32.The City of Angels LOL COA

Marcus and Ashlyn are taken by Esmerelda to explore the streets of Levitica. They are amazed by the unique clothing and variety of weapons carried by the people. Esmerelda explains that the whole kingdom is like a military base, with everyone encouraged to train in weaponry. They also learn that the people of Levitica work together and respect Esmerelda, despite her being a princess. Marcus notices the good health and cleanliness of the children playing in the streets, making him self-conscious about his own hygiene. They stop for lunch and meet a three-eyed mutant vendor who knew Marcus's father. The vendor gives Marcus a warning message and hints at a connection between Marcus and his father's past. Marcus becomes suspicious of the vendor's intentions and is relieved when they continue their tour of the city. The City of Angels Marcus Marcus had to admit, he was impressed. Upon leading him and Ashlyn downstairs and out the main entrance to the castle, Esmerelda took them into a large clearing, which spider-webbed into the streets of Levitica, which were full of life and amazing effulgence. Esmerelda led them down a central path, through the forest of marble buildings, and now that they were in a more populated area, the two newcomers of the city got to see the entire culture unseen by the rest of the world. People flocked the streets, dressed in many varieties of clothing that both Marcus and Ashlyn never thought possible. The crisp, cold air kept everyone in winter attire, but the varieties of fur, wool, polyester, and leather showed just how unique everyone can present themselves. The roads of polished cobblestone, lined with numerous shops and homes, the buildings of marble, stood tall over the three, despite being overshadowed by the great wall surrounding them and the castle behind them. Around the buildings themselves were planted trees of pine and birch, bringing forth the wonderful scent of bark and pine in the noses of all who passed by. What intrigued Marcus was how the people around them behaved. They showed no fear in their eyes, which he was used to in Nineveh. And yet many of them were armed, men and women, both human and mutant or otherwise. Many kept the different varieties of weapons, close and visible. If they were in Nineveh, anyone caught with open carry, be it gun or sword, they would be shot on the spot. Which also pointed out to Marcus the lack of foot soldiers or guards in the streets of Levitica. And he asked the princess about that. Most of the royal guard or soldiers man the castle and the walls. Esmeralda explained, Everyone here is trained in weaponry. In other words, the whole kingdom is practically a large military base, with everyone encouraged to train with weaponry, save for the children and those who are unable to fight. Are the people required to train? Ashlen asked. No, though they are recommended to do so. Those who'd rather not train and fight are usually trained to become nurses, or work as scavengers, taking hovercraft down to the surface, in order to obtain different minerals and necessities. Since we are always so high up in the sky, we still need basic necessities from the rest of the region. Isn't that risky? Marcus asked. It is, Esmeralda admitted, but that is why we have many brave men and women willing to do what is necessary for the good of their community. Everyone works together, huh? Ashlen asked, as they passed by a tavern, where some men were looking over and pointing towards Esmeralda. We try our best, anyway, Esmeralda said with a smile. The princess turned out to be very popular among the people of Levitica. She was kind to every person the trio would come across, always asking many personal questions and calling them by name. She got along so well with everyone that Marcus was impressed by how kind she was, and how the people, in turn, seemed to respect her. It made it even more difficult to believe that Esmeralda was like a real princess. Though everyone called her your highness or princess, they all spoke to one another like a good neighbor. It amazed him more that there was no one really guarding Esmeralda. In fact, there didn't appear to be any concern of anyone coming to try and attack her or anything. The princess just didn't seem to be worried at all, without a care in the world. She greeted every single person with a smile, and in turn, she received even more. He asked her how she knew so many people, and she simply answered, I dislike talking to people. I never would have guessed, Marcus thought, remembering how shy Esmeralda was at first. But then again, she and Ashlyn seemed to have hit it off exceedingly well. By watching the girls point out different outfits within the windows of shops and laughing together, he knew they had become really good friends. He was happy for Ashlyn. He was glad that, in the end, she was able to come here. The thought made him wonder if Esmeralda and Ruth would have gotten along very well. Some kids, younger than the group, were playing next to an old bakery. All were boys except for one girl, throwing a frisbee between one another and wrestling one another to get the toy. It was amusing to watch the girl overpower one of the boys in a struggle to take the frisbee away. Unlike the kids of Nineveh, they were clean and looked very healthy. Not one of them looked to be scrawny or had any sign of malnutrition in the slightest. And when they smiled, Marcus could clearly see all of their teeth, shiny and white. It made him worry about his own teeth, and he began to run his tongue across them, as if to make sure they were still there. He only brushed as often as he could with baking soda, but never quite enough considering the living conditions back home. He looked at Ashlyn, who had gone to meet the girl, who had the same color hair like her. Ashlyn's smile wasn't perfect by any means, with some crooked bits and gaps, but they appeared clean. Marcus kept his mouth closed, subconsciously in fear that they weren't completely healthy. He would have to start a habit of brushing as long as he was here in Levitica. The girl said something to Ashlyn, and she laughed while patting the girl's head. The girl responded by grabbing ahold of Ashlyn's hair and pulling on it. Esmeralda freaked out and started trying to help Ashlyn pry the little girl off, but Marcus nearly laughed at the sight. I am so sorry," Esmeralda said as she led them away. It's fine, Ashlyn said with a hearty laugh. It reminded me of when I had a little sister to play with each other's hair. Oh, that's so sweet, Esmeralda said with relief. They passed by a stand, serving some sort of meal and vegetable on a stick, and Marcus's stomach growled loud enough for the girls to hear. After laughing at him, Esmeralda suggested they stop for lunch and something to warm them up. Marcus, who was red in the cheeks, said that it sounded like a great idea. They eventually stopped at a makeshift coffee stand, where Esmeralda got her friends a chocolatey hot drink with a hint of mint that Marcus was able to taste after his first sip. Esmeralda also asked for a few small loaves of black bread and butter to go with it. We don't want to eat too much, she said. I don't want to spoil dinner for you two. Don't worry about me, Ashlyn said. Looking at her chocolate drink, Marcus, who was hungry and yet not, picked at his bread while staring at the vendor. The man was large and husky, with pale white skin and sausage-shaped fingers. He was bald, which was covered under a flat leather cap. He looked the three over with his three eyes, with the one in the middle on his forehead focusing on Marcus entirely, as he asked he and Ashlyn where they were from. Nineveh, Ashlyn said, licking her lips that had the residue of her drink upon them. Ah, Nineveh, the vendor said, resting his chin on his hand. His two normal eyes closed, as if he remembered something, while his third eye continued to blink at Marcus creepily. That's where Jonathan went, huh? That's right, Esmeralda said, almost stiffly. You knew my father? Marcus asked, suddenly interested. He was eager to know how his father had a connection here. If he was really an adventurer, one that even Esmeralda remembered, maybe he could learn a little after all. Your father, the vendor said, scratching his bald head. His middle eye suddenly went wide, as if he realized something. Oh yeah, you're that Marcus boy. You know me? Half the city does. That didn't sit well with Marcus at all. He looked to Esmeralda, who told the three-eyed mutant that Marcus was not who he thought he was. Whatever you say, the man said with a dismissive wave that was absolutely rude. He then turned back to Marcus. But yeah, I knew your father. Johnny Boy, I called him. Would come down here once in a while for a beer or two, huh? He stuck his fat hands towards Marcus. Name's Vic. I own half the shop in this part of town. He shook his hand, which was sweaty and big enough to swallow his own. He caught the distinct and familiar stench of buckweed off the man's person. The last time he had smelled such a thing was back in Nineveh, with the bums outside the drunken badrat. No, much sooner than that, he thought. He couldn't place the time of the last time he smelt the drug, but it was thick on the man who finally released his hand. Charmed, he answered. He then caught a warning look from Esmeralda and caught the message. Sir, he corrected himself, were you two buddies? Something like that, the man said, giggling. Marcus couldn't help but notice each of his teeth had a gap between each one. Good man he was, a lousy bastard at times. But a good man, used to race in the skies. We did build weapons and go hunting as well. I own the bakery over yonder, as well as my own shop. What are you doing here then? Ashlyn asked. Helping a buddy who is, uh, out of town, the man said with a grin. A clear message, even without words. None of their business. Was my father good? Marcus asked. At flying, I mean. Oh yeah, lost a lot of money to him, I did. Had to pay him back by fixing some of his toys. He was a good pilot, shame the punk is gone. Thank you, sir, Marcus grumbled as he raised his cup to him, and for the hot chocolate. Anytime, the man said, giving Marcus an almost hungry grin. You ever need something, you come see old Uncle V. The queen loves my services, just like your daddy. It'd be an honor to help his son. Wonder if you'll ever end up just like him in the future. He said it as if he was simply rubbing something into Marcus' face, and wasn't willing to explain his subtext. Needless to say, Marcus was relieved when Esmerelda suggested they continue the tour of the city. The three walked for a bit, and once they were out of earshot, Marcus spoke. What the hell is his problem? The princess pursed her lips. Vic is a kind of guy who gets in deep with the wrong kind of people. Esmerelda replied, drinking the last of her drink before tossing it in the nearest trash. He gets into other people's business, and such. What kind of people? Ashland said, still babying her cup. I have a better question. Marcus said, stopping and forcing the girls to stop with him. What Vic said about me? Oh? Esmerelda said, scratching the back of her neck. That. Esmerelda? Ashland said, intervening before Marcus could even get a word in. Does Levitica know about Marcus? Esmerelda hesitated and looked away distractedly. Your highness? Marcus attempted, for the princess' attention. I'm not supposed to say, she said. My mom was supposed to explain. Explain what exactly? Marcus asked. Did my father do something here? He did, yes, but nothing bad. Far from that. In most cases or so, I've been told. All I know is that... you're pretty important. How so? Esmerelda thought about it for a moment, and then shook her head. Not here. Khan, I want to show you my favorite part of the city, where we might have a chance to talk. I can only say so much, however, so don't quote me on anything, okay? But it was too late for that. Marcus was already quoting. A lot. Nevertheless, he and Ashland followed Esmerelda, who appeared to be heading for the city walls, where a large break in it stood a large tower. At the base of it was a doorway with a spiraled staircase. After getting permission from the guard on duty, Esmerelda led the two up the staircase. They climbed what felt like forever, until they made it to the top, where Marcus started to feel even more lightheaded than he did before. His discomfort was immediately quelled by the sight before him. Beyond the wall was just a vast landscape, miles beneath them. Clouds floated between the island and the world below. The island of Levitica revealed the entire region to the north of the northern wastelands, where the Razorback Mountains curled and continued the capital beyond. He saw thin frozen streams and hills, and to the east, he saw where the mountains curled and deteriorated before reaching the southern sands, south of the region. Wow! Ashland said, peering over the parapet of the wall to look straight down. We're so high up! How is this possible? Marcus asked, out of breath, both in terms of oxygen and in awe. That I can show you later! Esmerelda said, turning so that her back was against the parapet with her arms crossed. She looked at Marcus more seriously, and he could see a little of Queen Elizabetha in her. So! So! Marcus said uneasily. The view alone took the wind right out of his sails, and he didn't know where to start. Esmerelda, Ashland said, stepping up and taking over, what do you know about Marcus? Aside from what I've heard, that, and if there is more, then yes. Esmerelda thought about it for a second. I heard that the patrols got summoned. That they had found Damien Black, one of our own. Wait, Marcus spoke up. Black was with you guys? Have been since the beginning. Our own. Personal hunter, as it were. Why was he in Nineveh, then? Not sure. Only to keep an eye on your father, Jonathan, the one who found us first. Even as she said it, it didn't sound like Esmerelda was telling the whole truth. The way she kept averting her eyes and looking at the clouds that passed by gave Marcus and Ashland both a hint. He was hired to hunt us down after we fled the city, Marcus told her. Ashland told me a little about that, Esmerelda said. It all sounded terrifying. It was. But the point is, he was hired by the Baron, along with a few others to track us down. In the end, though, he brought us here. Why? You were in need, Esmerelda said, uneasily, simply. We help those in need. Those who scavenge around the surface look for many who are in need. Many of the citizens here are from the surface, and have been here ever since. So why do Ashland and I get the special treatment? Marcus inquired shrewdly. With all the due respect, and though we are thankful for your mother's hospitality, I doubt that any of your other rescues were welcomed just as kindly. Maybe it was because the hunter was with you, Esmerelda shrugged. Esmerelda, Ashland said, despite the princess's earlier request. Are you sure that is why? Why would there be any other reason? Because your mother mentioned a prophecy of some sort. Marcus removed his dagger from his belt and showed her the crystal attached. Her eyes had widened at the sight, and he told her about what the spirit known as Abner had said before they had left Nineveh. He mentioned a prophecy in the end, and only have been guiding us here ever since, Marcus said once he was finished. I can't help but think that if we were brought here because of Abner's warning, to the very place where the queen said something familiar, it couldn't be a coincidence. Ashland now looked even more uncomfortable. I cannot say. Please, Esmerelda, Ashland said, if you know something, can you tell us? I've already told you too much as it is, Esmerelda said, almost desperately, though as calmly as possible. You were to just stay, rest, and recover from your journey. After what happened to your little sister, it would be cruel to tell you anything now. And yet here I am, talking to you now, Marcus said. My mother said she would be the one to talk to you when the time came, Esmerelda said, unaltered by his words. You must understand. We wish you no harm, far from that. Please, believe that. Then why are we here? Marcus demanded, now growing more impatient than ever. Why does the queen have us in her home? Why are you here talking to us now? Come on. If you know something. Mark, Ashland said, placing a firm hand on her shoulder. When he took a deep breath to calm down, she addressed the princess in a different manner. Why can't we know now? Can you at least tell us that? Esmerelda pursed her lips. It took a long time for her to answer, and when she did, it brought only more questions in Marcus' head. But he kept his mouth shut, even afterward when it came time to follow the princess again. Besides, he was also curious about the last bit. It would be better if you would follow me first, she said. It'll show you just what I know, and how this city is floating in the sky. Esmerelda Esmerelda had taken the two back to the castle and led them into the chambers where the great owl statue was kept. On the far wall to the left, before they started for the way to the throne room, was an elevator hidden behind one of the support pillars. She told the guard to let them in, and the man in black and white power armor did as he was told. The elevator seemed to go so far down that anyone not used to it would have thought that you would fall right out of the bottom of the island. But Esmerelda was not worried. She was excited and also nervous to show Marcus and Ashlyn the true power of Levitica, and When the doors finally opened, she led them down a torch-lit corridor to a steel door. Upon placing her hand on the palm scanner, she got the door opened, and the three of them stepped inside. There was so much she couldn't tell him, not yet, but the very least she could do was show him just what makes the kingdom float in the clouds, which, in turn, would bring her to tell him at least the first part of the truth. What I am about to show you will explain how our kingdom is the way it is," Esmerelda told him. Hopefully, it will also answer some questions about your own crystal, and from there, kind of see where my people and I are coming from. Marcus didn't look convinced, as she continued to lead him and Ashlyn down the corridor. But he didn't stop or slow down. She took her two friends by the hand and led them inside what looked to be a giant cave inside the floating island, as if the land itself had been hollowed out at some point in its life. Pipes and power generators as large as great behemoths lined the walls, leading to a central platform guarded by security cameras linked to energy turrets. By the look on their faces, Ashlyn and Marcus appeared to be in a trance by all the beauty around them. There were four engines on opposite sides of the caves, with thin wires leading up the walls and across the ceiling where they met in the middle, right above the platform. On the platform itself, held in place by a power converter beneath a pane of glass, was a bright green crystal the size of a basketball, shining rays of light in every direction and bouncing off the walls and casting more colors like a rainbow. Marcus and Ashlyn stared in awe at the beautiful sight, and they had every reason to. It took Elsmerelda's breath away every time she looked at it, and she lived here her whole life. She felt the warm presence emitting from the crystal, as if it was saying, hello. Behold! she said, pointing to the crystal dramatically. The crystal of Levitica. The power source that created the legend of the floating island and the City of Angels. So big, Marcus murmured. Bigger than the one in my staff. Beautiful, Ashlyn muttered. Princess, you're telling us that this makes the island float? Yes, ma'am, Esmerelda said, smiling sadly, turning back to look at it. This crystal is constantly putting off a spell that has been cast years ago, keeping this entire plot of land that contains the whole city floating safely among the clouds. All these machines and more are what helps us control the flow of its power. So this island is held up by magic? Marcus said, now looking at his hip where his staff had been returned. As if influenced by the great crystal, his was glowing just a little bit brighter. That's unbelievable. So are a lot of things in life, Esmerelda said. You've come back. Esmerelda heard a faint voice travel through the air, and her two friends stared aghast at the crystal. He had revealed himself already, and even the keeper had heard it. Don't tell me, Marcus then asked, looking back at the princess. This is . . . like this one here? In a way, it is, Esmerelda said. You've obviously heard mentionings of the Great Owl, right? Black mentioned it, yes. Good, good. Well, the Great Owl is the one who managed to obtain this crystal, the first of many more that had been created. It was she who cast the spell to protect our city from the capital, back when it was once the powerhouse of the northern wastelands. Ashlyn glanced at her, and Marcus merely looked somberly at the crystal. Levitica's greatest source of power happened to be just another trapped spirit, just like all the others, doomed to be just used like parts in a machine until the war is over and the Dreaming can finally be closed forever. It was both a blessing and also a burden that even Esmerelda herself longed to end. Growing up, she used to always come down here and try to speak to the sun trapped in the crystal. Sometimes she would get no response at all, but sometimes . . . sometimes he would speak. It always filled her with such joy and hope to hear the words of one who longed for the Dreaming to close, and for his father's terrible legacy to end forever. And so he had agreed with the Owl, in order to . . . So what does this have to do with me? Marcus asked. I don't know for absolute certain. Esmerelda lied, shaking her head. Only a few people do. But according to our history, someone important was to come. The spirit within the crystal up there mentioned someone was coming. That someone, my mother believes, is you. Me? Marcus asked, bewildered, as he just stared at her. Why me? I cannot say, Esmerelda said. My mother will explain everything later, I promise. You can't just expect us to drop this like that, Ashlen told her. We've been through too much, and what you are telling us confirms that we were only brought here because you believe Marcus is necessary for something. I know, I know, it isn't fair, Esmerelda told them both, but I promise, we do not intend to force or do anything to you. That is not who we are. What comes first is your guys' needs, especially concerning your sister. Marcus, I promise you, everything will be explained later, but for now, please, just trust us. Why in the world would I trust you? Marcus asked, for all I know, you only saved me because you want to use me for something. Do you really believe that whatever is in that crystal told your family that someone like me was important? Now it was Esmerelda's turn to ask a question. Do you believe that the spirit Abner would have guided you if you weren't? I did it for Ruth, Marcus said, pointing a finger at her. I did it for her and no one else. Now she's gone. I haven't heard from Abner since. As far as I'm concerned, I was just a fool who got played. I know you feel like a normal person, Esmerelda said bitterly. When my mother tells you everything, you are free to remain as such, but whatever happens next, whether you stay with us in the castle or not, I promise you, nothing will be expected of you. Like I said, we are not like that. You are just as much of a person as anyone else in the city. What's more, our first priority is your and Ashland's care. Second is your sister's remains. Once your needs are met, then you will be told what is happening to Levitica. You make it sound like you guys are in trouble, Ashland said nervously. That's because we are, Esmerelda said, hating herself for even allowing it to slip out. It's hard to explain, and it will be with everything else that my mother has to say. What I can say is, Levitica may not be safe for much longer, she paused, allowing Marcus and Ashland to think about her words, before she spoke up again. Will you at least wait and hear what my mother has to say before you make any more assumptions about us? That's easier said than done, Marcus said, though he didn't sound as irritated as he had before. And you did help us. What do you think, Ashland? Ashland pursed her lips and thought. A lot has happened for us to ignore the fact that we were brought here, she said, so I think we should at least wait and talk about it later. After all, it's not like we can leave Levitica now, right? You aren't prisoners, Esmerelda spoke up. You can come and go as you please, it's just... there isn't a lot of places for you to go other than home, Marcus said, but that... that isn't an option right now. So yes, we will wait. And... I am sorry I yelled at you, Esmerelda. I just... I just want to know why I am here, Esmerelda smiled softly, hoping to reassure him, even just a little. I understand. How about we go back outside? There's one more place in the city I'd like to show you before we are summoned back to the castle. That's fine, Ashland said. It would be nice to get going. This place... it gives me the creeps. No offense. Esmerelda said she didn't take any. As she led the two out of the great room, she felt something like cold hands reaching out and touching her back. By the way, Marcus had shuddered on their way back to the elevator. It became apparent to her that he too had felt the spirit's presence. It had to be, Marcus. It had to be. Marcus. Marcus had a lot to think about as Esmerelda led them out of the castle once again as the sun was passing to the east and was now out of sight behind the wall. It was still daytime by how bright the sky was, but so much time had passed since the tour began and it seemed to go by faster with what was on his mind. As Esmerelda and Ashland talked a bit, he focused his attention on what he knows as of now. They were brought here for a reason. That was apparent. Why exactly? He would know tonight, he was told. What he would do afterward? That was another mystery entirely. The whole thing was insane. The fact that the island was actually in the sky was insane. What Esmerelda told them before a crystal that his own had a reaction to? That was insane too. Everything about this was insane in this kingdom. His whole world was altered completely ever since the moment he had that dream and has continued to change upon his arrival in this city. It truly was a completely different world than the one Marcus and Ashland left behind. There, Marcus heard Esmerelda say as she stopped. He looked forward and stopped as his mind became addled by what was registered before him. It was a fountain. That much was clear. But the massive architect of marble and gold was too much to be an ordinary fountain. It stood nearly ten meters tall, each spout carved into the shape of a fish, and multiplying in number as they went lower and lower to the basin filled with water. The basin itself was about fifty feet in diameter and about five feet deep. And beneath the rippling surface, Marcus saw giant catfish swimming in a circle around the fountain. It was a magnificent thing of beauty that he could not help but stare at it for what felt like hours. Beneath the fish, the bottom of the fountain was glistening with many coins of all sorts, adding to the beauty along with the scales of the fish. Ashland seemed transfixed on the beautiful fountain as well by the look of her eyes as Marcus stole a glance at her. Yes," she said in awe, beautiful. Marcus finished for her, crafted by my grandfather. Esmeralda explained, this was supposedly where a massacre took place, and the Great Owl wished to create this fountain in a way to make sure that the lives lost would never be forgotten. There was a massacre? Ashland asked. Long, long ago, before Levitica broke free from the capital and was led by the Owl to become its own kingdom once again. That's incredible," Marcus said. Little by little, he got to learn more and more about Levitica's history, which, although it was still bloody, rose from the ashes of war to become the floating city of angels it was known as today. Esmeralda nodded. I come here often to listen to the water and read. Especially in the summer, the waters never stop circulating, so it never freezes over. The water remains at a perfect temperature due to some heating pipes beneath the marble. It keeps the catfish alive and healthy year-round. Wow! Ashland said, her drink long forgotten. It's so beautiful! Marcus laughed at the repetition. Indeed. They all sat on the edge of the fountain, watching the fish play tag beneath the water. Marcus tried to count the small glimmering coins that Esmeralda explained were tossed when people made wishes here. He dug into his pockets, forgetting that he never carried money. However, Esmeralda removed three coppers from her pocket and passed one to Marcus and another to Ashland. After thinking about it, Marcus made his wish, blew into the coin and flicked it into the water, making the fish scatter at the break of their current. Ashland and Esmeralda's coin soon followed. What did you wish for? Esmeralda asked him and Ashland. Not telling, Ashland said. Nice try, Marcus grinned, though his smile was forced, just for the benefit of the moment. Esmeralda smiled at them. Didn't want to tell you guys mine, anyway. They all broke into laughter in their own blissful childness, but even as they did so, Marcus felt like an adult, only pretending to laugh for the benefit of the doubt. He still had too much on his mind in order to enjoy himself again. Thank you for taking us out, Marcus finally said. This city, it's all beautiful. Thank you both for coming, Esmeralda said, looking back at the fountain. It's been a while since I had actual friends to do this kind of stuff with. What are you talking about, Ashland asked. You got the whole city. No one I can actually talk to. Not about what I feel or think. She started to kick her feet while she sat. It gets lonely in the castle sometimes. Oh, I see, Marcus said, wondering what a normal day in the castle might be like for the princess. Though she was nice to the people, and they in turn were nice to her. How much could she really talk to them about? Well, you got us now, Ashland said, smiling. Considering Marcus knew so little of Esmeralda, despite how much time they had spent with her today, already they have known her longer than anyone else in the kingdom. And she seemed trustworthy in some strange way. We all need friends, and if anyone in this city seems trustworthy, it was Esmeralda. Thank you, she said, blushing slightly. She looked behind her friends, and Marcus turned to see a massive clock standing on a pole past next to what looked like a bar. The blinking sign read, The Winking Ahool. The clock read five thirty-nine. It's time to go, Esmeralda said, standing up. Dinner will be ready really soon. Marcus looked down to see that she was tightening her shoes. I bet I can beat you both in a race back up to the castle. Oh, you're on, Ashland said, zipping her coat up tighter. Let's do it, Marcus said, standing up. Okay, the princess said, standing, and then, ready, set, go! She shouted as she broke off into a sprint. Hey! Ashland protested as they chased after her. You took a head start! Marcus called up while fake laughing, as the three of them raced to the castle, receiving glances of both displeasure and glee from all who witnessed them racing like little kids. Marcus' thoughts went back to Ruth, and thinking of how she would do if she was better, if she was still alive, oh, how she would have loved to run again.