We returned to Cathopia, getting back was much easier than going up, mind saying that we both nearly ended up rolling back down the pathway. I prevented us from falling by using Larana’s winds to stabilise our descent.

“You are really handy, you know,” commented Brendan.

“You say that every time,” I laughed.

Before I could even go home, I needed to report what I found and did to the caverns to King Alton, who seemed to have been waiting with anticipation, the concern in his expression had remained until I told him everything; and the best part Dumah wasn’t present, just me and the king.

“Your Majesty,” I bowed. “I have destroyed the cavern as requested and I can report that the place had not been used in quite some time, just old bones and broken glass.”

King Alton let out the biggest sigh. “Thank you Fang.”

“You’re welcome.” The relief on his face was all the reward I needed for this one.

“I am surprised you have not asked me about it,” said King Alton.

“I am only here to carry out orders, plus I would not want to awaken any bad memories of the event, that is if you have some involvement in it,” I responded, even though I was dying to know.

“How thoughtful,” he smiled. “Again, thank you.”

I nodded. “If there isn’t anything else, I will head home for some well-deserved food.”

“Oh, that’s right you only just came back, when I made my request, my apologies Fang.” He acted as if he had done something wrong. “After claiming the twin lions, you must be exhausted.”

“A little, but nothing that would stop me from helping someone in distress,” I said.

“You best head home.” King Alton picked up a drink off the little round table next to him, grimacing before drinking it.

“See you later, your majesty.” I turned to leave.

“I am grateful Fang,” he called as I left.

“I know.” I waved. How bad must that place have been for the king to thank me three times. I would soon find out.

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Brendan and I headed home to the bakery, just as mum was closing up for the day.

“Mum,” I called.

“Alex,” she smiled, then stood there surprised as she saw Raziel. “So, you passed.”

“Oh yeah. Mum, Raziel and Arata but he’s not happy with me at the moment, I doubt he will ever be but oh well,” I introduced them.

“A pleasure,” she bowed.

Raziel bowed his head. “The pleasure is mine.”

“Hope you didn’t push my son too hard,” she was addressing Raziel.

“Nothing he could not handle,” commented Raziel.

“Mum.” I moved the subject on determined to find out what that place was. “The king asked me to destroy a place with glass tubes up in the mountains, connected to Queen Daz. Do you know anything about it?”

“The cavern?” she said.

“Yes,” I nodded. “I know it is connected to the king, but I don’t want to bring up bad memories for him, and well dad isn’t here to ask either considering they were both present.”

“Your power is still evolving and still will,” smiled mum. “I only know a little of what happened there, as I was not there,” she shook her head. “I am unable to give you all the details, but Larana can show you.”

“Larana?” I repeated.

“She was there during most of it,” informed mum. “She will have to take you a bit further back for you to understand both Queen Daz and King Alton’s connection, but also how it affected her.”

“How?” I questioned glancing at Brendan, wondering how Larana could show me something that happened before I was born.

“Your dad once did it, to see what happened to you during one of your tests,” I nodded remembering that. “Every talisman still carries the memories of every master they had,” explained mum. “When there is a strong connection between the two, they can share more than just power, being blood related also connects the past, present and even on rare occasions the future.”

“I see.” It all sounded interesting, but I didn’t quite understood what she was talking about.

“Just sit down in meditation and connect with Larana,” smiled mum. “She will guide you.”

“Okay,” I nodded slowly. “Thanks.”

“If you have to connect to Larana, tell me what you find out later,” said Brendan who had been listening to everything silently. “May she have the answers we seek.”

“Me to.” I went into my room alone, where I would have complete quiet. I set up some cushions on the floor before sitting down, legs crossed, hands relaxed in my lap.

“I’ve never done this before Larana,” I said. “You’ll have to help me.”

“Of course, master.” Larana appeared on my shoulder, sat the same as I was. “I will show you master, but remember you are only an observer, they cannot hear or see you.”

“Got it,” I nodded closing my eyes.

“Master you must also remain completely relaxed.” I nodded again, thinking I wish she’d just get on with it already.

I took in a deep breath, then out again. My thoughts focused on Larana sat upon my shoulder.

It took a while but eventually something happened as I felt our two powers pulse gently together. I felt the wind twisting around me, then everything went blank.