After losing Zack in the market, Chris returns to his spot near the crumbling bailey wall. High in his favourite tree he relaxes in the cool shade eyeing a tiny inch worm crawling over his leg. He peers into the dreary space; even on a sunny day it leaves much to the imagination. It’s a sprawling venue used to corral soldier’s horses and military displays.

But it grows wild with patches of scrawny trees and grass that transforms into a soggy carpet at the hint of rain. Only the hearty rose bushes flourish, but foreigners claim, their mute colours didn't compare to gardens in Bellavere.

However, he doesn't visit for the floral decadence. From the corner of his eye, the queen walks arm in arm with a lanky youth with glossy inky hair. He’s the middle prince, Castellan's youngest son from his first marriage. Her oldest stepson ignores them both choosing to play fetch with a hunting hound instead. Chris crouches lower when he notices the elite guards pacing around the perimeter.

They turn a corner as an agitated outburst rises from below. Cecilia, his heart leaps into his throat; but he spies her entering the castle unharmed. Crouching through the branches he follows the frustration until it changes into the sound of rattling iron. Scurrying over the decaying defensive he reaches the source and stifles a laugh.

A woman with braided flaxen hair grips the frame of one of the second-row windows. Each time she pulls, the panes rattles, but don't budge. He shakes his head and grins; rookie. These windows aren’t meant to open; purposeful design to prevent people like him—and apparently her—from granting access. Nonetheless, her dedication is impressive.

“Any luck?”

Chris ducks into another tree, slipping past the branches until he has a view of the newcomers. A child sits on a broken slab dangling her feet. However, it’s the raven-coloured cat shouting at the woman who piques his interest.

“It won’t budge,”

“Try harder then, it is a window not a dragon, surely you can manage.” She doesn’t respond. But he recognises a woman who’s considering bludgeoning a demanding man.

“Why can’t we use the door?” the child asks twisting one of her pigtails around her finger.

“The guards refused us entry,” the cat explains.

“And we can’t come back later… because?”

“Because later will be too late,” the woman adds. “We need to speak to the king now.”

“So, we’re… breaking in?”

“Technically I am. But yes, that’s the plan.” She yanks at the window.

“What happens when you get inside?”

“Get to king Avalon. Tell him what we know. Then leave this kingdom before anything else happens.”

“Can’t we ask nicely? Mommy always said to be a good girl. I don’t think breaking in is very nice.”

“We tried that, then Eclipse yelled at them and we almost got arrested.”

“Hmph, as if it was the first time today,” he mutters.

“It’s no use, it's not going to open. I’m coming down.”

“No! Break it, I did not raise a quitter!”

He didn't know where the desire came from but his mind races with questions and possibilities. A talking creature is too tempting to ignore. Is it magic, or real, or did it matter? His curiosity demands satisfaction. As the woman climbs from the window, he resolves to put his priorities on hold. A delay is worth it, he tells himself; sensing she’s an adventure all on her own. Which is why he climbs from his perch, stretching over the lowest limb to make himself known.

“You guys are the loudest thieves I ever saw.”

“Who are you?” the cat insists.

“Now, that’s something you don’t see every day.” He jumps from the tree ignoring the child and approaches the panther. “Besides a pretty girl trying to break into the castle I mean.” He suppresses his surprise as she plucks a staff from the tall grass. A Mage, now it's getting interesting.

“I will not ask again.” The cat persists, glancing at the dagger at his waist.

“I know you,” she interjects.

“Not surprising, I'm known throughout the world,”

“You're the guy that stupid knight was chasing earlier. What's his name from Alexanderia?”

Did she just call Zack s…he suppresses a laugh.

“It’s hard to keep track of who is chasing me nowadays. So many fans,” he crouches down, “how do you get your pet cat to talk?”

“How dare you compare me to the most common, flea infested, animal in this godforsaken world!” he roars. Monstrous paws slap against his chest pushing the air from his lungs. Hundred pounds of muscle slam into him; knocking him to the dirt. For the first time he's on the receiving end of a set of claws poised at his face.

“Forgive Eclipse, he hates the association to a cat or a pet or anything... domestic.”

“Got it…can you call him off now?”

“Let's go, your majesty, he's learned his lesson.” Eclipse’s ears twitch as the child gives a low whimper.

If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

“Be thankful the twerp is here—otherwise—” he swipes his claws, barely missing his face. “You guys are the loudest thieves I ever saw.”

She introduces the group as she helps him to his feet. What an odd assortment of travelers. The child has a rural naivety and the panther inserts himself as protector. He knew of the dangers, but how much he truly knows is up for debate. But her, he didn't have a reading on. A blend of guarded, sarcasm, and politeness is appealing. If she knows about the sickos in Lollardum she hides it like a professional. No matter, there’s more than one way to get them to talk. He stands, brushing the dirt from his already dusty pants.

“Chris O’Connell’s the name, illegal acquisition is the game. You might’ve heard of me—my reputation goes as far as Sherseas.”

“Wow!” Sara exclaims, causing the grin on his face to grow. “But what does acquisition mean?”

“I’m a thief, I steal things.”

“My mommy told me to never—ever—take anything that doesn’t belong to you.”

“I consider it more along the lines of redistribution.”

“And you’re here because…” Moira shuffles the child to her side.

“Here I was, exploring my old haunts, and then I hear you yelling. So, being the guy I am, I show up to offer my services to protect this castle at all costs,”

“How noble,” Eclipse snorts.

“Listen, you want in the castle—I know how. Want help or not?” She hesitates, exchanging words with the panther which ends with her reluctantly agreeing.

“Alright, but I warn you,” her staff pointed at his face, “any funny business and this goes so far down your throat you’ll be—” she eyes Sara then clears her throat, “you get the idea.”

It isn’t the usual threat he receives from a woman, nonetheless a Mage. Yes, she’s interesting indeed.

The castle walls, once a formidable structure, is dwarfed by the surrounding buildings. No land is off limits to the modern housing crisis. Businesses and homes rise from the mud as the wall and its interior struggle to accumulate. The denizen labor towards a new future, while the castle anchors them backwards.

High walls of the overbearing past now crumble from disrepair. He guides them through the yard, careful to hide behind whatever the royals keep lying around. They pass a patch of new stone filling in the old gap he used to frequent.

He recalls the fear pumping through his chest the first time he crossed. His knobby knees trembled at the idea of being sentenced to the Tower. A spiral citadel of torture which few returned. Despite this he still remembers the soft vibrant grass on the others side of the gap.

A sprawling alien lawn of greenery never seen before. But age punctures his childhood whimsy; he recognizes the lawn as the knobby clumps of weeds it truly is. Nothing beautiful grows from the toxic soil.

He makes a mental note to survey the castle perimeter later. It’s like a sinking ship; when they fill one hole it’s only a matter of time before another appears. Sara takes care to avoid the swampy areas of the uneven ground, while the others pay it no mind.

Moira isn't in the mood to talk any more and Eclipse only speaks to urge the child to keep up. Despite the tension growing in the group, he feels confident that they can take out a few guards if needed.

They pause behind a slab that tumbles from the wall. Ahead of them is a narrow passage for servants and vendors, to pass through unseen by the wealthy. Usually, a clever rouse works well enough, but this time two soldiers huddle together discussing something in private.

He recognizes the taller one; the agitated stance is a familiar sight. Why now? As if reading his mind, Zack glances over in his direction; sporting the usual disapproving expression. Once the guard left, Chris steps out of his hiding place, motioning for the others to remain hidden.

“The thief always returns to the scene of the crime.”

“The only crime that’s happening is in the queen’s bedroom,” he shouts back trying to break the tension.

“I know you have the earrings, have you any idea the trouble you caused?”

“I admit I didn't consider the chance the dimwit servant would find you.” He’s about to spin an excuse but Zack's eyes narrow, his attention drawn to someone behind him.

“Our favorite ray of sunshine,” Eclipse remarks, “the great Captain Dawson of the Alexanderian Knights.”

“What are they doing here?”

“We have business to settle,” Moira responds joining the panther's side.

“Your pathetic story doesn't tread any water. But by all means tell me another lie.”

“If I were you—”

“Is that a threat?”

He grips his hilt waiting for a reason to draw the sword. Moira instinctively moves her staff into a guard position. Familiar with Zack’s prowess and skill; Chris stands aside waiting for the inevitable. On the other hand, he didn’t want to get between a Mage either. The air hums; he feels it radiating through his muscles. Is this her magic?

A flock of crows burst from the tree, Zack draws; brandishing the polished blade in the sunlight. The Opal cuts through the air resting its point at Zack’s heart. Their tempers boil, waiting for an excuse to kill. They stand still, silently daring the other to make a move.

“Here, take them,” the potential carnage from Zack's battle rage, forces him to act. He steps in front of the knight, blocking his view of Moira. The earring's dangle between his fingers. Time ticks at a glacial pace as he waits with bated breath for him to consider duty over desire.

“Why are you helping them?” It’s a mix of a growl and a whisper.

“I dunno, seemed like a good idea at the time.”

“You're unbelievable, you know that?” Zack relaxes his hand; breaking the tension. He accepts the earrings and replace his sword in the sheath. “They said the girl is the queen's new lady in waiting.”

“They lied to you, my friend. They have no intention to see the queen, they're pretty adamant to meet with Avalon.”

He doesn’t respond but chews the inside of his cheek. Some plan or theory crosses past his friend’s eyes. The knight knows something he doesn’t; a rare occurrence but not impossible. What is going on here? And why does it involve her?

“I'll return the jewelry, then return to home.” He says the next part louder so the group can hear, “King Avalon has answered summons to return to Alexanderia. He departed earlier today. With my duty complete, I will join them as well.”

“By horse or ferry?” Eclipse asks.

“Ferry.” He whispers goodbye to Chris then turns to leave.

“Next time, I’ll kill you where you stand.” Moira shouts to his backside. Lucky for her Zack ignores her and enters the castle without another word.

“Are you insane, seriously, are you?” Chris shouts, blocking her path to his friend. Her complete disregard to her safety is astonishing. “He’s the top swordsman in Alexanderia! Personally trained by General Stone!”

“Lexington Stone?” Eclipse interjects.

“The big man himself! Zack’s won every hand-to-hand battle he was ever in. Do you know how many tournaments he’s won? He’s Stone’s right-hand man—and you need to watch yourself.”

“I stand by what I said,” she snarls. Sara moves to follow her but Eclipse bites her skirt before she can scurry off.

“Hey, what’s her problem?”