PART 1

Henry looked at Gus with admiration and blushed slightly. Embarrassment from his ignorance was overwhelming. He had had many conversations with the old man, unaware of his true identity and importance. Finally putting two and two together, it dawned on Henry the author of the book he had just received from Mrs. Kebin was Gus. The book ‘Findings of The Ancients’ was co-written by Gus Opin and the other three Historians. Lastly, Henry realized the other book ‘Creatures of Old’ was written by him too.

Remembering back to a conversation he had with Professor Gould, Henry recalled him saying he wasn’t fond of the writings of both books. It sounded as if Gould knew him personally and didn’t agree eye to eye on certain subjects. It got Henry thinking of what must have happened for their relationship, whatever that was, to turn soar.

Gus Opin was famous in the Kingdom of Xer, even the other kingdoms knew his name. He was like a celebrity in the educational side of life. Every college in the kingdom read his work, teaching it to thousands of students. He was one of four great Historians, one in each country. Many followed in their footsteps, continuing their work as they grew too old to travel or died of old age. Only two from the first four were alive today.

Gus Opin had retired in Zulin, Lord Kyburn’s region. Kyburn had known Gus since he was a child. He offered him a place to stay in his castle as an honor of being a Historian. It had been several years since his retirement and he confined himself mostly to his study room, rarely leaving the castle. All his needs were met, which gave him all the time in the world to read and write, mostly recording his thoughts and theories on many subjects.

Henry was taken aback by Gus, he was not what he expected but was truly delighted to meet the famous man he admired.

“You look embarrassed,” stated Gus. “Come sit down. I must apologize to you for keeping my identity a secret.”

“No, sir. That’s not necessary. Forgive me for not knowing who you were. If I had known…” Henry trailed off.

“What?” Gus asked curiously.

“Well, I don’t know exactly, sir. I would have paid more attention to you and shown you more respect,” Henry paused, thinking. “Also I would have pestered you with endless questions,” he admitted.

“Ha,” Gus smiled. “So if I were a poor old fool with no name you wouldn’t show me respect then?

“Of course not,” Henry paused again. “Well, I suppose I wouldn’t have. I was very interested in your book recommendations though. I got two of them. Professor Gould is holding them downstairs for me”

“Honesty,” Gus commented. “I like that. I am also glad to hear you got my books. Nevertheless, I intentionally concealed my identity from you. I wanted to see what Kyburn and Gould kept talking about. I wasn’t disappointed. You have a sharp and curious mind, Henry.”

Henry blushed again from the praise. “Thank you, sir. I hope to take Professor Gould’s place one day as a teacher. I have been studying diligently.”

“Yes, I heard. You would be a fine man for the job,” Gus said encouragingly. “I noticed you have lessons with the two guards at the gate. What are their names?”

“Zip and Kip?” Henry asked.

“Ah, yes. Those two are inseparable. They are both orphans like you, did you know that?” Gus asked.

“No, I did not sir,” Henry lowered his head.

“Forgive me, I am bringing up memories best left alone. However, it is good of you to be teaching them. It is excellent practice and it helps them out tremendously.” Gus complimented.

“Thank you, sir,” he looked up at Gus’s eyes. “I don’t do it for free,” Henry admitted, feeling guilty.

“Why should you? Language is a complicated thing to learn. A lot of time and effort goes into teaching or learning, don’t sell yourself short just because you do it for money.”

“Oh, well, I don’t take their money either sir. You see, I don’t have much time in my days due to being so busy, so they bring me food every afternoon in payment.” Henry explained.

“Hmmm, I see,” Gus mumbled under his breath. He shuffled through some papers then looked into his eyes. “Do you know why I brought you here Henry?”

“No sir. I assumed I had done something wrong and was going to be punished for it,” exclaimed Henry.

He chuckled a little then handed him a letter over the table, his face turning very serious. “This letter came in this morning. I’d like you to read it.”

Henry leaned over the table, taking the thick worn paper into his hand. He couldn’t help but notice the broken seal of the King. The black wax was imprinted with two tiny hands holding swords with a thorn crown above, symbolizing the seal of the king.

“This is from the King.” Henry stuttered. “Are you sure I should be reading such an important letter, sir?” he asked the old man.

Gus began to reply but was cut short as the door opened behind him. Lord Kyburn stepped through. He wore a robe draped over one shoulder, long black pants with silver patterns down the sides. His shirt was dark purple and had a sword attached to his leather belt, giving him a kingly look.

“Ah!” Kyburn grinned. “Good, we are all here. Forgive my tardiness gentlemen. I was making arrangements.”

Henry stood up immediately and gave a slight bow to his master. “Lord Kyburn, it is good to see you, sir.”

Kyburn continued smiling and patted Henry on the shoulders. “Of course, son. Likewise,” he said. “How is that young lady of yours?” Kyburn grinned at him.

Henry immediately blushed once again, making Kyburn chuckle. “Sasha is doing well, sir. She isn’t my lady though.” He stuttered.

“Henry, you need to lighten up. I’m only teasing you. She is a beautiful young woman, you best not wait too long or she might find some other boy to sweep her off her feet.” Kyburn grinned stupidly.

“Stop tormenting the poor boy,” Gus said, shaking his head at Kyburn.

“Have you shown the letter yet?” Kyburn changed the subject.

He pointed at Henry’s hands, which held the letter from the king. “He was just about to read it when you walked in.”

Henry had forgotten he still held the letter in his hands, “What is this all about lord Kyburn,” asked Henry.

“Ah, well,” he scratched his chin. “I think you should read it for yourself. I asked Gus to show it to you before we explained further. Go ahead, son. Read it then we’ll talk.”

Kyburn walked past him and halted by a bookshelf, scanning for something to read. Henry sat back down, feeling confused, then he unfolded the letter.

“Lord Kyburn, unfortunately, I haven’t the time for pleasantries. I will get straight to the point. A development has formed that has us all scrambling for an answer. The Kingdom of Vulkira has fallen. No one knows how or why. All reports from its citizens are unconfirmed but extremely troubling. I would not ordinarily believe rumors, however, refugees are flooding to the borders and Tykin daily. King Erik is unaccounted for, he is assumed dead. This is all unconfirmed but many are saying they woke a creature Gus Opin rambles on about. It rampaged through the capital and drove the citizens from their homes. Thousands of reports of giant beasts all over the countryside keep coming in.”

Henry looked up from the letter and caught Gus’s eye. Confusion and alarm grew in Henry. Kyburn still stood, sifting through books and scrolls, waiting patiently.

“Go on,” Gus said.

“I need your help old friend. I’ve sent word to all the lords of Xer. Tykin has closed its borders as well and refuses to work with us. I know you can help with this chaos and perhaps your Historian can shed some light on the subject. He has always been going on and on about creatures from hundreds of years ago, it seems these monsters do exist. I need you in the capital. It has been two days since Vulkirian citizens have asked for aid in my kingdom as of writing this letter. If Mr. Opin is up for the journey, bring him with you, he may be useful.”

"If the situation is truly as dire as I think it might become, then we might need to visit our ‘friends’ in Kligira. As loathe as I am to dig up the past, we may be forced to do so. Think on it. We will talk more in person."

King Xerath

Henry placed the letter down and turned to Kyburn, hoping for answers. “Why show me this?” he asked both of them. “What secrets?”

Kyburn turned to the young boy and looked him in the eye. “I know this must be confusing for you Henry, but I would like for you to come with me to the capitol.”

“Me!?” Henry shouted in shock. “Sorry,” he apologized immediately for his outburst.

“Gus is too old to travel Henry. He must stay in Zulin, Gould will be here to take care of things while I’m gone. I’ve already made arrangements. All you have to do is say yes.” Kyburn said.

“This is a lot of pressure for you Henry and we know that but, I can’t travel. My body is too frail, I fear I would not make it to the capital.” Gus explained. “I can’t go with Kyburn, but you can.”

Henry sat there dumbfounded. “Why me? I don’t know anything about these creatures and I certainly can’t help the king.”

“No, but you can learn,” Kyburn said. “Gus has agreed to lend you all his notes on the subject. In the time it will take us to travel there, it is my hope you will be well versed in all things monster.”

“So all this is real? The creatures of old your book talk about. They really do, exist?” asked Henry. It would take me weeks, if not months to study all these books and notes master. What you are asking of me, I fear it is too much for me.”

“Two weeks,” Gus stated. “That’s how long the journey to Xerixes is and that’s how long you have to study my work.”

“I’m afraid it's all true Henry. What the four Historians recorded in the last century wasn’t a myth. They’ve come out of whatever hole they were hiding in and we need to prepare for what comes next.” Kyburn tried to explain. “These creatures can multiply like rats. Before long, they will overrun the entire continent.”

“We don’t wish to frighten you Henry. We want you to be prepared and convince the other kingdoms of what will come.” Gus told Henry. “You must convince them to seek ‘The Ancients’ for they are our only hope.”

“Gus.” Kyburn addressed the old man. “Not right now. Leave that for another time.”

Gus looked at Kyburn stubbornly but backed down and sighed in his chair. “Very well,” he said.

Henry felt overwhelmed. First monsters, now the Ancients existed. All this was just a myth to Henry, bedtime stories. He didn’t actually believe they were real. At best he believed they once did but died thousands of years ago.

“Lord Kyburn, you know you have my loyalty and gratitude but you are not telling me something,” Henry said. “What aren’t you telling me?”

“Henry,” Kyburn walked up to him, placing his hand on his shoulder. “All of this will be explained in far more detail once we get there. I am sworn to secrecy so I cannot reveal too much to you. What the letter didn’t tell you was, king Xerath, long ago, concealed something from the public. Only the four kings and a select few know of this. If king Erik lives, he will fill us in, if he is dead and the creatures are truly here, then Xerath will reveal all to you. Will you trust me, Henry?” Kyburn put Henry on the spot.

“I-I don’t know what… Yes. Y-yes, I trust you lord,” Henry stammered. “What do I have to do?”

“As you may know, Gus and Belthar are what remains of the last Historians,” Kyburn began to explain. “We do not know if he will be attending either but he, like Gus, is extremely fragile from age and cannot risk the trip. Perhaps they have already found a replacement for Belthar, we don’t know. What matters now is you take what Gus cannot, his mind to the summit. You will study his work on our travels to Xerixes. In that time you will know everything Gus knows. You will be his mouth at the meeting. You will explain these creatures and convince the king to act.” Kyburn trailed, studying Henry.

“Forgive him Henry,” Gus said. “We are not at liberty to discuss certain details at this time. You will be filled in rest assured when the time is right.”

Henry’s eyebrows lifted. “So, you want me to convince the king and lords to do something that you can’t reveal to me right now?”

“Yes,” Gus said bluntly.

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“We know you have questions, Henry.” Kyburn gave Gus a glare over his shoulder. “I will tell you the whole truth,” Kyburn paused then asked. “Will you do it?

Henry looked at the two men. Kyburn had looked after him and treated him like a nephew. Gus, he had just met but knew him by reputation. This was all so sudden but he couldn’t let Kyburn down when he needed him.

“When do we leave?”

PART 2

The sun was disappearing over the walls of Zulin, when Henry left the castle. He passed the guards, Zip and Kip had been rotated out after lunch. These men were much more serious but always greeted Henry. He didn’t know them by name but always bid them goodnight.

Henry stalked through the streets making his way to Mrs. Kebin’s house. His head hung low however, so much pressure had been put on him and so quickly. He would be glad to see Sasha and be in her company. She always cheered him up, no matter what.

Professor Gould had lent him a bag to hold his new books, and he held his own personal satchel on one shoulder, together the weight was a burden. He constantly shifted the straps that dug into his shoulder and wished to be rid of them soon.

When he had visited Professor Gould a sinking feeling hit him, he would miss all his classes and tests. Everything he would miss gnawed at him. He sighed heavily and accepted that he would miss his studying and continue afterward. It would take him some time to catch up to the other students but Henry knew he could do it. It would take a lot of work and dedication but he knew he would manage the task.

Henry rounded the corner to their house and he saw Sasha sitting on their porch, waiting for him most likely. She was breathtaking. Sasha had a small lamp to her side and was reading a book and Henry stopped in his tracks to look at her. Her face was half-hidden in shadows but her high cheekbones and button nose were unmistakable. Flowing red hair lightly blew in the breeze blowing through the town. He watched her pull her hair back and continue to read.

Not wanting to stare too long, Henry continued forward to meet her. She reminded him of himself because as he approached she was completely oblivious to his presence. Thoroughly enjoying a book often caused them both to daydream and lose themselves in their imagination.

He decided to creep up on her and cut to her right and placed his books on the ground at the corner of the house. Henry quietly placed one foot on the porch and reached up with his hands for a handhold. He heaved himself up without a sound and flipped his legs over the railing. Tiptoeing closer to her he bent down next to her ear and waited for her to notice him.

Moments passed and she didn’t notice him bending over her. He smiled inwardly and almost laughed but held it in. Finally unwilling to continue the prank he decided to make his presence known.

“What’re you reading?” Henry asked quietly.

“Ah!” Sasha screamed. “What are you doing!”

She jumped up and raised her book at him but hesitated, then punched him in the shoulder instead. “You almost gave me a heart attack! Don’t scare me like that.” she huffed, annoyed. She made an adorable pouty face at him, which made Henry grin.

He burst into laughter, “I couldn’t help it. I saw you there looking so cute in your dress and your nose in your book.” Henry explained jokingly. “I couldn’t resist.”

Sasha lightly hit him in the shoulder again, “Well don’t do that,” she paused, thinking then blushed.

“What?” Henry asked dumbly.

“You think I’m cute, huh?” Sasha teased him.

It was Henry’s turn to blush. He couldn’t believe he had said that. She really was beautiful.

“Well, I-I… uhh.” he searched for a witty comeback but failed miserably.

“Hah, caught you,” Sasha smirked, placing her hand on one hip and pointed at him with her book.

Henry didn’t know what had come over him but he stared at her dumbly, admiring her adorable pose. He was saved by Mrs. Kebin calling from inside.

“Is that Henry?!” she shouted at Sasha.

“Hello, Mrs. Kebin,” Henry called back to her.

“Come on in dear,” Mrs. Kebin replied sweetly.

Sasha was still staring at him with her gorgeous green eyes and cute pose, “We’ll be right in grandma.”

Henry remembered the conversation with Kyburn and Gus and his mood turned dark. Sasha immediately noticed.

“What’s wrong, Henry? Did something happen?” she asked, worried.

“It’s… nothing. I’ll tell you over dinner.” Henry replied, replacing his frown with a smile.

She didn't look convinced and raised an eyebrow at him. A sudden urge to hold her hand hit Henry but he resisted. Standing in front of her awkwardly he decided to be bold and go for it. After all, he was leaving with Kyburn and he wanted to spend his last few hours with her and to make a move to show his interest in her.

He reached for her hand, which shocked her but she didn't resist. Gently folding her hand in his he looked her in the eyes. Her eyes glistened from the lamplight and they both temporarily stood completely still, mesmerized by each other.

Her face turned to worry after that brief moment of locked eyes. She didn't forget his concerned face from before and wondered what was bothering him.

He led Sasha by one hand and opened the door, leading her through. Mrs. Kebin’s house wasn’t overly small but it wasn’t big. Sasha and Mrs. Kebin had their own rooms and then the dining room and kitchen were it. It was a cozy little house, brightly lit by candles and lamps hanging on the walls. The table took up half the room. Mrs. Kebin was setting the dishes out as they walked in.

“Oh good. Come sit down you two. The food is ready.” she said, glancing down at their hands.

She saw the worried look on Sasha’s face then looked at Henry. She ignored it and went to the kitchen and returned with three bowls. Henry’s bowl was much larger, as he ate like a horse and she knew it. Mrs. Kebin always gave him extra food, which Henry appreciated greatly.

Henry moved to let go of Sasha’s hand to sit down but she held onto his. She looked at him and yanked his hand which meant he needed to tell her what was bothering him.

“I have something to tell you.” Henry walked over to the table and sat down, still holding Sasha’s hand.

“By the look on your face, it looks serious. Tell us what’s wrong, dear.” Mrs. Kebin said kindly.

Sasha sat next to him quietly waiting for him to explain. Her gaze pierced Henry but he couldn’t look at her.

“I’ve been asked by lord Kyburn to travel to Xerixes with him.” He said bluntly.

“You're leaving?” Sasha asked immediately.

“Yes. I’m afraid so. I’ve promised him I would help him. He needs me to go with him and fill in for Gus Opin.” Henry started to explain.

“That’s-” Mrs. Kebin began.

“When?” Sasha cut in, looking upset.

Henry guessed Mrs. Kebin would know who Gus Opin was and his importance which in turn made his trip to Xerixes with Kyburn equally important. Sasha on the other hand ignored that fact and released his hand, demanding an explanation.

“Tomorrow. In the morning.” he sighed, knowing it would make her angry.

“I see,” Sasha said, her nose flaring.

Mrs. Kebin sat silently watching them closely, letting Sasha vent her anger and observing Henry’s responses.

“I have to, Sasha. Kyburn himself asked me. And Gus Opin is a Historian. I am to study his work and meet king Xerath. This is a huge honor and a favor for Kyburn. You know how much I owe him. He has been good to me. It is only right, I repay him.” Henry looked desperate to make her understand, his voice rising.

Sasha turned away from him, “And when were you going to tell me? I see Kyburn is so important to you. Why don’t you go hold his hand.”

Henry looked at her dumbfounded and completely confused. He thought she would understand and support him on this, but she seemed unreasonable.

“I am telling you now. Kyburn is important to me! You know that. He is li-like a father to me,” Henry had trouble saying that out loud. “I thought you would understand and support me on this. You are being unreasonable Sasha,” he said.

“Oh boy.” Mrs. Kebin groaned, leaning back.

“Unreasonable?” Sasha’s mouth dropped open.

She stood up and stormed off to her room and slammed the door. The room went silent and Henry was left bewildered. His mouth dropped too and he looked toward Mrs. Kebin for an answer.

“Oh, my dear boy. Henry, you need to learn to be more gentle with her,” she advised.

Henry’s face contorted in utter confusion, “What did I do wrong?”

“Let her cool off. She is just upset that you are leaving so suddenly. Don’t worry Henry.” Mrs. Kebin whispered to him. “Now, let's say a prayer and eat

She bent her head down without looking to see if Henry did the same and said a quick prayer for the food and then prayed for Henry and his journey to Xerixes.

Henry thanked Mrs. Kebin and ate his food in silence. He kept glancing over at Sasha’s door, hoping she would come out and eat with them but to no avail. Henry explained a bit more about the letter from the king and Gus’s health. His need to help Kyburn and the turmoil in Vulkira. He was vague on the details on the state in which Vulkira was in and to not give away anything he shouldn’t.

The night grew late and Sasha still confined herself to her room so Henry stood to leave. He thanked Mrs. Kebin again and went for the door, then stopped.

“Please tell Sasha I will be leaving at sunrise and I’ll be swinging by here before. I hope to say goodbye to her and you of course.” Henry said sadly.

“I will tell her dear, don’t you worry,” she replied confidently.

“Thank you. Goodnight,” Henry closed the door behind him, grabbed his books, and went straight home.

PART 3

Henry woke while the sun was still down. Light dimly lit the cool morning making the air look gray and smoky. The grass outside had frosted tips indicating to him that it was cold outside. He quickly got out of bed and dressed. Henry packed essential items, such as clothing, food, and his books for the journey. He managed to fit everything inside one bag, which he flipped onto his back. Kyburn would provide breakfast so Henry ignored his growling stomach for now.

He stepped outside and took a deep breath. His lungs filled with chilly air and he exhaled slowly. The sun could be seen shining on the clouds in the distance but had yet to peek over the horizon.

He set off down the street and into town, making his way to Mrs. Kebin’s house. Henry wondered what he would say to Sasha. He didn’t know why she was so upset with him last night. He tried to put himself in her shoes but couldn’t understand her mood.

Henry started to talk to himself while he walked and wondered if Sasha just didn’t like him as he liked her. “What if she only sees me as a friend, or worse, a brother!” Henry thought. “Uggggghh!” he groaned aloud. “What do I do?” he pleaded to the sky.

He needed to ask Professor Gould or Kyburn about it. Kyburn had teased him on several occasions about Sasha and him becoming closer. He even asked Henry if he loved Sasha. At the time Henry just blushed and denied it but now, he couldn’t shake this feeling he had. It kept him awake at night, and he spent many hours just thinking about her every day.

Sometimes Henry hated the feeling because it made him feel out of control, unable to manage his thoughts and feelings. It made him feel powerless at times. On the other hand, he thought of having Sasha as a wife, courting her and asking Mrs. Kebin for permission for her hand. The thought of having Sasha by his side, for better or worse calmed him and he enjoyed the thought.

Henry didn’t know what it was like to have a wife, the responsibilities it would bring but if it was with Sasha, he liked the idea. He walked into town daydreaming about romance. This was exactly the distraction that Henry didn’t like because he didn’t feel in control of his thoughts and emotions.

Before long Henry came to Mrs. Kebin’s house and stood at the front door. He wanted Sasha to know how he felt about her, whatever was bothering her, Henry wanted to make it right before he left for Xerixes. He didn’t have much time before Kyburn would be expecting him, so Henry mustered the courage to knock on the door.

As he lifted his fist the door swung open, Sasha stood in the doorway. Her gorgeous red hair bounced off her shoulders, it flowed down her back making Henry gulp. Her eyes looked directly into his own, lost in her breathtaking eyes, Henry attempted to start the conversation.

He was cut short as she rushed forward and embarrassed him in a hug, “I’m sorry about last night. I don’t know what came over me.” she said in his ear.

“Not to worry. I didn’t consider you when I made my decision to leave, I should be the one to apologize.” Henry admitted out of thin air. Realizing her frustration and finally able to see it from her point of view. “I should have consulted you beforehand. I am sorry.” Henry saw it, he couldn’t believe he didn’t realize it before now. Sasha wanted him to consult her in his decisions. She was upset that he was leaving without a word to her first and made the decision without her.

Sasha pulled away looking surprised, “Thank you. I know how much Kyburn means to you. I do understand.” she sighed then looked away from him. “You don’t owe me an explanation. You are a grown man and you don’t need my permission to go places.”

“You’re right, I don’t need your permission,” Henry said bluntly.

Sasha looked up at him, she looked hurt and betrayed. Her nose slightly flared up, as it always did when she was upset. “Well, I…” she started to say.

Henry put up his hand, gesturing for her to wait. “I don’t need your permission, but I do want you to be a part of my decisions.” he could see her girlish smile escape her face. “Sasha, I’ve known you since I was a little boy. You were there for me when my parents died. Those were the hardest times of my life… and you saved me.”

Henry realized he didn’t know where he was going with this but it was too late to stop now. Sasha looked at him expectantly, waiting for him to continue.

“I-I guess what I’m trying to say is, I really like you, Sasha. Not just as a friend but more than that. I-I… I’d like to court you.” Henry said awkwardly, his face turning bright red in embarrassment.

Henry’s heart sank when he saw her reaction. “Henry,” she said seriously.

“I-I I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have said anything.” he panicked. Complete dread washed over him, he felt as if his heart was shattered.

“Henry.” Sasha grabbed his hand then jumped into his arms again.

He stumbled backward from her weight but quickly caught himself and held her in his arms. Henry was flabbergasted and utterly speechless.

“I’d like that.” Sasha pulled her head back from his shoulder. “I’d like that a lot.” her beautiful red hair covered half her face but Henry could easily see her eyes sparkling.

“Uhhh, I will never understand you.” Henry laughed.

She gave him an evil smirk and raised one eyebrow, “I had to get you back somehow.”

“You did…” Henry sighed heavily. “You are evil! I thought… that you…” he couldn’t finish.

“You thought that I was going to reject you?” Sasha finished for him.

“Well, yes.” Henry sighed again.

“I know,” she said quickly and smugly.

He couldn’t be mad at her for it. She looked so beautiful and her smile made him forget everything. Henry softly reached up and pulled her red hair from her face, gently hooking it around her ear. She went silent and only looked into his eyes. He bent his head down to kiss her.

“Eh um!” Mrs. Kebin said loudly from the window. Interrupting their kiss. She had been watching the whole time.

“Grandma!” Sasha hissed at her. “Were you spying the whole time?!”

“I can’t leave you two alone now can I?” Mrs. Kebin replied with a huff. “Henry, you keep your lips to yourself. And your hands too while you're at it.” she looked down at his hand on Sasha’s hip.

Sasha plopped her head into Henry’s chest, embarrassed.

“Hello Mrs. Kebin,” Henry said with a stupid grin. “I suppose you heard everything I said then, huh?”

“Yes,” she replied.

“I’ll be needing to talk to you then. Perhaps when I get back.” Henry suggested.

“Yes. You do,” she said seriously but winked at him through the window letting him know she was teasing him.

“You have a safe trip, you hear?” Mrs. Kebin said as she walked away, disappearing into the house.

Henry laughed a bit which made Sasha laugh with him, though she was still embarrassed that her grandma had been spying on them.

He looked down at her, “I need to go, Sasha.” noticing the sun coming up over the horizon and hitting the treetops.

“I know,” she said sadly into his chest. “When will you be back?”

“I honestly don’t know. Kyburn didn’t say when.” Henry told her.

“I’ll write to you, then,” Sasha said. “That way you won’t forget about me.” she paused. “You better not forget about me.” she tapped his shoulder.

“Trust me, I won’t forget about you. I’ll write you back and let you know how it’s going in the capital.” Henry said.

“You better!” she smiled at him.

Henry pulled away from her hug reluctantly and held her hand instead. “When I get back, we will talk more. I promise.”

“Okay,” Sasha said softly.

With that Henry, let go of her hand and walked towards the castle where Kyburn was waiting for him.