That is all.” “After all of the hell you’ve put us through? I should kill you, but I am above that.” “That is a good thing. It would leave you feeling awfully guilty if you spilt the blood of your Amazon sister on the palace steps now wouldn’t it?” Olympia shook her head. “You’re impossible. I don’t know where you went wrong, but you’re impossible.” “May I see Queen Cyan now? This is important.” “I suppose you can. But mark my words…” “Olympia, I’m sorry all right? I pose no danger to you or anyone here. I’m sorry that I cannot blindly follow you into battle or off a cliff or whatever. I just can’t! We have our differences and there are some things that I can’t change.” Olympia drew a sharp breath and turned. “Follow me.” Rae and Teflic followed her down the grand halls of the Amazon palace. Everything was silent, quite unusual for the busy palace. Finally they reached one of the studies. “My Queen?” Olympia knocked. “Yes?” Cyan’s voice came from the room. “Rae is here. She wishes to speak with you.” “Rae!” Cyan’s tone was a mix of surprise and relief. “Yes.” “Send her in.” “Go,” Olympia told Rae. Rae bowed her head. “Thank you.” She and Teflic entered the room. Cyan was standing by the window, but turned to face the doorway. “Rae…and Teflic? You’ve got some serious explaining to do.” “Yes, I know. But we haven’t much time. I’ll try to tell you what happened, but I’ll elaborate later.” “All right. Sit down.” Rae and Teflic sat and Rae began to relay the events of the past week. “And so you see,” she concluded, “That I’m in way over my head here. I’m so sorry that I’ve been a pain in butt. I’ve done some stupid unexplainable things in the past few months. From senseless killing to almost losing my mind. I just know that it’s all part of this legend…it’s a test.” “I see. Why have you chosen to tell everything to me now? Zeus’ involvement, the sword…?” “Because it all came together now. Everything was in pieces before but it’s only beginning to form into the big picture. That’s where you come in, Cyan.” “Whoa wait a second,” the Queen arched an eyebrow. “What are you getting at, Rae?” “I need you to come north with us.” “I have responsibilities here on the Island.” “I need you, Cyan! If anything happens…I don’t want to leave everyone hanging. I need you to witness whatever may occur where we’re going. Deep in my heart I know that you must be a part of this!” Cyan was taken aback. Rae was asking for her help? That was the first time that Rae had asked anything of the Amazons in months. As Cyan looked at Rae she realized that she was changing. Rae was finally realizing her place? Cyan sighed. “As I was saying…you’re a part of this Island, Rae. You’re a part of my responsibility. Therefore, I will go with you.” Rae couldn’t sit still. She jumped up and hugged the Queen. Cyan hugged Rae back. What else could she do now?
Rae and Teflic left the palace to let Cyan get ready for the trip. When they stepped out of the doors they found a small group of Amazons waiting for them. Rae smiled slightly. “Hi everyone.” Saran stepped forward. “Rae, we know that times have been tough. For you…and all of us.” “I’m sorry,” Rae said. “I didn’t mean to cause so much pain to all of you. I’m on my way to making things right again.” “No, no,” Saran said. “What I wanted to say, and I think that I speak for this group here is that we believe in you, Rae.” “You…what?” “You’ve gone AWOL on us so much,” Rogue spoke up. “But we know that you’re fighting for a cause. We don’t know what that is, but we know that it is a good thing.” “And,” Vicky cut in, “We wanted you to know that we support you.” “After all of this time,” Rae whispered, looking at each of her Amazon family. “You all still consider me as your sister? And you support me?” “You are an Amazon. You were born on this island and raised here as well. Of course we still consider you our sister. Nothing could take that away.” Rae turned and saw Cyan at the top of the palace steps, a bag in her hand. “Now we’d better get going, eh? We’ve got a long trip ahead of us.”
Rae, Cyan, and Teflic appeared on the docks of the Kingdom of Rough Cove. Kael and Lina immediately joined them. Rae did a quick introduction and then set to work on getting a message to her father. Kael and Teflic went to see if any ships were going to Teran. Lina was in awe of the great kingdom and in awe of Queen Cyan. She had been in the presence of kings and queens plenty of times but something about Cyan made her awestruck…like a child again. But the Queen didn’t seem to notice it and was soon chatting with Lina, asking her of her past and whatnot. Lina was easy to talk to, as Cyan noticed, and she was surprised to learn the Lina was Rae’s squire. “Rae was knighted?” Cyan asked the girl. “Yes. His highness, King Keith of Orelia, knighted her for her bravery. She is a Champion and I became her squire.” “I understand,” Cyan replied. Her mind was swirling though. With so many changes happening now, would Rae really stay loyal to the amazons? “Stop that,” Cyan told herself. She remembered that Jade had taught her daughter a big lesson in loyalty. There was no reason for Rae to turn on everyone. After all, she had seemed in need of them. Rae, Teflic, and Kael soon returned. “So what’s the plan?” Cyan asked casually. “There’s a ship going to Teran over at dock number four,” Teflic replied. “It’s mostly for merchants and their cargo. It’s not usually a passenger ship, but we expressed our emergency and the captain seemed willing to take us on,” added Kael. “So let’s go,” Rae said. The group walked to dock four. “I talked to my father,” Rae told Cyan. “And?” “He was concerned for me, but I told him that I was in good company. That reassured him.” “Good.” They reached dock four. The ship there was quite large with sailors working hard on the decks, preparing for the journey. Two boys, most likely in their teens, were watching the sailors. They seemed to have authority over the men, something strange for two younger boys. Rae decided that it would be best to speak to them. “Excuse me!” she called. The older of the two boys came down the gangway. “How can I help you?” “Is this the ship headed for Teran?” “Yes.” “We have some passes to travel on this ship,” she motioned for Teflic to join her with the passes, which he did. He handed them to the boy. “I see. This seems to be valid. I’ll go get the captain to speak with you. Wait here for a moment.” He went back up the gangway and spoke to the younger boy who called out “Captain Lea! Business on the top deck!” The group on the dock watched as a young woman joined the two boys. She was older than the boys, perhaps around Teflic’s age. Her hair was dark brown, almost black with a tint of red. Rae could see her eyes from where she was standing. They were a peculiar shade of blue…like ice. She was tall as well, much taller than Rae, but shorter than Cyan. She wore an outfit similar to the sailors. Rae watched as they boys spoke to her. She noticed that the boys had similar eye and hair color as the girl. They had to be related. Finally the girl nodded and walked down the gangway. “Hello, you are the passengers?” “Yes,” Rae replied. “I’m Captain Claudia Lea.” She extended her hand and Rae shook it. “My name is Rae Merquise. I am…” “The king’s daughter? I know. And your companions?” Everyone introduced themselves and Claudia indicated the ship. “We’re off to Teran soon. I’ll show you some cabins. They might be a bit cramped. I’m sorry, but we don’t usually transport passengers.” “That’s all right,” Cyan spoke up. The Queen had been quiet for a while. “We’re just lucky that somebody is traveling to Teran.” “Our ship travels everywhere,” Claudia simply said. “Sid, Travis!” The two boys who had greeted them earlier joined Claudia. “These are my brothers, Sidney and Travis. They’ll be around if you need them.” “Right Captain,” Travis said. The two went back to working. Claudia led the group below deck and down a narrow hallway. As they walked, Lina decided to break the silence. “Excuse me for asking, Captain, but you seem very young.” “I’m nineteen if that’s what you want to know.” “What I wanted to know was why someone so young is a Captain of a huge ship.” Nobody saw the look on Claudia’s face, but Rae could feel it. Finally she sighed. “It’s a very long story. I inherited the position. Here,” she indicated a few doors. “I hope that these cabins are satisfactory. I’m sorry that I cannot offer you more.” She faced them and smiled brilliantly, despite the tone of her voice. “I must attend to matters above deck. Settle in. We set sail soon.” Then she was gone.
“Well, she seems nice,” Lina said as the three women entered their cabin. “Don’t be too sure,” Cyan spoke up as she set her bag down. “There are many people in this world that put on a smile, but plot evil in the background.” “Why?” Rae asked. “Do you find something suspicious about Captain Lea?” “Yes. But not a bad feeling.” “That’s good. I don’t want a fight to break out. Especially if we’re at sea!” Cyan laughed. Soon they were all settled in…or as settled in as they could be in the tiny cabin. “I’m going above deck,” Lina announced. “It’s cramped in here. And I want to see us cast off!” The ringing of a bell sounded above deck. “I second that motion,” Rae agreed. “Right behind ya,” Cyan said. The three of them went above deck. It was time for the ship to leave Rough Cove.
Rae, Cyan, and Lina soon found that they would not be alone above deck. There were tons of people in fact. Many of them were merchants, on their way to trade in Teran. “This ship seems awfully popular,” Rae commented to Cyan. “I know. I’m trying to figure out why…” “Good luck,” Rae laughed. She scanned the deck. Claudia was studying a map and shouting orders at the same time. She seemed to be very take-charge. Suddenly Rae was picked up…and spun around. “What in Tartarus!” “Guess who!” “Kael! Put me down!” Rae shook her head as her feet hit the deck. “You nearly gave me a heart attack you moron!” He grinned. “Sorry. I just had to do that. The opportunity was too good.” “Where’s Teflic?” “He said he’d be up here in a minute. Said something about not feeling well.” Rae nodded. “Yeah. I don’t think that Teflic’s very seaworthy.” “Wonderful,” Kael groaned, but then smiled again. Rae leaned over the side of the ship and watched as it began to drift away from the docks. “I love traveling on the sea,” she said. Kael came up next to her. “Yeah me too. I’ve heard of this ship before. I’m surprised it’s here.” “Why is that?” “Well, this ship is from Evare.” Rae narrowed her eyebrows. “How do you know that?” “There’s a symbol on the flag. This is the ‘Sinclair.’ I just wonder why it’s here.” “I don’t see the big deal about it. Still, you never told me about Evare. Where is it located?” Kael sighed. “Well, since we’re in this together, I might as well tell you. Evare is in another dimension.” “What! You…dimension traveled to get here?” “Yes. Evare is just like this planet. Earth…Evare…both have many things in common. However, Evare is under attack. I had a dream. It told me to find the legendary warrior from Earth. It told me that I was to guide that warrior through his or her trial and then they would agree to save Evare.” “So what you’re telling me is that we’re connected…and that we’re eventually going to go to Evare?” “I think so. Unless something happens…” Rae’s eyes were wide by then. “Another dimension…that’s amazing!” “I think so too. But you mustn’t tell anybody. Not yet.” “Oh I won’t! But tell me something else. Why is it strange that this ship is here?” “Well, there’s a new law… It basically states that nobody is allowed to leave Evare. I risked everything to come here. I cannot fathom why a ship, captained by a young woman, would even be here. That is, unless she holds the power.” “Power?” “There is a certain group, more like an underground network, of mages that have the power to cross dimensions. I met one and allowed him to send me here. However, those born of mage descent can dimension travel on their own. Still, it is illegal, and if Evare’s soldiers catch this ship…it could get ugly. I’m sure that they can hold off soldiers though. Mages are quite powerful.” “I see. There’s so much to think about now. It’s confusing.” Kael nodded. “What’s even more confusing is here.” He placed his hand over his heart. “I have to make choices on things. Everything is mixed up.” Rae smiled. “Well, I’m always here to talk. I’ve been through a lot.” “I’ll remember that.” “Hey guys!” shouted Teflic from across the deck. He made his way toward them. “How are you?” he asked Rae once he reached them. “Pretty good. And you?” “You know me. I don’t mix well with boats. Ugh…” he clutched his stomach. “This too shall pass…” he muttered. “I hope you’ll be all right. I heard that it takes a few days to get to Teran,” Kael spoke up. “I’ll be fine.” “Meditate,” Rae suggested. “Sounds like a good idea.” Teflic closed his eyes and breathed deeply. Suddenly Rae felt a drop. “What’s this? Rain?” “Strange,” Kael commented. “The skies were blue a minute ago.” “It’s a shift in the balance,” Teflic said. “I can feel it.” Lina and Cyan joined them. “Everyone’s heading below deck. We’d better go too,” said Lina. The group began to make their way below deck. Rae turned momentarily…to see the figure of Captain Claudia Lea outlined against the oncoming storm.
“She’s not going to stay out there,” Rae said to the older of the two brothers, Travis, as she walked with the group of people below deck. “Claudia has her reasons,” he answered, “And I respect them. Captains do strange things sometimes. My father did.” “Do you worry about your sister?” “Of course. And she worries for us. Don’t trouble yourself about Claudia, miss. She’ll be fine.” “You’re her brother, so I’ll take your word for it.” Travis saluted her and went to attend to other matters below the deck. It had since gotten dark outside with the coming of evening and the storm overhead. Rae couldn’t imagine why someone would want to ride out a storm above deck. It was dangerous. With the wind and the waves…it was uncertain as to what could happen. “Compassion for others. I knew that you had never truly lost everything,” Cyan commented. She was sitting on one of the lower bunks when Rae entered the cabin. “I can’t help it,” Rae answered. “I guess there are some things that you never lose. Where’s Lina?” “Poor girl. Seems as if she got Teflic syndrome.” “Seasickness? That sucks.” “I know.” “Cyan, isn’t it dangerous for people to be above deck in a storm? I just cannot comprehend why Claudia would want to be out there at a time like this.” Cyan chuckled. “Rae, you remind me of myself right now.” “Huh?” “Sit down.” Rae obeyed. “Sometimes,” Cyan began, “I am not able to comprehend you or your reasoning. It’s strange. I think I’ve figured everything out and suddenly you pop up with something new. We’re all full of secrets, Rae.” “I…I agree with that.” “For example, I have no idea what this journey is about or why I’m even here.” “I feel the same way, you know.” “I suppose.” “I felt the same way when I went after Loa. I couldn’t comprehend how someone could be filled with so much evil. That is, until I experienced it myself. It’s scary.” “I know. That is why I changed the clock.” “The clock? Are we still on the same subject?” Cyan raised an eyebrow quizzically. “You didn’t know that I changed time? You didn’t realize…” Rae eyed Cyan strangely. “What are you getting at, my Queen?” “I’m not sure if this is a good time to tell you this.” “I’m prepared for anything.” “I turned back the clock. That means…that everything that you went through with Loa did not exist in this dimension.” Rae sprang to her feet, her heart pounding. It couldn’t be true. No. Rae had experienced it. She had felt the heartbreak and loss of her soul. At times she still felt Loa’s daggers and the pain that went with them. She had grown up so much in that time…found her family, learned her strength. And now Cyan was telling her that it never happened? “Are you serious?” she whispered. “You’re saying that the hell I went through never existed?” Cyan nodded. Now Rae felt lost…and angry. “That can’t be true! I lived it!” “Please don’t get angry. It was done…” “For my own good? Is that what you’re going to tell me? Cyan, I trusted you! I thought that you were my ally!” “It was done for your own good and for the sake of the Island as well.” “You’ll put your island before someone’s life? Is that it?” “I’m the QUEEN, Rae! I have to make sacrifices. I thought that you’d understand. I thought that you loved the Island.” “I do! I just can’t believe that you thought it would be all right to erase a part of a person’s life without their consent. It’s not fair, Cyan.” “Rae, let’s talk about this…” “No, we’re through with talking for now. Good-bye.” Rae stormed out of the cabin. “RAE!” “SHUT-UP AND LEAVE ME ALONE!” Cyan was speechless. Rae had never reacted so badly. Fate could be such a cruel cold thing…
Rae had hit rock bottom. There was nowhere else to go…besides up. So she decided to go above deck, despite the storm. She ignored her questioning of the Captain being outside in the storm (if she still was) because right now Rae felt that there was no better place to be. She didn’t care that the wind was chilling and bit right to the bone or the fact that the salty spray brought tears to her eyes. She ignored the violent rocking of the boat as it was tossed from wave to wave as if it were a toy. Instead, Rae went to the side of the ship and looked over into the raging sea. “Poseidon must be in as good of a mood as I am,” she muttered. Then she shook her head. “How could she do this to me? How could they all do this to me…erasing a part of my life as if it were nothing? I trusted them.” The boat shook and Rae gripped the side to keep her balance. The rain was coming down hard now, soaking her to the skin. The waves smashed into the sides of the boat, threatening to swamp it. And then a huge wave crashed over the boat, sweeping Rae off of her feet and …over the side! She couldn’t scream…she could barely breathe. This can’t be the end! I don’t want to die now! I don’t want the rest of my life to be erased…! She heard a faint voice calling out to her and suddenly she was lifted up by the wave and thrown back on deck. How could that be possible? “What do you think you’re doing out here?” asked a voice. Rae breathed heavily, but found the strength to look up right into the eyes of Claudia. Her face was a mix of concern and annoyance. The wind whipped her hair back, making her look wild. “I…” Rae began. Claudia knelt down and grasped her shoulder. “Let me help you up before another one washes over the side.” Rae allowed the young Captain to help her out of harm’s way. “I don’t want to go back below deck,” she croaked. “It’s not safe for you out here,” Claudia replied. “Then why are you here?” “Because I can be.” “How did I get back on the ship? I thought I was going to die!” Claudia sighed. “I got you back.” “But…that’s not possible! Unless…you’re a god?” “No, I’m not.” “Then you’re a mage? Like Kael said?” Claudia was speechless and worry crossed her face for a moment. Finally she spoke. “Yes, I am a mage of Evare. I know that your friend Kael is from there too. I could sense it, just as he could. You mustn’t tell anyone about this. My family is one of the water mages. We have a pact with all gods of water and it gives me the power to control water and ice. That is why my ship survives every storm and I am able to dimension travel without a problem.” “Wow. Can you show me? I mean, I know you saved me, but I didn’t get to see it!” “All right.” Rae watched as Claudia extended her arm and opened her hand. Her eyes seemed to get bluer as she did this. Then she made a swift movement and the rain falling from the sky turned to snow. “Whoa…” Rae breathed. “Are you satisfied?” Rae nodded. “Good. Now tell me why you were out here.” Rae told Claudia of all that had happened. The Captain listened patiently. “That sounds horrible,” she said, “But you must talk it over. Perhaps there was a true reason. You must fight your own battles.” “You remind me of someone I know,” Rae told her. “Almost like…my mother. She was good and wise.” “I’ll take that as a compliment. It’s true that I act older than many people my age. That is because I had to grow up quickly.” “You’re not the only one. Why are you the Captain of this ship? I think you have a secret.” “You’re right. I’ve told you about being a mage, so I’ll tell you the rest. I grew up on this ship. We were a seafaring family, sailing all over Evare. My father was very successful. We come from a city called Deveiona. One day we were home visiting family when I found that my parents had been murdered as well as my older brothers. My father’s dying words were for me to take my younger brothers and leave as soon as I could. That was when I was fifteen. I’ve been traveling all of these years now, searching for the murderers, but I haven’t been able to find them. That is why I began dimension traveling. I know that it could get me arrested or killed, but it’s better than sitting at home and doing nothing. I will find the killer.” “Ooooh…” Rae said, taking in the Captain’s story. “I’ve dealt with some deaths in my life too. It takes so much out of you. How do you stay sane? It’s been so tough for me over the past year…” Claudia looked up into the rain, which was lessening now. “I’m not always cheerful… I’m not always happy,” she said slowly. “But then I get over it. I try to be optimistic for my crew, my brothers, and especially for myself. Yes, there are days when I want to just scream and cry and wreak vengeance on the murderer of my family, but you cannot dwell in your sorrows. It will only bring you down. And…” her face turned a bit serious. “You can’t shut out the people in your life. Whether you like it or not, people care and will try to help you. I learned that. I hope that you understand. I don’t know you very well, but that’s just my advice.” Rae was silent. It was true that she and Claudia didn’t know each other, but the Captain seemed to see straight through her. She seemed to know all that Rae had been through. Especially the part about shutting people out. Rae never wanted her problems to be a burden to her friends and family but…there came a point where she just had to let it all out. “A life without companions, no matter who you are, is a lonely existence. And that’s a fact,” Claudia said, breaking the silence. “It’s like you read my mind,” Rae muttered. “We are very alike.” “I know.” “Let me guess,” Claudia continued. “At one point in your life you just wanted to be left alone…or die. You felt as if nobody understood you at all. Nobody shared your interests. Nobody was on the same ‘wavelength’ as you were, so to speak. Though you had close friends, you got angry with them quickly and you just longed to escape and find someone new. Someone who shared your interests and didn’t mock them. You once had somebody who was very close to you. Though you were similar in some ways you were completely different in others. But that person has left and you feel that you’re alone. Nobody could possibly feel what you feel now…” At that point Rae felt hot tears sting her eyes once again. “You’re right, Claudia. How do you know all this? You just told the story of the past year of my life.” “As I told you, we are very alike. But there’s no time like the present to pull yourself out of the rut that you’re in. I did.” “You did…and I promise you that I will. You’re strong. I was strong for all of the wrong reasons. I’m going to start over and become strong for the right reasons again.” “That’s good. Hey, the rain stopped.” Rae looked around. Claudia was right; the storm was clearing up. People began to wander up from below deck. Rae noticed that the sun was beginning to set on the horizon. Claudia stretched. “Well, it was nice talking to you. I need to go get the crew organized. I hope you consider what I told you.” “I will. And thank you.” Claudia smiled and went to find the crew. Rae glanced around the deck. Kael appeared. He noticed her instantly. “Hey! What are you doing here and…why are you so wet?” “I was out in the storm.” Worry crossed his face. “That’s insane!” “Claudia was here with me. I was fine.” “Good. Cyan was worried too…she was talking to herself in your cabin. I got scared, Rae.” “I’m sorry if I scared you. I have a tendency to do stuff like that.” “Come on. Let’s sit down.” Kael led Rae over to some barrels and they sat. “Rae, I don’t know why but I’ve got this strange feeling. It has been there since the first time I saw you back at the tournament. I don’t know if it’s because we’re connected due to the legend or if it’s something else. I feel as if I know you. I want to protect you and help you out in any way that I can. I’m sorry if this comes as a shock to you, but I just wanted to let you know.” Rae smiled. “That’s the sweetest thing that anybody has said to me in a long time. It’s funny that you should mention it though because I feel the same thing. Perhaps it is the legend.” Kael glanced up at the darkening sky. “Perhaps it is. Anyway, dinner is soon. I’m hungry. Wanna go get something to eat?” “Sure!” Rae jumped up and Kael laughed as he joined her. His secret world had been full of pain but now he felt lighthearted. If only Rae really was the one who would help Evare become a safe place again… Rae’s eyes were glittering now. “Before I get something to eat though… I need to make a few things right. And that starts with apologizing to Queen Cyan.”
Rae took a long time explaining herself to Cyan and apologizing. The Queen, in turn, listened patiently and discussed the matter with Rae. Though Rae was still unhappy about what the Queen had told her, she tried to make sense of it so that she could just move on. That, of course, was all that Rae wanted. She wanted to move on. She would never forget those who she lost, but that was the past and Rae still had a huge future ahead of her. The days passed quickly and soon there were shouts of “Land ho!” coming from the sailors. Sure enough, they were coming into port. Rae stood at the railing of the ship, Lina beside her. “Whoa…Teran is huge!” Lina exclaimed. “I know. I’ve never been here, but I’ve read about it,” Rae said. “I bet there’s some good shopping. Can we go shopping?” Rae laughed. “Why not? I could use a break from this legend.” Lina smiled brilliantly. “This is great!” Rae nodded. There really was nothing to disagree about. “Hey we’re going into port now!” Travis called to the sailors. “I’ll go get our stuff and everyone else,” Lina told Rae. She ran across deck and disappeared below. Rae watched the ship pull into the huge port of Teran. “We’re here finally,” she heard Teflic say from behind her. “He didn’t do too well,” Kael added. “Typical Teflic,” Rae laughed. “Nice city,” commented Cyan. “Isn’t it great? We’re going shopping!” Lina squealed. The boat finally docked and the sailors prepared to disembark. This ship suddenly came to life as people ran about the decks getting cargo organized and whatnot. The gangplank was lowered and merchants began to leave the ship with their goods. “We’d better go,” Teflic said. “What about saying good-bye to the Captain?” Rae asked. “You don’t need to,” said Claudia, “I’m here to say good-bye to all of you.” Claudia said good-bye to each of them in turn. Rae watched, still in awe of the Captain. She was so tranquil considering what she had been though. It seemed that Claudia was debonair and eloquent in all that she did. Finally the time came for Rae to say her good-bye. “I won’t forget you,” Rae told Claudia. “Nor will I. Oh and something was left for you…” she pulled a folded piece of paper out of her pocket. “This will point you in the right direction if you catch my drift,” she winked. Rae unfolded the paper and found a map. She looked from the map and back to Claudia, who was smiling. “Good-bye, Rae and good luck to all of you.” The group shouted their farewells to the Captain and her crew as they left the ship. “Shopping!” Lina shouted. “Let’s go! Come on Cyan!” Rae dragged the Queen with her and the rest of the group followed them into the great city of Teran.

“Teflic, can I talk to you seriously?” Kael asked the tall blonde man. They had been wandering the large marketplace of Teran for quite a while now. Teflic had been pretty quiet since they left the ship. He still felt somewhat queasy. “Sure. What’s up?” “Well,” Kael hesitated, “It’s about Rae.” “What about her?” They stopped at a bench and Teflic sat. Kael did the same and sighed. He spent a few minutes gathering his thoughts and finally spoke again. “I…I want to know about her.” “Then talk to her.” “No, what I mean is that I think that I’m falling in love with her. Anyway, I was wondering if that was ok with you.” Teflic raised an eyebrow. “What are you getting at Kael?” “Well, you two seem very close and I wasn’t sure if it was just…friendship.” “I assure you that it is. Rae and I are the best of friends, but not lovers. If you want to pursue your interest then I say go for it. I won’t stand in your way if that was what you were afraid of.” “Oh!” “But I’ll tell you one thing. Rae has been changing a lot lately. She goes from calm to angry in a matter of seconds. I think she’s getting out of this phase, but still, you should know. She’s not keen on trusting many people. In fact, as you might know, at one point it seemed as if she and King Keith had something going, but in the end it just never happened. However, I believe that it was a decision between them. For whatever reason, she fell out of love with him. I don’t want anybody to get hurt.” “I understand.” Teflic stood and his eyes glazed into a distant look. “She’s been to hell and back. I would do anything for her happiness…which is why I’m her guardian.” “And I,” Kael stood, “Would go to hell for her.” “Slow down, my friend. You barely know her.” “But I feel as if I’ve known her for years.” Teflic smiled. “I guess I shouldn’t be so protective, but you know that’s my job.” “I understand completely.” “Speaking of Rae,” Teflic stood, “Perhaps we should go find them. We still have a fairly long journey ahead so we need to get going.”
Teflic and Kael found Rae and the others rather quickly. Lina, who had been so excited about shopping, hadn’t bought anything. Cyan had been the practical one of the group, as she had gathered food and supplies for their journey. Rae had been very quiet all of a sudden. She kept studying the map and looking off into the distance. It was as if she was preparing for something…though she didn’t even know what it was. Teflic had taken notice of this immediately, and as the group prepared to set off, he took Rae aside to speak to her. “What’s bothering you?” he asked. She still had that map in front of her. “I’m just looking at this. Our destination is probably a couple of days away if we walk. Well, we have to walk because there’s no other option. Anyway, I’m just looking at the name of the place where this map says that we’re going. It’s called Stone Plain. Just the name is making me antsy.” “It does sound strange.” “I’m just anxious, but don’t worry. I’ll pull through.” “That’s the spirit.” Rae smiled. “Well, there’s no time like the present, I suppose. Let’s get going.”
The group traveled for the rest of the day. The map was not hard to follow, as they soon found out. In fact, they were making good time when they finally stopped for the evening. Cyan was seeing potential in Lina as more than a squire. She was perfect Amazon material, and Cyan decided to see what would happen if she trained her a bit. Of course, Rae had to give permission, as Lina’s knight and superior, but Cyan knew that she would. And so Lina was learning new fighting moves as well as outdoor skills. She cooked a good meal for them that night and Rae had to compliment her on that. Finally Rae and Cyan talked for a while. “You’re teaching her well,” Rae commented to Cyan. “I see a lot of potential in that girl,” Cyan replied, “She reminds me of you actually.” “Do you think so Cyan?” “Yes. No matter what has happened, I always see potential in you. You have a lot going for you, even with the legend.” “Thank you. I’ve felt bad, you know. You and everybody else always pull through for me even though I’m never there for you. I promise that when this is all over, I’ll try harder.” “The effort you’re making right now is enough for me.” A sharp wind blasted through the campsite. “Looks as if it’s going to be a cold one tonight,” Cyan observed. “Wonderful,” Rae muttered. “Go get some sleep, Rae. You need it. We all do.”
Where am I anyway? Rae ran frantically down a dark alley. What place was this? Broken glass littered the streets…mirrors. Rae peered into the shards. “By the gods! Who is that?” Her reflection was different from before…older and more beautiful. She was older? How could that be? “What’s going on here?” “Rae?” She heard a familiar voice from behind her. But…the voice sounded older, and she turned to look. It couldn’t be true. But it was…Loa. “Loa?” Rae squinted through tearing eyes. Loa looked older as well. She looked stronger too…and surprisingly sane. “Loa are you real?” “Of course I’m real, you cheese!” “Cheese? You remember?” “Yes. We did some crazy stuff, didn’t we? I almost destroyed your life didn’t I?” “Well…yes.” Loa’s eyes looked distant, as they had so many times. “Fate is a wheel, you know. It’s a circle. I have my destiny and you have yours, but no matter what…” she paused and looked straight at Rae. “We will always cross paths. We will always have trouble. But then…” “We will always forgive and forget,” Rae cut in. “Exactly. I hated you and you hated me, but now…I feel nothing.” “And I missed you a lot.” Suddenly Loa was hugging her. “Deep in my heart, I think I missed you too. But as the Black Dragon, I am not allowed to be emotional. I had to cut those ties. And they will stay cut, but I just wanted to see what happens to you.” “Are you telling me that you’re watching out for me…even though you’re evil?” “That’s what friends are for. Don’t you think…”
Suddenly all went dark. “Loa?” Rae called into the blackness. No answer. “Loa!!! Come back!” Then a pool of light appeared. “Hey there, stranger.” “Iber. You always come to me in dreams…crazy…insane…” “I’m still injured from that last fight with you. You’ve become quite strong. I’ll see you soon.” “What?” Light flickered and then flashed brightly. Rae peered into the light. “You are destined to die,” Loa’s voice echoed. “Loa! Where are you!” “Destiny!” The light flashed again and Rae saw a figure in the air. It was floating…as if nothing was holding it up. Rae gasped. There was a sword penetrating from the figure. Blood was everywhere and Rae realized it… “That’s me! By the gods! I’m destined to die! Noooooooo!”
“Nooooooo!” Rae screamed and bolted upright. She sat, shivering in cold sweat. “A dream! It was a dream…no it was a premonition…or maybe it was just a dream.” The wind blew cold around her. Carefully, as to not wake anyone, Rae stood and walked away from her friends. The stars sparkled under a pale moonlight sky. “I don’t want to die,” Rae whispered, and felt tears in her eyes. “I’m just beginning to live again, and even if it’s for the third time…it can’t end here! It can’t!” “What can’t?” Rae jumped. Kael looked at her quizzically. “You nearly gave me a heart attack…again! How many times is that?” “I heard you scream,” Kael said, his voice serious. “Are you all right? Did something hurt you?” “I had a dream…a nightmare.” “Do you want to talk about it?” “It’s a long story.” “Well, we’ve got plenty of time. Look, you’re shivering. Take this blanket.” Kael tossed the blanket in his arms around Rae’s shoulders. “Now let’s sit and you talk.” So they sat up against some boulders. Rae explained her past and her dream. “And so,” she said, “I think this dream is telling me that I’m going to die. But, Kael…I don’t want to! I want to live! I want to help people and do good and explore and…” “You won’t die,” Kael told her. “What?” “I had a dream too. It was fuzzy, but I can assure you that you won’t die.” “Nothing can assure me. I’m…” “Afraid of the future?” “Ye…yes,” Rae stammered and stared at Kael with wide eyes. “I’m afraid of the future too,” he simply said. Rae shivered as the wind blew again. “Cold?” “No, don’t worry about…” Kael put his arm around Rae’s shoulders. “…me,” Rae finished. “What are you doing?” “Well, I’m not quite sure. I told you that I felt a connection to you…and I think that I might be falling in love with you.” Rae glanced at the ground. This had happened before…with Keith. But now Rae felt safe and secure. She felt as if she really could trust Kael…even with her life. And so Rae said nothing, but laid her head on his shoulder. Might as well make the most of the situation. “Tired?” Kael asked. “Yeah…and worried, but I’ll be fine.” “You say that way too often.” “Well, nothing can make me feel better. I just have to deal with how I feel now.” “Oh really? I don’t think so.” Rae tilted her head and Kael looked into her eyes. She grinned. “I don’t believe you.” And suddenly…before Rae could do anything…Kael leaned over and kissed her. Rae couldn’t stop him…in fact, she didn’t want to. Kael wrapped his arms around her and she melted into his embrace. His kiss was warm and sweet. She had never experienced anything like it before. It truly made her want to live again. Rae felt a tear trickle down her cheek. Kael felt it too, for he stopped kissing her and held her face in his hands. “Why are you crying, oh strong Rae?” “Don’t mock me,” she laughed through her tears. “I suddenly feel like I’ve come back from far away. You know what, Kael?” “Hm?” “I think I’m in love with you too.” He smiled and caressed her cheek. “Then do me a favor.” “What?” “Would you please get some sleep already?” Rae giggled and Kael held her close. And the two fell back asleep in each other’s arms.
Cyan was the first person to wake up the next morning. She shivered and stared at the sky. The sun…where was the sun? The sky was a dark gray. She glanced around the campsite. Lina was curled up, fast asleep near the dead campfire. Teflic was on his back. He was sleeping, but seemed troubled. Kael was sleeping as well, near a few large boulders. And Rae…wasn’t there. “Not again,” Cyan muttered at stood, making sure that her sword was at hand. Rae wasn’t an early riser, as Cyan knew. At the rate that things were going, Cyan didn’t like the idea of Rae being out of her site. As Queen, she had a responsibility to look out for her amazons. And though Rae had been AWOL for a while, she was still an Amazon. But something else made Cyan’s worry for Rae more urgent. When Rae’s mother, Jade, had died…Cyan had promised her that she would watch out for Rae. Jade had been a loyal Amazon till the end. She had fought for the Amazon nation with passion and strength. Cyan realized that Rae was the same way. And so, her search hastened. “Jade, don’t fail me now,” Cyan whispered to the cold foggy air. “Rae!” she called out. “Rae where are you?” “Cyan?” Rae’s voice cut through the fog. Cyan could just make out a figure walking toward her…Rae. “Thank the gods! Where were you? You never wake up early.” “I don’t know what’s going on, Cyan. Why isn’t the sun shining now? I woke up about two hours ago. There were fireballs in the sky!” “Fireballs? You’re serious?” “I saw them!” Cyan narrowed her eyes. She had never heard of what Rae was saying. No historical scrolls said anything about fireballs in the sky…or endless gray. “Something’s telling me to go,” Rae continued. “We have to wake everyone up. We have to reach Stone Plain today!” “I’m trusting in you,” Cyan told her. “Come on. Let’s wake everyone up.”
Cyan and Rae quickly woke Lina, Teflic, and Kael. “I felt it,” Teflic was saying as they packed their supplies. “There was a shift in the balance…of the earth I think.” “We should reach Stone Plain in a few hours if we move fast,” Lina said. She had been reading the map for some time now. “Then let’s get a move on,” Cyan said, glancing warily at the darkening sky. A streak of lightning split the darkness. Lina handed the map to Kael and went to stand next to Rae, who was looking off into the distance. “I’ve never seen anything like this,” she told Rae. Rae just nodded, silent. “I wonder what’s going on. Surely people must be frightened. They must think that the gods are angry or something like that.” “Lina, I think that this is above and beyond the gods that we know.” “What makes you think that?” “It’s just a feeling.” The group was finally ready to move on, and they did. Apprehension was in the air though. “Everything’s getting darker and darker,” Lina whispered to Rae. “I know.” “Did you really see fireballs in the sky?” “I did.” Suddenly there was a loud boom. Everybody stopped, looked around, and stared at each other. “What was that?” Kael asked aloud. Teflic shook his head. “Everyone stay close. We need to stick together no matter what happens.” The group continued on into the dark unknown…
“Damn them! It’s going to happen!” Zeus slammed his fist down onto his stone throne. He stood and looked down on the earth from his great palace. “The end…” he muttered. “My army. We will stop them. This legend…must end here.”
Rain began to fall from the cloudless dark sky as the group neared their final destination: Stone Plain. As they walked through the rugged terrain, something inside Rae screamed, “This is it!” The reached the edge of Stone Plain and Rae looked to the sky. “So this is the place,” Cyan said, “It’s so deserted…so desolate.” Stone Plain was exactly how it sounded: stone. A ring of grass ran around the plain and stretched for miles. “Look there!” Lina cried. Rae and everyone else looked across the wide plain and saw a single figure outlined in the darkness. “It’s Iber,” Rae whispered. “I must go.” Iber began walking toward them. Rae turned to her friends. “It’s all right now. Everything’s going to be ok.” “I don’t understand. What are you going to do?” Cyan asked. “I figured it out I think. I’m needed elsewhere,” Rae answered. Cyan raised an eyebrow and Lina’s expression was one of confusion. “Thank you all for everything,” Rae continued. She hugged each one in turn. “What about…” Kael began. “Us?” Rae finished. “We’ll see what happens.” Then she turned to Teflic. His expression was calm, and he smiled at his friend. “I know that you must go on,” he said. “And, as your protector, I cannot stop you this time.” “I’m grateful to you, Teflic. You kept me sane.” “Good luck.” With that, Rae turned and began to walk away, across the plain. Then something stopped her for a moment. She looked back over her shoulder at her friends…her family too. They stood with solemn faces. Rae waved and continued on. “Thank you also, Cyan,” she whispered. “Teflic kept me sane, but you and the tribe kept me alive.”
“So that’s it?” Kael said as he and the group watched Rae walk away from them. “She’s not really gone…is she?” “You of all people should know,” Teflic said, “You’re the guide.” There was another loud bang from nowhere. But this time…the earth began to shake…to crack. “The earth!” Cyan gasped. “The earth is about to fall apart! By the gods!” “And Rae,” Teflic said, “Is going to stop it.” Suddenly everything went dark… but then a faint light appeared in the sky…
Rae felt her heart pounding in her ears. Everything had gone dark and all was silent. The only light was the tiny speck in the sky…a star? Then she felt a rush of energy. It hit her full force and all of a sudden, everything made sense. Now she knew what she had to do. The light, in turn, grew brighter. It reached for Rae and Iber as well. Then it hit. Rae felt a strange force take over her body. It was tranquil yet frightening at the same time. The light grew brighter. Streaks of red fell from the sky, but Rae couldn’t tell what they were. The light had completely enveloped her by now and she was lost to anything outside of it. Then the brightness faded. Iber stood before her. He had changed. He now wore a suit of dark black armor, trimmed in gold. He also wore a cape of black and red satin. Rae had felt a change in herself as well. She looked down to see that her soldier uniform was gone and in its place was a long flowing light purple and silver dress. “You know what we must do?” Iber said. “I know now,” she answered. “Are you ready?” “Yes.” “Will we survive?” “Only the fates know the answer to that.” Rae’s hand began to glow and she pulled the sword out of it. Iber did the same. Then he clasped her other hand. “Fatum, Rae?” “Fatum, Iber.” And then…much to everybody’s shock and surprise, Iber and Rae thrust their swords into each other’s bodies. A force emitted then and they were lifted into the air…and engulfed into the light.
“Fire! Fire!” Lina shrieked. The red streaks that had fallen from the sky were fireballs, and now the dry grass surrounding Stone Plain had ignited. “What can we do now?” Lina asked a worried Cyan. “Try to stay out of its way. Stone can’t ignite…” “Look!” Kael interrupted. The group looked at what was happening in the center of Stone Plain. “They just killed each other!” “By the gods,” Cyan muttered. “What’s happening to Rae?” “I don’t know,” Teflic said. “But it had to be done.” “No!” Kael screamed, and began to run toward the bright light that had engulfed Rae and Iber. “Stop, Kael!” Teflic shouted and held the man back. “You can’t leave her there like that!” “We must! If you’re truly a part of this, then you have to understand that if Rae dies, it’s because it was her fate!” “Fate can be a cruel thing, Kael,” Cyan said to the seething man. “There’s nothing we can do to stop it. Step back and think: we’re all in pain too. Rae is special to each of us in her own way. And now we must be tortured by watching her destroy herself for a cause that even she didn’t know everything about.” “Um…hey…we’ve got company,” Lina said, her voice quivering. “It’s an army,” Teflic growled. “Zeus.” “It figures that the gods had something in with this,” Cyan sighed. “We can’t let them near the light!” Kael suddenly said. “Or else the legend will fail!” “Then let’s protect our friend together, shall we?” Teflic pulled out his sword. Kael did the same. “I’m right behind you!”

Rae felt a cool wind blow through her hair and she opened her eyes to see Iber before her. He had a strangely placid look on his face, and Rae realized that her expression was the same. “The swords,” she gasped. “What happened to them?” Iber looked at his chest…no sword. “They disappeared,” he said. “What’s going on here?” “Let me tell you,” said a new voice. Rae and Iber looked around. Where was the voice coming from? “Who are you? Where are you?” Rae called. “I am all around you. And you two are my knights.” “Please, we need some sort of explanation!” Iber called. “For years I’ve had my heart set on killing the Merquise knight, but now I don’t feel that blood lust anymore. Why?” “Because the legend had come true…for the first time. I am Gaia, the mother of the earth. By stabbing each other with the legendary swords you have just saved the earth from great peril.” “Peril?” “There was a large comet headed toward earth. The gods couldn’t have stopped it alone. By uniting your powers, you have saved the planet.” “Wait a second,” Rae cut in. “I thought that we were warriors of Zeus.” “It’s true that Zeus created the warriors by splitting a mountain with a lightning bolt. But, I am the earth. Therefore, the mountain and the lightning were all me. You are my warriors, bound to protect the earth. You stabbed each other once. That signifies saving the earth, and you will live to see another day. However, two stabs will bring rebirth. If the world is ever in utter destruction all you must do is meet again like this and stab twice. Choose the time carefully though. Two stabs will bring rebirth, but end your lives.” Rae and Iber were silent. Finally Iber found the words to speak. “But why was I sent to kill Rae?” “A test of will, first of all. You are from Evare, the alternate dimension of the earth. The Finely knights betrayed the Merquise hundreds of years ago because they wanted nothing to do with the danger of the legend. And so, the Merquise stayed loyal to Zeus, but the Finelys had nowhere to go. Jupiter, the head god of the alternate dimension, Evare, approached them. The Finelys went with Jupiter to Evare and their minds were warped into believing that the Merquise were their mortal enemy. You had to find the truth in your heart, Iber. After all, you are Rae’s alternate ‘shadow’.” “What?” Rae gasped. “Iber is your brother of another dimension. You were both born of mothers that were shadows of each other. Everybody on earth has a reverse of themselves on Evare. Iber was bad and Rae was good. It all worked out. But now you’ve both seen the truth.” Iber and Rae stared at each other, not sure of what to say. Everything was making sense to both of them now. Except for one thing. “Wait a minute, why does Zeus want to destroy this legend?” Rae asked. “Because,” Iber said, “When we’re united like this, our power is greater than that of the gods. We cannot be destroyed when we’re united.” “You two are almost immortal, though you suffer human suffering,” Gaia explained. “You are also capable of killing immortals. I know the secret that nobody else seems to take heed to: nobody is really immortal. Even I can die. That is why I created you two: to protect me.” “Everything fits,” Rae muttered. “It does,” Iber agreed. He looked at Rae, a new light in his eyes. “I’m sorry for the pain and suffering that I have caused you, sister. If there’s anything that I can do for you, I’ll do it.” “No, brother. We’ve both made mistakes. It’s time that we do things right.” “I’m proud of you both,” Gaia spoke up. “You’ve realized the most important thing: Amor vincit omnia…love conquers all. Before you go, I remind you: always fight with passion. Always consider other people. Fight with love in your hearts. Protect yourselves by ridding the world of hate. Hate will never disappear, but I know that you can limit it. And now, you must return to your bodies…and finish this chapter of the legend.” The bright light that had subsided now returned, and engulfed the warriors once again.
The group that had been left to watch their friend sacrifice herself was now fighting bravely to keep anyone from reaching her body. It was clear that Rae and Iber had stabbed each other, but…Rae seemed alive still. Cyan, for one, was sure of it. She had felt a buzzing in her head when they had stabbed each other. A voice seemed to tell her the truth about everything. The legend…Rae and Iber were siblings. And she had definitely heard something in Latin. Loud and clear, ‘amor vincit omnia.’ As she fought, Cyan shouted to Teflic if he had heard anything. To her surprise, he had. Maybe something was trying to calm their nerves. After all, it appeared that their companion had just killed herself for no reason. Now a storm of fire and ice rained down on the planet. Where was this chaos coming from? Zeus’s warriors fought relentlessly. But then…a miracle happened. “By the gods!” Lina screamed over the noise. Suddenly thousands of lightning bolts shot from the sky and time seemed to stand still. A light fell over the bodies of Rae and Iber. And then…their eyes opened. They seemed to be in a trance, their eyes liquid pools of green and blue. Cyan stood, speechless. There was Rae, one of her own amazons, floating in the air with a sword penetrating from her body. And she was alive. Slowly, Rae and Iber lifted their arms simultaneously…and pulled the swords out of each other’s bodies. Any wound that they had…was gone. Not a scratch. The wind picked up. By this time, everybody had stopped fighting and turned to stare. Zeus was there too, eyes wide. He realized what might happen. Before anybody could stop him, he was gone. Meanwhile, Rae and Iber joined hands and faced the people below them. “Love conquers all,” they said, and raised their swords. “Fatum!” A beam of blinding light shot from their swords. Screams erupted through the warriors as they fell one by one. Cyan, Lina, Teflic, and Kael fell to their knees. It had been a long time since Cyan had felt a power like this. Everything seemed to come crashing down at that point. It was all over…
Cyan felt the power recede and opened her eyes. The fire in the sky was gone. In fact, everything had changed. Stone Plain was gone too. In its place was soft green grass. The sky was a bright blue and the sun began to come out. Teflic was standing straight, the wind blowing through his hair lightly. Lina was still sitting on the ground, as was Kael. And on the ground, not too far away…lay Rae and Iber. Cyan saw Teflic take off running, and she followed him, wondering what had become of her warrior. When she neared them, she saw that they had their eyes closed. Their clothing had returned to normal, and they looked as if they were sleeping peacefully. Then Rae’s eyelids fluttered and her eyes opened slowly. She seemed dazed for a moment, as she sat up and looked at her friends, their eyes wide as if expecting something. Iber sat up a few seconds later, rubbing his eyes. Finally Teflic broke the silence. “I…I’m so proud of you Rae,” he said. “We heard everything. I’m still taking it all in, but now we know…” Rae grinned and turned to Iber. He smiled back and then took her into a huge hug. “My sister, my sister. We survived.” “I know,” she replied. They pulled away from each other. “Look,” he said, and showed her the palm of his hand. “They’re the same,” Rae whispered. “Yes.” He turned and looked off into the distance. “It’s been a real test,” he said, “But now it’s time for me to return to my dimension.” “Yes, I know.” “I’m always here though. You just say the word. It’s fate, you know.” “Of course. Good-bye, Iber.” “Till next time, Rae.” Then he disappeared into thin air. “That was strange,” Lina said. “Strange, but now I understand.” “I know you guys were protecting me. Thank you. Each of you,” Rae’s voice was grateful. “Rae, it’s time that I spoke with you,” Teflic said. He took her arm gently and pulled her away. “Teflic?” “It’s time that we part.” “What…why?” He smiled, his expression good-natured as always. “Well, I have much to learn. This legend cuts deeper than any of us ever imagined. I must travel the world and learn new things. I will always be your guardian, and always be there for you. However, I’ve learned in this short period of time that you have more tests to overcome and you must do that yourself.” “I understand too,” Rae said, holding back tears. “Hey, come here.” Teflic hugged her tightly. “I don’t want any tears from my warrior, ok? We’re Merquise. We’re in this together forever, you know.” “Yup.” Teflic turned to the rest of the group. “I’m off on my own now.” He bowed to Cyan. “Thank you especially, Queen Cyan, for accepting me onto your island without question.” “I had no choice. Will we see you again?” “Count on it. Where Rae is, I am. Think of this as my vacation. Good-bye!” “Bye, Teflic,” Rae said, as he passed her. “This isn’t really good-bye, silly,” he said. Then he leaned over. “I’ve got a secret for you.” He whispered in her ear. Rae’s eyes went wide. “Really?” “But of course. See you soon!” Rae watched him walk off into the distance until he became a speck on the horizon and then disappeared. “I can’t believe that I never knew,” she said to herself. “I just can’t believe it.”
“So,” Cyan said, joining Rae. “How do you feel?” “Relieved. A bit sad too. It seems as if I’m starting over this time. I mean for good.” “No more strange stuff? No more psychotic episodes?” Cyan asked. “Who me? Never.” “You must admit, you did some strange things in the past year.” “I did. I’m sorry for the destruction that I’ve caused. I’m sorry for everything. I’m just beginning though. It’s time for me to move on from the past.” “I’m happy that you’ve finally realized that, Rae. What did it?” Rae grinned at Cyan. “Oh…just a few good friends that refused to give up on me.” “Hello,” Kael interrupted. “Hi, Kael,” Rae said. “Is this a bad time?” “No.” “Everyone seems to be leaving, and it’s time for me to go too. Back to Evare. And way back when this journey started…” “I promised to go with you.” Kael nodded. Rae turned to Cyan. “I told him that I would help save his world, Evare. I can’t do it alone though. Cyan, I’d be very honored if you’d come along.” Cyan didn’t even stop to think about it. “I’m there, Rae. We started this journey together and that’s how we’re going to finish it.” “To Evare!” Kael cheered. “I’m coming too,” Lina spoke up. “Of course. We’re not leaving you behind,” Cyan laughed. “Let’s get going,” Kael said and created a shimmering portal of swirling colors. Rae nodded. “By the way,” Cyan said to Rae as they got ready to travel to a new dimension. “There’s something else that’s new and different about you. I can’t seem to pinpoint it though. Perhaps you could clue me in?” Rae held her hand up to the sunlight and let the warmth touch her hand. “It’s this.” She turned her left hand over, revealing her palm. The ‘M’ was gone. In its place was something new. A saying… “Amor vincit omnia,” Rae said. “Love conquers all. It never dies. It’s a lesson that I’m only beginning to learn…but certainly will never forget.” Then she and Cyan linked arms, and along with Lina and Kael, stepped through the portal to a new dimension… And as one long and frightening chapter to Rae’s life closed, a new and bright future opened. Her life, as she now realized, was far from being over. In fact, it was just beginning, and Rae was determined to live her new life to the fullest. That, after all, was what life was truly all about.

End