36. The Spies and the Hypnotist LOL COA

Leigh uses a spider cam to gather information about the floating city. The city is heavily fortified and preparing for war. Leigh discovers the location of the eldest crystal in the castle vault. He plans to get his sister inside to crack the safe. They decide to use Ovid's arrival as a distraction. Leigh reveals that Ovid has been watching them. Lameka is determined to complete their mission and tells Leigh to prove his worth. Meanwhile, Elizabetha welcomes Ashlen and Marcus to the castle and discusses their training. They are introduced to the queen's allies and court. The Spies and the Hypnotist Leigh Lameka watched over Leigh's shoulder as he controlled his spider cam. Unable to get too close to the floating city without popping up on the radar, he launched the bot which had attached to the tail of the Firefly, taking Black and the children. When it had landed, the remote-controlled spider scoured the city. It studied the inhabitants of the city. The people, the mutants, androids, all seeming to be prepped for war. Lameka had remained silent since the launch of the spider cam. Her eyes set on the screen, and unwavering while Leigh worked, the walls that surrounded the city were huge and armed with the highest concentration of cannon blasters. The castle, massive in size, with thick marble and armed in each tower with scanners and gatling lasers. The entire place looked to Leigh like a fortress, like that of one of prisons in the capital. Getting into the castle with the spider cam was easy, and Leigh maneuvered it down the vast halls. That seemed to go on forever, until the metallic arachnid scuttled into a great hall where the statue of the legendary owl stood. It was there when Leigh started following the group who were with Black, and who had to have been the queen. Where was he going? And what was she discussing? A war? Well, that's not surprising. It was no secret throughout the country that war was brewing. To Leigh, the world was just a giant matchbox, and all it took was for one person to light a single match. It was only a matter of time. And will. When Black and the queen talked to the boy, they already mentioned everything the twins knew, especially the fact that Ovid was coming. Trust was never easily obtained in the world, and the same went especially for leaders, such as the baron. But it didn't matter all that much. What Lameka needed was the location of the eldest crystal, and now the queen had given it to them. The vault was in the center of the city, probably in the castle itself. After scouring the castle again, dodging patrols and avoiding cameras, Leigh finally found it, an eight-by-eight door of steel with electromagnetic-locking rods, palm scanner, and four guards armed with rifles guarding it. Getting in was not going to be easy, but with Leigh's experts in safe-cracking and Lameka's convincing wishcraft, he soon had a plan to get his sister in. Okay, so we know where it is," he said after a careful analysis and calling the spider-cam to leave the area, where it would then dispose of itself right off the edge of the closest wall, making it seem like it was never there. He cut the feed and then turned to his sister. Now, it's a matter of getting you in, and getting a crack at that safe. The lock won't be difficult to break, but the palm scanner is what we need. That won't be a problem either," Lameka said in an eager tone, almost hungry it seemed. I'll just cut my way through it. Leigh had a feeling she wasn't talking about the safe in general. Well, we can't move you in now. The scanners would catch us even in cloaking. However... Yes? Lameka said with an impatient tone. If Ovid is indeed coming, then we can use that as an advantage. That idiot will most likely attack on sight, and we can use the distraction as a way in. Chances are they'll be just looking for how many are invading the island. They won't be too concerned with who it is exactly. By then, we can swoop in and I can drop you onto the roof. And if the gatlins fire? Then we ditch. All right. Lameka stood up and started for the back of the hellhound. Do you really believe Ovid is coming? You seem so sure, brother. With an eager smile to prove his sister just how valuable he really was, Leigh reached into his pocket and pulled out a small camera, the back end being burned off and the glass cracked. I found this just this morning before we went after him. Ovid's been watching us the whole time. The snake probably knows where we are now, even without the camera. I was wondering why you went outside while we were still in the air, Lameka said, coming back with her attention still on the city in the far-off distance. With the clouds moving in, it almost blended in perfectly. It was no wonder that Levitica managed to evade the world for so long. Right, Leigh said, now setting the tracker onto the council. His sister must have sensed his discomfort and uneasy thoughts, for she returned to his side and looked at him. What is troubling you? she asked him. Nothing. Do not lie to me, Leigh sighed, I'm just thinking. It is good that you are thinking, however, what are you thinking about, exactly? Spit it out, Leigh sighed, I've just been thinking about all of this. What about it? Is it really worth it? Lameka looked at her brother with a dangerous gleam in her eye. What do you mean by that? And why now? I mean, we're here. With the city in view, we're closer to our mission than ever before. But with what we have lost along the way... the others... We're weak. Lameka cut her brother off with her hand, slicing the air before her. In this world, only the strong survive. You and I know that better than anyone. Slitzar, Tank, Pyro... they were all too weak in the end. They served their purpose as best they could, and now they are gone. We are still here. It doesn't matter if they didn't make it with us. Leigh looked at his sister bitterly. Lameka, they were our guildmates. They were pawns and nothing more. I thought I told you that was all that they were. Pieces of a large game board. Since when do you start caring for them, anyway? Leigh's mouth tightened in rebellion against his tongue, when he found it safe to loosen it again. He said, It was because of them we were able to remain on those brass's tails and keep the hunter black off our asses. And they did just that. Just like when we drop and get split up in the city. I expect you to join me in the end. Otherwise, you have served your purpose to the end. Lameka turned and started to go, leaving the ship in autopilot. Leigh stood and slammed his fist onto the chair, stopping her with the sound. That's not good enough! Lameka turned her head, giving her brother another cold glare, smiled at him for a moment, just a brief moment. It looked as if Lameka's skin had gone transparent, revealing her skull, which was still broken into a grin. It was getting worse. Much worse. Let's do your part, Leigh, Lameka told him. Do whatever you feel you have to do, just make sure to be there to help me return to father. Otherwise, I will leave you behind. Remember that it was me who made sure you were even allowed to leave the well. Father would have just kept you locked away where you could no longer embarrass him if it wasn't for me. Know your place, and know your worth. Because if you do not, then someone else will show you how much you are worth surviving. Only the strong survive, so make sure you are strong and not fall by the hands of some Levitican or even your current target. Leigh clenched his fists tightly. I know my worth. Then prove it, Lameka told him. Prove to me just how strong you are. Show father just how useful you really are. She then returned to whatever it was she had to do, and said, So we wait until the battle commences. Right, Leigh said, seeing more of father and Lameka than ever before, and knowing exactly what he had to do, when everything was said and done. We wait. Elizabetha. Let's get some food in you, Elizabetha said, leading the group down the hall towards the dining room. My council will want to meet you all. We will then discuss any and all training the both of you will be receiving while under our care. Both? Ashlen asked. My daughter will need someone close to keep her company, yes, but I would like you to train using a rifle, just in case. Besides, if war does come to Levitica, any and all able-bodied men and women will need to help fight. I know how to shoot. Perhaps. But practice makes perfect. Can't argue with that, Marcus muttered. What are you saying? Ashlen said half-jokingly. Nothing, Marcus said simply. Nothing at all. Elizabetha smiled. These two were really something else. Though she had waited for the son of Jonathan to finally come back, she was not prepared for just how similar the two were. A decent sense of humor, but obviously very protective. At least he had gained those attributes, and not everything else. When time permits, we will show you the rest of the castle, Elizabetha then said. And eventually, if we feel ready enough, we will show you the eldest, Marcus. Like I said, he said defiantly, I'm only helping you because I don't want anyone else to die. I want nothing to do with this prophecy of yours. Ashlen glared at him, but Elizabetha just looked at the boy understandably. Just like his father, she thought, stubborn as an ox, but still so innocent in the ways of the world. How little does he know that in war, many die. Come, she then said, placing her hand on the palm scanner next to the large set of wooden doors. My cooks have prepared a magnificent supper, I hear, she said, opening the doors to a large dining room with many elegant tables. Chairs of beautifully carved patterns and cuts circled each table, and a glass chandelier hung over each one, the biggest one shining bright over the largest table in the middle. The youths began to stare at the many people sitting at the large table, who suddenly fell into a silence upon their arrival. They have waited patiently for us, the queen murmured. Come, she said, leading them to the table, where the chatter started up and started to grow louder and louder. After she had seated Ashlen and Marcus to her left and Black to her right, save the open seat between them, Elizabetha took her own seat. As soon as she sat down, the whole table took their seat again. All of her alchemists, scientists, friends, and her court-maid Sligar, who sat right across from her at the foot of the table, all smiled at her guests. They all sat in silence as they awaited her introduction. Friends, she said, holding out her hand, gesturing to Marcus beside her, I would like to introduce to you Marcus, son of Jonathan. This was met with some looks of wonder and some of disdain, as to be expected. He is here, and he shall be our guest of honor during the war against the Dark Queen. Marcus squirmed in his seat, and Elizabetha felt bad for putting him on the spot like that. But she had no choice. It was no secret who he was and what was expected of him here at the table. For so long as she kept up what her father had taught her, in order to preserve hope in the prophecy and the future it would bring about Levitica and the rest of the world. Nevertheless, she continued, But I asked you all to join with us today, because there is even pressing matters to deal with as of now. Though the Keeper is here, this cannot wait. The Baron of Nineveh, our original target, has been following us, and it is possible that he and his army might be on their way here right now. Unsurprisingly, the accusations came flying across the table like shark daggers. It's the boy! Black! That girl! Who is she? We can't trust them! Is that really the Keeper? What took him so long? Looking at the teens, Elizabetha could see the strain come upon their faces, Marcus's especially. It would be no wonder if they were now dreading attending such a dinner. Just about as good as expected, Elizabetha thought, after being told of what his role is. I wonder how she now has to deal with this riffraff. Maybe I should have just let it be, Black, Esmeralda and I. Enough! she then shouted. When the chatter died down, she continued, How Ovid is finding us we already know, and our guests have nothing to do with it. Marcus knew she was lying for them, but it didn't make him feel any better. She took a deep breath, allowing herself to relax before speaking again. As I was saying, not only is Marcus here a lot earlier than expected, but Ovid's on his way. We have the manpower to fight back, but with the original plan regarding to Marcus, we but have little choice. Thankfully, everyone remained silent as she continued. In the little time that we have, Black will teach the boy as much as he can so that it will be enough to hold off against the Baron, while the rest of us prepare the defenses. I want all angels on standby. We will pause our advance towards Nineveh and wait for Ovid here. He may have one of the seven, but we cannot risk to tuck tail and run. We have been running for too long, my friends. Now is the perfect time for the world to know that the City of Angels is very much real, and the good people of this city will fight to bring the kingdoms together. And then, finally, bring peace to a world sought with ruin and war its entire life. And it will all begin with the fall of such a dreadful dictator. We do not know how much power the Baron has, but it is nothing compared to the strength we carry, or the strength we will soon have as we take back our region. One fallen city at a time, our hearts beat as one, and silence is even the thunder. We will bring peace and prosperity to all we save, and they, in turn, will help us. Our force will become stronger through the hearts of the brave and bold. And with Marcus' help, we will find the seven. And with them, liberate the North from the Dark Queen and the darkness she seeks. Little by little, the hope seemed to spark once again, in the eyes of Elizabeth's counsel. Some even looked apologetically at Marcus, who seemed relieved that all the attention was finally off of him. Elizabetha continued, Think, my friends, the lives we have led, the struggle of it all, and we will be the ones to show the world just what we as human beings are capable of. Whether you are black, white, man, woman, mutant, cyborg, or android, we are all one, and we must unite as one. We must start the ascension from the darkness, and together we can save this world and bring it to the light. Elizabetha waited a few seconds for her words to sink into the minds of all who sat before her. She saw the looks on their faces—concern, hope, dread, everything. They wanted to believe her, but they were afraid. It was okay—meant they believed in their righteous cause. When they seemed ready once more, she continued once again, I know we all carry different views on Marcus. This war, the politics, religion, separation, and government—all are important to discuss, I agree, but we cannot play the game without all the pieces. And our first piece is either with the Baron himself or in Nineveh. The Baron is coming now, so he will be the first piece we face in this start of the long game. We must work together, help Marcus to fulfill his destiny the Great Owl has prophesied. And hopefully the spirits will be on our side as we push on and take back our land and our home, agreed? After seconds of silence, the table slowly lit up with agreements, disgruntled and otherwise. Satisfied, the Queen of Levitica said, Good. Until then, I want no word against Marcus or his friend. I want all talk of the prophecy from this point unquelled. Anyone who tries to strain him will have to personally deal with Damian Black. And be warned, friends, Black is not as forgiving as I am. Everyone, excluding Sligar, nodded in understanding. One by one, they began to apologize to Marcus and Ashlen. Marcus tried to wave them off, saying that it was okay, but he appeared relieved. At least he wouldn't have to feel any more pressure from the Council, at least—from the Keeper's perspective. And so with that, Queen Elizabeth clapped her hands, indicating that the time had come for the cooks to bring the food. Now, let us eat while we talk further about our future. Marcus. I sincerely hate this. As the Queen began discussing the plans for the city defenses concerning Ovid and his army, the food came at a flow Marcus had never witnessed before in his entire life. He had played his part, and now he was glad to have some sort of distraction. He didn't even pay attention to what the Queen was saying to the Council, who listened attentively. He was simply too mesmerized by all the food that came his way. The cooks, who were garbed in white, came in with platefuls of many cuisines and meals—mountains of rolls, steamed vegetables, potatoes, and two large plates carrying whole roasted hogs with apples in their mouths. Many different bottles of wine were also passed around. And Marcus didn't decline a glass as his plate was piled high with a mountain of food of all sorts. He was amazed beyond words, and looking at Ashlen beside him, she was just as astounded. She probably had never seen so much food in her life, even when she lived with her family. Back when Vigar was just a simple member of the guard back in Nineveh, the two of them tasted everything, with Marcus not remembering when the last time he tasted food this good, especially considering these were not in a can, or roasted on a spit, or even from a trash can. However, Marcus wasn't really that hungry. Ashlen was eating, not ravenously, but still quite a bit more than he. Marcus, however, was merely tasting his food, taking small bites and hardly putting a dent in the mountain on his plate. It just didn't feel right to try and enjoy himself after everything that had happened. Thus his appetite was almost non-existent. He felt the eyes of the councilmen upon him as they continued to speak to the Queen, and he wanted nothing more than to just disappear. Even when he wasn't the center of attention, even though he didn't have to say or pretend anymore, they were all watching him. Just rubbing it in my face, it seems, he thought to himself, they really aren't going to let me go, are they? Looking away, Marcus then found himself thinking about Ruth. What would she think of all this food, and all these people? Would she be surprised? Would she zone out of the conversation and stuff her face like she deserved? Never hungry, never looking over her shoulder? Would she... would she be as nervous or afraid as I am right now? What am I thinking? I'm still nervous of all these people. I don't trust them in the slightest. Ashlen is the only one I can at the moment. Even if Ruth was here eating her heart out like we all dreamed of when we were kids, she would still have to be as nervous as I am. Maybe not as nervous, but nervous nonetheless. Elizabetha's plan... will it really work? Or am I building false hope upon myself like I did when I believed I could save Ruth? What would she be doing now? What would be going through her mind? What would she even say? So much went through Marcus's head, it began to weigh down his heart once again. Not even the intoxicating wine seemed tempting enough to try. He soon came aware that someone had spoken his name, and Marcus looked up, all of a sudden. I'm sorry, what was that? The court-maid Sligar was staring at him with squinted eyes, his eyebrows on a table, and his finger intertwined. The other councilmen developed a sudden interest in their own meals, as if afraid to get in the way. He sighed as if he was talking to a small child who could hardly pay attention. I said, you appear to be thinking of something else other than the plan. What can be that important, other than the matter at hand? Marcus felt heat rising to his cheeks. He was embarrassed to even look at the man before him. Ashlen looked at him worriedly, while everyone else seemed to only pity him. Sligar, Elizabetha said, he already knows of the plan. You are being rude. He probably has a lot on his mind, and what is to come is probably the last thing he wants to think about at the moment. I'm sure he wasn't expecting to be having dinner with such a large crowd, after all he had gone through. Yeah, one of the scientists said, while swirling her goblet of wine. Not to mention how rude we were earlier to him. Sligar smirked, then waved his hand dismissively. My apologies. Then might I ask what he thinks of it then? Surely he must have some thought on the present uh... situation. What is this? Marcus pursed his lips in thought. I think it might work, he answered simply, although unconvincingly even to him. He figured if he gave the man what he probably wanted to hear, he would then be left alone. I... I think it's a start. Sligar raised an eyebrow, and Marcus was able to see the pale red eyes without pupils glare at him. It wasn't some sudden thing Marcus thought he saw. The man legitimately had inhuman eyes. Yet, you seem unconvinced, and have limited training on the crystal's capabilities as well as your own in regards to how to actually use it. Sligar, the person sitting next to him, warned. Black will teach me, Marcus said thinking fast. He knows more about it than I do. He noticed Black steal a glance at him, but the hunter said nothing. For some reason, as he looked into the mage's eyes, Marcus felt very sleepy. He looked away again, which seemed to only please the strange magician. Indeed, he does, Sligar nodded. In fact, he knows quite a lot about all of this, doesn't he? Sligar's eyes were now squinting at Black. It felt like the room had suddenly dropped ten degrees. After all, he has to train the Keeper, after all. I thought I said we weren't going to discuss about that, Elizabetha warned the magician. Sligar bowed his head while taking a sip of his wine. Only a peculation, Your Majesty. What are you suggesting, Sligar? One of the scientists asked, rubbing his bald head nervously, despite the glare he received from Black himself. Oh, nothing, Sligar said with a wave of his hand. But his dark eyes never lingered from Black's. Just a simple... analysis. Elizabetha's brow furrowed at this. At any rate, she said, it should still give us time to better prepare him and ourselves for the incapable attack, as well as the future. There will be time to worry about such things later. Right now, Marcus is just like any of us, as well as my guest. Indeed. Sligar said while taking a silver fork and stabbing at his meat before dropping a juicy morsel into his mouth. He talked while he chewed. Forgive my table manners, but I do have something you all might like to know, as well. Something other than the Keeper who appears unprepared. Marcus decided that he hated the man. Yes, one of the noble women asked. She played with the braid in her hair. Sligar swallowed before he spoke. My scanners picked up a massive spike in energy, emitting from the Eldest. It's been on and off for years. But all of a sudden it's been regular, steady, and almost unchanged. Any idea why? He looked at Black as if expecting the answer from him. Black spoke softly, not intimidated in the slightest. We all know how the Eldest can manipulate us, scare us in our nightmares as we sleep. Sometimes he can even convince others to do things out of the ordinary. This sort of thing happened before, long ago. It had pushed Jonathan to the point of insanity until he got out of the city and away from it all. But even then, he suffered from slight headaches and even once mentioned some communication with the Eldest. He said he would hear him speak sometimes. It's obvious the Eldest had gotten stronger during the time trapped within the Dreaming. He's reached out to someone, to whom I don't know for sure, though it is most likely someone who has a crystal. His eyes lingered to Marcus for a moment, a warning sort of look almost. How do we know it's not you or the kid? Sligar asked. You both got crystals. Correct me if I'm wrong. His statement was met with combined looks of worry towards the hunter. Are you accusing me? Black asked emotionlessly, but the threat was as plain as the writing on the wall as he looked at him. Marcus felt as if the atmosphere had just gotten even colder than before. We're not the only ones with crystals, you know. Sligar smirked at him. No, I'm not accusing you. Not really. But I don't quite understand why you know so much about the Eldest and won't share all the information with me. Are we not all on the same side? This confused Marcus as well. Why would Black keep secrets from the man? Were the crystals really that dangerous? Or was he hiding something? I will not lie, Dondra said crossing his arms. The Eldest has spoken to me from time to time, but he has no control as long as I keep my crystal with me and keep control of my own thoughts. The spirit within my own has provided much in service regarding my own protection. That is how it has been easy for him to get to me, through the crystal, but it also gives me a chance to set up wards and barriers. Anything to keep him at bay. I might be just as vulnerable as any other person who carries a crystal, but I only remain vulnerable if I allow such thoughts to slip into my head. Anything that the Eldest can use against me. Intriguing, Sligar said sitting back, and I suppose it won't work if we put it on a broadcaster and send a signal throughout the city so that none of us get influenced? Elizabetha sighed audibly. Marcus deducted that this sort of question had already been brought up once before. No, Black said simply, it wouldn't work like that, as I have already told you before, if I recall. Besides, he then added with a chilling spirk, even if it would work, I doubt the spirits within the Dreaming would want to work with you. The spirits, they don't like you. Everyone turned to the magician, who smiled at the remark. You don't say, Sligar demanded, just as coolly. You said spirits, as in plural. May I ask which spirits exactly don't want you to talk to me? Enough, the queen said, planting her hand down hard on the table and snapping everyone to attention. Enough of this. Black has always been faithful to Levithica, to all of us. He has a bond with his own crystal, and I believe he's managed to control it. He won't give in to that demon. He has his reasons to keep his information that our own minds cannot fathom, Sligar. Everyone turned back to the magician, afraid to break the terrible silence that had settled over the table. Perhaps not, Sligar eventually said, leaning back in his chair. Just being careful. You understand? Understood, Black said, ending the conversation. I want no more discussion of this, Elizabetha said again. That is final. Sligar raised his hands in surrender. Apologies, I won't speak of the Keeper or the crystals anymore. Margus began to pick at his food once again uneasily. He noticed that Ashlen had stopped eating and was looking at him for comfort. This was bad news, seeing it before their eyes. They haven't even started yet, and the council was already at each other's throats. Not only that, but the discussion that Black and Sligar were having—spirits, the dreaming, this eldest spirit who was trying to reach out to someone who had a crystal—it truly was unsettling news for everyone, including Marcus himself, who might very well be the center of it all. Guess I'm not the only one with doubts. Very well then, Elizabetha then said. If Black says that the boy is safe for now, then I believe him. As should you all. He hasn't done anything for us to suspect him of anything. Elizabetha then looked every single person in the eye as she asked. Does anyone else have any more questions, concerns, comments? At the last word, her eyes settled on Sligar, who didn't meet her gaze. When no one spoke up, she nodded contently. When you are finished with your food, return to your duties. One by one they all left, all welcoming Marcus and Ashlen into the city, properly this time. Eventually only Sligar was left finishing his pie. He licked up the sweet apple caramel from his finger and then wiped his mouth with his napkin. He then rose, thanked everyone for the meal, and then left without another word. Leaving only the Queen, Marcus, Black, and Ashlen. Eventually Elizabetha rose from her seat as the butlers began to clear the table. I am sorry, she said. I shouldn't have had you eat with those men just yet. They really just wanted to see if the rumors were true, and... It's because I'm the Keeper. Marcus cut her off. I understand. Sorry for interrupting you, Elizabetha. Elizabetha smiled, sadly and understandably. We should go. I'm sure you both would like to actually rest. That's kind of you, ma'am, Marcus said with the last second bow of his head. Rest was what he needed. Not any more talk of useless politics or prophecies or magic of any sort. He just wanted to sleep and forget about everything that had happened tonight. He wanted to be alone with his thoughts. Yeah, and thank you again, Ashlen said, nodding. She then tilted her head. About what was said... Don't worry about it, Black said suddenly. I'm sorry you both were placed in such an unpleasant situation. Most of the people in charge here are resting on blind hope towards a prophecy they have been waiting many years to come true, before their own fathers even heard such words. Sligar, though a powerful ally, is still just another man found wandering in the wastelands. He only shares with us his hatred for the capital, and he only trusts us as far as we trust him. Don't let him get to you, Marcus. He is only just as much afraid as any of us are. It's not like that, Marcus said. It's just... everything. Black nodded his head. I understand. Rest assured, you've done nothing wrong. Don't worry. Everything will be alright. It will all make sense. Hopefully sooner rather than later. Marcus, still uneasy about everything that has happened within the last couple hours, was also grateful that the nightmare has finally ended. For now. Thank you. Thank you all, the queen smiled. Go, both of you, bathe and rest for a bit. Your escorts will be outside past those doors. My daughter will take you. And then we will call you again later tonight. She pointed where Black had brought the teens. They will show you the rest of the castle and offer any assistance you need. Back to business, it seems. Yes, ma'am, Marcus nodded. He was still nervous as to what kind of training he would have to do with Black, but he supposed he had no choice in the matter. After all, he was the supposed Keeper, but most importantly, if training meant that he would soon have to fight Baron Ovid at least, that was just fine with him. Black, she said, stay and come with me. Black nodded. As you wish. He rose, ready to follow. And Marcus? Elizabetha said before turning her back to Ashlen and him who rose from their own seats. Thank you. I'm glad you made it. For Ruth. We will have a funeral tonight if you would like. He felt relieved to hear this news. Funerals were uncommon for him. In fact, he had never been to one. It was never a thing that truly mattered in the world today. His father being taken away at the time of his death didn't have one either. It was truly a respectable gift from the Queen. He wondered if it was her way of apologizing, but pushed the thought from his mind. That would be amazing. I'm honored to receive such a gift. He said this, despite the pain returning to his heart. Elizabetha nodded. At sundown, then. She looked at Black with a nod, began to walk, with him in close pursuit. Marcus watched them for a bit, wondering just what Ruth would think of her when they paid their respects to her. Ashlen took his arm. Come on, she said, I got your back. Marcus nodded, ready to push everything to the back of his mind, and just take some time just to rest. He stared at his plate of unfinished food, wondering where it would go. Okay. Esmeralda appeared with a small smile, offered her hand to Marcus. Are you ready? No, he said honestly. Esmeralda chuckled uneasily. I understand. But if it makes you feel any better, I'm happy you decided to stay at least, both of you. She immediately corrected herself for Ashlen. Ashlen said she was happy too. And then the princess led the two from the dining room to prepare for the funeral, where they would all say their final goodbyes to Ruth. Marcus thought he would be prepared for it, but he would soon really feel the gravity of his loss in remembrance of the little girl who once started a stupid snowball fight on their way home before their father returned from work.