Protectors: The Valdronius Kingdom

Her niveous form dripped red

Suffocating

The darkness around her

A girl walked towards me, mirrors lining her way. Her white hair ebbed in the wind, her clothes light, flowing with each step she took. Her blue eyes found mine, a beautiful reminder of hope, kindness, and warmth. She was talking with someone, her whispers unheard. She stopped talking, standing still tears fell helplessly staining her cheeks black. The light inside her eyes died, a vacant gaze pierced mine for that same hope. The blackness cascaded through her hair, her clothes tattered, a remaining thought, there would be no solace in this empty darkness. A man came up behind her, a dark hood stole his face, and clasping her arm he dragged her away. I tried to follow, but the faster I ran the further away she was from me. He held her tight his hand engulfed her neck; whispers unheard and a dagger caused her to scream. The sound echoed, shattering the mirrors. She fell to the floor and darkness found its way in shining the light on her body. A hand clasped my shoulder forcing me to turn around. My eyes fell into darkness themselves, my own screams echoing the halls.

Thunder crackled as I sat up. My body aching.

“A storm is coming.” A deep voice startled me.

“Who are you? Where am I?”

“You were having a bad dream.”

“I said who are you and where am I?” I backed up into something blocking my escape.

“My name is Damien, and you are in Crotan.”

“Crotan? Is that some small town?”

“You could say that.”

“What does that mean?”

“It means your safe here.”

“Safe from who? Your…You’re the guy that broke into my house.”

“What do you remember?”

“You broke into my house, grabbed me and told me to… to trust the shadows. You narcissistic bastard. YOU! You kidnapped me HELP!!! SOMEONE HELP ME!” My screams turned into muffles as a hand clamped around my mouth. I try to scramble away but an arm pushed me against the wall I was already backed into.

“No, please keep thinking. What else do you remember? Think about the other day.” I slowly stopped fighting as images came rushing in. Karmin…Griffens…A man… Me crawling away, bomb sounds chasing me…a voice. His arm released me and uncovered my mouth.

“I…I was…with Jeffery…there was a man! Oh god! HE… he said he was going to…to kill me. Your voice was in my head, how is that possible!” Hands clamped down on my clenched hands.

“Your safe here, you’re safe.”

“LET GO OF ME!” I pull my hands away, moving as far away as I could. I fall off of what I expect to be a bed. My body ached and groaned from stiffness.

“Alright, Alright.” Footsteps shuffled on the floor and a sliding across the floor sounded immediately after. I stand up slowly.

“I don’t understand, what’s going on?”

“His name is Calistus, he was tracking the Sword of Valdronius. When you came across his path, you became very interesting to him. I intend to find out why.”

“What…all this for a sword? If you’re talking about that cane I bought, I didn’t know I swear. You can have it! Just let me go…Please.” Who were these people?

“The sword presented itself to you? Why?”

“What are you talking about? I bought the cane at Griffens, like I always do. I swear I didn’t know it belonged to you. I don’t have it, that…that man must have taken it. Please may I go home now?

“I told you, you are safe here and until I figure out what exactly you have to do with this you are going to stay here.”

“I swear I have nothing to do with anything, you have the wrong person.”

“I was drawn to you Embry, and I intend to find out why. The Sword of Valdronius only presents itself to someone who is worthy to wield it.”

“I’m no one, I swear. You have the wrong person. I have people that will be looking for me, you can’t keep me here forever!”

“Well that is the beauty of this place, time works differently here.”

“What…What does that mean?”

“It means you’re in a different world, and that you better get used to seeing things my way if you want to leave.”

“You kidnap me and now you’re making fun of my blindness, what kind of monster are you!”

“…Blindness?” I look straight to where the voice came from.

“Oh you didn’t realize you were kidnapping a blind girl? Would you have thought twice before doing it? You are sick and twisted! And Karma…Karma is a Bitch!”

“Hey I’m the one that saved you, remember? Without as so much as a thank you I might add.”

“Oh and what should I thank you for, keeping me locked up in this place, whatever the hell it is.”

“You’re not locked up, you are free to roam wherever you wish, just as long as you don’t leave the Manor or the grounds it rests on. It’s not safe out there.”

“I thought you said I was safe here?”

“Safe inside, not so much outside.” Feet shuffle, and I instinctively move away from the sound.

“I need to call my friend.”

“I’m afraid that won’t be possible and is unnecessary.”

“What do you mean unnecessary? Did you do something to him?”

“No. When I said you were in a different world, I meant that you were in a different realm. Time works differently here. Your boyfriend won’t even know you have left. I assure you, you will be back before anyone knows you have gone.”

“Realm? What are you talking about?”

“I apologize for my lack of observation; I didn’t mean to offend your…circumstances.” I heard a soft click and what could have only been a closing of a door. It was quiet.

She was blind. As in can’t see…anything. How did I not see that? She could be lying, but who would lie about something like that? Thinking back, it makes sense. Damn it all. Damien headed down the hall nowhere in particular, walking helped him think. She had said Calistus took the sword. But that would have been impossible, no one but the chosen one can touch it. The elders put a spell on the Sword to make it so. Calistus wouldn’t have known that, if he did try to touch the Sword he would have been burnt. He seemed unscathed when I encountered him…how did he even know where to be? Must have been the witch. So if that wasn’t the real Sword, where the hell was it!? I need more connections, more open ears. Where was Alecko? I asked him to be here this morning. No doubt that brute will follow him. They’re Wiccans, their power only goes so far, same with Sorcerer’s. No I needed someone not afraid to push boundaries and get into the minds of people and I know exactly the person.

“Hello?” No answer. I listen intently for anything at all, nothing. I move forward slowly, my hands out, they touch something soft, a bed. Where the hell am I? I feel around the bed going to my left, a stone like wall stretches across to a window. To my surprise it opens, cool air wraps its self around me. I listen outside for any noise, any traffic, or voices. Nothing, there is nothing except the sound of the breeze rustling through trees. I leave the window open, and keep following the wall. The room must be very plain because there was nothing else, except the door he walked out of. My hand sits on the knob, twisting slowly the door opens. ‘You’re free to roam wherever you wish’ that’s what he said. What kind of kidnapper was this man? Were there more? I walk out, taking a few steps I listening intently. There was clanking coming from down the hall on my left, whispers talked in hurried tones, but I couldn’t understand what they were saying. I walk forward slowly planting each foot steadily, my hands out in front searching. The whispers were getting louder, I stop when I hear a loud clank to my left. Turning I move forward my hands feeling something other than stone.

“Ameilius, please help the young woman in.” Young woman? Is she talking about me? Just as I pull away something slides across the floor.

“Hello my dear.” It was a different voice than before. I back up slowly.

“You’re alright child.” I looked towards the voice moving away.

“You’re safe, we won’t hurt you child.” I looked up to her voice. It was a woman, an older woman by the sound of her voice.

“We?” My voice was timid and I hated sounding so weak.

“My name is Emyln.” I flinched when she touched my arms.

“And my name is Ameilius, her husband.” I looked toward the voice. “Oh my! How very extraordinary.” I looked away from him. There were two of them.

“Where is…there was a man.”

“Damian” It was the man that answered.

“Yes, where is he?”

“Absolutely no clue dear. I thought he was with you.”

“And have you been kidnapped as well?”

“Kidnapped! Is that what you think?”

“Well haven’t I been?”

“He didn’t tell you much, did he?” I shake my head no.

“Doesn’t surprise me, he’s not one for talking that one. Oh well.” The man shuffled away

“Come my child, I was just about to serve dinner.” The lady walked away. I could hear a fire crackle, clinking, and I could smell something sweet in the air, it was familiar.

“Where am I?” My voice rang out louder than I thought it would.

“Well come sit down child.” The man uttered. Was I missing something? Couldn’t they tell?

“I…I can’t.”

“Well suit yourself, if you want to stand then stand. But I refuse to talk to someone standing out in the hall.”

“I’m blind.” There were footsteps that came towards me.

“Pardon me, I did not realize.”

“It’s, its fine.” I reach my hands out, an arm finds its place in my grasp and leads me to a seat.

“Thank you.”

“You are quite welcome my dear. Now I believe you had some questions?”

“Yes, I…um why am I here?”

“Damien told me Calistus came after you. Nasty man he is, he’s been watching your house for any sign that you would have come back, no you are better off here.”

“In this…Manor?

“Devium Ducit Manor, the manor of…”

“Pathways.”

“You know Latin?”

“I know enough. And this manor is in?”

“Crotan. Did Damien not tell you this?”

“No, he did I just don’t understand. I’ve never heard of Crotan… he wasn’t making any sense, talking about realms and swords…”

“Ah, I see. You are in fact in a different realm, you are not in your world.”

“What are you talking about? You mean like magic and stuff like that?”

“Indeed.”

“You’re in on it with him, aren’t you? Trying to pull one over on the blind girl.”

“No my dear I’m afraid not. It is all real.”

“Prove it.”

“Alright, if you will stand please.” I stood up slowly unsure. A warm hand took mine.

“Name a place you want to go.” I wanted to go home…but what if it really wasn’t safe…what if?

“…There’s a graveyard on the outskirts of Lock Haven Pennsylvania.”

“A graveyard?”

“Yes.”

“Alright.” Suddenly I felt as if I was being spun in a circle so fast, I could feel the air around me blur. My feet tumbled on the ground below me. My hands crashing into rocks and dirt.

“What the hell!”

“Sorry, the first time can be a bit rough.”

“First time? What are you talking about what did you do to me?”

“We are here.”

“…Here?”

“The graveyard.”

“That’s impossible.” I am helped up, and I wipe my hands as dirt falls off. Feet shuffle away from me, Iron gates squeak open. A sound I would never forget.

“Shall we?” My right arm was placed around his arm leading me forward. My feet crunch on the gravel. Walking along I counted my steps, seventy-one total. I force a stop.

“Turn right.” Thirty steps, I stop again. I turn to my left. Pulling my arm free I stand there…afraid of the truth.

“Here lies the Beloved Father and Mother, Nick and Wendy Jenkins.” My breath hitches as he finishes. My knees give way, and I reach out my hands feeling the plaques on the ground. I feel the engravings, silent words made out in braille. My tears come slowly.

“If I may ask…what does it say?” I dry my tears and stand up, I take a breath and turn around

“You may not.”

“My apologies, I didn’t mean…”

“I believe you. I want to go.” Something about having a stranger at the gravesite unsettled me. This was private. I reach my hand out, another hand reached mine pulling me forward.

“I can give you a few moments if you like.”

“I said I want to go.” Just like before I’m spinning, the air around me wisps. This time my feet are grounded. Was that real? Was I still dreaming?

“Good your back, dinner is ready, wash up in the sink first.” The lady said quietly, I found her very serious but gentle. Her voice was hard, and it was difficult to place any sort of accent.

“Shall we?” I nod, my arm finding his.

“Stop. There are three steps down.” I edged my foot forward taking the first step, my heal sliding down, now the second, and then the last. Eight steps. He placed my hand on the counter and the other on the faucet.

“The bar of soap is on the right.” I found it easily, I turned on the faucet and the water was warm.

“The towels are to the left laying against the wall.” I trailed my hand forward and left, finding them instantly I turned towards him.

“Thank you.” I really meant it. It was thanks for telling me and not doing it for me. He took my arm in his and walked me forward. Nine steps. Setting my hands on the back of the chair, my right hand slid down finding the table. I pull the chair out and my hand finds the seat. Something was placed in front of me. It was a bowl, I slid my finger down the inside instantly met with a warm liquid. I search slowly for a utensil and I am rewarded with a spoon. It was wide and deeper than I expected almost like a ladle.

“May I ask dear, what is your name?” It was the lady this time.

“Damian…he didn’t tell you?” This made me nervous, what if I wasn’t supposed to be talking with them. Why would he just leave me here?

“No he did not. He came here knocking on the door. Lucky he found us here, we don’t come out here much except for a few getaway days. But in light of recent events. Any who, he brought you in, laid you on the bed and told us to keep you safe, no matter what and that he’d be back before you woke. As quick as he came he went. Good man Damian, but rash sometimes, very rash. Speaking of which, will he be joining us my dear?” The man made a sound like he was thinking. He was very energetic in his speaking, and had a slight English accent. I found it soothing in a way. It made me smile.

“He didn’t mention. But if he shows up there is some left over in the pot.”

“That is nice of you dear.”

“Won’t happen again.” I held in a snicker. The lady was very…final in her words. I got the feeling once she made up her mind it was hard to change.

“I’m sure.”

“Embry, my name is Embry.” Questions ran through my head, but my panic was gone.

“Well it is nice to meet you Embry.” The man seemed genuinely sincere, he was on my left. His wife was nice to, but she seemed more reserved. It made me wonder how they met.

“And yours again were?”

“Ameilius, and my wife’s name is Emlyn.” I nod, taking it in. The soup was delicious, it had vegetables and chunks of meat, and the gravy was thick. I was thinking of how a roll would be nice with this when my left hand was opened and softness filled my palm. It surprised me a little.

“Thank you. But how…”

“Now my dear not all things in this world are mysteries.” Ameilius piped up.

“So magic is real, I’m in a different realm, there’s a mad man out there who wants to kill me for whatever reason, and I’m stuck here for my own protection.” It all came out as a statement.

“It would appear so, yes.” Ameilius answered.

“I’m not insane.”

“No my dear. I understand it’s a lot to take in.” I just nod slowly.

“Now my child, you must want to use the facilities.” It was Emlyn that chimed in. There was clinking at the sink area, I didn’t even hear her move. But she was right; I could feel myself caked in sweat. I stood up slowly.

“I will show you the way.” Emyln took my arm in hers and walked me away. Three steps from the table, eight steps and three steps up. Four more steps and a left turn, two steps and we must have been in a hallway. We walked for what seemed like a while, because I counted 20 steps, we turned left making our way upstairs. They didn’t creak, they felt solid beneath my feet, it must have been concrete or marble, and there were 15 steps in all. We walked about two steps and made a right turn, seven steps, just to the left of me a door creaked open.

“You can stay in this room, straight ahead is a bed.” She placed my hand on the door frame. “If you follow the inside of this wall you will reach another door that will be your bathroom. Across the bathroom door the wall will start again and you will find a wardrobe in your way anything you need will be in there. There are windows that line the wall your bed is against, they open to a balcony. On your left wall there is a chest. You’ll be ok in here.” It wasn’t a question. The way she was talking, there seemed to be smile on her lips.

“Thank you.”

“If you need anything at all, please just ask.” I smiled and nodded my head. She closed the door quietly behind me. As strange as it was I didn’t feel afraid. Almost as if I was welcomed in my own home. I moved forward finding the bed, it was soft. So many wordless questions formed on the tip of my tongue, I needed to clear my head. I made my way to the bathroom. Opening the door, somehow I already knew the outlay like I knew my bathroom back home. I shake it off and walk in. I place a towel just outside the door of the shower. Finding my way to the middle, I place a bucket that I found in the cabinet down beside me. The water was warm and felt amazing, I could tell steam was building fast. I found a few cuts by my right shoulder, the skin was bruised, my knees felt sore, and stung a little from the soap. I fumbled between two bottles testing the liquid inside finally finding a shampoo. I let the water rush down on me as I tried to relax. Finding my towel, I made my way to the sink. I felt for drawers, and was rewarded with a package containing a toothbrush and tooth paste, minty. I found a nightgown in the drawer along with underwear, they felt silky. The night gown had two thin straps, and came just above my knees, it clung to me but wasn’t tight. I would have to invest in some nightgowns like these when I got back. Back…he said I would be back before anyone noticed. I sat on the bed towel drying my hair thinking. Everything was just so strange; so many questions ran through my head, but I couldn’t quite form the words. I laid my head on the pillow; taking a deep breath a familiar smell engulfed me. I closed my eyes trying to place it.

Ameilius and Emlyn walked arm in arm down a hallway, candles lighting their way.

“The girl knows nothing.”

“How can you be so sure my sweet.”

“Well if she does, then she doesn’t realize it. Her mind is open, there was nothing to find.”

“Invasion of privacy is not like you.”

“I didn’t rummage around, I merely skimmed the surface. There was nothing to be found, except…”

“Except my sweet?”

“There was something, now that I think about it. A hidden chamber almost. A place to keep secrets.”

“We all have them Emlyn.”

“We do. But what secrets does she bare?”

“That is her business.”

“So it is. Where did Damien run off to?”

“Absolutely no idea my sweet. He’s been a busy one as of late. Though I have a suspicion we will be putting up a few more people.”

“He’s assembling a team then?”

“Seems to be heading that way.”

“We are heading towards a war Ameilius. I do not like it.”

“War is easy to survive if you are willing to do what it takes.”

“And does Damien have what it takes? Does this Embry girl? She has no magic about her, no skill set. How would she survive if she stays here? The Sword was placed in the hands of the Shades for a reason Ameilius. What if Damien cannot live up to that expectation?”

“Give the boy a break, he’s faring quite well. He’s taken the initiative; he is baring the burden.”

“He bares more than that Ameilius. If the Sword is not found, or goes into the wrong hands. They’ll have his head.”

“My sweet, they’ll have his soul. It’s his life that hangs in the balance. Best to let him lead I think. I will not have his death on my hands.”

“And if he comes to us for help?”

“Then we will help him.”

“What have the Shades done to deserve this kindness?”

“We are not talking about the Shades my sweet. We are talking about Damien. Though he may be of the Shades, he does not hold their prejudices.”

“Fair enough.”

“Then we are agreed?”

“We are agreed.”

“Now I am going to retire, will you join me?”

“In a short while.” It was a brief kiss. But it was filled with love and devotion.

Embry woke up with a start. Thunder sounded outside. It was like a dream, I was in a strange place with strange people, a panic started to rise in my chest. Why would I panic? It was just a dream, right? Who were they? Why did I just sit down and have dinner with them? Why did I feel like it was ok to be here…there? Something was tugging at me. Think Embry! The silence was deafening. It must have been late, no sound disturbed the silence. No snoring…snoring. Jeffery! How could I have forgotten about Jeffery! And Karmin, they must be worried. Wait, why would they be worried? I… just… disappeared on them. It wasn’t a dream. I was taken by this… Damian guy, and brought to an unknown house with unknown people, who seemed decent. Kidnapped, I was kidnapped! Who kidnaps a blind girl! But…I remember I felt safe here; I wasn’t worried, and that thought unnerved me. I’ve only ever felt safe with Jeffery, I need to call Jeffery and let him know that I’m ok. But that guy said it wasn’t possible and unnecessary. But I need to know, I have to try. There was no phone in this room. There must be one out in the hall, right? Or maybe by the kitchen, which was downstairs. This was going to be tricky. I opened my door and stepped out into the hallway. I followed the wall to my right and found a small table with a vase. I followed the wall down the hallway, it got colder and the wetness from my hair made me shiver. There was nothing, nothing except doors that I didn’t want to open and intrude on someone, and picture frames. I found the end of the hall and made my way back using the other wall. I found the banister and the beginning of the steps. I take one step at a time slowly, and make it to the bottom of the steps. I went right counting 20 steps. And turned left, I felt for the wall and found it closed. It slid open I took a breath and smelled the remnants of the soup. There was no way I would be able to find a phone in here; there were too many obstacles to find my way around. This was hopeless.

“Is there something you need dear?” I nearly jumped out of my skin. Not to mention the yelp that came out of me, probably would wake the whole world. I had hit the door that slid back taking me with it.

“I…I, I. How do you do that?”

“Do what my dear?” She helped me up.

“Sneak up without being heard.”

“I’m sorry my dear. I didn’t mean to frighten you.” I believed her but it still took a few minutes for my breathing to come back to normal. She helped me up and closed the doors. Taking my arm, she started leading me back the way I came. I pull away.

“What can I help you with?

“I was looking for a telephone.”

“You won’t find one my dear, they don’t work here.” There was something light in her voice.

“I need to get a message to my friend, let him know I’m ok.” It came out kind of in a panic.

“Don’t worry dear, time works differently here.”

“See I don’t understand that.” Something in front of me caused me to focus ahead. There was something stirring in me, like before. I started to back up reaching for Emlyn to come with me.

“What’s the matter?” she asked me cautiously. That’s when I heard boots shuffle forward.

“Someone is…”

“Emlyn.” That voice, it was him.

“There is only so much we can do Damian. We are not your lapdogs.” She was assertive, I got the sense that she didn’t get along with him so well.

A bag was shoved in my hands, it felt familiar. My hands search the inside of the bag, clothes, hair brush, sanitizer bottle, mints, a package of gum, and by any luck…my phone! Why would he give this to me? And why are there clothes in there? I slung the bag over my shoulder a plan arose slowly. I would wait till I was alone and call Jeffery. Not much of a plan, but a plan none the less. I could hide outside somewhere and wait for him to come get me. It wouldn’t be the first time I was lost. Think Embry what do you know about this place? It’s a manor, I remember hearing the wind rustle the leaves in the trees, maybe there’s a forest. I could feel my way around the trees or hurt myself bumping into them. It was my only hope.

“I Never thou...” he was cut off.

“The poor girl is all turned around, and you left her here without an explanation. Shame on you Damian! Now I am going to bed, fix this Damian or you’ll have me to answer to.” I could tell she was gone. There was something about the way she left, the air shifted. What was going on? I stand there awkwardly, no ounce of sound disturbing the quiet.

“Damian?” It came out quietly, but echoed in the silence.

“Yes?” His voice was rash, curt almost. What should I ask? Or say? There were so many things that I didn’t understand.

“Are you going to ask a question or just stand there?” His voice was very condescending if that were possible.

“I want to go home.” Not a question but a statement.

“It’s not safe.”

“I don’t care.”

“Unfortunately I do.”

“You are not the keeper of me!” My hands find the wall on my right and I start to trail it. I hear him move towards me, pushing into the wall across from me, his hands on my shoulders pinning me back, the bag pushing into my back. His hands were strong and rough, I was suddenly aware of what little clothing I was wearing.

“Get your hands off me!” I back further into the wall. My left arm came up swatting his right arm away; my right hand came up and hit him hard in the left shoulder. He stumbled back.

“I am your keeper, until I can figure out how you tie into all of this.”

“All of what exactly? A missing Sword? The way I see it, it’s none of my business.” I go to walk away again, only to be stopped, his hands on my shoulders again. I could feel something rise in me, more than my temperature. I pushed his shoulder away again; as soon as my hand connected with his shoulder I felt a pulse sting in my hand.

“AGH!” I heard a thump; he must have hit the wall behind him.

“Where the hell did you learn that?” The tone in his voice wasn’t what I expected, he was curious almost surprised.

“What are you talking about?”

“You nearly put a hole in my shoulder!” If I believed my ears I would have said, he sounded excited.

“You’re crazy.” My voice faltered as I said it. Something was different and something definitely happened, did I really do something though? I didn’t mean to hurt him, just to push him away. A ruffle fell to the floor with a clank. I could hear him muttering quietly away from me.

“What?”

“I said you are a part of this, one way or another. I need to stitch my shoulder before I get blood everywhere.” He was annoyed now. His emotion was easily shown through his voice. I could hear him turn to leave.

“Are you coming?” I had a feeling that he’d keep an eye on me even if I didn’t go with him. I needed to call Jeffery.

“Where?”

“The infirmary” he said with a ‘duh’ quality. The nerve!

“I don’t…”

“Trust me? Take a number darling.” He was quiet again; probably busy with his shoulder.

“It’s not that. I will come I just need…” Did I trust him? Them? Did I have a choice? I had to be alone at some point.

“I’ll tell you what you want to know.”

“No...”

“You don’t want me to ...”

“I’m blind.” I stated. I could hear him shuffle around.

“Oh…right.” He forgot? How do you forget that?

“So, how do…”

“If you give me your arm I can follow.” Could I trust him? I reached my right hand out.

“You’re not going to shock me again are you?” Shock?

“No.” I could hear him come closer. My right hand connected with his chest. His shirt was soft, thin. I backed up instinctually pushing into the wall. His hand caught in my left hand, my palm on top of his hand. My hand followed his, raising up he pulled me forward away from the wall. His hand was warm, strong; there was an elegance to him if that were possible. He stood on my left his right arm under my left arm. My heart skipped a beat unwillingly.

“Like this?”

“…uh…sure.” My voice caught in my throat, forcing me to clear it. What is going on! His moods change faster than a leaf in autumn.

He began to move forward and I followed. He moved slowly, probably for my benefit which I was grateful for. We walked down the corridor and turned right. The Manor must have been bigger than I thought; it seemed we were walking for a few minutes, when my right shoulder collided with something sharp.

“Ow!” I stumbled back clutching my arm.

“My apologies, I wasn’t paying attention.” He was earnest. I felt my arm; it was wet with blood, but only a little.

“Payback?” I said jokingly.

“I would never…How badly are you hurt?” He was concerned. Why was he being nice, why was he concerned?

“It’s just a scratch.” I could feel my hand being moved away slowly. I felt his knuckles against my arm, a soft touch grazed across my wound.

“Yes, a scratch, none the less I’ll clean it.” We walked forward a little ways and stopped turning to my right. A door squeaked open, my hand was taken and I followed in. I smelt lavender as I crossed into the room. He took my right hand and placed it on a rough surface. He led me around it, there were corners, he placed my left hand on another surface lower, and it was round, a table and stool. I sat down. I could hear clinking, cabinets opening and closing, water rushing. Objects were placed on the table. I felt for them. There was cloth, a bowl with water, and spool of what felt like thread. I startled when I felt warm water hit my skin.

“Sorry.”

“This really isn’t necessary, it’s just a scratch.”

“No wound is too little to care for.” He wiped the scratch carefully, wrapping a soft fabric around it.

“Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.” He walked away from me; the water started to rush for a few seconds then was gone. I heard him wince, a ruffling sound dropped to the floor. A sliding of the stool sounded in front of me.

“How bad is it?”

“I’ve had worse.” I go to reach for him only to have my hands swatted away.

“Don’t be a child.”

“Your hands are filthy; you’ve practically been touching everything”

“I’m blind; it’s how I get around, well that and a white cane” I could feel the exasperation in my voice. I take my bag off and feel through it. I find my sanitizer bottle and drop my bag to the floor.

“White cane?”

“It’s what we call a cane for a blind person, so others around realize.”

“What is that?”

“It’s hand sanitizer?”

“Like soap?”

“Basically yes. You’ve never seen hand sanitizer before?”

“No.”

“Here.” I hold out my hand for his. I squeeze some into his hand and mine, placing the bottle on the table. I demonstrate how to use it.

“It burns, like alcohol!” he was amused.

“Oh, do you have cuts on your hands?”

“Always.”

“The stinging should go away in a few seconds.” I heard him gasp.

“What happened?”

“I put it on my wound.”

“No. Don’t do that!” it was hard not to laugh at him.

“Give it back.” I hold out my hand.

“No.”

“What are you twelve?”

“Twenty four.”

“Well act like it.” The bottle was placed in my hand.

“Thank you.” I reach down for my bag and I can hear him shuffle and clear his throat.

“What’s wrong now?”

“Nothing.” His voice was quiet and distant, like he wasn’t facing me anymore. I could hear the dripping from the water bowl. I put the sanitizer back and reach for his arm, it was bare. Trailing up I could feel ridges. Scars.

“What are you doing?

“An eye for an eye.” My hands are taken away from his shoulder and a wet cloth was placed in them. He brings my hands back to his shoulder. I lightly search for the wound. Finding it, I can tell it’s about a quarter coin size and indented, wet with blood.

“Oh. How…” I’m sure my face showed an agonized look. How was this not painful?

“Just a scratch.” His voice was light. I shook my head and started to wipe around the wound, slowly working my way in.

“You are good at that.” I could sense him relaxing.

“I’ve had practice. I took a medical class that taught me how to clean and dress wounds. Being blind doesn’t come without a few bumps and bruises.”

“Were you born blind?”

“…no.”

“How did it happen?”

“Hey, you’re the one that’s supposed to be answering my questions.” I felt for the bowl and rinsed the cloth out. I went back to his wound cleaning it again. It was quiet for a few seconds.

“Thread the needle.” I could hear him rummage through the supplies on the table.

“What would you like to know?”

“You said that I was in Crotan, where is that exactly?”

“You’re in the outskirts of the Crotan Kingdom. We are at a safe house that Emlyn and Ameilius built.”

“What are they...Ameilius and Emlyn?”

“They are Sorcerers.”

“Sorcerer’s use black magic.” My right hand was opened a light object was placed in them.

“Coming from the girl who doesn’t know anything about anything.”

“In my world Sorcerer’s are painted as black magicians, while Wizards are the good guys.” The needle was curved, the thread thicker than most. My hands were back at his shoulder. I waited.

“There’s always a Ying to a Yang. Go ahead, you probably can stitch better than I can. I trust you.” There was no trembling in his voice, no nervousness. He trusted me? There was a chance of me completely screwing this up, and like it was nothing he simply says he trusts me. I worked slowly feeling the point of the needle and the skin come together. I pushed through; he stiffened but didn’t make a sound.

“Why am I here?”

“I believe you’re the key to helping me find the Sword of Valdronius.”

“Me? What makes you think that I can help?”

“I was called to you?”

“You said that earlier, what does that mean?”

“I’m the Protector. I’m destined to protect the Sword of Valdronius. I can receive visions or moments of clarity that allow me to see if danger is upon the sword. You were among those visions.”

“That doesn’t make any sense, I mean I don’t even know what the sword looks like.”

“Even so, I was drawn to you. It’s like a magnetic pull, even when I leave I can sense where you are, even when you leave.”

“I came back didn’t I?”

“Why did you? You could have run.” A question I don’t have the answer for.

“I’m not going to pretend I know what’s going on, but Ameilius did something that defies all logic, I can’t explain it. So for now I am just going to have to believe that something other worldly is going on.”

“Ok.”

“Ok. You said something about me helping you find a sword?”

“The Sword of Valdronius.”

“Is that a person?”

“Yes, he was one of the original settlers. The Sword is supposed to reside in the Kingdom of Valdronius.”

“Why is the Sword of Valdor…?”

“Valdronius.”

“Valdronius so desirable, I mean it’s just metal right?”

“In a way yes, but it has history, the sword has a magic all its own. It’s a symbol of devastation, freedom, remembrance, a past and a future.” The way he spoke about the sword was in awe, almost like he worshipped it.

“So what happened to the sword?”

“That’s just it. I’m not sure; it disappeared or was taken two full moons ago, almost three. Not even a peep about it anywhere. I’ve searched almost all the realms, listening and nothing has slipped. Until, yesterday when Calistus attacked you.”

“Why did he attack me?”

“Calistus, he’s darkness evil in its purest form. Though he is a very smart man, there must have been something about you that he found interesting, he’s not one to dabble in trifling matters.”

“He…He wanted to look at my eyes, the creep.”

“Yes well they are sparkly.” This cause a laugh to come from my nose.

“Sorry, I didn’t expect that.” It was quiet for a little while.

“That man he really did want to kill me.”

“Yes.”

“How did you know I needed help?”

“I’m called to you remember?”

“Right and you can speak in my head.”

“Among other things, yes.” What other things?

“What would happen if he got his hands on the sword?

“Unimaginable evil, those that wish to use the sword to take power or control, could lead to slavery, death. A world where people rather die than to fight. There are those that want to destroy it. Destroying it would be the lesser of the two evils.”

“Why? I mean if the sword can cause all this potential suffering why not destroy it?”

“It’s not the sword that can cause this, but the minds of Man. The sword holds the oldest form of magic, to destroy it would be destroying history. And no one should ever forget their history.”

“These protectors, they have been searching for two months and haven’t found anything and you think I can help?”

“Protector, just one. And Yes I do.”

“Why just one?”

“There used to be more, a long time ago four covens to protect from the North, East, West, and South. But a war broke out, destroying everything and everyone in its path. The Valdronius Kingdom fell for the most part. The Elders decided that it would be best to keep the sword hidden, ‘and so from lineage shall a Protector be chosen to whom the sword shall be passed’.”

“You didn’t have a choice?”

“No. But the honor of being chosen, to protect the people, to protect the future, is quite magnificent.”

“A heavy Burden?”

“For some.”

“But not for you?”

“No.”

“So it’s a family business?”

“Sort of, lineage doesn’t always refer to family, more so to the ones with the gift. Not all with the gift are strong enough to carry the weight.”

“What is the gift?”

“It’s a rare magic, people call it Shadow magic.”

“Shadows. You told me to trust the Shadows, why?”

“I can morph in and out of Shadows, I use them to get around. I was hoping that if you were every in trouble all you would have to do is step into a shadow and I could pull you away. That was before I knew you were blind.”

“You can do that? Just use shadows?”

“It takes practice, we have to think about where we are going, and we have to know that a shadow will be on the other side.”

“What about darkness?”

“In darkness there are no shadows, only a light can make a shadow. With enough practice we can pass through a shadow into darkness, but not the other way around.”

“What happens if you pass through a shadow without a shadow on the other side?”

“Nothing I would want to experience.”

“So how are you chosen?”

“We could die; we could pass the honor over to someone stronger, or neglect our duties. At least that’s how it’s supposed to be.”

“What do you mean?”

“The first shadow protector to be chosen after the war, disappeared. He just ceased to exist; his spirit is still alive that much is known and that there must be some powerful magic protecting the location of where he lies. But the magic he possesses hasn’t been passed down, so the line has gotten weaker as time passes by.”

“How is that possible?”

“Time works differently in certain realms. For example, what could be a day here could be a year somewhere else.” We were quiet for a few seconds his words sinking in. Did I believe him?

“You said time works differently, does that mean I could be missing from home for days or years!” I could feel the panic.

“No, no. Time between here and your home is a little slower. A day here could be 2 or 3 hours there. That’s why we need to figure out how you are involved and get you back.” I just nodded slowly letting my breath slow down. I could hear him shuffle around.

“You are really good at sewing up wounds, not bad at all. Gentle even.”

“Thank you, scissors please.” Scissors are placed in my hands, they are metal and larger than most. I cut the excess thread, this scissors are taken and replaced with the same soft fabric that wrapped my arm. I feel his arm move up as I wrapped around his shoulder.

“So will you help me?” Should I?

“You are asking me now?”

“Yes well Ameilius said it’s better to ask then to demand.”

“He’s right you know.” I stifled a yawn, I guess I was more tired than I realized.

“Can I give you an answer in the morning?”

“Of course. You’ve been through a great deal; I’ll take you back to your room.” He was formal again. He helped me off the stool taking my left hand; we left the room heading down the same hall as before. I go to turn around only to be stopped.

“My bag. I left it in the room.”

“Stay here, I’ll get it.” I turn to the direction I hear him walk away. The place was quiet, deafening. I wondered what had cut me earlier. I turn towards the wall and place my hands out, palm facing the wall and walk slowly, a step at a time. I concentrate on any signs of feeling to my hands. A warm grasp takes my elbows. I back up instinctively, bumping into a body.

“Careful, you will cut your hands doing that or worse.” Damian pulls me away; his breath tickled my left ear. A heat rose in my face and I silently hoped it was too dark for him to see.

“What cut me earlier?” I turned to face him and he let me go.

“They are called knivarcs.”

“Knivarcs?

“Knives that are in the shape of a talon. They are razor sharp on both sides and come in various lengths.”

“Like a scythe?

“Potentially yes, just smaller.”

“How many are there?”

“Quite a few. They are spread throughout the hallway.”

“Why?”

“This particular hallway leads to many a place and many a place leads to this hallway.” How very cryptic. What was it that Ameilius said?

“Devium Ducit.”

“I see Ameilius has been chatty. Here…” He took both of my hands out in front of me facing them flat, palm to palm barely touching. His hands lay on top of mine; he slowly turns me sideways to the wall. Slowly he leads my hands towards the wall. I could feel the smooth metal between my fingers; there were indentations, some type of design. The smooth curve turned into a smooth leather hilt ending at the wall. He closed my hands around it, one in front of the other. His hands were warm on mine; he took a firm grasp and twisted my hands in opposite directions, a click sounded. He pulled my hands away from the wall; the knivarcs held weight but felt strong. His hands still on mine he pulled me away from the wall his hands lightened then they were gone. I could feel the weapon twist in my hands.

“The inside should always be facing down. That way if your hands are hit from the bottom you won’t put a scar on your face when your hands go back.” He held my wrists between his hands, tapping my wrist underneath.

“Understand?” I nodded. A reality hit me that made me smirk.

“You won’t be laughing if you cut your eye out.” His voice was light.

“…yes, I mean no, it’s not that. It’s just that you gave a blind girl a weapon, the only thing I could probably hit is air.”

“It doesn’t take sight to wield a weapon properly. It takes practice.” The weapon was slowly taken out of my hands.

“And you don’t merely hit with a knivarcs. You can slice; you can stab, or even cut.” He sounded appalled, indignant even, that the action of hitting with the weapon was unthinkable.

“You don’t hit.” There was a faint clicking noise; the weapon was safely back where it belonged.

“No hitting, check.” I nodded my head to confirm that I understood. We walked back in silence for a little while my left hand and arm on top of his right. It was all so formal.

“Damian?”

“Yes?”

“This place…the Manor, it’s different.”

“Well, it’s not your typical Manor, it changes to the needs or wants of a person, it can help you find what you need if you listen. And can lead you to misery if you’re a threat. It’s quite magnificent. I remember being lost for three days in here because I threw a knife at Ameilius.”

“How is that possible?”

“Emlyn and Ameilius are sorcerers with more than a few extra tricks up their sleeves. They are quite the intelligent and cunning type, the best of the best.” We stopped.

“Sorcerer’s… Right.”

“Well I see Emlyn has put you in a different room.”

“How do you know?”

“The door to the room I put you in is not here anymore.”

“The door is gone?”

“Like I said. The Manor changes.”

“Right. She put me upstairs.” We start walking again.

“Damien?”

“Yes?”

“You said that you could do other stuff, besides talking in my head.”

“I have many talents yes.”

“Like?” We stop again.

“Stairs.”

“What?”

“We need to go up the stairs.”

“Oh.” I take a step, fourteen to go.

“My talents range from all sorts of magic. Not everyone agrees with not declaring a magic, it’s not a good thing.”

“Why not?”

“It’s unpredictable.”

“How?”

“Do you remember which room Emlyn put you in?”

“We went right, about seven steps, it’s the door on the left.”

“Of course it is.” I looked up at him quizzically.

“My room.”

“Oh. I didn’t know…I can...”

“It’s fine Embry.” It was the first time he had said my name out loud. He held my hand for a few more seconds before placing something in them, it was heavy. My bag I realized. I put it on my shoulders. My other hand was taken and something light was placed in them, my glasses. I look up.

“This was with you when I brought you here, and this.” My right wrist was taken and something cold was clasped. My bracelet!

“Thank you!”

“Goodnight.” His footsteps disappeared.

“Goodnight.” I realized he left without answering my question. I found the handle, the door closed quietly. I let my bag slip off my shoulders I open it and searched in my bag for my phone. I let my bag fall to the ground as I held my phone in my hand. Why did I feel like I was hiding? Like I was betraying their trust. I needed certainty and voice dialing was so handy.

“Call Jeffery.”

“You are out of range.” Of course I was. I sat on the bed thinking of my options. I could go out again, and risk a run in with any one of them. Or I could wait till the morning. I was tired and a lot has happened. I climbed into the bed his scent covering me. I placed the phone under the pillow. His touch was the last thing on my mind.