Beneath the Surface

Azer’s brows rose slightly as his sister abruptly left the room, followed rather quickly by Morgan. He brought his gaze to Jesper and a chuckle came over his lips. “Ah, we must have much in common Jesper. Calista is incredibly stubborn, a bit sassy as well….she gets in her moods.” He grinned as he stood. “Something a bit stronger. But of course. I’ve got a well aged bourbon that will grow some hair on your chest.” He spoke playfully. This wouldn’t be a bad thing. He could get to know this prince, really get to speak to him on a level that he wasn’t allowed to speak to him in front of the king and queen.

Azer came back with two glasses and poured the bourbon into each glass neat. “Let me know what you think. I’ve plenty to choose from in that cabinet. I look out for different drinks when I can.” He grinned as he stepped over to the window to look out into the storm. “So tell me.” He spoke after a moment, he swirled his drink within his glass before he took a sip and smacked his lips together slightly. It was smooth in texture with a full mouth feel. A truly well rounded bourbon. “What caused you to make such a long trek just for my sister’s hand in marriage? What was the most enticing thing to you?” He turned and looked to Jesper. “I’m just curious.” He smirked slightly. Was it power? Trade? He wanted to know what was the most alluring thing about his sister to the men that had traveled across kingdoms to ask for her hand…

**

Calista had a quick pace she was nearly to the end of the hallway by the time Morgan caught up to her. She turned her gaze to the woman as she caught up to her. “It’s….” She looked ahead of them as they walked down the hallway. “Exhausting...” A sigh came over her lips, though a smile curved up her lips again.

“Ahhh princess.” Prince Leon of Dreg bowed deeply before the two. He took her hand and kissed the back of it. He turned to Morgan. “M’lady.” He kissed the back of her hand as well. “I heard the troubling news of the attack upon the mountain.” He spoke as he took a step back from the two. “It seems even the monsters come out to play during such a lovely festival.” He bowed his head slightly. “I am glad that both you and the Prince of Oneus are unharmed.” He then gave a warm smile. “I hope you have an enjoyable evening princess. Sleep well.” He spoke and bowed deeply before he continued down the hallway toward the guest bedrooms.

Calista drew in a long breath and bit her lip slightly. “Usually my brother is the center of attention.” She spoke as she stood still for a long moment. She looked to Morgan then, she seemed to be thinking deeply. “I know somewhere quiet...to get away from all of this courting.” She then gave a weak smile as she walked along down the hallway. She pushed open a door that led to a stairwell that curved upward into the castle to the next floor. She walked to the end of the hallway and then pushed open another door.

“Princess, good evening, how was--...” Alice stopped speaking when her eyes fell upon Morgan. “Um...”

“Would you mind getting us a pot of tea, Alice?” Calista spoke with a soft smile upon her lips.

Alice nodded, “Of course.” She spoke as she moved from the room, she glanced over her shoulder to Morgan before she disappeared into the hallway.

“Unfortunately I think this is the only place in the hospital that my suitors won’t be lurking.” Calista spoke with a slight laugh. “I hope you don’t mind.” She stepped over to the balcony window and gazed outside. “So...what were you adjusting earlier?” She questioned then, her voice was soft, her eyes curious. “Was the ribbing digging in?” She asked as she looked a bit more closely to Morgan’s corset. Her two toned eyes then locked on the icy eyes of the woman.

“Here you are princess.” Alice stepped into the room with a pot of steaming tea. She poured two mugs of tea and brought one mug to each of the women. “Is there anything else I may assist?”

“I’ll call for you soon Alice. Thank you very much.” Calista gave a sweet smile to her maiden.

Alice bowed her head, “Of course, princess.” She glanced to Morgan then before she slipped from the room, the door clicked shut and silence surrounded them once again.

Calista sipped from the tea as she glanced outside to the storm. “Terrible storm.” She sighed lightly, flashes of the Lycan attack plagued her. She shut her eyes for a moment, her pulse increased and she tightened her grip upon the mug slightly. She shook her head and then smiled as she looked to Morgan. “I’ve heard that the boning of a corset, if it is made of steel it is much more comfortable, it’s able to flex a bit better.” She spoke and then took a sip of her tea.

Azer grinned when Jesper mentioned the bourbon from Oneus. “I’ll have to try it someday.” He commented and then focused in on him for the questions. He sighed slightly. “Not the best question I imagine. I’m just a big brother looking out for my sister is all. I hate that it feels like we are auctioning her off to the highest bidder...which unfortunately….isn’t that exactly what it is? In the end whomever is chosen has shown that they offer Runik the most advantage...that is the winner.” He scoffed slightly. “I’m certain my ancestors are rolling in their grave.” He laughed and then grinned to Jesper. “Do you at least...fancy my sister? She’s a bit feisty, but once you get passed that...”

Azer then chuckled and grinned when Jesper questioned about Morgan. “Mhm...” He took a long drink from his bourbon glass. “She’s mysterious. I’ve never quite met a woman as alluring as your sister. To be honest. There is just something about her.” He shrugged slightly. “Do you think that with Runik’s help your Lycan problem can be solved?” He asked then curiously. “I worry about my sister going to another kingdom. She hasn’t seen much of the darkness in the world. Call her sheltered if you will. She’s a sweet soul.” He gave a soft smile as he awaited the response.

**

Calista let out a soft laugh, “Not much gets by me.” She smirked. “When you grow up with a big brother like mine you learn to look for things. He was quite the prankster when we were younger. Alice saved me many times from his pranks.” She looked to the small flask that was pulled from the woman’s bosom. Something to calm her nerves. That sounded quite nice. She drew her brows together slightly as the sweet aroma filtered into the air. “I can only imagine.” She spoke as she stared to the flask. “The lycan.” She spoke, her eyes lifted to look to Morgan. “I can’t stop thinking about it, I can hear it, feel it...” Her heartbeat began to increase again as the thought of it dug deeply into her mind.

She carefully grasped onto the flask and lifted it to smell the sweet aroma. Her brows tucked together a bit more. She seemed to think about it a long moment, her eyes stared to the flask. Magic. She took in a long breath and then took a quick sip of it. Just enough to taste the concoction. She took in the flavor of it, the cherry blossom was quite strong, but sweet, followed by a flavor that she didn’t recognize. “Hm.” She hummed slightly as she handed the flask forward, a soft smile upon her lips. “It’s very sweet.” She searched Morgan’s eyes. “My apologies for questioning you...I...I am not sure what I thought it was.” She took a sip of her tea. “I also want to apologize for my brother.” She let out a laugh then and shook her head. “I’m not sure he knows how to reign himself in.” She commented before she turned her eyes to the city. She grew very quiet, her pulse had slowed significantly with the small sip of the special concoction. “How many….” She spoke after several moments of silence. “How many Lycans do you think followed after you and your brother?” She turned her eyes to Morgan, worry in her eyes. Fear even. “Your brother...he could have died today...as could I...” She fell quiet once again.

“Mhm...” Azer nodded as he sat down on the couch and let out a long sigh. “That is the first death she has witnessed. I’ve been to war, I’ve seen bloodshed. My sister...” He clicked his tongue. “She couldn’t harm a fly.” He let out a laugh. “Though, she knows how to protect herself, she’s trained since she was a young child with the captain of the knights. But...fighting actual monsters...and seeing the slaughter that lycans bring?” He shook his head and fell quiet as Jesper spoke of Oneus. His smile fell slightly. He then let out a chuckle. “You said it yourself, Jesper. Anywhere but Runik is a risk. I believe that if you are chosen Calista could be a great advantage to your people.” He finished off his drink then. He was pushing drunk by this point. His words were a bit slurred. “That’s why she’s so prized. She comes with an army behind her.” He laughed lightly. “Among other things.” He hummed. Azer then looked over to the cabinet. “Oh yes, yes, help yourself good man. You deserve it. You saved my dear sister. Have all that you want. Anything.”

“Misery?” He laughed, “Hm, don’t we all hold a bit of misery within our soul?” He questioned with a smirk upon his lips as he stepped over to the cabinet to pour himself another round. His steps stuttered slightly. “You know after saving Calista from that attack that you...have basically won this right?” He smirked as he made his way back to the couch he sat down heavily. “Who else is going to one up that? You’ve shown your worth. Just keep it coming, eh?” He chuckled drunkenly.

“Having a boys night without inviting anyone else?” A voice came from the hallway. Sir Evan came walking in, “Mind if I join?” He smirked as he sat down across from Jesper. “Quite the day of excitement hm?” His eyes were trained on the prince of Oneus.

“He’s a hero. He saved my sister. Do not mock him.” Azer scoffed as he looked to Sir Evan. “Willhelm is where you hail from correct?” He questioned. “Just where is that?”

Evan raised a brow slightly, “You haven’t heard of my kingdom?” He questioned, his expression hurt. Though it was all a game. “I hail from the south, deep in the forest. It’s a lovely place. Quite safe. Much like Runik we have our own defenses.” He smirked as he looked to Jesper.

**

Calista let out a soft laugh, “Oh I couldn’t control my brother if I tried.” She smirked slightly. Her expression fell slightly, her pulse increased as they spoke of the mountain. “Yes. We...it was close.” She stared to Morgan as she spoke of the gods and how they had willed it to be so. A soft smile curved up her lips. “You sound like my mother, speaking of the gods and their will. Runik celebrates the ancient gods of fey, believe it or not.” She followed Morgan to the reading area as she listened. “It is incredible the power that they posses with how animalistic they seem to be. If they attack...I can only hope that the gods have it in our will to survive. What if they brought more than one ship? What if...there is more to this than we can truly see?” She sighed lightly and shook her head.

Calista tilted her head slightly, “Fortune?” She raised a brow. She’d never had her fortune read before. There weren’t many that practiced that art in Runik. If any at all. She sat down and set her mug of tea on the side table. She hesitated slightly before she held her hand forward, her eyes were focused on Morgan. The woman had such a mysterious aura about her. Calista had never been so curious before. She drew in a breath as Morgan took her hand, her touch was cold. “Oh….” She spoke involuntarily. “Apologies, you’re so cold...um...” She fell quiet as Morgan seemed to study her hand. She watched, mesmerized as Morgan traced along the lines and even massaged her hand slightly. A soft smile curved up her lips as her breath fought to catch within her chest. What was this strange curiosity that she felt? “Adventure?” She laughed lightly. “I think I’ve had all the adventure I can handle after today...I’m not certain that I can sleep...” She sighed lightly and then fell silent once again. Her brows furrowed slightly to the speak of the love line. “Confusing...hm...” She spoke her eyes stared to Morgan once again before she followed her eyes back to her hand.

Calista watched as she traced the other line. The mystery line. She furrowed her brows slightly. Morgan didn’t know the line. Or did she? The princess retracted her hand and gave a soft smile. “Should I be worried that you don’t know what the line means?” She smiled a bit more then as she grasped her tea. She took a sip and then drew in a long breath. “Perhaps we have something in the library on this palm reading? I would truly like to know what it means.” She grinned then. Calista seemed to have relaxed a bit.

The princess took a long sip of her tea as she looked back out the window. Her eyes widened slightly and she shot to her feet. “Look out!” She cried, she’d seen a shadow on the balcony. She rushed across the room swiftly, her heels clicked rapidly. “Guards!” She cried as she rushed across the room. She glanced over her shoulder to the balcony where the shadow was just moments before.

Two knights came rushing into the room. “Princess.” The knights looked around, both ready to defend their princess.

Calista nearly fell into one of the knights whom caught her and steadied her as her heart pounded within her chest. “The balcony.” She spoke quickly.

The other knight rushed to the balcony and stepped out into the icy air. He looked about and came back in moments later. “Princess...there isn’t anything there...” The knight spoke he glanced to Morgan. “Did you see anything?” He questioned.

Calista stared to the balcony, she swore she saw it. The silhouette of a Lycan, perched upon the railing. Watching them. She trembled as she was led back to the couch. “Princess. Nothing could make that climb to your window. You are safe.” The knight assured her he glanced to Morgan once again. “Please, if you need anything we are just outside.” He gave a gentle smile.

The princess drew in a long deep breath and closed her eyes. “I saw it.” She breathed. “I know what I saw.” She spoke after the knights had left the room. “Please...please tell me you saw it...I’m not...I’m not losing it am I?” She looked to Morgan with worried eyes.

The jovial smile faded from Evan’s expression as Jesper mentioned the poisoned waters. He gave a slight smile as he looked to the man. “I’ve lost no more people than your city has lost to Lycans.” He spoke his eyes trained in on Jesper. “We’ve managed it. It’s been a few weeks since our last death. Perhaps you’d like to visit sometime to see our improvements. We developed a filtration system, quite unique. Our apothecary came up with the idea. Charcoal. Would you believe it?” He stood slowly and drew in a breath. “Well. I can sense when I am unwelcome. My Prince.” He turned to Azer and bowed. “Don’t let this man’s word worry you. I can assure you that Willhelm is much more safe, if not relaxing...compared to Oneus.” He glanced to Jesper. “I’d better get off to bed then. Wouldn’t want to stay up too late. We’ve a tournament tomorrow.” He smirked slightly. “I do hope you fair as good against a human opponent as you did against a Lycan.” He chuckled as he walked away.

Azer had his brows tucked together. “Dare I say it?” He spoke after a long moment. “I do believe my dear sister made a mistake in choosing that one.” He let out a laugh as he looked to Jesper. “I’ve heard of Willhelm, there is no god that would allow my sister to be taken there.” He laughed lightly. “Though there is one thing that he is right about. You should get some rest for the tournament. I wouldn’t want to see you lose from a misstep due to exhaustion. Hm?” Azer nodded to Jesper before he stepped from the room to head to his quarters.

**

Calista held her eyes closed. The words that came over Morgan’s lips were exactly what she needed to hear. Morgan saw the shadow...the princess wasn’t losing her mind after all. She opened her eyes as Morgan offered her the flask. “Thank you...” She spoke, her brows furrowed as she took it and took a long drink of the sweet liquid. She let out a long breath as her bounding pulse began to slow. “I...don’t know how you do it...” She spoke as her mind began to come to its senses. “You...don’t run, you rushed toward the balcony...” She let out a soft chuckle, possibly a bit high from the liquid. She’d taken a large swig after all. She shook her head then, “Morgan, you cannot blame yourself for them. We will keep you and your brother safe. Runik is a place of safety. You will not be harmed here. We...we have stopped them before. We will do it again.” She then furrowed her brows slightly as she watched Morgan step to the railing and yell out into the night. Calista shivered slightly as the cold air from outside rushed into her room.

The princess stepped forward as flakes of snow came into her room. The flakes danced about and swirled around her body as some stuck into her hair and against her dress. Other flakes of snow melted against her warm skin. “Morgan.” She spoke as she grasped the woman’s arm. “There’s no need to antagonize them.” She pulled against her gently and stepped back into her room. She closed the doors and locked the bolt then. Her eyes stared out the window for a long moment before she looked to the princess of Oneus. “You’re far more brave than I.” She gave a weak smile. “Perhaps the line on my hand is fear.” She gave a light chuckle and shook her head. “Cowardly...I suppose.” She shivered slightly. “The knights of Runik will keep you safe. Just as your brother kept me safe.” She drew in a breath and glanced to the window again. She expected to see the silhouette of the lycan each time she looked, but the only thing she was greeted by was the gentle, silent flakes of snow.

There was a gentle knock and then the door pushed open. “Princess?” Alice stepped into the room. She bowed her head slightly. “I do apologize but, the queen asked me to see you to bed. You’ve a lot planned for tomorrow. You’ll be quite busy with the tournament.”

Calista drew in a breath, she looked to Morgan and gave a weak smile. “Tomorrow then? We will look for that book in the library.” She walked over to her dressing area followed by Alice.

Alice glanced to Morgan a moment, “Princess.” She bowed her head as she stepped passed her. She went to Calista and began loosening the corset. As the door clicked shut she glanced over her shoulder. “What happened?” She asked then.

Calista was silent for a moment, her mind relaxed and at ease from Morgan’s potion. “Nothing really, I chatted with Morgan. Then...I saw something on my balcony...” She let out a long sigh, “It seems that the lycans are here in force...”

Alice furrowed her brows as she came around in front of the princess and helped slip her into her nightgown. “Lycans...I can’t believe there are Lycans in Runik...” She whispered softly. “More than the one that attacked you...”

Calista shook her head, “Apparently they have a vendetta against the prince and princess of Oneus...” She closed her eyes as Alice pulled her tiara from her head and brushed through her hair. “Alice? Do you think its fair for Morgan to blame herself for the Lycans presence?” She asked softly.

“Um….Calista...I...” Alice drew her brows together. “I’m not sure what to say to you...if it wasn’t intentional…I suppose not.”

Calista gave a soft smile as she stood and slipped her slippers onto her feet. “Right.” She gave a nod and stepped to her bed. She climbed in and Alice tucked her into the blankets. “Good night, Alice.”

“Good night, princess.” Alice gave a gentle smile before she stepped from the room.

Calista closed her eyes and almost instantly slipped into a deep slumber. She drew in deep even breaths as she was pulled into her dreams.

A low grow sounded. Calista opened her eyes slowly. She could feel the weight over her, the sound of the Lycan’s breaths seemed to echo in her ears. Her eyes gazed up into the beast’s eyes. “No.” She whispered as the beast snarled and bared its yellow teeth. She cried out as her eyes began to glow. Lightning flickered within her pupil as she shoved against the beast. It was blasted from her and she stood and rushed to the door. “Guards! Help!” She rattled the handle.

“They can’t save you princess.” A chuckle came from behind her. “No matter what you do. No one can save you.”

Calista turned around and her eyes met that of Jesper. She could feel her breath tremble as she looked to him, the Lycan was behind him. “Look out.” She breathed as the beast staggered to its feet.

“Oh that?” Jesper snickered. “I brought them.” A smirk curved up his lips, it was wicked….dark….

Calista watched in horror as the Lycan rushed forward. She let out a cry and lunged to the side, missing the Lycan’s claws by mere inches. The claws dug into the wall and sliced into the stone. The princess formed a fireball in her hand and lobbed it at the Lycan. She screamed as the beast leaped atop her and pinned her to the ground. She rolled to the side to escape his grip...

The princess rolled from her bed in that moment in a ball of blankets. She landed on the floor with a harsh thud as she let out a whimper. She fought against the blankets and could feel the hands of someone. “Stop! Stop! Help!” She cried. “Guards! Help!” She screamed in horror.

“Calista!!” A familiar voice. The blankets were pulled from the princess’ mess of a head to reveal Alice as the sun shone into the room. “Are you alright?” She had worry in her eyes. “You look as though you’ve seen a ghost...or something...you knocked over your nightstand...”

The princess took in gasps of air as she stared around her room. The glass vase that was upon her nightstand was shattered across the floor, the water had soaked into her nightgown. “I...” She looked around her room as her breathing began to slow. “I’m alright...” She drew in a breath. “Just...a nightmare...” Her hands shook as she allowed Alice to help her up.

“You look terrified, Calista...” Alice looked to her with worried eyes.

“I’m alright.” Calista forced a smile. “Quite alright...” She breathed as she stepped away from Alice.

**

Breakfast was served with the royal family as well as the suitors. Idle banter was tossed about. Calista sat in near dead silence, she poked her fork at her food but she didn’t eat. She took a few sips from her orange juice, but nothing more. Azer looked to his sister with worried eyes though he kept the conversation going so as to keep the attention from his sister. Soon enough the queen and king dismissed the breakfast and announced that the tournament would soon begin. The storm was still socked into the mountains, the skies were full of dark grey clouds. The tournament would be held in the hall of heroes. It was a hall dedicated to the knights of Runik and the kings of the past. It was set up like an arena with risers so that the civilians of the city could attend. With the conditions of weather in Runik, such an arena was much needed. Winter storms didn’t just happen in the winter. It wasn’t unusual to get a blast of cold in the middle of the summer due to their mountain environment.

Calista followed her mother and father onto the podium that held four chairs, two larger throne chairs for the king and queen, and two smaller chairs for her and her brother on either side. The princess took her seat after her father spoke the opening announcements and the crowd cheered. The first to open the fight was Sir Evan and Prince Leon. Calista watched as the two seemed to dance with their blades. Though Sir Evan brought his shield up into Prince Leon and knocked him off balance, next Evan’s foot kicked against the prince’s chest to knock him to his back. Evan placed his foot on his chest and pinned him down, his sword tip pointed to the man.

“Now that is a fighter that can keep my daughter safe.” Warner spoke with a chuckle as he clapped.

Calista furrowed her brows slightly, though she clapped for the fight as the crowd roared. She didn’t like the animosity that Sir Evan seemed to have within him. It was such an aggressive move. She glanced to her mother whom nodded to her. Calista then looked back to the battlefield as the next two fighters were announced.

To her surprise Sir Evan elected for another fight, against Jesper. Calista watched as the two men took the field. She sat forward in her seat slightly as she watched Sir Evan bang against his shield. Her eyes fell upon Jesper whom seemed calm and collected, he didn’t feel the need to arouse the crowd’s appreciation.

“Are you worried for him?” Azer questioned he stood next to his sister, a glass of wine cradled in his fingertips. “If he stopped a Lycan...why wouldn’t he be able to stop a human?” He smirked slightly his eyes looked about the crowd.

Calista glanced to her brother a moment, “No. I’m not worried for him.” She looked back to the field as the battle began. Evan was quick to begin his aggressive attacks. She winced slightly as Evan slammed his shield into Jesper. Though, as Jesper moved away swiftly time after time again she couldn’t help but chuckle. Jesper was making Evan look like an idiot in the arena.

“Have you seen Morgan?” Azer asked as he leaned against the railing. “You didn’t run her off did you?” He smirked to his sister.

Calista looked to her brother once again, his two toned eyes trained in on him. “No...perhaps she is busy brother. Her world does not revolve around a silly prince.” She smirked and then turned her attention back to the field just as Jesper sliced into Evan. The next moments happened quickly. The princess stood from her seat, her breathing quickened. Evan was a Lycan. She watched as he transformed the sickening sound of his bones cracking echoed through the arena. She took a step forward only for her wrist to be caught by her father.

“Calista.” He spoke his eyes watched her, “Now is not the time.”

The princess gripped onto the railing as she watched helplessly as Jesper was tossed around by the Lycan. Her eyes lifted to see Morgan drop a sword into the arena. She flinched as Jesper was tossed across the arena into a limp heap. Then Morgan jumped down to fight the beast. Her movement was quick, precise. “Ah, there she is.” Azer spoke with a chuckle. “What a fight this is. We won’t ever forget it hm?” He finished off his wine. “I can’t believe you selected a Lycan, dear sister.” He shuddered to the thought.

The crowd was silent after Evan’s head rolled across the ground. The people of Runik looked to one another in disbelief. The king stood and the eyes of the crowd seemed to look to him. “The tournament will be cancelled. Please everyone return to your homes. It appears we have a few vermin to flush out before we can continue this festival...” He turned to a knight, “Get the princess to the castle where she is safe.” He spoke quickly.

“Father...” Calista spoke up but the knights were already leading her away.

“Azer.” Warner spoke as he looked to his son, “I assume you can help the Oneus royalty back to the castle. Your mother and I have a mess to clean up. This is much worse than I believed.” He turned and stepped away with the queen.

Azer drew in a breath as he nodded to his father. “Of course...” He spoke after he watched the king step from the arena. He stepped down into the arena and walked over to Morgan and Jesper a few knights with him. “We need to get you to the castle.” He spoke his eyes looked to Morgan. “That was quite impressive.” He gave a smile as he knelt down to look over Jesper. “Our physician will ensure that he recovers.” He stood and nodded to the knights whom lifted Jesper up to take him to a carriage to be transported back to the castle.

**

The princess stepped from the carriage her eyes glanced about the snowy landscape. “This...isn’t...” She gasped as her arm was grasped harshly by the knight. She wasn’t at the castle. She was somewhere outside of the city walls. “Let go.” She pulled her arm away from the knight.

“Not going to happen princess. If they want you back, they’ll have to send Morgan to get you.” The man chuckled as he toted her inside of an old cabin.

Calista stumbled and turned, “What?” She questioned. “What is the meaning of this?” Though she wished she hadn’t asked the question.

The five knights that stood around her all snickered as one that stood before her began to transform. Deep growls came from the group. “She thinks she killed the captain, but that is far from the truth.” The larger man spoke as he brushed his fingertips along the princess’ jaw. Calista began to breathe quickly she backed up as her eyes began to glow. Fire swarmed within her eyes and a ball of fire formed within her palm. She lobbed it at one of the lycans whom screamed as the flames swarmed around his body. “She’s a mage?!” One of the lycans exclaimed. The larger man stepped forward swiftly and gripped Calista around her throat. “If you know what is best for you you’ll stop now.” He snarled as his fangs became visible.

Calista grit her teeth as she gripped onto him, his skin singed to her touch. “Let….go...” She groaned as he continued to choke her.

Then suddenly something collided with her head, a bottle crashed and wine spilled across the floor. “You have a deathwish?” The woman questioned as she looked to her captain. “She’s a fucking mage, she’ll fry you.” She scoffed and then glanced to their comrade whom had serious burns all over his body. “That’s what killed Lucas.” She pointed to Calista whom lay unconscious on the ground. “It wasn’t Jesper. It was the mage.” She snarled as she grabbed Calista’s limp arm. “I’ll secure her. Just be ready to kill Morgan, hm?” She pulled Calista along the ground and down the stairs to the basement where she bound her hands and feet and tied a cloth around her mouth to keep her silent when she woke. Next she tossed a cloth bag over her head to keep her from being able to direct her magic.

Upstairs the lycans paced. “We’ve got her now.” The captain chuckled a smirk upon his lips. “She’ll come.” He looked outside as the sun began to fade over the tops of the mountains.

**

The castle was on high alert. The princess was missing. Murielle did nothing but sob to the loss of her daughter. The king ordered knights to search the entire city. Azer paced up and down the halls. How could this happen? How could they allow Calista to go missing like this? Under their noses. He gathered his armor and fastened it in place. He planned to find his sister, whatever it took. Azer made his way through the halls, a determined look in his eyes.

"What are you doing?" The king asked.

"I'm going after her." Azer spoke as he turned to his father.

"I can't lose you both. Lycans will rip you to shreds, son...." The king shook his head. "You're staying here."

Azer threw his helmet as he stared to his father. "You're just giving up on her! You're going to let her die out there!" He yelled, his voice full of anger. "Mother is a mess. Could you imagine what she will be like if Calista dies?!"

"Son." The king spoke and drew his brows together. "I can't risk losing you too. The guard is doing everything they can to find her. You aren't going out there alone. That's final." He ordered before he rushed off. Everything was a complete disaster.

Calista began to stir she groaned through the cloth gag as her eyes fluttered open. Her head pounded. She wiggled her hands that were bound together tightly, her breathing increased. “Oh would you look, our bait is awake.” The female lycan snickered as she came over to Calista. She couldn’t see the woman, but she could feel her presence. “Don’t worry dear, when we are through with Morgan we will make sure your death is quick. Nothing prolonged.” She cackled slightly.

“But I thought we were going to keep her around...” One of the male lycans growled as he looked to her.

“A mage?” She scoffed. “She’d kill us.” She gripped onto Calista’s chin through the hood that she’d placed over her head. “Wouldn’t you? Hm?” She laughed lightly. She then fell quiet as she heard a bit of commotion from up the stairs. “She’s here.” She spoke with a grin as she pulled a crossbow from a table. “Make sure you rip her head off. Eh?”

Snarls filled the room as the Lycans rushed to attack Morgan and Azer. Calista winced as she was grasped harshly and pulled by her bound wrists. She was dragged up the stairs quickly by one of the Lycans. She could hear the sounds of the fighting. Whimpers from the Lycans as they fought Morgan and Azer. There was a quick click in succession, two shots with precision. Calista heard the cry of her brother. She whimpered through the gag as she was dropped to the floor. “Look at them.” A male’s voice whispered into her ear, his voice was a low growl. He ripped the hood from her head and pulled her to her knees harshly.

Calista’s eyes fell upon her brother whom was shot with the crossbow, the arrow pierced through his shoulder and into the wall, holding him there as he cried in pain. She whimpered as she fought against the bonds. Her eyes began to glow white as she looked about the room and found Morgan whom had also been shot with the crossbow. The large male lycan snickered as he towered over her. A rage swelled within the princess that she’d never quite felt, her heart began to pound within her ears.

“What are you doing you idiot?!” The female lycan rushed toward Calista.

Though it was too late. A wave of power rushed through the room. The rope burned from Calista’s wrists and she swiftly threw balls of fire at the lycans. She spun and gripped onto one of the male lycans, her grip instantly froze his body up to his neck. She stared into his eyes with her glowing white eyes. Then she brought her hand forward into his chest with a burst of flame. The captain of the lycans rushed toward her and tackled her to the ground. Calista let out a cry as she gripped onto him, lightning bolts scattered from her body and she tossed him to the side with unreal strength. There was but one lycan remaining. Calista turned just as the Lycan lunged at her, his claws out, his fangs barred. She stepped to the side and tossed a ball of fire at him. He screamed as the flames engulfed his body swiftly. Calista rushed forward to her brother. “Azer!” she cried. Her dress was singed in several areas from her powers. She placed her hand against his chest and blood bubbled over her fingertips.

Azer took in quick breaths as he looked to his sister. “I’m alright.” He spoke as he searched her eyes. “Are you...hurt?” He asked as he looked to the bruising upon her neck and arms. He pulled himself from the wall the arrow still clean through his shoulder. He groaned and grit his teeth. His right arm was limp from where the arrow had punctured.

Calista had tears in her eyes as she looked over her brother. Then she gazed to Morgan. “Morgan.” She she glanced to the woman. “Are you alright?” She rushed to her side.

Calista watched as Morgan got to her feet. The arrow stuck from her chest. It should have killed her. The princess stared in disbelief as the woman ripped the arrow from her own chest and the wound healed swiftly. She was in awe of the power that was before her. She’d never seen such a thing. Though, this woman wasn’t a lycan. No. Her fangs looked much different. Slender and long.

Azer flinched slightly as Morgan came to him, he watched as she allowed a single drop of her blood to drop upon his wound. The pain in his arm went away and within seconds the wound had vanished. He stared to her as she approached his sister and took her hand and looked to her palm. “What...are you?” He questioned as he stared to Morgan.

Calista looked to her brother a moment and then back to Morgan. “You knew...about my magic?” She spoke and shook her head slightly. “Just from this line?” She traced along it a moment as she looked to her own palm. She then laughed at her brother’s question. “Dear brother do you not read any of the old literature of the ancients?” She turned to him. “Correct me if I am wrong. Nosferatu Vampiris. More commonly known as a vampire.” She watched Morgan for a long moment. “Though, I thought that your kind had been hunted by the Lycans and made extinct.”

Azer touched his fully healed wound. He drew in a breath, “Ah...okay...just...another creature that the texts say don’t exist...” He groaned slightly. He pressed his lips together. “Thank you, Morgan. I believe you may have saved my life. My vision was beginning to fade.” He smirked slightly to her.

Calista let out a slight laugh before she looked to Morgan, “Your secret is safe with me. As I am certain my brother will not repeat it. Just as I trust that you will not speak of my magic. Hm?” She turned then, she was a bit shaky from the large use of her power.

Azer caught his sister as she stumbled slightly. “Come on then.” He nodded to Morgan. “Morgan is right, Mother is worried sick about you. If only she would cry to my disappearance as much as she has cried to yours.” He chuckled lightly.

“Ah yes, but brother, you have not been given the gift...” Calista let out a light laugh. “Count yourself as lucky...” She allowed her brother to lead her out to the horses.

Azer helped his sister into the saddle. He then turned to Morgan, a smirk upon his lips. “Your angry face, it’s pretty cute.” He winked before he climbed upon his horse again. “Though, I wouldn’t want it directed toward me.” He chuckled as he began to ride. The storm was beginning to thicken as they headed back toward the castle. “When we arrive Morgan, you and I will take credit for saving Calista...and dear sister, do act accordingly.” He smirked as they rode into the city. Calista leaned heavily against her brother as if she was greatly injured. As they arrived at the castle they were swarmed by guards that took Calista swiftly away. Azer stepped from his horse and offered his hand to Morgan whom he led inside the castle as the storm raged outside.

The queen rushed down the hallway after the knights that carried her daughter, her cries could be heard as she saw Calista’s condition. Warner stood before Morgan and his son, his eyes looked to the two. “You went without my permission.” He spoke his voice stern. His eyes looked to Morgan a long moment. “I can’t thank you enough.” He gave a soft smile. “It seems Oneus is really putting a good foot forward. With the help that you and your brother have provided, I have no other choice but to accept Oneus’ offer for Jesper to marry my daughter. I will offer my soldiers to your kingdom and together we shall wipe the vermin of Lycans from your kingdom.”

Azer’s brows rose slightly, it was a quick decision. His father wasn’t yelling at him. “You should have seen Morgan father, she is the true reason for Calista making it out alive. Without her suggesting that we go...Calista may have been killed.”

The king nodded, “I am forever in debt to you and your brother, Morgan. Whatever Runik can do.” He nodded. “We will.” He then drew in a breath. “How many more Lycans do you believe are in Runik?” He asked as he searched her eyes.

**

Calista was placed upon a bed within the physician’s office. She had been changed to a robe so that he could examine her easily. She sat slowly as her mother offered her a cup of tea. “We thought you were dead….” Murielle spoke as she tucked hair behind her daughter’s ear and looked at the dark bruising around her neck. “If it was not for your brother and Morgan...” She shook her head.

“I would be. If Morgan and Azer hadn’t come. They were planning on killing me.” Calista spoke, it was a bit of a lie, but it did not matter.

“What were their demands? They must have had a plan…” The queen spoke, her brows furrowed.

“Does an animal need a plan? They are beasts mother. Savages.” She rubbed her neck as the physician came over and began inspecting her.

“They roughed you up pretty good my dear.” He spoke as he looked over her body. “You’re lucky to be alive.” He gave a gentle smile.

“I truly am.” Calista spoke as she stood. “Might I return to my quarters?” She asked softly. “I’m exhausted...”

The physician furrowed his brows slightly. “Here take this for pain princess.” he handed her a few pills.

Calista nodded and took them. “We can talk more tomorrow.” She hugged her mother gently before she stepped from the room. She was dressed in a robe and slippers. The physician had to make sure that she didn’t have any hidden injuries. She had a cracked rib, but other than that most of her injuries were surface bruises. Calista turned around a corner and collided with someone. She winced slightly, “Apologies.” She spoke nearly instantly before her two toned hues settled in on the person. “Morgan...” She spoke and searched the woman’s eyes. “Would you like a cup of tea?” She asked softly.