Scribbled Thoughts

Chapter Thirty six:

Firo

The luck we’d had outside the castle must have been used up, because as soon as we left the servant’s quarters we were spotted by a soldier. Dagan dodged his first thrust, letting it bounce harmlessly off me. He used the delayed reaction to grab his wrist, twisting the sword out of his grip. The soldier used his other hand to punch Dagan in the gut, making him back off. It didn’t matter though, because now Dagan had a weapon. There was only enough time to glimpse the elf’s manic grin before he circled the sword and swung it, cutting the soldier’s head clean off.

            ‘Was that really necessary?’ I asked, feeling sick.

            ‘What are you complaining for?’ Dagan laughed, that manic grin still on his face. ‘Now you don’t have to worry about fighting.’

            That proved to be true. Dagan was relentless now he had a weapon, using all his natural stealth and agility to his advantage; cutting down soldiers before they even realised we were there. He almost seemed disappointed when we reached the hidden passages, allowing us some respite from attacks as we moved further into the castle’s depths.

            ‘Firo has always been kept in the deepest depths; a large dungeon room reconstructed especially for her. It’s why so few knew she was here, even though it’s been two hundred years.’

            ‘But how do we get her out?’

            Dagan shrugged.

            ‘She’ll have to break down the ceiling, if she’s strong enough. She’s too big to go through any doors. Or we’ll just take control of the castle to keep her safe.’

            I gave him a disbelieving stare, not liking where his train of thought was going.

            Can I really let this guy get his magic back?

            The passage sloped down and we automatically fell into a jog. With every thud of our feet my heart pounded, physically feeling the distance from Firo closing. She was so near…

            ‘Why keep her alive this long? Why capture her in the first place?’ I asked, voice strained with tears.

            ‘It’s probably better you don’t know.’ Dagan said quietly, voice filled with guilt. ‘Let’s just focus on getting her free.’

            ‘Yeah, about that, how do you plan to fight the King exactly?’

            Dagan just grunted in answer, turning a sharp right that led to a dead end. He began examining the wall, using the sword to search for cracks.

            He doesn’t have a plan, I thought with dread. He’s just going to rush at the King and get himself killed.

            ‘Dagan,’ I started.

            ‘Ah, here it is!’ He grinned, dropping the sword and wedging his fingertips into a large vertical crack. He pulled, forcing the hidden door to groan open. Immediately Dagan picked up the sword and charged into the room beyond.

            My sigh of exasperation was swallowed away when her overwhelming presence hit me, drawing all other thoughts from my mind. I charged in just as blindly as Dagan.

---

The room was huge, the same width as the whole castle above it, with the ceiling high enough that two Firo’s could have been stacked on top of each other and still not reach it. But it was cold and damp, the air so oppressive that I immediately wanted to turn around and leave.

            Little one! Her voice screamed, filled with both dread and overwhelming hope. She was chained at the centre of the room, with no leeway to move on her own. Dried blood stained her scales and the floor around her. The far right corner contained her excrement pile, the smell overpowered everything else. The left corner was filled with buckets of blood.

            I took a step into the room, bringing my hand to my mouth to stop myself gagging.

            ‘So, you’ve finally come.’ A voice from behind me spoke, making me spin to look in the closest right corner. I saw Dagan do the same, his grip on his sword so tight his knuckles were white. ‘Chosen one of Firo.’

            The man looked in his thirties, with long black hair that hung loose, reaching his mid-back. His eyes were the same brown as his son’s. Even here he wore an elaborate gold crown and royal robes that trailed on the ground.

            ‘I won’t let you steal her power. Either she passes it to me, or it passes to Berthilda.’ His cold voice boomed, black mist already beginning to form around him.

            Little one, please come here, quick!

            ‘You’d try and trap Berthilda instead?’ Dagan laughed, drawing the King’s attention. ‘You really are a fool, Edward. Will your greed never stop?’

            ‘So my trade piece returns.’ The King smirked. ‘Did you enjoy your exile with Earl and the rest of my children? Perhaps I should have just drained your life away; you’ve been a constant pain in my side for two hundred years.’

            ‘What children?’ Dagan laughed. ‘Or have you been too blind to use your other magic? All your children, grandchildren and close relatives are dead, slaughtered by Earl. Now I only have to kill you and him to wipe out your line!’

             The King’s smirk fell away, but no grief or pain entered his eyes at the news of his children’s death.

            ‘Be my guest with that treacherous Earl, but you will never touch me, slave!’

            Dagan sprang forward, faster than any human could have moved. The dark magic surrounding the King began to change, from its lazy mist form into sharp, black icicles. Dagan didn’t slow down as the King launched them, dodging them all neatly.

            ‘Watch out!’ I screamed just as dark shadows shaped like spikes shot up from the ground near Dagan, almost skewering his feet. Dagan flipped into the air, readying his sword to aim at the King’s chest.

            He would have landed a killing blow easily with the momentum behind his leap, if it wasn’t for the mist. The sword stuck halfway into it, like mud, then stopped as if stuck in stone. Dagan growled, his feel swinging down and landing against the wall of mist. He cried out in pain, letting go of the sword and falling to the ground, where the dark mist began to circle him.

            ‘How disappointing; is that all you have? You really are nothing without your magic, farry.’

            Dagan didn’t reply, trying to crawl away from the mist, but already too weak to stand.

            ‘Dagan!’ I screamed out, taking a step towards them.

            ‘Ah yes, I almost forgot about you.’ The King smirked. The more blood Dagan seemed to cough up, the more energy the King gained. ‘Draining your life with my magic should give me quite a boost with her power in you.’

            ‘Do not touch my prey.’ A deep voice boomed, making us both turn to the hidden entrance Dagan and I had entered from. If I was terrified before I had no words to express the new level of fear coursing through me, seeing Ignatius standing there, his fiery eyes fixed on me.   

            Even the King seemed taken a back, but cleared his throat as he straightened, letting his dark magic pulse as a warning.

            ‘What business does a fire immortals have here? Do not interfere.’

            Even as he spoke a wolf darted towards him, making him step back. Immediately vines began to grow around the dark mist surrounding Dagan, absorbing its darkness. The vines shrivelled away, leaving Dagan exposed, his skin holding a black tinge to it. The wolf grabbed him by the shirt, pulling him away from the King and dumping him near my feet.

            ‘You’re too late to save him.’ The King laughed. ‘The dark magic has already entered him.’

            I frowned down at Dagan, shaking my head.

            No, he’s wrong.

            An image of the symbol burnt onto Dagan’s chest flashed in my mind. A moment later Dagan’s eyes opened and he heaved violently, retching up black, thick gunge that looked like tar. Even the King watched, astonished as the pile grew, forcing me to back away. His heaving and retching didn’t stop until the darkness on his skin was gone. Ulmar transformed into his human form, pulling Dagan back so he didn’t fall in an exhausted heap on top of the gunge.

            ‘That’s impossible.’ The King gaped.

            ‘Hardly.’ A new voice spoke. Earl stepped out from behind Ignatius. Amergin was following him, staring at Dagan with wide eyes, looking at his own dark veins. ‘Obviously he’s been given a resistance to magic. You underestimate Firo’s influence, even if it is just through a candidate.’

            Both Dagan’s and Amergin’s eyes looked at me, Dagan’s with confusion and Amergin with fury.

            Oh…so I guess that’s what the symbol does. I thought, trying to look like I wasn’t as surprised as them.

            ‘Earl, what are you doing getting involved with immortals? Are you mad? Whatever deal you’ve made, they will never honour it.’

            ‘Is this you begging for your life?’ Earl taunted, a delightful grin on his face. ‘Don’t worry Father, they won’t be the ones to kill you; they’re just going to help restrict your magic for me.’

            ‘Hurry up!’ Ulmar growled at me, pulling Dagan to his feet. ‘Go to her, before it’s too late!’

            ‘I-’ I began, but a sudden burst of fire halted my words. An infernal circle trapped the King, his dark magic beating at its sides, but disappearing without any effect.

            ‘No mortal magic can complete against an immortal.’ Ignatius scoffed. ‘Not even yours.’

            The fire circle grew tighter around the King until his magic was only a thin coat protecting him from the flames. Earl was moving closer, and I saw Dagan staggering forward, picking up his abandoned sword.

            ‘Earl, stop this!’ The King gasped, the smoke choking his words.

            ‘You don’t deserve the power you have!’ Earl spat, watching as the last of the King’s magic was swallowed by the fire. ‘I think it’s time you let another inherit it.’

            With a slight flick of Ignatius’ wrist the flames were gone, and both Earl and Dagan charged forward, driving their swords through the King.

            King Edward only managed one half-gasp before all breath left him; his two hundred year reign finally ending.

            As soon as his body slumped to the floor dark magic burst out of him, hitting Earl and Dagan, knocking them flat on their backs. I stopped breathing.

            No, no! Not both of them!

            Earl was the first to rise, laughing with pure, manic joy as he stared at his hands. Wisps of dark magic were already leaving them.

            ‘Finally!’ He crowed, looking straight up and grinning. ‘I’ve finally surpassed him.’

            ‘Congratulations.’ Ignatius said, sounding bored. ‘King Earl.’

            ‘Why?’ Another voice spoke, the pain and anguish plain for all to hear. ‘Why didn’t it work?’

            Dagan was sat up, staring at his hands with angry tears running down his face.

            ‘My magic, why hasn’t it come back?’ I killed him too, some should have come to me…’

            ‘Because I willed it so.’ I said, my voice ringing out so all looked at me. ‘You were never going to get it back Dagan, not after I burnt my symbol into you. If you’d killed the King alone, that foul magic would no longer exist in the world.’

            Dagan stared at me, his disbelief turning into fury. He wasn’t the only one. Amergin was stalking towards me, finger raised and pointing.

            ‘You could have healed me all along!’

            I didn’t bother explaining I hadn’t known that. I hadn’t known the full extent of Dagan’s symbol until just now. It wasn’t that it protected him from magic; it just refused any magic to enter him, to be a part of him. Illusion magic would no longer affect him because it influenced the senses. Dark magic attacked by entering a person and draining their life force. Although, I think even my mark wouldn’t have saved Dagan from another dose of it.

            You changed his destiny to save him. Firo spoke, sounding weak and desperate. And you can do that for others, if you’ll accept your fate. Come to me, little one.

            I was vaguely aware Ulmar had moved, blocking Amergin and Dagan from me. I turned away, walking at last towards Firo, the person I’d known better than myself for seven years.

            I am here, I said, placing a comforting hand on her neck. I came to save you.

            Ash was beginning to fall around us, not in our usual field of ash, but in the physical world. Every speck that touched me burnt my skin, even with my scales.

            But you understand now that can’t be. She said softly, ash touching and burning her too.

            Yes, I understand.

            I am sorry, little one. I wish I could have passed on my power under better conditions, but it was not meant to be.

            The ash was beginning to ignite, the flames licking at our flesh. I winced at the pain, trying to ignore the smell of burning skin.

            Like me, you will be trapped. But I know you’ll find a way to break free one day. Just be strong, little one. If anyone can change this world, it is you.

             What do you mean trapped? I screamed through the agonising pain, not sure we even had bodies anymore.

            I’m sorry. Was all she said.

            It was the last thing she ever said to me.

---

I don’t know how long passed; it felt like millennia. I slowly became aware of my body, heavy and awkward. All around me was the soothing feel of ash.

            I reached an arm out, breaking through the ash pile. Then my lungs remembered the need for air, forcing me to scramble to the surface and breathe!

            I took in huge gulps of air, my eyes taking a while to focus. Slowly the blurred surroundings began to clear, showing me Firo’s underground prison in Tempit.

            …I’m still here? I thought, dazed.

            ‘Finally.’ Earl’s voice broke through my tranquil state, making my gaze shoot in his direction. ‘I was beginning to think you were both dead.’

            I frowned, looking around. Everyone was still there. Dagan was slumped to the floor, head bowed in defeat. Amergin was beside Earl, sneering at me, and Ignatius hadn’t moved from the hidden entrance.

            Ulmar was to the left of the ash pile I sat on, not daring to touch it.

            ‘Did it work?’ Earl asked, turning to Ignatius.

            ‘Let’s find out.’

            I ignored them, distracted by my skin as I stood up, fully naked.

            I was human again. My skin its once natural olive colour. No scales, or wings, or horns.

            And yet I didn’t feel human. I felt ancient and powerful, but contained, like it was locked away somewhere I couldn’t quite reach.

            An excruciating pain ran across my left jawline, making me gasp and fall to the floor. I raised my hand to it, feeling a long scar line soaked in fresh blood.

            What the?

            ‘Looks like it works.’ Came Ignatius’ smug voice.

            I focused properly on them then, seeing for the first time the blood vial in Ignatius’ hand. It was open, with Ignatius stabbing a pin into the blood.

            My blood, from when I was constantly drained in Lar.

            Firo warned me, I realised, feeling cold. She told me never to let them have my blood.

            ‘We may not know your real name.’ Ignatius smirked, ‘But this is just as good.’

            No…

            Like me, you will be trapped. She’d said.

            No!

            ‘Well done, Ulmar. This would never have gone so smoothly without you.’

            I turned a startled gaze to the earth immortal, who just shrugged, staring at me.

            ‘No problem, Master.’

            What?

            ‘You really thought you could escape Lar so easily? That you entered Tempit and the castle with luck?’ Earl laughed. ‘We always planned for you to meet Firo and take her power. Father spent centuries trying to control her, but even with her blood she was too strong. But you, a mere human replacement.’ He grinned, eyeing the vial in Ignatius’ hand. ‘Our suspicion was correct.’

            Even Dagan looked shocked at this, his pale skin deadly white as he looked at Ulmar, hurt. Ulmar didn’t even glance at him.

            ‘And so, as promised.’ Earl continued to Ignatius. ‘I hand this slave to you, as payment for your help.’

            ‘And I accept it gladly, King Earl.’ Ignatius smirked, standing closer to me. ‘He will be a very useful slave for our future plans.’

            I’d like to say Firo’s last words were true, that I would be able to break my eternal enslavement and change the very fate of Ombasa.

            I’d like to say that, but that mystery lies in another story.

            This one ends here.

                                                                  The End

Chapter Thirty Five:

Retribution

Dagan’s frown deepened, glancing around as we slipped into the secret tunnel leading to the castle.

            ‘This is too easy.’ He muttered. ‘This place should be guarded.’

            ‘Maybe it’s a trap for Earl.’ I said, wincing as my wings scrapped against the passage walls. We were below ground level, but in a passage separate from the sewers.

            It’s going to be interesting if there’s no ladder to climb out of here. I thought.

            ‘What do you mean?’ Dagan asked, never slowing his pace.

            ‘Even if the King can’t use his long-seeing magic, because of Ignatius being in league with Earl, he’ll have realised who’s attacking his city.’ I pointed out. ‘And he’ll know Earl plans to kill him, so don’t you think he’d let Earl take a convenient secret tunnel that leads to him, then kill him using his dark magic so his army will stop?’

            Dagan stopped dead at this, making me bump into his back.

            ‘That actually makes sense.’ He said, sounding amazed. I felt rather insulted he was so shocked. He whirled round to face me, a manic grin in place. ‘That means the King is waiting for us!’

            ‘Well, yeah, or he’ll be with Firo, where Earl can find him easily.’

            ‘I can kill him!’ Dagan grinned, then frowned. ‘Damn, I don’t have a weapon.’

            Or a chance, I thought drily.

            His sharp gaze turned back to me, determined.

            ‘You’ll have to distract him. I’ll find a sword and kill him while he’s focused on you.’

---

‘What?’ I laughed, ignoring his eyes narrowing. ‘Are you crazy? I don’t know how powerful the King’s dark magic is, but Amergin knocked me out for a week using whatever poison you caused with your dark magic.’

            ‘It’s fine.’ Dagan insisted, starting to walk again. ‘Just keep a safe distance away…and avoid his long range attacks.’

            ‘I’m not fighting him.’

            ‘You want to save Firo don’t you? And your sister?’ Dagan spat, whirling around to face me. ‘Are you that naïve to think you can do that without fighting? Either he dies today or we do; it’s that simple!’

            He turned again and began running, forcing me to follow. The passage began to slope so we were moving uphill, and I struggled to keep up. Finally Dagan stopped at a dead end, a circular hatch door in the wall. He turned back to look at me.

            ‘This leads to the servant’s quarters. It’s how I smuggled out Firo’s blood to Earl’s spies.’

            ‘Wait, that was you? Does that mean you’ve seen Firo?’

            ‘Of course I have…I was a slave here for two hundred years. I was here when she was first captured. I…I weakened her enough for it to happen, with my magic.’

            ‘Are you saying Firo has been held prisoner here for two hundred years? And you helped them? You helped bleed her and smuggle it to Earl so he could turn me into this? Whose side are you on?’

            ‘I’m on my own side.’ Dagan growled out, his hands on the hatch door, ready to turn it. ‘I never intended to involve Firo, but I will do anything to kill the King and get my magic back.’

            ‘You will never get your magic back.’ I snarled. ‘I can promise you that!’

            Dagan drew back, surprised, his anger fading as mine grew. He sighed, looking calmer.

            ‘You’re missing the point. This passage leads to the servant’s quarters. Not many servants know about it, and those that do know the city is too heavily guarded for them to escape. But if what you said is true then they should be able to flee, if they’re careful.’

            ‘Wait, the servant’s quarters?’

            Annie!

            I shoved past, turning the hatch door and pushing it open.

            ‘Well that changed your tune.’ I heard Dagan mutter before I wriggled through the opening.

---

I wasn’t surprised not many slaves knew about the passage. It was hidden in a cupboard of spare slave outfits, behind a shelf filled with cleaning supplies specifically for the slave’s own quarters. Who was going to look too closely at voluntary cleaning supplies when they had so much mandatory cleaning to do?

            Despite being the middle of the day all the slaves seemed to be there, glancing at the locked door nervously. All their gazes turned to us as we stepped out of the cupboard, shrinking back at the sight of me.

            ‘Dagan?’ One asked, as wide-eyed as the rest.

            ‘Hello Luther. We’re here to help.’

            Luther didn’t look too convinced, but a delightful squeal drew away his attention.

            ‘Dimi!’

            The next thing I knew a thinner, slightly taller Annie was in my arms, squeezing me with every ounce of strength she had, tears of joy and relief in her eyes.

            ‘You came! You really came.’

            ‘Of course I did.’ I choked out, feeling tears of my own threatening to fall. ‘I’ll always come and find you.’

            Dagan pushed the cleaning shelf out of the way, revealing the passage to everyone.

            ‘The city is under attack; they’ve locked you in here to be sacrificed. If you take this passage you can get outside the castle. Head somewhere far from here; out of the King’s reach.’

            ‘Aneller.’ I said, looking at them over Annie’s head. ‘It isn’t ruled by the King. You’ll be safe there.’

            The slaves murmured amongst themselves, doubts and fear on their face.

            ‘Go now!’ Dagan commanded, ‘It’s the only chance you have. Would you rather stay and die a slave?’

            This spurred them into action, pushing towards the passage so Dagan and I had to move sideways out of the way. Annie still clung to me, which made me wince, knowing what I had to do next.

            ‘Annie, you need to go with them.’

            She gazed up at me then, shocked, before setting her jaw and firmly shaking her head.

            I sighed, ‘You’re not safe here.’

            ‘Only if you come.’ She said.

            ‘You know I can’t. She’s here, I have to rescue her.’

            ‘Then I’ll stay with you! Don’t make me leave you; I can’t bear to lose anyone else.’

            I drew her into another hug, gritting my teeth.

            ‘I promise I’ll follow you. It’s too dangerous for you but I’m strong with this body. I’ll save Firo and follow you. I promise.’

            ‘Really?’ she whispered, her voice so faint I was afraid she might break.

            ‘Yes, but I can’t help Firo and worry about you. So, please go.’

            She slowly untangled herself from me, staring into my eyes to search for any doubt or deceit. Finally she nodded, tears spilling down her face.

            ‘Alright, I’ll go.’

            I let out a relieved breath, pulling her in for one final hug.

            ‘I love you, little sister.’

            ‘I love you, big brother. I’ll be waiting for you, until the day we meet again.’

            With that she pulled away and headed to the passage. She paused, glancing back to give me a brilliant, watery smile before disappearing from view.

            That was the last time I ever saw my little sister.

Chapter Thirty Four:

Tempit

The next three days passed in a haze. My waking vision haunted with the sight of the Engon people turning black, screaming in agony.

            I did that. I caused them that pain.

            ‘Are you still moping?’ Amergin asked, nudging me with his shoulder while his hands remained on the horse’s reins. ‘We’ll be approaching the back line of the army soon, so you should focus!’

            If it bothers you so, little one, find a way to change it. Firo’s soothing voice spoke.

            I can do that?

            When you gain my power, you’ll be able to do many things. If you can’t bear to see people suffer under the immortal’s rule, then change it.

            But how? Without that hammer, those people…

            It is true Marcellus and his hammer’s magic formed the weather phenomenon on that area, but humans are stronger than they realise. Even I am shocked by their rapid evolution. Do not give up hope.

            I sighed, pulling away from the dark thoughts and at last focusing on Amergin’s warning.

            ‘The back of the army? What do you mean?’

            ‘It speaks.’ Amergin muttered before turning to face me. ‘Earl and the Duke’s army marched out weeks ago to attack Tempit, remember? It’s why the route has been so quiet for us; no one dares to travel right now. There’s been a siege for over a week now, so they’ll be a defensive back line as we approach the city.’

            ‘Oh.’ I said, feeling stupid. I’d completely forgotten about Earl and his army. ‘How do we get past an army and into Tempit unseen?’

            ‘That’s my question.’ Amergin said, staring at me with piercing eyes. ‘You must have a brilliant plan.’

            ‘Err…’

            Amergin growled, forcing the horses to stop.

            ‘Then you’d better think of one.’ He snapped. ‘Fast!’

---

Luckily I never had to think of a plan. We were miserably munching on some leftover supplies when a familiar wolf trotted up, snatching the food from my hands.

            ‘Hello to you too.’ I muttered, trying to disguise my relief. ‘So you managed to get out of the lake then.’

            The wolf growled, eyes dangerous.

            ‘Stop it, Ulmar.’ Dagan said as he walked up, taking the food from Ulmar’s mouth and biting into it. ‘We don’t have time for petty squabbles.’

            Eww, he just ate something with wolf drool all over it!

            Amergin began growling again, pure hatred glaring at Dagan. Dagan flinched, but tried to look casual by continuing to eat.

            ‘If we don’t move soon, it will be too late for Firo.’ Dagan said, gaze focused on his food.

            ‘Firo is the only reason I don’t rip you apart!’ Amergin spat, standing and striding over to Dagan, their faces inches apart. ‘You better hope we save her and she heals me, or I won’t care what Candence says. I will kill you!’

            Dagan just nodded, his face resigned.

            ‘Fine, but for this plan to work, you need to do exactly as I say.’

---

‘This is the stupidest plan I’ve ever heard of.’ I muttered, making sure I was loud enough for Dagan to hear.

            ‘Do you have a better one?’ he snapped. ‘How else do we get past this army?’

            ‘I thought you’d know some secret tunnels.’

            ‘Yes, once we’re in there.’

            ‘…We’re really supposed to trust our lives to that schizophrenic elf? You realise he made up the Firo promise in his own head. How long will it be before his imaginary Firo changes her mind about curing him and he attacks us?’

            ‘I know that!’ Dagan hissed, glancing over at Amergin near the horses. ‘But what else can we do? Once I get my dark magic back he won’t be a problem anymore.’

            I wasn’t so sure. I remembered how Amergin’s blood had been more affective against me than Marcellus’ attacks.

            ‘Are you ready?’ Amergin called, now grinning from ear to ear.

            Yeah, I bet he’s loving this plan.

            Dagan took a deep breath before nodding and climbing onto the back of the cart, I looked around, noticing Ulmar had managed to escape.

            ‘Yes, tie us up.’

---

I tried to shift into a more comfortable position, wincing at the spasm of pain that shot up my right wing. No matter how I manoeuvred myself I was squishing something.

            ‘Stop that!’ Dagan hissed, moving his head away to avoid his eye being poked out.

            ‘I need one of your magic wing rubs.’ I complained.

            ‘I can’t when my hands are tied.’

            ‘Shhh!’ Amergin warned. ‘We’re in sight of the city.’

            I held my breath, feeling my heart in my throat.

            ‘Breathe, idiot.’ Dagan whispered. ‘It will take hours to enter the actual city.’

            I sighed, wishing I could sink into a fetal position. Amergin had only one chain so Dagan and I were linked with just our hands shackled. I hoped it looked secure enough to avoid suspicion, but I also wished the chain had been longer so I wasn’t stuck in a sitting position.

            ‘Just keep your head bowed and look miserable.’ Dagan instructed.

            ‘So look like you? Got it.’

            I saw him open his mouth to reply, but then think better of it and shut it again, bowing his head. I sighed, following suit.

            ‘I have Firo’s chosen replacement and an escaped slave!’ Amergin bellowed out. I could imagine him waving and grinning. ‘Please take me to Prince Earl!’

            The cart stopped. I heard soldiers mumbling to each other, scrambling to find their General.

            ‘Forget it, I’ll deal with this.’ A voice I recognised commanded. The Duke of Haven.

            So his army is securing the back line.

            The Duke appeared in my line of vision, studying me closely and forcing my chin up.

            ‘Yes, this is definitely the same creature he brought to my harbour.’

            He stared at me a long time, having an internal debate, before sighing in defeat and straightening up.

            ‘I will give you a letter with my sigil on, explaining you are to be led to Earl. Deliver that thing quickly; he has already penetrated the city’s defences and is heading to the King.’

            I tried not to react, but tensed anyway.

            If he’s inside the city, that means Firo will be easier to get to.

            I can feel you, little one. Firo purred. You’re so close.

            I’m coming, Firo. I promise I’ll save you.

            She didn’t reply.

---

As soon as Amergin had the letter to wave around soldiers were falling over each other to escort him through the army. A lot of them were heading the same way, ready to reinforce those already in the city. To my surprise Earl had gone in with the first wave.

            Is he that eager to kill the King he’d attack before his invasion is secure? Or am I missing something?

            Some of the soldiers chose to guard the back of the cart, leering at me and prodding me with their swords as an act of courage.

            ‘Seems more ugly than dangerous.’ One grinned. I couldn’t help rolling my eyes, hoping none of them noticed.

            Amergin behaved himself, joining in with the soldier’s taunts a little too easily for my liking. But at least he didn’t try to attack anyone, Dagan included.

            ‘Wow, this place hasn’t changed much!’ Amergin said loudly, as we passed through a battered gate. ‘Will Earl finally get rid of that monstrous statue when he’s King?’

            ‘Of course.’ An amused voice spoke, making my head shoot up in shock.

            Damnit! He wasn’t supposed to actually lead us to Earl!

            Beside me Dagan was having a similar reaction, checking the strength of the chain and cursing. We both froze when Earl stepped into view, Ignatius by his side.

            Of course, how could I forget about their alliance?

            I started to struggle in earnest while backing away as much as I could.

            ‘Now, now. There’s no need for that.’ Earl tutted. ‘We all want the same thing here.’

            ‘I highly doubt that.’ Dagan spat, drawing Earl’s attention.

            ‘You want the King dead, so do I.’

            ‘You want to meet Firo.’ Ignatius boomed out, never taking his eyes off me. ‘That is in our interest as well.’

            I looked up, confused.

            What do they mean?

            Be strong, little one. No matter what’s to come, be strong.

            ‘As promised, I have brought it.’ Earl said, pulling out a blood vial from his cloak. I frowned at it.

            That’s not Firo’s blood. That’s…

            A large crack made me look down, seeing the shackles restraining my hands covered in vines, now cracked open from the pressure and freeing me. A wolf jumped in between the cart, Earl and Ignatius, growling in warning.

            ‘Now what?’ Earl asked, more amused than worried. Ignatius just raised an eyebrow, looking bored.

            ‘Move!’ Dagan screamed, dragging me up and jumping off the cart. He ducked into a side street, weaving through passages that slowly led towards the castle, not stopping for soldiers or to look back.

            What is going on?

            ‘We stick to our main goal!’ Dagan gritted out as he continued to move. ‘That’s all that matters.’

            I sighed, pulling my hand out of his grip and falling into step beside him.

            We’d come too far to turn back now.

Chapter Thirty Three:

Engon & Marcellus

I woke with a pounding headache and a dry mouth, groaning as I forced my eyes open. The ground was cold, hard stone with walls made of the same material. There was a small candle lantern lighting the room in the centre, while a flight of stone stairs on the other side of the room led to a wooden door.

            I sat up slowly, surprised I wasn’t chained or tied up.

            Where am I?

            I’d just managed to stand when the door opened and Amergin walked in, grinning as he carried some soup and bread.

            ‘You must be hungry; you’ve been asleep for a week.’

             ‘What?’ I screeched, almost falling over. ‘What the hell did you do to me? And where is this?’

            ‘I used the poison in me to teach you a lesson.’ He shrugged, bending down and setting the food on the floor. Before I realised it I’d sat down and was devouring it. ‘For denying me my revenge.’ He looked up at me, grinning again, making me pause in inhaling the soup. ‘But then I heard a voice, and realised you really were special.’

            ‘A voice?’ I asked cautiously, not sure I wanted to know.

            ‘Her voice. She spoke to me, saying she chose you, and to help you. If I help the creator of the realms I’m sure she will heal me.’ He said, nodding to himself.

            I’m not so sure. I thought, Considering what she wants to happen to her.

            ‘…So where are we?’ I prompted, purposely ignoring his optimistic look.

            ‘My house, of course.’ He said proudly. ‘Well, the basement anyway; I rent it from the old woman in exchange for doing housework.’

            I took a deep breath, trying to be patient.

            ‘And where is this house? What town?’

            ‘Engon, of course.’ Amergin said, looking at me like I was stupid. ‘I brought you back with me in the cart.’

            Firo, did you really talk to this guy?

            No one can hear me but you, little one. She replied faintly.

            I finished the bread, trying to smile at Amergin, but feeling sick.

            This guy is…

            ‘Well, thank you.’ I said, standing again. ‘If I can borrow your cart I’ll be on my way.’

            ‘Oh no. No, no, no.’ Amergin giggled, shaking his head. ‘I have to come too! You’re going to Tempit, to meet her, right? I’ll take you there.’

            I stared at him, trying to weigh up my options. Amergin didn’t look very strong, but he had overpowered Dagan, and knocked me unconscious for a week with his blood. If I refused…

            But if I said yes who knew what would happen. Even if he wasn’t crazy I wouldn’t have trusted him. He’d been furious with me before, and who knew when his imaginary Firo voice would say something he didn’t like, making him turn on me.

            ‘Sure.’ I said, matching his crazy grin with my own.

            First I need to get out of here.

            Amergin began clapping his hands and jumping up and down, laughing. I gave him a weak laugh before heading up the stairs.

            I opened the door and yelped in surprise, seeing an old woman waiting. Her hair, eyes and skin were all yellow, while her dress was a dull brown. She glared at me, examining me closely.

            ‘So it’s alive.’ She scoffed, turning and walking away. ‘You better go present it, Amergin.’

            ‘Yes.’ He muttered absently, grabbing my wrist and leading me out of the house. ‘He must be presented.’

            I didn’t like the sound of that.

---

As soon as we left the house we were swept up in a crowd. Like the old woman, they were yellow, matching the blazing sun that rivalled my hometown’s heat. Their gaze flickered to me, suspicious. When they saw Amergin was dragging me in the same direction they nodded in approval and carried on walking.

            ‘Um, where are we going?’ I asked, realising we were heading further into the town.

            ‘To present you to the Mighty Hammer.’ Amergin smiled.

             I just shook my head, giving up.

            Engon’s structure was similar to Firo’s, but Amergin and I seemed to be the only outsiders. We passed a street of shops, but they were inside buildings rather than stalls, and they were all being closed as the owners joined the crowd.

            The street opened up into a large square at the centre of town, where already hundreds of people were gathered around a large wooden platform built several feet off the ground. The centre of it had a hole and stairs installed, which a large man was climbing up. The crowd became hushed as soon as they saw him.

            He was an earth immortal, large and muscular like Ignatius, and wearing the usual sewn leaves outfit. His visible veins seemed to bulge closer to his skin than the others and were an assortment of colours. His hair was a short light brown and his smile had a feral look deeper than Ulmar’s.

            In his right hand he carried a large wooden hammer, plain looking except for its size.

            ‘It is time for the great hammer to hear your confessions!’ He roared, holding it up in the air.

            I couldn’t stop my instinctive reaction to slap my face with my hand, shaking my head.

            Confess to a hammer?

            Amergin had to elbow me in the stomach before my giggling got too loud. I saw him rub his elbow and grimace immediately after.

            ‘Do not anger The Hammer.’ He tutted, looking up at the sky. I followed his gaze, seeing the sun disappear and white specks begin to fall.

            W-what?

            All around us the people’s complexion was changing from yellow to blue, their eyes and hair changing too.

            I lifted a hand and jerked in amazement when a white speck landed there, melting.

            ‘What is this?’ I whispered in awe.

            Amergin frowned at me.

            ‘It’s snow. You’ve never seen snow before?’

            ‘No.’ I said, looking up at the sky and smiling. ‘It’s beautiful.’

            Amergin shrugged, turning his gaze back to the platform.

            ‘It is through The Hammer’s power you’ve been given your camouflage protection against Engon’s ever-changing weather. I, Marcellus, holder of The Hammer, will hear your confessions, so The Hammer will maintain the power it needs to keep you alive. Now,’ He gazed out at the crowd, a cold smile on his face. ‘Who will be the first to confess?’

            The crowd was silent, but several people began to push their way to the front and line up near the stairs. At the front was a young girl, no older than fourteen, who climbed up when Marcellus beckoned to her.

            ‘Come, young lady. I sense you are in pain.’

            The girl stepped forward. Marcellus plonked the hammer onto the platform, still holding its handle. With a permissive nod from Marcellus the girl reached out and took hold of a lower section of the handle. Immediately her quivering voice boomed across the square as she spoke.

            ‘Oh Mighty Hammer, two days ago I became a woman, but it pains me greatly during the blazing noon hour. Please give me the strength to carry on through it.’

            I could feel my face heat up and I ducked my head to look away. How could she discuss that in front of everyone?

            What is wrong with this town?

            Marcellus didn’t look impressed with this confession, but nodded anyway.

            ‘The Hammer has heard you and next month will give you the strength to pull through with dignity. Who is next?’

            The girl ducked her head and ran down the stairs, a man in his twenties replacing her. He was trembling as he placed a hand on the hammer’s handle.

            ‘O Mighty Hammer, I have a great sin to confess.’

            Marcellus grinned at this, making me shiver.

            ‘Go on.’ he commanded.

            ‘For the last few days rumours have been spreading in the town. They talk of rebellion against the King, and…I’m afraid some have expressed positive views of this. They want the King to die.’

            Marcellus’ grin widened and he lifted the hammer, forcing the man to let go and stumble back.

            ‘This is a great crime indeed! And one the whole town is guilty of. You must repent!’

            The man ran down the stairs as Marcellus raised the hammer higher, over his head, and slammed it down onto the platform.

            The impact was deafening, the shockwave almost visible. All around me the people grabbed their heads and cried out in pain, dropping to their knees. Even Amergin clutched at his head, screaming.

            I looked back at the platform, seeing Marcellus staring right at me, frowning in anger.

            ‘What sort of creature are you? And why aren’t you affected by my hammer?’

            ‘Um,’ I said, trying to back away but unable to manoeuvre around the people.

            He was gazing at me with narrowed eyes, as if peering into my very soul.

            ‘So…’ he said, face growing darker as the sky responded. ‘You’re her new replacement. I will not allow it!’

            The dark clouds pelted down frozen snow, making the people around me wince and start to turn white. They began staggering away, which gave Marcellus the chance to jump off the platform and head towards me.

            ‘I will not let Ignatius get his way!’

            Wait, what?

            But I didn’t have time to wonder. Before I could try to run he was close enough to aim his hammer at me, forcing me to dodge. Any people still in range of the shockwave fell back to the ground, crying in pain.

            ‘You’ll kill them!’ I protested, dodging another blow.

            ‘So?’ he sneered. ‘This hammer is fuelled by their pain, and its magic is what formed this town. They will gladly die for me; you should follow their example.’

            He changed his blow to a sideways sweep, catching me off guard and hitting its mark. I was sent flying across the square.

            Even with my body that hurt.

            I groaned, trying to climb back to my feet, but finding Marcellus already there, bringing his hammer down again. It hit me hard on the back and I cried out in pain.

            If I’d been anyone else I would have been squashed flat, but not even my bones were damaged. It still hurt more than I liked.

            Marcellus was growling at me, confusion fueling his anger.

            ‘Why aren’t you dead yet? Die already!’

            I rolled clumsily out of the way for his next attack, using the shockwave to help jump to my feet. I winced as I straightened my back, feeling like an old man.

            ‘Stop this.’ I hissed, feeling the now familiar movement in my throat. ‘I’m warning you.’

            ‘How dare you!’ Marcellus growled. For a moment I saw a hint of fear in his eyes, which made his anger blaze more fiercely. ‘I won’t let you outrank me!’

            He lifted his hammer to swing again, and I opened my mouth.

            Instead of a fireball, a steady stream of fire poured from my mouth, hitting Marcellus and spreading. After a few seconds I coughed and the flames stopped. In that time the flames travelled up Marcellus, reaching the hammer. By the time the five seconds ended Marcellus was screaming in agony, badly burnt all over, while the hammer had turned black.

            Other screams began to fill the town, making me turn in surprise. All around the people were turning black, clutching at their skin in agony.

            ‘What-?’ I began, stumbling back in horror.

            ‘Quick.’ Amergin hissed, suddenly appearing and grabbing my wrist, dragging me away in a forced run. ‘We have to leave before he recovers.’

            I looked around at the screaming people as we ran, feeling sick.

            I finally managed to hurt an immortal, and look what became of it.

            If Amergin hadn’t been leading, I don’t think I could have continued. Not even for Annie.

Chapter Thirty Two:

Old Grudges

I was surprised Amelia didn’t attack me. She just stared at me with a bemused look before scrambling to Dagan, who was slumped against the sink counter, breathing heavily.

            ‘What the hell was that?’ he gritted out, teeth clenched together through the pain. ‘Are you trying to turn me into charcoal?’

            ‘It’s the same as on your hand.’ I said absently, still in shock myself.

            ‘What? I don’t have a burn on my hand, you crazy freak!’ Dagan growled, trying to smack Amelia’s hand away from the burn. She gave him a stern look in return.

            ‘I need to get your shirt out of the way…well, what’s left of it.’

            I winced, feeling bad about that.

            Did I feel bad about burning Dagan? Not one bit.

            ‘I’ll go get some water.’ I said, leaving her to it. I wasn’t worried though, something told me even if we left the wound alone he’d be fine.

            Amelia had moved him into the spare bedroom. His shirt was off and he lay on his back on the bed. Amelia was tentively touching the edge of the burn, frowning.

            ‘It’s already started to dry and scab over.’ She told me, giving me a suspicious look. ‘What did you do?’

            I shrugged, as mystified as she was.

            ‘Okay.’ She sighed. ‘Then why did you do it?’

            ‘To change his fate.’

            She shook her head at my answer and sighed.

            ‘Forget I asked.’

            Dagan gave me a bitter grin.

            ‘Change my fate? You should worry more about your own, Firo.’

            I rolled my eyes and left.

            I won’t let him regain his magic. I promised myself. And I won’t let him waste what he has, including his own life.

The next morning I rose early and went outside, finding Ulmar in wolf form, watching the sun rise over the lake. I sat down near him, enjoying the view.

            ‘You’re his friend, right?’ I said twenty minutes later. The wolf lifted its head to look at me, but nothing more. ‘Don’t let him become the monster he was.’

            A flash of light at my side indicated Ulmar’s transformation. He sat, still staring at the lake.

            ‘He’s not my responsibility to worry over.’ He said curtly. ‘Besides, it seems you’ve already taken care of the problem. That mark will keep him out of trouble.’

            I frowned, but didn’t question him. I didn’t want to look stupid, not knowing what I’d actually done to Dagan.

            ‘Why are you really helping us?’ I asked instead.

            ‘My master-’

            ‘Yeah, yeah. I knew an earth immortal with a master he had to obey, but he still managed to act in his own interests too. Why are you doing this?’

            Ulmar stared at me blankly before an admiring smirk broke out on his face.

            ‘Because things have to change, for all of us.’

---

Amelia came out with breakfast an hour later. She was upset, trying to hide it with a smile.

            ‘Enjoying the view I see.’ She said with false cheer. ‘Even after living here so long it soothes my nerves.’

            We didn’t bother replying, and she let her smile drop as we began eating. Ulmar picked at his.

            ‘Do you eat human food?’ I asked, curious. I’d seen him eat fruit the day before, but only small bites.

            ‘I can.’ He said, ‘But it’s not necessary. I have never found eating meat pleasant.’

            A vegetarian immortal. Why not.

            ‘Um,’ Amelia began nervously, staring at me. ‘Before, you said something about a mark on Dagan’s hand. What did you mean?’

            ‘Not his hand, your hand. Can’t you see it?’

            She glanced down at her right hand, frowning.

            ‘The other one.’ I said helpfully. After examining it she shook her head, puzzled.

            ‘I don’t see anything.’

            ‘It means you’re important.’ I insisted, grabbing her hand in sudden urgency. ‘Don’t throw your life away for Dagan’s sake, understand?’

            She stared at me, her face troubled, and didn’t answer.

            ‘In other words.’ Ulmar broke in. ‘Stay here instead of trying to follow us, which is what you’re planning, right?’

            ‘No.’ Dagan’s voice interrupted. Amelia winced guiltily, standing to face him. I sighed, turning my head to watch. ‘You’re staying here and having nothing more to do with us.’ His eyes narrowed further, looking her up and down. ‘Taking off your illusion magic isn’t going to make me change my mind.’

            ‘What? Dagan I haven’t taken anything off. The illusion barrier is built around the town; I can’t switch it off at will.’

            ‘But you look like your real self now.’ Dagan insisted, voice fading in his confusion.

            ‘It’s the mark.’ Ulmar said, standing and moving in between Amelia and Dagan. ‘It’s given you some resistance to magic. Because you’re aware of the illusion you can now see through it.’

            Dagan’s startled gaze shot to me before he looked down, starting to unbutton his new shirt. The mark looked fully healed now, just a huge burn scar covering his upper chest. It was in the same fire shape as Amelia’s.

            ‘Well, I guess I shouldn’t complain about being burnt then.’ He said reluctantly.

            I expected Amelia to smile at this, but she was gazing off towards the village, frowning.

            ‘What’s wrong?’ I asked when her concerned face turned to dread.

            ‘He’s come early.’ She whispered, turning her gaze back to Dagan. ‘Dagan, please don’t over-react.’

            ‘What are you talking about?’ he asked, turning to look. In the distance a male elf was approaching, humming to himself. His hair was the usual blonde, but cut at different lengths, as though he’d decided to hack off random chunks when he was bored. His eyes held a glazed look to them, like the world wasn’t entirely clear. Like earth immortals, his veins were visible under his skin, but they were black, while his pale skin was almost snow white.

            Dagan’s own skin paled at the sight.

            ‘Amergin?’ he whispered, turning to face the strange elf and backing away a few steps.

            The elf Amergin looked up at his name, his carefree smile disappearing at the sight of Dagan, twisting into a look of pure hate.

            ‘You!’ he spat, charging forward and knocking Dagan to the ground. Dagan scrambled onto his feet, backing away in my direction, making me stand and move further from the lake.

            What on earth?

            ‘Amergin, please calm down!’ Amelia begged as the elf charged into Dagan again, this time falling too, so Dagan was trapped underneath him. Dagan’s head was inches away from the lake.

            ‘He did this to me!’ Amergin screamed, his hands going around Dagan’s throat. ‘This pain! This poison! He killed me!’

            ‘Look! Look at him!’ Amelia begged, tugging at Amergin’s arms to loosen his grip. ‘His eartips are gone; his magic is gone! He can’t hurt anyone anymore, and he suffers too.’

            ‘Not enough!’ Amergin hissed, knocking Amelia away and squeezing harder. ‘I’ll-’

            He stopped with a surprised yelp when Ulmar linked either arm under the elf’s armpits and hoisted him up, placing him in an effective lock.

            ‘Let’s all calm down, shall we?’ His deep voice rumbled, making Amergin go rigid.

            Dagan was still wheezing on the ground, pulling himself into a sitting position.

            ‘W-what’s he doing here?’

            ‘He lives in Engon.’ Amelia said shakily. ‘He comes to talk sometimes…and to be near the lake.’

            ‘Why would you-?’

            There was a splash as two figures popped up from the lake, their upper bodies visible. Both were water immortals, one a man and the other a woman. The man grabbed hold of Dagan, quickly submerging them both and disappearing.

            ‘No!’ Both Amelia and Amergin screamed.

            Ulmar released his grip in shock as we all crowded around the lake’s edge, searching for Dagan. The woman immortal remained, staring at me with open curiosity.

            ‘Candence.’ Amelia said, drawing her attention. ‘Don’t do this; give him back!’

            Candence’s icy gaze fell on Amelia, who flinched but stood her ground. Candence’s arm grabbed Amelia’s ankle, but did nothing more. They were staring at each other, and I realised Candence must be speaking in Amelia’s mind.

            ‘I know.’ Amelia said, sounding defeated but desperate. ‘I know he did terrible things, and what he did to you was unforgivable…but he’s different now, please…’

            ‘Let me kill him!’ Amergin interrupted, tears in his eyes. ‘Let me get revenge.’

            ‘Do something!’ I hissed at Ulmar, drawing his attention away from the drama. ‘Dagan will die if you don’t!’

            ‘Me go against Candence?’ Ulmar scoffed. ‘I would be useless.’

            I glared at him and did the only thing I could think of.

            I pushed him, hard, into the lake.

            All heads spun towards me as Ulmar sank like a stone and disappeared from sight. For thirty seconds nothing happened, but then two heads broke the surface.

            It was Dagan, unconscious, and the water immortal.

            ‘Ordoardo.’ Amelia began, but stopped when Candence let go of her ankle and turned to glare at Ordoardo. A silent conversation took place, and Ordoardo pulled Dagan’s shirt back, revealing the burn scar.

            Candence frowned, but looked resigned, giving Ordoardo a tense nod.

            ‘Can I kill him?’ Amergin asked again, an eager smile crossing his lips.

            Candence moved towards him and grabbed his ankle. His smile soon fell away.

            ‘What do you mean?’ he cried out in despair. ‘We have to kill him!’

            Candence shook her head, glancing at me. Amergin’s mad gaze turned to me too, seething.

            ‘And does it matter if this guy has a claim? Who is he?’

            Whatever answer she gave made Amergin slump down to the ground in defeat.

            ‘Thank you! Thank you.’ Amelia said, grabbing the soaked Dagan from Ordoardo and checking his breathing. With a strength I didn’t realise she possessed she lifted him into her arms and walked back to the house.

            Ordoardo and Candence nodded at me before disappearing beneath the water. Ulmar was still nowhere to be found.

            What an earth was that about?

            Watch out! Firo’s voice echoed in my head. Don’t let the dark magic’s poison touch you!

            I turned, seeing Amergin had stood and was glaring at me as he coughed violently into his hand. It came away stained with black blood.

            ‘This is all your fault.’ He hissed, moving with lightning speed and smearing the blood across my face.

            Immediately I began to fell weak and dizzy, my body turning numb.

            Little one! Firo called out.

            I couldn’t answer, sinking into darkness.

Chapter Thirty one:

Amelia

 Once we were past the bog field we travelled another half a mile before collapsing for the night, near the edge of Leaf Lake. We managed to force some water into Dagan, but had no surviving supplies to feed or shelter ourselves.

            ‘We’ll have to risk visiting a town.’ Ulmar sighed in the morning, glancing down at the still unconscious Dagan. ‘What was the idiot thinking jumping in after me?’

            ‘I don’t think he was; that’s the problem.’ I sighed, trying to scrub the dried mud off in the lake’s water. ‘Where should we go?’

            ‘Lacar is closest. Neither the King nor Haven bother it much, being a small village near the lake. Hopefully no soldiers will be there.’

            I didn’t argue, knowing we had no other choice.

---

What surprised me the most about Lacar wasn’t the simple lifestyle or the relaxed atmosphere. It was the pleasant smiles and friendly ‘Good morning’ s we received as we walked through the village. No one batted an eye at the fact we were a half-human, half dragon and an earth immortal carrying an unconscious elf in slave clothes.

            ‘Must be Amelia’s work.’ Ulmar commented. ‘Good, I was hoping she still lived here.’

            ‘Who?’ I asked, remembering Dagan had said the name when under the Forest of Illusion’s spell.

            ‘An old acquaintance of Dagan’s.’ Ulmar said, surprising me by actually answering. ‘Hopefully she can help.’

            He led me to the outskirts of the village, the lake only a few metres away. By the water’s edge was a cottage supported on stilts. Three large steps led up to a veranda, looking out over the lake. An elf woman was sat there on a rocking chair, her gaze on us as she stood, her anxious hope turning to a delighted but sorrowful smile.

            ‘Dagan?’ she asked, running down the steps to meet us. She ran round Ulmar to gaze at Dagan’s face over his shoulder. She touched his cheek gently, her hopeful smile turning into a beautiful grin. ‘It really is him!’ Her gaze strayed to his ears, her smile dropping into a sad one. ‘Oh, Dagan.’

            ‘Can we come in?’ Ulmar interrupted, snapping her attention to him. ‘He still needs time to recover.’

            Her gaze turned cold and hard.

            ‘Ulmar.’ She said, making me flinch even when it wasn’t directed at me. ‘What happened? Why did he never come back?’

            ‘That’s not my story to tell.’ He said, unmoving.

            Amelia glared at this, but reluctantly led us to the veranda, opening her front door.

            ‘Welcome to my home.’

---

I let out a sigh of pure ecstasy, sinking deeper into the tub. Finally I could fully scrub all the mud from my scales, rinse my hair clean and wash away that awful smell.

            I’d been reluctant to bathe in the tub outside the house, conscious of passer-bys, but Amelia had assured me villagers didn’t come here often, and the warm water would be worth the risk. She wasn’t wrong.

            She hadn’t questioned my appearance, not once looking shocked. She merely handed me a towel, some brown cropped trousers and black socks and shoes.

            ‘I’ll figure out a shirt for you when I can.’ She promised. ‘Luckily your tail is high up enough that you can still wear trousers easily.’ She teased, turning to tend to Dagan.

            I couldn’t reach the whole of my wings alone, so I dipped them in the lake, hoping that was good enough.

            Once dressed and blessedly clean I entered the house, seeing Ulmar also clean, his original clothes still on but free of mud and the stench. His appearance was as scruffy as ever, but I doubt that would ever change. He sat at the kitchen table, munching on some fruit.

            ‘She’s giving him a sponge bath.’ He said, not looking up from his fruit.

            I gave him a funny look, wondering why he let a woman clean Dagan up, but felt too tired to volunteer and take her place.

            ‘It’s not a big deal.’ Ulmar said with a shrug. ‘They were lovers once; she’ll have seen him naked countless times.’

            I should have felt embarrassed, but I just nodded and sat down, grabbing some fruit from the centre of the table to eat.

            When Amelia emerged from the guest room she looked flushed, carrying a bowl of muddy water and Dagan’s ruined slave clothes.

            ‘I’ll make him some broth to eat later.’ She said, setting a kettle on her stove. ‘But first let’s sort you out.’

            She disappeared to tip the dirty water on the ground and rinse the bowl outside before returning, pouring the boiling water and leaving it to cool a little.

            ‘Unless you’re trying to style your look off Ulmar, you need a haircut.’ She teased, approaching me with a pair of scissors and a comb.

            I didn’t argue, but I felt uncomfortable the whole time she cut my hair, able to feel the heat of her body so near.

            I really am turning into a pervert. I thought, trying to ignore the feeling and stare straight ahead. Amelia tried to engage me in light conversation, but I was too flustered to contribute.

            Why am I like this with women? I was fine with Annie and Iris…Well, I guess even with Iris I was awful at first.

            Still, Firo was technically a female, and I’d never felt awkward with her.

            So I just have to pretend Amelia’s a dragon. I told myself, trying to be convincing.

            My inner voice scoffed back at me.

            ‘Done!’ Amelia announced, moving away as I stood and turned around. She came back holding a mirror, letting me see.

            I was impressed. I had no fringe, it blending into my new hairstyle. My hair reached the mid-back of my neck, but was a layered, choppy texture all over, leaving it with a slight spiky effect.

            ‘Thank you.’ I said, meaning it.

            Amelia nodded, clearly pleased, before putting down the mirror and grabbing the bowl.

            ‘Right, now to properly clean your wings.’

            The dragon idea didn’t work, and the next twenty minutes were personal torture.

            ‘There!’ she beamed, finally finishing. I was about to sink into a humiliated puddle of relief when she grabbed my arm, leading me out of the kitchen. ‘Now, for a shirt.’

            By the end of it was praying Earl would storm in with his army to relieve me of the torture. This beautiful elf woman was measuring my chest and using me as a live manikin while she sewed together a three-piece shirt.

            I sighed, giving in and taking a better look at her.

            Like most elves she had blonde hair, but it was cut short in a bob style. Her eyes were a warm hazel. She was the first elf besides Dagan I’d seen wearing trousers. Unlike Dagan’s they were a beautiful quality, a shimmering blue with a smug fitting blouse. There was a small fire tattoo on her left hand.

            She gazed up from her sewing and smiled, making my face heat up at being caught.

            ‘I know I can’t ask your name,’ she said, making me jump. ‘But may I call you Firo?’

            So she does know what’s going on. I thought.

            I nodded.

            We lapsed back into silence, and she’d begun working on the buttons before I worked up the courage to speak.

            Pretend she’s a dragon. I told myself.

            ‘S-so,’ I began, drawing her amused attention. ‘I like your plants.’

            The house was covered in them, several potted plants in every room, even the lavatory. The corridor had a vine plant growing up the walls.

            Amelia frowned at me.

            ‘You can see them?’

            I blinked, not sure how to answer. She stood up from the chair she’d been working in, moving as close as she could to gaze at my eyes.

            ‘I see; I didn’t realise. You’ve seen through my illusions this whole time, haven’t you?’

            ‘Illusions?’ I asked.

            She nodded, stepping back and relaxing.

            ‘Yes, it’s my gift. When you entered the village made you look like ordinary humans. The villagers see me as a middle aged woman.’

            ‘Oh,’ I said, not knowing what else to say.

            ‘I set up an illusion barrier over the whole village, so any unusual characters, like elves and immortals, would appear human…I guess I was always hoping Dagan would return, one day.’

            We fell back into awkward silence until she finished the shirt, holding it up triumphantly.

            ‘Now let’s see if it works.’

            The shirt was in three sections, designed to join by buttoning each one up together. The front section was the largest piece, with two others for the back. Each section buttoned up down my side, and reached to my wings. Here Amelia had shaped the shirt so a hole was left for my wings while the rest buttoned up so my back was covered.

            ‘Wow, thank you.’ I said, grinning in relief. ‘I was worried I’d never be able to wear a shirt again.’

            Amelia giggled at my reaction, making me blush. This only made her laugh harder.

            ‘Amelia?’ Came Dagan’s voice from the door, making me spin around.

            He looked at us both, irritated and angry.

            Great, I thought, Amelia’s laugh dying away. I do not want to be in the middle of this.

---

Dagan’s new outfit matched Amelia’s, the same shimmering blue trousers with a white shirt. He didn’t look too impressed with this.

            ‘That is you, right?’ he said, eyes narrowing at her. ‘Why do you look like a human?’

            Amelia was speechless a moment before regaining her composure and producing a shaky smile. All her underlining confidence from before had disappeared.

            ‘Don’t you remember? Mum and I put up an illusion barrier around the village so we’ll always look human…’she trailed off.

            Dagan frowned at this, then realisation came into his eyes, making a bitter smile settle on his face.

            ‘Oh yes, I remember now. It just never affected me before, did it?’

            Amelia winced, but tried to form a smile.

            ‘How are you feeling? I was about to prepare a broth for you.’

            ‘Why are we here?’ Dagan snapped at me, ignoring Amelia completely. ‘Do you just love bringing me to the worse places possible?’

            ‘Whoa, this has nothing to do with me.’ I argued, ‘Ulmar brought us here; I didn’t even know who Amelia was.’

            ‘Well, you look acquainted with each other now.’ He snarled.

            I rolled my eyes at that.

            ‘This was the only place we could go.’ Ulmar’s voice came from behind Dagan, making him spin around. ‘Would you rather we left you to die in the bog field? Or hand you back to the King?’

            Dagan gritted his teeth, but bowed his head in defeat.

---

The awkwardness moved into the kitchen, with us sat eating Amelia’s delicious broth while Dagan glared at everyone. Ulmar had declined to eat and escaped the house, putting Dagan in an even fouler mood.

            ‘I waited,’ Amelia began in a small voice, her food forgotten. ‘I’ve waited so long for you to come back.’

            ‘I never intended to come back.’ Dagan said coldly, staring at his empty bowl. ‘Even if I hadn’t become…this. I wouldn’t have come back.’

            ‘You’re lying.’ She said, tears in her eyes.

            ‘You know I’m not. All I want is my magic back, nothing more.’

            ‘How can you say that? After everything we went through? My mother died because…and you’re still…’ she trailed off, head bowing in defeat. ‘I waited…all this time.’

            ‘I didn’t ask you to.’ He scoffed, standing up. ‘Thanks for the food and clothes, but we need to get to Tempit.’

            I stood too, unable to listen any longer.

            ‘What the hell is wrong with you?’ I screamed. ‘Amelia has done nothing but help us, how can you act so cruel?’

            ‘Stay out of this.’ Dagan spat, stalking towards me so we were eye to eye, inches away from each other. ‘Don’t let your stupid crush sway you from your mission, Firo!’

            ‘Don’t be stupid!’ I scoffed, ‘Amelia loves you, that’s obvious! Stop acting like a bastard and talk to her properly. Stop running away from everything!’

            ‘Stop snooping in my business!’ he hissed back. ‘We’re only together because our goals lead us to the same place, don’t forget that!’

            ‘Um,’ Amelia tried. We both ignored her.

            ‘Yes, your magic. It’s all you care about.’ I mocked. ‘The dark magic that you couldn’t control. What exactly did you do to get the King’s attention in the first place? Why did he steal it? How many people did you kill with it?’

            Dagan looked uncertain then, for a moment, but soon regained his composure, glaring at me.

            ‘That was different; I only had one magic then. The King’s foreseeing magic will balance it out.’

            ‘He’s still a tyrant.’ I laughed coldly. ‘Do you want to become him?’

            ‘I’m not like him.’

            ‘No, you’re worse.’ I spat.

            Dagan lunged at me in rage, hands going round my neck. I didn’t bother stopping him; he couldn’t hurt me with my scales as armour. Instead I let him squeeze uselessly a few seconds before shoving him back, hard.

            He smashed into the sink, snarling at me. I just gave him a cocky grin.

            ‘If I had my way Dagan, you’d never get that magic back.’ I promised.

            ‘Stop!’ Amelia screamed, jumping between us. ‘This is crazy!’

            ‘Get out of the way!’ he snarled, shoving her away. She fell onto the floor, looking more stunned than hurt.

            Even so, I snapped.

            He’s just like Father!

            Dagan was still staring down at Amelia in shock when my fireball hit him right in the chest. He didn’t stand a chance.

Chapter Thirty:

Mud and Fire

‘Is he breathing?’ A voice asked, not sounding worried or concerned. ‘It would be a pain if he died.’

            I groaned, slowly blinking my eyes open. Dagan and a human-form Ulmar stood over me, looking annoyed.

            ‘Wherever you’ve been better have been worth it.’ Dagan grumbled, dropping into a crouch and letting out an exhausted sigh. ‘After Eilir dumped you through his portal, he ordered me to follow him and find Ulmar.’ Dagan glared up at Ulmar. ‘The idiot was miles away, outside Line Woods.’

            ‘It only annoyed you because you had to suffer the illusions again.’ Ulmar said, not looking the least bit sorry.

            ‘Eilir left Laven?’ I asked, sitting up and wincing. I’d woken on my back, squashing my wings. Dagan moved around me to massage them, leaving Ulmar to answer.

            ‘Yes. His magic is strong, but using it to open rips in space everywhere is dangerous. He usually opens them to certain areas, like Firo and near the seals, to prevent lasting damage. It would have been the reason he was reluctant to send you to Tempit. With this in mind, he couldn’t just open a portal near me and pull me through to Laven, then open another one for us both; he needed to travel to me himself. He then sent Dagan and me through a rip, leading here. Half a day later Tallulah emerged from the water, carrying you.’

            ‘What?’ I asked, looking at our surroundings for the first time.

            It was a similar design to the fire temple, but instead of a bonfire at its centre there was a large circular hole filled with water.

            ‘How deep is that?’ I asked.

            ‘It leads to Leaf Lake, which is connected to the ocean. Leaf Lake is where Tallulah guards the seal.’

            So she brought me up through there?

            ‘How did I not drown?’

            ‘We thought you would know.’ Dagan spoke up, shrugging.

            ‘It doesn’t matter.’ Ulmar broke in. ‘You’re here now. We don’t need to know what happened; let’s just keep moving.’

            Dagan scoffed at this. ‘Easier said than done. You do know where we are, right?’

            I glanced around at the statues circling the room and closed my eyes in despair.

            ‘The water temple,’ I gritted out.

            ‘Exactly,’ Dagan laughed harshly. ‘The water temple in the centre of the bog lands, close to Lar and Haven. The same route you wanted to avoid in the first place.’

            I sighed, whacking away Dagan’s massaging hands and standing.

            ‘Well, we’ll just have to go through the bog lands then.’

As soon as we stepped out of the water temple I realised how stupid this idea was. I’d assumed the bog lands would be grassy lands with water patches, like after a heavy rainfall. Instead it was a few spare patches of grass in a landscape of mud.

            ‘This is the water temple’s protective defence.’ Ulmar said, wrinkling his nose and looking pale.

            ‘I think I preferred the fire temple’s deadly firewall.’ I muttered.

            ‘And we don’t have a water immortal’s blood to disperse it.’ Ulmar gritted out, glaring over at me. ‘If you had become Firo already your blood would work. She is the creator of all realms, after all.’

            I gave him a puzzled look, but didn’t bother asking what he meant.

            ‘We should try it, just in case.’ Dagan reasoned, his shirt pulled up over his mouth to dull the smell.

            Ulmar sighed, but I saw a plant shoot begin to grow in the mud anyway. It didn’t even reach my knee before beginning to shrivel.

            ‘It’s no good.’ Ulmar admitted. ‘The magic here is stronger than mine.’

            I sighed, using my right hand to lift a scale on my left arm. ‘Anyone got sharp nails?’

            Ulmar stepped forward, his human nails tough and sharp like talons. I winced and stepped back.

            Letting an immortal get my blood…

            Ulmar just stared at me, a cruel smirk forming.

            ‘What? Don’t you trust me, little lizard?’

            I glared back.

            Before I could react he grabbed my left arm and stabbed his fingertip under the lifted scale. He winced, drawing back quickly.

            ‘You definitely have a hard shell.’ He muttered. His finger was bent a little, but had a few drops of blood on the end of his nail. He crouched down, dipping his finger into the mud before standing again, cracking his finger back into a natural angle.

            We waited for five minutes, but nothing happened.

            ‘You’re still too weak.’ Ulmar scoffed, glaring resentfully at me. ‘Human.’

            ‘I guess we better get started.’ Dagan said.

            Nobody moved.

            Dagan sighed, glaring at us.

            ‘It can’t be that deep.’ He scoffed, taking a step forward.

            His foot sank up to his knee, making him cry out in surprise.

            I glanced back at my tail and wings and started laughing.

            We are so screwed.

---

Half a day later we had barely gone a hundred metres through the bog lands. Before we’d even set off we’d had to solve the issue of my wings and tail. In the end Dagan had ripped my shirt off and Ulmar had cut it into strips, binding my wings together and strapping them with my tail against my body. To avoid dragging them through the mud I had to lean forward as much as I could without getting mud in my mouth.

            Ulmar was our scout, trying to pick the safest route with his animal senses. Or perhaps he thought his surprised whelps were less humiliating in wolf form, because the height difference wasn’t helping him much. Out of all of us he was suffering the most with his heightened sense of smell. When he’d still been in human form he’d retched up all the food in his stomach and still kept dry-heaving.

            ‘Is he going to be-’ I began, cutting myself off with a wail of despair. Dagan was half beside me, half behind me, turning to give me a startled look. ‘My shoe’s come off!’

            Dagan rolled his eyes.

            ‘Oh please, I lost both my shoes ages ago! What are you doing?’ he cried out, grabbing my wings to stop me toppling over as I bent down, sinking a hand into the mud. ‘Forget about your stupid shoe!’

            ‘But-’

He yanked on my wings, pulling me up and shoving me forward, all patience gone.

‘I will not die here because you’re too attached to your footwear!’

I sighed, running a hand through my hair in annoyance. It was only after I realised it was the hand coated in mud.

Maybe they won’t notice, I prayed.

‘Ulmar, what are you doing?’ Dagan yelled at the wolf, watching it try to leap over a large mud patch, and instead landing right in the middle. He started to sink rapidly and Dagan rushed past me, plunging into the mud patch to help.

So he does care, I thought, amused for a moment before the danger of the situation began to sink in.

‘Hey, get out of there!’ I yelled. Dagan had reached Ulmar, pulling the wolf’s head back up above the mud, but sinking up to his chest himself. He glanced back at me, struggling to drag them both back, his movement making him sink up to his neck.

‘Get out of here, you idiot!’ he yelled, seeing me charge towards them. I reached them just as Dagan’s head sank beneath the mud, making me freeze.

What do I do?

The mud was only up to my chest, but I began to choke, coughing violently. Just like in the Forest of Illusion, I could feel something rising in my throat, smoke starting to spill from my mouth and nose, singeing my nose hairs.

This time there was no Ulmar to stop me opening my mouth, hacking up a small fireball that sank into the mud.

What the? That was that?

            A moment later the mud began to glow orange, heat cracks forming and quickly spreading past me to the whole bog field, I plunged my hands into the mud, groping around for Dagan. I growled, ducking my head under too.

            I don’t know why I did it; I don’t know if I’d instinctively knew I’d be able to see under the mud now, with my magic running through it. I spotted Dagan straight away, still clutching onto Ulmar. Luckily he was still close enough to grab, heaving them up and back to the surface. The mud around us had already started to solidify, so I pulled them both on top of it, panicking that neither were moving or breathing.

            Ulmar can’t die, so don’t worry about him. I told myself, turning to Dagan and starting to pound on his chest. Come on!

            I’d only done ten heart compressions before the elf began to cough up mud, turning on his stomach so he could retch it up. I helped by pounding on his back, hearing him take desperate breaths where he could.

            Beside us, Ulmar the wolf was doing something similar, somehow revived without help.

            When Dagan could finally breathe again he sank into an exhausted sleep. I sat back, sighing in relief, but still shaking.

            ‘That was too close.’ I complained, running a hand through my messy hair, the mud now dry and flaking everywhere.

            ‘Agreed,’ Ulmar coughed, now in human form. ‘Whatever you did, I’m grateful.’

            I said nothing, trying to ignore his piercing gaze.

            What did I do? And how?

            …What am I now?

            Ulmar didn’t push me. He stood, coming over to pick up the unconscious Dagan, and began walking across the solid mud.

            ‘We don’t know how long this will last. We should cross the bog field as quickly as possible.’

            Despite my exhaustion I agreed, climbing to my feet to follow.