"Flames of Eternity" Chapter Two By EmmaLee Bertagnole & S.C. Lang

8/8/2019 "Flames of Eternity" Chapter Two By EmmaLee Bertagnole & S.C. Lang

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"Flames of Eternity" Chapter Two By EmmaLeeBertagnole and S.C. Lang

The Grand Hall of Castle Randor was breathtaking. It spreadout before Lansing and I high and vaulted. Massive iron chandeliersdangled from the ceiling and colorful tapestries covered the walls; aformidable throne at its far end. The throne was made out of highly-polished marble and carved with runes and ruts that had sparkling gemsin them. The bottom step was formed like dragons claws; which madesense, since the dragon was Randors symbol. Perched on the throne,wearing a splendid golden crown, brilliant green tunic and eyes has

hard as diamonds, was Overlord Ammen.I heard Lansings quick intake of breath at the sight that laid

before us. Any words of advice for me, my lord?Do not avert your eyes from his, I answered as quietly as I

could. Weve already established eye-contact. To break it now wouldbe taken as a sign of weakness on our part.

Oh, fret not, my lord. I have no intentions of taking my eyesoff him.

Good man.We took careful steps towards the ruler of all Ravencrest, me out

front as etiquette demanded and Lansing a respectful pace behind.Ammen studied us all the while with a disinterested look and twitchingringed fingers. I knew his bored expression was merely a mask. He wasvery keen to see how far wed go before halting and waiting for him tocall us forth the rest of the way. This was a very tricky bit ofstatesmanship; to go too far was a gross sign of disrespect againsthim and Randor, dont go far enough, and it would be admitting that mykingdom of Barrington was weak and therefore unworthy of the greathonors being bestowed upon me. After all, I was to be Ammens second-in-command. Showing the proper balance of respect and strength was avery fine line, but one I was fully expected to walk with perfect

precision.When I passed the half-way point to the throne, Lansing bristledand made a low warning sound in his throat. Making my War-Generaluncomfortable was one of my favorite pastimes; and I had been doing sosince we were small children.

Lansing had been left for dead in a grove near Castle Barringtonas an infant. As the fates would have it, I was the one who found himwrapped in a blue cloak lodged between the roots of a huge oak tree


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screaming for all he was worth. I couldve carried him, yet somehowthat thought never occurred to me, so I unceremoniously dragged thenewborn Lansing by his cloak to where my Pa was crouched low huntinghares. It took me a good long while to reach my Pa, for I kept gettingdistracted by chasing butterflies and grasshoppers, however, whenever

I started dragging him again, Lansing stopped blubbering and becamequiet. How Pa missed the racket is a mystery, but the look on hisface when he saw what I what I dragging behind me was one Ill neverforget.

Lansing has been with me everyday since then. I love him like abrother. However, keeping true to the duties of a big brother, I nevermissed an opportunity to push him past his limits and boundaries.

Just as I was doing now by walking much closer to Overlord Ammensthrone than he was comfortable with. Had the situation not been soimportant to my future, I wouldve had to fight back a grin. However,if the situation wasnt of such import, Lansing wouldnt be shuffling

his feet behind me like an old maid trying to pull a stubborn ox.Suddenly, I dropped to one knee before the throne. A moment later,

I heard Lansing do the same thing with an irritated growl that wasmeant only for my ears. Once we were in our private chambers, I knewId be hearing all about how I failed to give him our prearrangedsignal letting him know when I planned on stopping.

I bowed my head and draped an arm across my knee like I wasabout to be knighted and said, Overlord Ammen, I am your humble andloyal servant. I have come, as summoned by your official degree, tostand before you and be humbled by your generosity and greatness. Iam honored beyond words to be accepted as a guest in your beautifulhome.

King Zyphran, he said at long last. Thank you for the respectyouve shown to me. You, and only you, may rise and come to me.

I rose and stepped towards the highly polished marble throne inmeasured paces. My lord. As is custom when you are an invited guestin someones home, I have brought you a gift. I reach into thesheath that I usually kept my sword and withdrew an ornamental bladewrapped very carefully in the finest blue silk. I presented the swordas an offering in both hands to Ravencrests ruler. His steel-grayeyes study my gift but his weather-worn face remained expressionless.

He didnt fool me in the least. The mans great love for weaponrywas legendary throughout all Ravencrest. I knew he wouldnt be ableto hold to custom if he was offered a high-quality blade, and the oneI had settled on as his gift was a real work of art. The pommel wasmade of the finest leather Barrington had to offer, and was studdedwith rubies and emeralds and other gems. The blade was crafted ofthe strongest steel, and even though it cost me handsomely, I hadinsisted that a thin strip of pure diamond be forged down the center


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of the blade from tip to pommel. It was magnificent . A true testamentof Barringtons superior craftsmanship, which we were known forthroughout all Ravencrest. Any sword made in Barrington would besuitable as a gift, even for the Overlord himself, but this particularweapon was a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

He took the bait.Finally, Ammen rose from his throne and stepped down to accepthis blade. He took it into his hands with the greatest care and metmy gaze with glowing eyes. Custom degrees that I wait until afterthe official banquet to open this marvelous gift. However, if you willgrant me the leniency of that barbaric custom, so that I may unwrapthis truly fine gift now, I will grant you one request. You may usethis request to ask for anything within my kingdom, and it shall begranted to you, King Zyphran. Do you accept these terms?

Playing him had been so much childs play. I knew he would try tobypass custom by offering to grant me a request, for that was his way.

The march from my castle in Barrington to Overlord Ammens was spenton forming my request, and there was only one thing in this world Iwanted; Regyna, the mystical Sorceress of the Stones, keeper of theFlames of Eternity . I had every word carefully planned out. I wantedto leave no doubt in Ammens mind that my gift to him was of such highcaliber as to justify my outlandish request.

I find that your generous offer is far too delicious to bypass,my lord, I said with my well-rehearsed smile spreading across mylips. I accept your terms with great pleasure.

Excellent, King Zyphran. He turned his back on me and walkedslowly back onto his throne, as if he was afraid he would shrivel upand blow away if he was off it for too long. Like a child with a newtoy, Ammen ripped the silk covering off the sword and stared in open-mouthed wonderment at his new weapon. His look pleased me greatly. Iknew I could ask for Regynas head to be delivered to me on a silverplatter and it would be done within the hour.

I had every intention of fulfilling my planned request, howeverI found myself utterly amazed at the words that tumbled out of mymouth. My lord, as we were being escorted through your marvelouscity, my attention was captured, quite completely I must admit, by athin dark-haired girl in a gray and white dress. I only saw her for

the briefest of moments, you understand, but Ill remember her always.For my request, in exchange for forgoing custom, Id like tobe granted full ownership of her, and be allowed to take her back toBarrington with me when I leave your most gracious hospitality. Ifsuch a request would be found as acceptable to you, my lord.

Ammen never hesitated. He smiled an oily grin, tilted his headand with a dismissive wave of his hand said, Granted. I shall orderher found immediately. This . . . request of yours will be presented


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to you during your dinner tonight when I grant you your land andtitle. His smile deepened, and I knew he couldn't believe my requestwas so light in the wake of giving him such an exquisite gift. Yourrooms have already been prepared. My servants will escort you and seeto your needs. You still have a few hours before the banquet tonight.

Rest well, King Zyphran. Something tells me this night is going to beextraordinary.

Curiosity had been the downfall of many and as I paced the cave,I wondered if it would be mine. I had never cared for matters of thecity. I blended, made my way from vendor to vendor trying to spreadmy wealth and help those in need prosper, but I had no need for thepolitics of Overlord Ammen. I knew that he was not a leader who cared

for his people, but only his own gain. Many of the citys residentssuffered under his greed, going hungry and living in poverty whenhe would steal goods from them or failed to assist those in need.However, as I thought over the days events I could not help the callin my heart to attend tonights banquet.

It had been years since I had wandered the castle halls, takenon the form of a maid to gain access to the Overlordss chambers toseek information I had needed. I knew that I would never be welcometo the banquet as sickly Selena; I would need a new persona, and newlook. If I was to be in attendance, I would also need an invitation.

Closing my eyes, I drew into my power and willed myself to myhome with in the citys limits. It was a simple wooden home, well keptand one of the nicer ones that lined the streets of Randor. Flowersand small shrubs lined the edge of the home in assortments of sizesand colors. I enjoyed natures beauty and took enjoyment and plantingand caring for that which I grew. Lilly and I spent many hours in thesmall area behind my house where a garden grew the fresh fruits andvegetables that we sold or gave to those in need.

I took the form as Selena once more as I appeared in my roombeside the bed, always careful that any neighbor who might be watchingwould never see my true form while I was in the city limits. Moving

from the bedroom to the kitchen I found what I needed, a simple whitepiece of parchment. I let the magic flow through my body as I seekout what I needed. Finding the vision of an elderly man sitting in asmall room of the castle as he scrolled in old writing invitations toall those invited to attend tonights events. I let the magic flow tomy fingers, a gentle glow emanating from them as I laid them upon thepaper. When my eyes opened, I held a perfectly scripted invitation inmy hands. Smiling to myself like a giddy teen, I had to laugh at the


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excitement I felt at attending such a grand event. It was not often Iallowed myself to enjoy the finer things in life. Too much of it woulddraw attention to myself and attention was never good for one withsecrets such as I had.

Next, I needed a gown. I closed my eyes once more and let

my hands slide down the simple peasant dress that I wore, I couldfeel the chill of magic as my dress was transformed into a gown. Abrilliant lavender dress with layers of satin and lace fit perfectlyto my body. I glanced in the small looking glass that hung on thewall and frowned at the image I saw. Selenas frail from and paleskin and hollow eyes looking back at me. Once more, I let the magicflow around me and changed my appearance. I kept the dark brown hairbut added body, so it flowed in waves and curls down the center ofmy back. Next, I changed my skin, darkening it to a deep olive tone,setting off my new eye color of deep forest green.

A sudden rapping on the door startled me and I jumped as I

reprimand myself for not paying closer attention to my surroundings,too caught up in my princess fantasy to have noticed those whoapproached my home. Turning with swiftness, I open the door. Standingbefore me are two elite guards in full uniform. My mind reeled withwonder at what they could want.

Excuse us milady. We are searching for a young girl namedSelena and were told that she resides here. Would she be in? Theyoung guard tried to look around me as he spoke as the other guardwalked around the side of the house.

Keeping my composure, I smile. I am afraid you have missedmy cousin, she left to watch the Kings arrival and has yet to return.Might I give her a message? I step back opening the door widerallowing him to look past me to the empty room.

He frowns and glances to the other guard off to the side. Ifyou would allow might we search the home? We are on orders fromOverlord Ammen to bring Miss Selena back to the castle with us. Hestarts forward before I can respond.

Having nothing to lose I step aside as he steps in. I followhim to the center of the room and wait while he searches the threesmall rooms of my home. His frown deepening as he realizes that hissearch will come up empty.

Stopping before me, he smiles. Thank you for allowing usto search, should your cousin arrive could you please escort her tothe nearest guard that you find. This is of urgent matter to ourOverlord.

It would be my pleasure to do so. Nevertheless, I fearmy cousin has a mind of her own and it may be days before she evenreturns home or contacts me to let me know she is safe. You know howthe young ones are now days. I smile as I wonder at what need they


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would have of me at the castle.Turning, he sees the invitation sitting on the table and

smiles. I see you will be in attendance tonight. It will be a grandevent. I hope that you enjoy yourself. Thank you for your assistanceand we wish you well.

Giving a slight nod, I watch as they leave, I hear the ordersfor one guard to remain and keep an eye on the house for Selenasreturn. I let out a long sigh; tonight was taking on a more seriousturn than I had even thought. Not only do I need to find out moreabout King Zyphran but now I needed to find out why Overlord Ammen wasseeking me as well.

Looking up at the sky, I step back into the house. It was neartime to leave for the castle. My home, being one of the nicer ones intown, was closer to the court than most others were. It would take mea few minutes to reach the outer gates. I grabbed the invitation andheaded on my way ignoring the looks I received as I walked down the

street. I was a new face in town and I was on foot instead of usinga coach. It was a calculated risk not arriving with coach, one thatwould draw unwanted attention to me but I lived close enough I hopedit would be overlooked.

As I walked down the street, I took in the excitement aroundme, musicians played as residents hoping to sneak a glance at thefestivities waited around the castles grounds. Children stood ontheir parents shoulders watching the magnificent coaches decorated ingold trim roll up to the gates seeking entrance.

I could not understand the need for such luxuries and waste.I had lived centuries and had watched many suffer in need while otherswasted their money on lavish items such as these. I never understoodwhy they refused to help those less fortunate while flaunting theirwealth for others to see. I had learned long ago that an act ofcharity was remembered much longer than the glint and glamour of gold.

Reaching the main gate, I stood in the long line ofdignitaries and rich who had just arrived seeking admittance. I forcedmyself to wait and follow procedure, when I could have just willedmyself into the shadows of the grounds and bypassed waiting in the hotafternoon sun.

Those around me watched me cautiously; I was not one they

knew, they whispered behind painted fans as they tried to place me andmy position. I laughed inwardly at their vain need to know and howthey would react if they knew me in either of my other forms. SicklySelena would be chastised and chased from the line while Regyna wouldbe welcomed as they attempted to lure her treasure from her.

Invitation please. The guard called to me as I steppedforth.

I handed it to him and gave a small curtsy as he looked it


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over and nodded. Lady Isabella, please enjoy your evening.I smiled and stepped through the gate and onto the castle

ground making the short walk up to the castle steps. As I looked up atthe castle above me, I could not help but glance even higher to cliffsover town and to the cave that held my cherished stones. As if they

knew I was looking towards them, I felt their power flow through me asI made my way up the steps and into the castle.Even though I had been inside the castle before I was still

in awe as I took in the high vaulted ceilings, the deep chiseledsculptures and magnificent artwork that surrounded me. Gold glistenedfrom everywhere, reflecting on itself sending a shimmering of lightsdancing across the entry. I took it all in as I walked further in andwas greeted by more guards motioning me towards the large BanquetChamber.

This room was darker, done in mahogany and deep reds. Largeround etched columns lined the room. Tables lined the floor and people

took their seats, readying themselves for King Zyphrans arrival.Several groups of people milled around the sides of the room acceptingwine and light refreshments while they waited for dinner to be served.I took the chance to wander and listen to conversations. Most werestill in surprise of Zyphrans victory. Others talked of what hisreward would be. I listened bored as I searched for information Idesired, wandering from group to group with polite nods and smiles.

As I came across several servants standing to the side ofthe hall I finally got what I desired as they talked of the gift thatKing Zyphran had presented to the lord. I listened as they describeda wonderful jeweled sword, stopping and turning towards them as theystarted to discuss Zyphrans request in turn. The delivery of a younggirl he had seen on the streets as he entered the city. My heart frozewhile at the same moment the room went silent then fell into loudapplause as King Zyphran and his War-General entered the room. I couldstill feel the way their stare cut through me when we had been on thestreet and I stepped closer to the servants, wanting to blend in withthe crowd and remain unseen. As we waited for the King to be seatedthe servants continued to whisper, I moved closer still not wanting tomiss a word as they described the girl right down to her gray dress.I held my composure as they went on to explain that King Zyphran had

requested ownership of her.Ownership, the word went through me like a sword. I held mybreath as I listened to how the guards had been searching for her soshe could be presented to him this evening. Having heard enough Iturned to leave, to plan and prepare. In my rush, I stumbled, only tobe caught by strong arms that righted me on my feet.

Looking up into the eyes of the man who had caught me I feltmy breath leave me in a rush. He might have been cleaned up, shaved


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and wearing formal clothing instead of his armor but there was nodoubt, I would remember those eyes anywhere. It was King Zyphran whoheld my arm.

It was time for me to enter the great Banquet Chamber.The clamour that was coming from the huge wooden doors suggested

that a few hundred people were already inside and enjoying the feat.Duck, I believe, was being served. I, of course, detested eatingfowl of any kind, the skin always seem slimy and disgusting to me. Istrongly preferred veal or beef, or even in dire circumstances, fish.

I was dressed in my best finery, gleaming gold crown withsparkling diamond trim, and the Gem of Barrington as its centerpiece. My red tunic with a large phoenix in black owning the chest,a black satin cape with wolf-fur trim draped across my shoulders.

Black pants with a thin red stripe running down the outside of eachleg were tucked smartly into a pair of freshly-polished leather boots,the buckles shining and laced tightly. My trusted sword back in itssheath.

Beside me was Lansing, also dressed for the occasion in a blood-red tunic, black pants without the stripe and boots that were justbeginning to show the signs of age. His hair and been scrubbed clean,as had his face and hands, and I couldnt keep the smile off my face.The storm raging in his ocean-blue eyes told me all I needed to knowabout how my War-General thought about being clean.

Lansing held up a finger to me in mock warning. Not one word, mylord. I swear, I feel like an ugly pig stuffed into fancy clothes.

My smile widened. Look like one as well. His angry eyesdarkened even more. Were going to be here all night, Lansing. Youmight as well try to relax and enjoy yourself. Who knows, you mighteven find a bride in there.

You truly do hate me, dont you, my lord?Hate is such a strong word. Im far more comfortable with

detest. Are you ready for this?I hope you trip over your cape and land face-first in your fig

pudding, my lord.

I steadied myself with a deep breath. Then, with Lansing at myside, we stepped into the tumult of the banquet. Instantly, everyhead in the chamber turned towards us, and the music came to a suddenhalt. An awkward few moments of silence covered us until a crescendoof applause erupted and the good people of Randor banged their fistsand tankards on the tables and cheered for me and my fidgeting War-General.

Servants stopped in mid-service to gape at us, and the same


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children who had carried the banners of Randor hours before when wearrived into the city, now pointed greasy fingers at us and giggled.

At the far end of the chamber, at a raised table, Overlord Ammenstood and joined in the applause. Even from as far away as we were, Icould tell his new sword was resting in his sheath. The man really

was a glutton.Of course, Lansing said under his breath. He would have to beall the way over there wouldnt he? I feel like a jester on display.

I offered a small smile and nodded my head a few times inacknowledgement of the greeting directed at us. I think that was thewhole point. Just grin and wave, Lansing. And do try not to break intoa dead run for our table. That would not be received well.

I make no such promise, my lord.A smartly-dressed servant rushed up to us with wide eyes and

blushing cheeks. He had to be all of fourteen and scared out of hiswits, not that blame could to placed on him, Lansing and I made an

opposing sight. My lords, he said with a bow so low I was surprisedhe didnt fall over. Please allow me to escort you to your table.Overlord Ammen awaits you.

Thank you, son.The servant turned around and practically dashed at a full

gallop, zig-zagging haphazardly around tables and groups of tightlyclustered people.

What were you saying about not running, my lord. I fret thatmay be the only way I can keep up with the frightened little pup.

Do behave, Lansing.Custom decreed that I make the walk to our table alone, for no

man should walk in front of a king, and it would be considered in thepoorest of taste to have a lesser arrive at the table after the guestof honor, even if it was just by a step or two. So, with a resignedsigh and a non-amused look, Lansing gave chase to the servant. I hadto wait until the servant returned for me before I was allowed tomove. This gave me time to wonder what brainless twit came up withsuch an asinine custom; I, a crowned king, a man who on this verynight was to be named the second-in-command of all Ravencrest, was atthe mercy of a teenage servant.

Fortunately, the lad returned in what seemed an amazingly

short amount of time. My lord, he said without the courtesy to bewinded. If youd do me the extreme honor of following me, please.I nodded at him with a patient smile. Lead the way, son.Having the advantage of watching the speed of which this human

jackrabbit moved, I was prepared to quicken my pace and save mydignity. Something my War-General was unsuccessful in achieving.

Even knowing what was coming, keeping pace with him was no easytask. I barely managed to avoid a collision with the first two tables


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he led me past, however I my luck ran afoul when I tried to maneuverpast a small grouping of people. A very pretty dark-haired girl, withdeep green eyes and a voluptuous body, suddenly broke away from thegroup fell directly into me. Acting on pure instinct, I grabbed her byher upper arms and held her until she found her legs once again.

She looked up and began saying something when her eyes went wildand all the color was chased away from her olive-colored skin. Youreokay, miss. However, I suggest next time leading with your eyesinstead of your shoulders. Youll have a much easier go of it. Isaid.

Those wild green eyes just stared at mine like she had seen aghost. She was trembling and looked even more frightened than theservant who was escorting me to my table. I tried offering her areassuring smile to let her know I took no insult at having her throwherself into my arms. Im sure it wasnt everyday she saw a king,let alone got close enough to one to touch or to speak to. Had I not

had such a massive, adoring audience I wouldve been a lot more sternwith the lass, but truth be told there was no damage done. In fact,she made me look even more regal to the citizens of Randor by notsimply stepping aside and letting her fall flat, as many a king I knowwouldve done.

Finally, she found her ability to walk, if not speak, for shetore out of my arms and out of the chamber as if the devil himself wasgiving her chase. Everyone became very still, and all eyes were uponme. I smiled brightly, shrugged my shoulders and offered, The storyof my life, my good people. Now you know the true reason why Ivenever found a wife.

The Banquet Chamber exploded in laughter, and I breathed a sighof relief at having saved my dignity. Thankfully, the rest of thetrip to my table was completed without incident.

After everyone was seated, and the rest of the chamber hadreturned to their meals and conversations, I leaned very close toOverlord Ammen and asked, Do you know who that young lass was thatran into me, my lord?

Ammen shook his head. I have a huge kingdom, Im afraid. I donot know the names of everyone who dwells within it. However, findingout her name should prove no trouble. Shall I add her to your already

impressive collection of gifts, King Zyphran? If so, then pleaseallow me to inquire if you plan on leaving any of Randors womenbehind when you take your leave of my city?

I was not pleased with the rebuke, but could hardly afford toshow my displeasure. Was just s simple inquest, my lord. She seemedvery frightened, and yet, there was something . . . familiar abouther.

A few minutes later, Lansing nudged me with his elbow. Theres


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no way you couldve missed her this time, my lord.What do you mean, Lansing? Miss who?That beautiful golden-haired girl who was standing by the

cart today as we came into Randor. The one who was standing close towhoever you were looking at, remember?

I looked at my long-time friend and War-General like he had comedown with a severe case of madness. My memory works just fine, Iassure you. Its you Im beginning to worry about, Lansing. Thatsthe second time today that youve mistaken a dark-haired lass for abeautiful blonde. Perhaps youve been struck one too many times inthat thick melon you call a head.

Jest with me if you must, my lord, Lansing said, his mouthturning as hard as his stare. But in truth, you fool me not. I thinkyou were right before when you said I might find my bride in heretonight; for I believe I have done just that. You just mark my words,my lord. One day I will wed that golden-haired beauty from this

afternoon who almost ran you down. I swear it on my life.All I could do was stare at Lansing. I knew well his tone of

voice; he was as serious as I have ever seen him in my entire life. Itwas now my belief that Randor was one strange city.

I could not have moved faster if I had wings. Running from theGreat Banquet Hall as fast as my feet would carry me. My skin stillburned from where his hands had gently grasped my arms. The intensestare of his eyes still fresh in my mind. I had never experienced suchemotion or physical response to anyone in the centuries that I hadlived. I took it as warning, a strong feeling to stay away, but yet atthe same time my curiosity pulled me too him.

Forcing myself to stop running, I look up and find myselfstanding in the large castle entryway. A few guards stared at me asif I was crazy and maybe I was. Never before had I felt so unsureand insecure in my stature. I squared my shoulders, offering them anapologetic smile and slowly started walking out of the castle.

Making it almost to the large wooden doors, I stopped. I had comehere for information, not to run away at a simple stumble. I took adeep breath and turned, forcing myself to walk back into the Banquet

Chambers.I was relieved to find the room filled with conversation,servants were bringing trays of food out as the meal was served.Finding an empty chair in the back of the hall near the doors, I tooka seat. Others glanced up at me and then went back to eating notshowing any sign of recognizing me as the one who had almost ran downthe King on his way to his table.

I busied myself fixing my napkin on my lap while I glanced up


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towards the head table at the King and his War-General. They both werelost in conversation with each other, paying no attention to the manywho stared there way, the women in lust and men in jealousy. OverlordAmmen sat beside them looking bored and angry and I was sure he wasthinking about how much this was going to cost him, and how much more

having to award the King with his reward would cut into his profits.I thanked the servant as he set a plate before me and inhaleddeeply at the pleasant aroma of fresh duck. I had no appetite afterthe nights events but forced myself to swallow a few bites as not todraw attention to myself once again.

I wished Lily were here with me, she would have enjoyed allthe fancy dress and food more than I was. She had dreams of somedayenjoying a lavish lifestyle where I had always been content to blendin.

Forcing my thoughts from Lilly, I continued to watch KingZyphran and his War-General smile and laugh with each other as if

they were old friends. I wondered at how long they had been togetheras I watched the ease in which they bantered with each other. Withmy powers I had enhanced hearing, but even with it the conversationechoing through the hall made it impossible to make out what they weresaying.

Taking a long sip of wine, I watched and waited while the restfinished their meals and the plates were cleared and everyone turnedtheir attention towards Overlord Ammen and the presentation of KingZyphran to the people.

A silence came over the room as Overlord Ammen stood. Tonight wewelcome King Zyphran of Barrington and his army back from a victoriousbattle over King Drakor of Carygrove. The crowd erupted in applauseas Ammen nodded towards the King. Furthermore, by his victory comerewards of great value . . .

The speech went on and on as I watched King Zyphran smile and nodin agreement. He looked as uncomfortable in this setting as I felt andI found myself wondering at his background. He was different from theOverlord who fed off the power and honors that his position offered,and while I had no doubt that the King also enjoyed the honor andprestige that went with victory, it was more about the conquest anddefeating an enemy with the King than about profit and gains.

His War-General looked even more uncomfortable, as his fingerspulled at his high collar, fidgeting in the formal dress of theevening. He half-heartily listened to the speech, applauded and noddedat the right moments yet his stare was focused on the many young womenof the crowd as if he was searching for someone.

I smiled thinking of Lilly and wondered if he or one of his armymight really find her to their liking. Not that I wished her bridledwith a army man, always living in fear of him not returning, but I


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wanted her happy and to find love and if one of these men were able todeliver that to her so be it.

King Zyphran stood, shaking Overlord Ammens hand as he acceptedthe gifts and honors of his success. I watched taking in his muscularbody, his ocean blue eyes sweeping over the crowd accepting their

applause and welcome. He beamed with honor and pride, yet somethingabout his demeanor told me that his mind was elsewhere, his thoughtson something other than his reward.

As the crowd settled and desserts were served, I watched aZyphrans War-General excused himself from the table, I figured hewas off to check in with his guards and others in command. I decidedthe night was a waste and that any chance of gaining information hadcome and gone. Pushing my chair back, I stood, taking a final glancetowards the King before turning and heading towards the doors. Asthe guard opened the door for me to leave the Banquet Hall, I smileda thank you and stepped through, only to for the second time in the

night run straight into a large male. Looking up ready to apologize Iwas caught of guard by the man before me.

You . . . King Zyphrans War-General cried out in surprise.

"Flames of Eternity" Chapter Two By EmmaLee Bertagnole & S.C. Lang

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