Spoiler :

**So I've been reading through the chapters to proof them and couldn't take any more. The dialogue is indented to make them easier to discern from the narration...BUT...any dialogue that is longer than one line loses that indentation. Would you, as the reader, prefer I keep ALL lines of dialogue indented to the same margin, or leave it as is?

Example

Before:

“Are we in Arestoth finally?” She asked.

“Yes, My Lady, we have just entered the main gates. I believe Wendell is heading to an Inn that he has personal experience with. It shouldn’t be too long now.”

___________________________________________________________________________

After:

“Are we in Arestoth finally?” She asked.

“Yes, My Lady, we have just entered the main gates. I believe Wendell is heading to an Inn that he has

personal experience with. It shouldn’t be too long now.”

It was just before sundown when the five of them rode through the main gate of the city. The chattering of the hooves on the cobbled path and the wheels as they thudded along caused Sarya to rouse from her sleep. After the incident with the bandits, and Belis’ interrogation, it was found that it was nothing more than a band of slavers looking to make more coin by selling a few more bodies before winter set in.

Thinking it would be too cruel to just kill him outright, Sarya said to leave him naked and alone in the middle of a forest to fend for himself. Afterwards they made their way directly to Arestoth, not stopping at any other villages or cities just as a precautionary measure. This made it rather boring and Sarya was not able to get any amount of decent sleep. She was convinced that she had grown far too accustomed and used to sleeping in comfortable beds.

The somewhat rhythmic tone the wheels had on the dirt path had allowed her to fall asleep while leaving her head against the wall of the carriage. The sudden change on tone and motion stirred her awake.

“Are we in Arestoth finally?” She asked.

“Yes, My Lady, we have just entered the main gates. I believe Wendell is heading to an Inn that he has personal experience with. It shouldn’t be too long now.”

“I see, that is good. I’m sure all of us can do with a good night’s rest as well as a bath. Would you care to join me?”

Trisha blushed and wasn’t sure if she should be as forward as she wanted to be. But Sarya knew better than to wait for an honest answer and instead gave Trisha’s answer for her.

“Yes you will. It’s settled.” She said with a grin.

“A-as you say…my lady.” Trisha replied with a bright red face.

It wasn’t that odd to bathe with others of the same sex, especially in demi-human society, due to their animalistic heritage it was only natural to be close to your kind. Although over time it had changed from all sexes sharing a bath to just those of the same sex in an attempt to keep their race from being viewed as even more of an outcast race. Even though Sarya was a woman, it was still slightly embarrassing for Trisha to be seen by anyone not of demi-human origin.

The carriage finally came to a stop and a knock on the door moments later forced Trisha to compose herself. It wouldn’t do to have a lady in waiting look like an embarrassed child…even though she really was. But she would rather die than bring any shame to her master.

“My Lady, we have arrived.” Belis said from behind the carriage door.

Sarya opened the door and took Belis’ hand and carefully stepped out and onto the cobbled path just in front of the Inn they would be staying at for a few days. Arestoth was the largest city within at least one weeks travel in all directions, save for Tranquil Refuge and Valdiss’ enclave, which Sarya refused to be associated with.

“I am quite looking forward to a bath and a good night’s sleep in a real bed.” She said as she released Belis’ hand.

“Agreed, My Lady.”

“Oh, before I forget Belis, and I do apologize for making you do this so soon and so close to a reprieve. Could you please take this letter of introduction to the Headmistress of the academy?”

Belis took the letter and placed it underneath his cloak and bowed his head. Not saying a word he mounted his horse and made his way toward the Academy. Sarya felt guilty, but she would be sure that his room was ready and that there be food waiting for when he returned. Sarya examined the exterior of the Inn and was impressed at the size. It was more a mansion than it was an Inn. She was pleased with Wendell’s choice, but couldn’t help but wonder just how he had connections with such a place.

As she entered the Inn she was greeted by attendants on either side of the doorway ready to take any baggage she may have. She directed them to the carriage and they immediately got to work retrieving them. Trisha followed closely behind Sarya, with Wendell and Ransell helping to unload the carriage.

“How may I be of service tonight madam.” The front desk clerk asked.

“Yes, I wish to have two rooms, one with three beds if possible, if not, three rooms please.”

“Of course madam. I apologize, but we are unable to accommodate the three beds, so will two rooms with two beds and one room with one bed suffice?”

“Yes that is perfectly acceptable, thank you.” She replied.

“And the duration of your stay?” he asked as he was entering the information into a ledge.

Sarya paused for a moment and began to think. She didn’t pay too much attention to the time they would be staying in Arestoth but she figured at least a full week to greet, plead her case and implore the Headmistress for her assistance as well as make a visit to the Guild Chapter within the city.

“Is it possible to increase the number of days afterwards?” she asked.

“Certainly.”

“Then I will need the three rooms for one week from today, please.”

“As you wish.” entering the information into the ledge he retrieved three similarly shaped keys and placed them in a row onto the counter in front of Sarya.

“Also, do you have bathing facilities?” she asked as an afterthought.

“But of course. There are facilities on each floor at the north end of the building.”

The relief washed over Sarya like she didn’t think possible.

“The total for each room will be one gold. The meals are included into the fee for the room as well, so the total price might seem more than necessary, but this is why.”

Sarya had to think about it for a minute, three gold for rooms was incredible. But they were staying for an entire week, had access to bathing facilities and all meals were included. And if the size and extravagance of the building was any indication, the rooms themselves would be no less impressive. The only other option they had was to leave and find another Inn that would be willing to accept demi-humans, as well as have three rooms available for at least a week.

Before Sarya could come to any decision, Wendell came to stand beside her.

“I certainly hope the gentleman is not giving you an unfair price, My Lady?” he said as he took off his large brimmed hat.

“Master Wendell!?” the clerk said, his eyes open in surprise.

“It is good to see you are doing well Harrig.” Wendell replied with a simple nod.

“My apologies, madam. If I had known you were serving Master Wendell…”

Before he could finish the sentence, Wendell help up a hand in protest.

“Harrig, I am in service to her. This is Lady Sarya Auren, envoy and trusted advisor to King Cassus Mardax.”

“I see, my deepest apologies My Lady.” Harrig said quickly and bowed in apology.

“Please raise your head. I am not one to rely on titles or position. I am only all too happy that I will be able to bathe and sleep in a bed tonight.”

“Oh but of course. Please, here are the keys to your rooms. These for the rooms with two beds, this is the single room.” He said pointing to the respective keys. “If you need anything, please do not hesitate to ask.”

“But the matter of payment?” Sarya asked.

“I would not think of it, madam. If not for Master Wendell here…I would not be alive today. I only wish providing warm beds and food were enough to show my appreciation.”

“Are you certain Harrig?” Wendell asked.

His brows were furrowed and seemed concerned, he didn’t want this level of treatment and felt as if he was taking advantage of his hospitality.

“Most certainly. Think nothing of it. Again, if not for you this Inn would not be here to serve you today. It is my wish.” Harris bowed once more.

“You have my thanks, Harrig.” Sarya said, taking a key from the counter.

Sarya wrapped her arms around Trisha’s and began to walk happily towards the stairs leading to the room that was designated on the key.

“Oh, Wendell and Ransell? When Belis returns, you three must decide on your own who will be taking the single room. I trust you can come to an amicable solution?”

She didn’t wait for a reply but instead turned back around and walked up the stairs. Wendell and Ransell looked at each other and frowned. It was not going to be as easy as she expected.

*****

Belis had just rode into the courtyard of the Academy and saw a few students still lingering about. Making sure to keep his hood up to prevent any unwanted attention he hitched his horse to a post just to the side of the main entrance. Quickly walking up the steps to enter the building, Belis was struck with the realization that he had no idea where the Headmistress was located in the academy or what she looked like.

Just before entering the doorway to the main building, he held his arm out and stopped a passing student in his tracks.

“Uh…can I help you?” he asked.

“Yes, I need to deliver a message to the Headmistress. Could you please direct me to where she may be?”

“I don’t know if she’s still there, but her office is at the top of the steps.” the student said and pointed to the stairs leading up.

“I see. Thank you kindly.” Belis said and lowered his arm.

“Yeah…no problem.” the student said and continued on his way.

Belis walked to the center of the atrium and looked up, the multiple flights of stairs winding into the air caused him to get slightly dizzy, only made worse by his extreme fatigue. Letting out a deep breath Belis began to work his way up the stairs. Do to his large build, he had to make way for a few students and what he could only assume to be faculty as he made his way up the stairs. Once he had finally made it to the top he looked around and saw multiple doors with no indication of which could be the Headmistresses. Until he saw a single female Knight at attention in front of some double doors.

As he made his way towards her, Karin lowered her main hand to her sword and gripped it firmly, using her other to keep him from proceeding further.

“Halt! This is the office of the Headmistress of High Leaf Academy. What business have you?”

“My apologies.” He said with both hands in front of him in a defensive and calming manner. “I come bearing a letter of introduction from King Cassus Mardax of Tranquil Refuge.”

Belis kept one hand out while fishing inside his cloak for the letter. Pulling it out slowly he held it out for her to grab. Karin inspected the envelope and made sure that the seal was legitimate. Even though Tranquil Refuge was an up and coming kingdom, the seal had been used many times in the past to signify demi-human involvement in many campaigns prior to their decision to become a fully recognized nation.

“I have received the letter. I shall present it to Her Grace once her meeting is concluded. You may take your leave.” Karin said with her hand still firmly on her sword.

“My thanks. Before that, the envoy in question will be here first thing in the morning to discuss matters addressed in the letter.”

“Very well.”

Nodding in acknowledgement, Belis turned and proceeded down the stairs. All the while aware that Karin was keeping her eyes on him the entire time. He couldn’t help but smile, she may have looked frail in comparison to some of the demi-human females he’s worked with, but her aura and eyes gave him the impression that she was not one to cross swords with.

Not wishing to disturb the meeting between the people in the office, Karin held onto the letter until after all was concluded. She had been standing outside of the office for a few hours already and couldn’t help but hear bits and pieces of the conversation between the one named Amrin and Elena. Kaia had entered not too long after Karin had begun her watch, but she didn’t hear much of her input on the matters being discussed.

She had trained herself not to eavesdrop onto conversations behind the door, but there were words that were thrown around that inadvertently caught her attention, both worrying her and making it almost impossible for her to not pay attention. There were also times when she had a feeling that made her hold her breath and the hair on the back of her neck stand on end. She was told that she not enter the room under any circumstances, but the times that overwhelming pressure flooded over her body she wanted to barge in and make sure Elena and Kaia were safe…but at the same time, that feeling terrified her more than anything she thought possible.

Another hour had passed before the door to the office finally opened and Kaia exited the room, followed by Amrin, who looked exhausted, frustrated and annoyed, rubbing his forehead with is right hand. Karin knew that both Elena and Kaia treated him with incredible regard and looked up to him as if a god, but she didn’t know why. Nor did she care. Her role was to serve Elena Aqua, and so long as she was safe that was all that mattered to her.

Once Elena had exited the room, Karin bowed slightly.

“My apologies for making you wait so long Karin. It took much longer than I feared. And unfortunately we still have more to discuss tomorrow with Captain Lestith and Lieutenant Grandall.”

“It is no worry, Your Grace. While you were indisposed though, a messenger came with this letter of introduction.” Karin said while holding it out for Elena to take.

“I see, thank you. Did this messenger say from where and who?”

“Tranquil Refuge, from King Mardax himself. The envoy…I’m afraid was not mentioned by name, only that they are to be here first thing in the morning to discuss the matters within the letter.”

“Sounds like you still have more work to do, but doesn’t concern us, Ely. I’ll call it a night and head…” Amrin began to speak and realized that he didn’t exactly have anywhere to stay for the night.

“Ah, yes Master. I have prepared a room for you. It is through that door just there.” Ely pointed to the double door at the other end of the walkway.

“Thank you, Ely. Don’t work too hard…and I’m sorry I…I’m sorry I lost my composure a few times in there.”

“It is quite alright, Master. It is a matter that I too, have a few strong emotions regarding. You are not alone.” Ely said and lowered her head.

“And I’m thankful for that. And once we have all rested we shall continue discussions of the message and action towards Valdiss, Meladris and Belgard.” He said with a smile and shook his head.

“Is everything all right Master?” Ely asked.

“Yes. You’ve just gotten very good at winning arguments. I’m going to have to be careful around you from now on.” Ely could no nothing but smile wholeheartedly.

“Well, Kaia will you call it a night as well?” Amrin asked, frowning as he came to face her.

“Yes, I believe I will. And Master?”

“Yes?” Amrin replied.

“Why do you frown when you look at me? Did I do something to displease you?” she asked.

“What? No! Sorry I didn’t mean to do that. I just…” he started to speak and then looked at Ely.

He narrowed his eyes and knew it would be a very smart idea not to say what he had in mind. I think you look much better without the armor on. Would be a one way trip to an angered and pouting Ely.

“I just think it’s a shame that you have to wear your armor all the time here. It’s not like New Randess.” He thought quickly.

It wasn’t a complete lie, really.

“Ah, yes. I do feel more comfortable in my armor though. But I appreciate your concern.” Kaia said.

“I see. Well that’s fine then. Alright, goodnight Ely, I’ll see you tomorrow after your meeting?”

“Yes, Master. I hope you sleep well tonight. You as well Kaia. I’m glad to have you back, and safe.”

Kaia bowed to Elena, her heart fluttered between gratitude, guilt, relief and joy all at the same time. If not for Elena she would not be alive, she would not have met Amrin, and she would not have been whole and looking forward to what the next day brought. But she felt guilty because she swore to serve her and instead made a pact with someone else. Although it wasn’t necessary to feel guilt at all since the one she swore herself to was the one Elena had also sworn everything to. So she felt somewhat at peace from the decision.

Karin and Ely watched as Kaia headed down the stairs towards her quarters and as Amrin waved goodnight once more and entered his room.

“You can retire for the night as well Karin. I will just read over the contents of the letter and do the same.” Ely said.

“Are you sure, your grace?”

“I am. You’ve been standing out here long enough already. Plus it’s been a few days since you’ve seen Kaia, go catch up. I’m sure she has much to tell you.” Ely said with a big smile.

“As you say, ma’am.” Karin bowed and began to head towards the quarters where she shared a large room with Kaia.

The Academy, while primarily a place for education, was also a long term housing facility for noble and wealthy students from every kingdom to study, and as such the living arrangements were easily managed. There was rooms varying in size and amenities to accommodate various positions of rank. Ely didn’t like that some rooms were better than others, but it was determined a very long time ago that not having any obvious differentiation between lower class students and higher class nobles would only cause unnecessary headaches for her.

Ely entered her office and closed the door. The only light that now shined through the room was from a small lantern with a light crystal inside of it. It was longer lasting and safer than a simple candle or oil burning lamp, but far too expensive for just anyone to have. Unlike using Illuminate on a stone, the magic used on this was imbued into a high a crystal of high density and clarity. Taking a seat at her desk, she used an ornate letter opener to break the seal on the envelope and began to read the contents.

It was as she thought, it was an attempt to request aid in their endeavors to be recognized as a true nation. In order to do so, they needed an established member of the guild to work and live in Tranquil Refuge, or someone that is a mid-chant or higher status to oversee the chapter there. So the envoy that King Mardax sent will be working as liaison and intermediary for any potential candidates that the Headmistress of the Academy of Highleaf would be so gracious to suggest.

It was all straightforward and something she would have no hesitations or issues providing assistance with. But her heart stopped and body began to tremble as soon as she read the name of the envoy.

Sarya Auren – Royal Advisor

Ely’s breathing began to increase, she could feel herself get warmer at the thought of Sarya being here. She had attempted to find any signs of her, using resources available to her without being too obvious. She was an incredibly powerful Light Element user, there’s no way she could go unnoticed for this long. It didn’t make sense. How did she go this long completely anonymous and now she’s a royal advisor? She hasn’t seen her since that day…since the beginning of her long nightmare alone and without Amrin and the others. And now she was in the same city!

Her eyes went wide and she began to shake. She would be here first thing in the morning…the very next morning! To make matters worse, Amrin had found that Meladris and Belgard were in Valdiss’ Enclave and was already on edge and clearly agitated at the fact it would be best to wait for the right time to act. If Sarya arrives and Amrin sees her…there would be hell to pay. And in the middle of the Academy no less. She needed to act fast. The following day was a normal school day and if anything were to happen between Sarya, Amrin, herself and now Kaia as well with her newfound increase in powers as well as her already potent skills…no one would be safe.

She quickly opened one of the drawers in her desk and pulled out a small red gem with a gold ornate design around it.

“Commander Braddock?”

She waited a few moments before speaking into it once more.

“Commander Braddock!?” she said louder this time.

“Yes, Your Grace? Is everything alright? It is unlike you to call on me at such a time of night.” Worry plain in his voice.

“Commander, I need you to restrict any and all travel to and from the city to the Academy unless they carry diplomatic credentials, as soon as possible.”

“Of course. Is…”

“Please, Commander. No questions. It is merely a precautionary measure, but one that would be foolish to overlook.”

“I understand. How long will this restriction be in effect?”

“Just until the day is over. If…if anything were to happen, one day is all it would take…” she said, placing her face into her hands and resting her elbows on the desk.

“As you command.”

No further questions or commands were necessary. Braddock was one to understand that when an order such as this was given, it was best to follow it through for the reasons behind it are not to be taken lightly.

Ely sat silently in her chair, the memories of her time with Sarya rushing into her mind. She hadn’t had these memories in a very long time, the primary reason being that it caused her to become so sad and angry that she couldn’t control her emotions. But this time it was different. This time Amrin was with her. She wasn’t alone anymore, she could use this chance to give her Master what he wanted, what she wanted as well. Answers.

She decided that come morning, she would demand answers from Sarya Auren, and would see to it that she speak, or she wouldn’t leave the academy grounds alive. Taking a deep breath and exhaling to get her breathing back in line and her emotions in check, she stood from her desk and walked to a door in the back corner of the room, leading directly into her personal bed chambers.

Ely was fully aware that she would not get any sleep, but dwelling on what would happen in the morning wouldn’t keep the event from coming, or change what would occur. In the middle of undressing she began to cry. She stood in front of her armoire, clutching the doors and the tears began to fall. It has been thousands of years, more than enough time for someone to forget something that caused them this much pain, uncertainty and confusion. Ely slowly fell to the floor, her golden hair draped all around her sobbing naked figure, the only source of light was the moonlight streaming through the window. Her pale white skin and lustrous hair gave her an almost ghost like appearance.

She wanted answers just like Amrin, she wanted them to pay for what they did to their master and to her, but at the same time she didn’t want Sarya, or any of them, to get hurt. Ely had fought with the questions of whether they live or die countless times over the years and never came to a solid answer. Every time she resolved herself to end their lives for betraying them, she remembered all of the times they were so happy together, all of the times she couldn’t possibly be happier.

Ely covered her mouth with her left hand and propped herself up with her right so that she didn’t completely collapse on the floor. She didn’t want the sobs to be so loud that someone might hear her. So she cried as silently as she could. Her body trembling and weak, wracked with the knowledge that tomorrow one of her best friends, her family could very well die and she didn’t know whether she was ok with that or not.

The only person she ever felt comfortable enough with to confide all of her worries, doubts, fears and wonders…was one of the betrayers and for whatever reason, with Valdiss. She couldn’t tell Karin, it was too much for her to pile onto someone that already walked on eggshells around her. Even with Kaia now being a pact holder with Amrin, she was still unaware of their history, and it was too early to drop this much of a burden onto her. She was alone again. She would never tell Amrin, for if anyone would feel worse than she did at this moment, it was him. She couldn’t bear to think what he was experiencing knowing about Meladris and Belgard.

She was all too aware of his random mood swings and sudden uncharacteristic anger at the littlest things. He seemed different from before. It was only natural after what had happened, but the times he smiled, talked with her, and was the same Amrin she knew and loved made her fear that if his anger got the better of him…she would lose him all over again. If he killed Sarya, would that be enough to cause Amrin to change forever? Would he become a being driven and single-minded in revenge and unable to come back from the dark hell that torments him?

Even if he changed and she lost the Amrin she fell in love with and would never see him again…she would still follow him. Because even if the chance was miniscule and nearly non-existent…he could once again come back to her. He’s proven he could do come back from nothing once, so it wasn’t an outrageous thought to hope for a second. So whatever his decision, she would wait.

Taking a few deep breaths she began to calm herself once more. Standing and wiping the tears from her eyes she reached into the armoire and took a nightgown from a hook. Putting it on, the sheer fabric fell across her body silently, the subtle purple color contrasting against her bright gold hair. Pulling her loose hair from inside the gown she walked to the side of her bed and pulled the covers back. Before she entered the bed, she turned to look out the window across the courtyard and towards the city. The occasional flicker of the braziers along the road and lanterns in the windows of the taller houses danced in the distance.

Dwelling on the what-ifs for long enough, she crawled into bed and pulled the covers over herself and clutched them tightly against her chest. Her eyes wide open and staring at the blank ceiling above her…she wasn’t tired at all. Forcing her eyes closed, she flipped onto her side and pulled the covers over her shoulders and snuggled them right below her chin and tried her best to fall asleep. For tomorrow would be a day she would never forget.

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