PART 1

Henry looked at Gus with admiration and a twinkle in his eyes. A brief bout of embarrassment for not realizing his identity sooner washed over him but quickly abated. He had had many conversations with the old man, unaware of who he was and his importance. Finally putting two and two together, it dawned on Henry the author of the book he had just received from Mrs. Kebin was also 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 sour.

The Historian 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.

“Why are you here?” Henry gaped. “I mean… how does a man of your fame end up in Zulin?”

“I retired here,” Gus shrugged. “This is the region Kyburn has charge over. I’ve known him since he was a boy and he offered me a cozy place to settle down in. Far from all the politics and drama, the city life brings.”

“Historians can retire?” Henry tilted his head, unsure how that worked when your whole life was dedicated to research and writing.

“I say retired but… I’ve never stopped working,” Gus said with a grin. “There’s just too much to record with only one lifetime. You can’t retire from that.”

“How long have you been in Zulin, sir?” Henry wondered. “I can’t remember more than a few years back when we first met.”

“It’s been four years now.” Gus pursed his lips thoughtfully. “But we didn’t officially meet until two years ago.”

“I see.” Henry tilted his head. “Do you still teach in any of the schools? I’d very much like to hear some of your lectures in Gould’s class.”

“I have all I need here. Kyburn keeps me busy by supplying me with everything.” Gus began. “I mostly record my own thoughts and theories. Or translate old manuscripts for the current generation. Gould, however, we don’t get along. That’s the short of it. If he’d ask me to give a lecture I would. But the fact he hasn’t made it extremely clear he doesn’t want me anywhere near his students.”

“But why?” Henry asked innocently. “You're a Historian. Most people would kill to have you speak to their students.”

“We disagree on… things.” Gus sputtered, his lips twitching. “Enough of that my boy.”

Henry was taken aback by the Historian, he was not what he expected but was truly delighted to meet the famous man he admired. Hearing stories and reading his work, Henry felt like he knew the man instantly but felt a sliver of guilt prickle up his spine again.

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

“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 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’m 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 smiled. “I’ve never met men quite like them.”

“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 for you and it helps them out tremendously in the process.” 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 think less of yourself just because you do it for money.”

“Oh, well, I don’t take their money either sir. In exchange for lessons, they bring me food.” 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.

Gus chuckled slightly then handed him a letter over the table, his face turning serious a moment later. “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 gripping swords with a thorn crown above, symbolizing the seal of the king.

“Judging from the look on your face you know who that’s from,” Gus said.

“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. Kyburn’s tall and muscular figure added to his well-dressed outfit.

“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. “We aren’t-”

“Henry, you need to lighten up. I’m only teasing you.” he interrupted. “But… 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,” Gus replied.

Henry had forgotten he still held the thick paper in his hands, “What is this all about?” He addressed the question to his lord.

“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 exactly how or why. All reports from its citizens are unconfirmed but extremely troubling. I would not ordinarily believe rumors, however, refugees are flooding to our borders and Tykin’s daily. King Erik is unaccounted for and is presumed dead. This is all unconfirmed but many are saying they woke a nest of Vog, which then attacked and are driving them out as we speak. Vlakias has fallen, that is for sure. Our emissaries have yet to return also. Thousands of reports of these 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 urged.

“I need your help old friend. I’ve sent word to all the lords on the northern border. If there is an attack on Xer we will be prepared, all our defenses are on high alert. What makes matters worse for us is Tykin has closed its borders and refused sanctuary for the Vulkirians. They also refuse to work with us. I know you can help with this chaos and perhaps your Historian can shed some light on the subject. It seems the Vog indeed exist and he is the expert on the matter. I need you both in the capital. It has been two days since Vulkirian citizens have asked for aid in my kingdom as of writing this letter.”

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. I know I can count on you. It seems history keeps repeating itself. And you’ve always seen the bigger picture. I need that now more than ever.

We have little time and still know so little. Come Xerixes as soon as possible. I need you, Kyburn.

King Xerath

Henry placed the letter down, letting it fall to the table. He turned to Kyburn, hoping for answers. “Why show me this?” he asked both of them.

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 capital.”

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

“Gus is too old to travel Henry. He must stay in Zulin, Gould and my captain 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. I hate to admit it but 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. “But why me?” he asked again. “I don’t know anything about these creatures and I certainly can’t help the king. Before today, I wasn’t even sure the Vog existed. Merely a bedtime story.”

“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 Vog.”

“So all of this is real? How much of it is true? Do they truly live in the mountains of Vulkira?” 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.”

“One question at a time.” Kyburn rolled his eyes, knowing Henry’s tendency to overreact through questions.

“Two weeks,” Gus butted in. “That’s how long the journey to Xerixes is and that’s how long you have to study my work. Much of what we know of the Vog are from the Historian in Vulkira but as you also know, he died many years ago. Most countries think the Vog are myths now. No one sees them but the Vulkirians.”

“Indeed.” Kyburn frowned. “That is why we need you to come with me. Xerath doesn’t fully believe it himself. Not many people outside of Vulkira have seen the Vog before. You will convince him otherwise, for we must act if we are to survive.”

“We don’t wish to frighten you, Henry. We want you to be prepared and convince the other kingdoms of what will come.” Gus shot a glance at Kyburn. “You must convince them to seek th-.”

“Gus!” Kyburn raised his voice and glared at him. “You are not at liberty.”

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

He noticed full well Kyburn’s outburst and it worried him further. Henry felt overwhelmed at the inclination of addressing powerful leaders.

“Lord Kyburn, you know you have my loyalty and I will forever be in your debt. Gratitude isn’t the half of it, but you are not telling me everything.” Henry said. “If I am to do what you ask, I need to know what I’m getting into. 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 and so is Gus, we cannot reveal too much to you, for it is not our place to do so. What the letter didn’t tell you was, king Xerath, long ago, concealed something from all but a trusted few. Only 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.” Kyburn looked him in the eye. “Will you trust me, Henry?”

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

“As you know, Gus and Belthar are what remained of the last Historians,” Kyburn began to explain. “Belthar died many years ago, as Gus just said, so it is Gus’s duty to inform Xerath of his research on all the things, Vog. You must take what Gus cannot, his mind. His knowledge. 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.

“This is a lot to take in,” Gus said. “But time is short, you must decide soon. You will be filled in, rest assured, when the time is right.”

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

“Yes,” Gus said bluntly.

“We know you have questions, Henry.” Kyburn gave Gus a glare over his shoulder again. “I will tell you the whole truth when the time is right, I swear,” Kyburn paused, then asked. “Will you do it? I need your help, Henry.”

Henry looked at the two men. Kyburn had watched over him and treated him like a son. 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?” Henry sighed heavily.

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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 far more serious but always greeted Henry with a nod of acknowledgment. He didn’t know them by name but always bid them a 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. It gnawed at him. It would take ample work and dedication but he knew he would manage to make up what he had missed.

Henry rounded the corner to Mrs. Kebin’s house and he saw Sasha sitting on their porch, waiting for him most likely. As always, she was breathtaking. Sasha had a small lamp to her side and was reading a book. 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. Henry watched as her flowing red hair lightly blew in the breeze. She paused momentarily to pull bits of it from her face, then continued 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 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 still wasn’t aware of his presence, fully engrossed in her book. He smiled inwardly and almost laughed but held it in. Finally unwilling to continue the prank he decided to make himself 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 smacked 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, grateful for the distraction.

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

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

He didn’t want to leave Zulin. He didn’t want to leave Sasha. Henry remembered the conversation with Kyburn and Gus and his mood turned dark, which Sasha immediately noticed.

“What’s wrong, Henry? Did something happen?” she asked, stepping closer to him.

“It’s… nothing. I’ll tell you later.” 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 hesitated. 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.

“What’s gotten into you?” Sasha raised an eyebrow, followed by an adorable smile.

“I-I…” he paused, once again struck with a blank mind. “I wanted to hold your hand,” he said stupidly. “I’ve always wanted to hold your hand.” he recovered with a more serious tone.

She tilted her head at that and winked. “Well it’s about time.” she giggled. “I’ve been waiting for you to make a move.”

“You have?” Henry’s jaw dropped.

It took several moments for him to compose himself. The thought of Sasha wanting him to make a move, her hand in his, an overwhelming sense of glee filled his every thought.

“You course, silly.” Sasha shook her head. “You know, you’re extremely smart, Henry, but you’re also extremely dim-witted.”

Henry chuckled, and grinned at her insult, knowing exactly what she meant. “Sorry.” he blushed again. “I’m not good at this.”

“That’s okay.” Sasha blushed with him. “I’m not either. But I’m glad.”

Henry paused, taking it all in, then the meeting with Gus and Kyburn invaded his thoughts again. His face turned sour and Sasha frowned.

Her face turned to worry. She remembered his concerned face from before and now, again. She obviously wondered what was bothering him but she said nothing, waiting for him to explain.

He led Sasha by one hand and opened the door, leading her through. Mrs. Kebin’s house wasn’t large but was an adequate size for two women. 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, noticing their hands clasped together.

They sat down quickly and 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.

Mrs. Kebin saw the worried look on Sasha’s face, then at Henry’s. She frowned and squinted her eyes at him, but said nothing 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, but this night he doubted he would eat much.

Again, Sasha tugged on his arm, demanding a response. “What’s wrong?” she whispered.

“I have something to tell you.” Henry addressed them both.

“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, placing it on the table, 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 shaking.

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 hold his hand?”

Henry winced, knowing how upset he would be if their positions were reversed.

“I only found out this afternoon.” he tried to touch her hand but she slid it away. “You know Kyburn is important to me! You know that. He is li-like a father to me,” Henry felt his own frustration rising. “I thought you would understand and support me on this. You're being unreasonable Sasha,” he said, but immediately regretted his words.

“Oh boy.” Mrs. Kebin groaned under her breath and leaned back in her chair.

“Unreasonable?” Sasha’s mouth dropped open. Her eyes flared green fire and for an instant Henry expected her to slap him.

She stood up and stormed off to her room and slammed the door. The room went silent and Henry frowned. He knew he should’ve been more sympathetic but he also knew she had to understand. He only wanted her to understand.

“Oh, my dear boy. Henry, you have much to learn.” Mrs. Kebin shook her head.

He looked at Mrs. Kebin who gave him a knowing look, still shaking her head at him.

“What do I do?” he asked simply. “I-I don’t want to leave things like this.”

“Then get up off your butt and talk to her.” she rolled her eyes. “If you love her, be gentle, and explain yourself. She’ll understand why you need to leave, even if she doesn’t like it. And apologize.”

Henry lowered his head. “Love?” he thought. “Do I love her?” he carefully pondered her words.

Regardless, he knew he had to make things right, even if he didn’t know how. He had to try. Sliding his chair out, Henry stood and walked over to Sasha’s door. Mrs. Kebin disappeared into her own room, giving them privacy.

“Sasha?” he knocked. “Sasha, can we talk?”

No answer.

“Sasha please.” Henry knocked again. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have said… those things.” he didn't know exactly what for but he took Mrs. Kebin’s advice in apologizing to her. “I-I know we will miss our picnic. I-I’ll make it up to you. I promise.”

Still no answer.

“I’m leaving in the morning.” Henry frowned, sighing heavily. “I’ll come by here before I leave.” he paused for a long moment. “I hope you’ll be here. So we can talk.”

He heard Sasha move, but no answer came, she remained silent.

He heard a dish clang against metal and he turned to see Mrs. Kebin scooping thick soup into a wooden bowl. The delicious smelling food wafted over to him and his mouth watered. He realized he hadn’t eaten all day.

Mrs. Kebin shoved clumps of meat and potatoes in before closing it with a wooden lid. She tied a thin cloth around the bowl and knotted it, giving him a hole for two fingers to squeeze through so he could carry it easily.

“You can eat when you get home.” she smiled. “Don’t worry, dear. She needs time to think.”

“Let her know I’ll be leaving when the sun comes up.” Henry lowered his head again. “Please. Tell her I-I’m sorry.”

“I will tell her dear, don’t you worry,” she assured him, handing him the wooden bowl.

“Thank you, Mrs. Kebin,” he said sadly.

He left the house and stopped on the porch.

“Chin up, Henry,” she called after him.

He frowned and stepped off the porch and realized he had left his books outside. He had totally forgotten them. He shook his head, berating himself in more ways than one, and quickly grabbed them before heading home.

PART 3

Henry woke before the sun rose but its rays sprayed upon the distant clouds. The cool morning air looked gray and smoky. The grass outside had frosted tips but was beginning to melt, making the ground wet. 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 swung onto his back. Kyburn would provide breakfast so Henry tried to ignore his growling stomach for now. Mrs. Kebin’s soup had been delicious but he was inevitably hungry again.

He stepped outside and took a deep breath. His lungs filled with the chilly air and he exhaled slowly. The sun made the clouds in the distance look as if they were on fire but the sun itself had yet to peek over the horizon.

He set off down the street and into town, making his way to Mrs. Kebin’s house once again. Henry wondered what he would say to Sasha. He wasn’t sure he fully understood why she was so upset with him last night. He tried to put himself in her shoes and he sympathized with her.

Henry mumbled inaudibly under his breath, wondering if Sasha just didn’t like him as much as he had 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 her. 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. Kyburn would know what to do.

At times, 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 asking Mrs. Kebin for permission for her hand. Courting her then having Sasha as a wife. The thought of having Sasha by his side, for better or worse calmed him and he liked to entertain 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 wanted to avoid but often found himself in. His emotions were sporadic and illogical when it came to her. “Maybe that’s exactly how she feels,” he mumbled under his breath.

Before long Henry came to Mrs. Kebin’s house and stood at the front door. He wanted Sasha to know how he felt, whatever was bothering her, he 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 the instant he arrived.

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 gaze, Henry attempted to start the conversation.

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

He was taken aback by her sudden change. It took him several moments to form a reply.

“I’m sorry too.” Henry stuttered.

“I just wish you would’ve included me in your decision.” Sasha took a step back and averted her gaze. “You owe me that much… right?”

Henry looked her up and down, her mannerisms, her attitude, even her voice was uncertain. Taking a deep breath he formed everything he wanted to say.

“I didn’t consider you when I made my decision to leave. I should’ve told you first.” Henry blurted out. “I should have consulted you beforehand. I’m sorry.” he apologized again.

Judging from her stance and words, he knew why she had been upset now. He didn’t involve her in his decision.

“Thank you. I know how much Kyburn means to you. I do understand.” she bit her lip. “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’s eyes shot up to his, the look of hurt and betrayal, covered her face. Her nose 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 the betrayal turn into confusion. “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 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 like you,” he said simply. “I want to court you. And I know this is the worst timing but I don’t care. I can’t stop thinking about you. You keep me awake at night just thinking about your smile. And your laugh.” Henry bit his lip, feeling himself grow hot. “I’ve liked you for some time now, and it was only yesterday that I could admit to myself that I cared deeply for you. Not just as a friend, but a companion. A wife.” he took a loud gulp and was sure she could hear it. “What I’m trying to say is… I want you to be part of my decisions from now on.”

Sasha blinked stupidly at him. She too bit her lip again and frowned, deep in thought.

“Henry,” she said seriously and his heart sunk out of his chest.

A pit of despair instantly shot through his body like a hot iron. She didn't feel the same way, he could see it on her face. And he had just admitted it all to her and made a complete fool of himself.

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

“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 sparkling green eyes.

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

She gave him an evil smirk and raised one eyebrow, “Nope. And 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 but followed up with a wink.

He couldn’t be upset with her. She looked so beautiful and her smile made him forget everything. Henry reached up and softly 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 kids 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?”

“Mh-hm,” she replied with an evil smirk of her own.

“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 approved.

“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 grandmother had been spying on them.

“I’m so sorry.” she giggled.

“It’s fine.” Henry chuckled.

He looked down at her and his mood changed abruptly. “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 poked his shoulder.

“Trust me, I won’t forget 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. “Will you be in Xerxies the whole time?”

“I believe so.” Henry frowned. “Again, Kyburn didn’t tell me much. It's all quite… secret.” he shrugged.

“Well…” Sasha yanked his head closer and she kissed him on the cheek. “I’ll be waiting for you.”

With that she pulled away and opened her door, leaving Henry, once again, dumbfounded and starstruck.

“When you get back…” she winked at him from the doorframe. “We’ll talk more.”

“Alright.” Henry raised one hand in goodbye.

She gave him one last smile of goodbye and closed her door.

Henry frowned in confusion. “I will never understand women,” he whispered.