Shielded in Broken Armours
Part Three - Rise of the Phoenix
Chapter Seventeen
The travel party arrived in Mnemon, Angelia's capital, on a heavily clouded day in the month of Ghrius. After more than a month of travel, it should have felt good to be back at home. It did, in a way; or at least that was what Marzio Zain-Reil thought. He had missed his homeland and his family, and yet...
It had taken them more than two weeks of travel to reach the Mauri Confederation, a union of three cites that made trade between Angelia and Demonis easier. Part of the road, from Aquiline and Gheest, had already been known to him, and from there a portion of the road to Tulse. Still, transition from summer to nearly winter had made the road hard to recognize. And where there had once been endless forests and waterfalls, now everything was preparing for the cold season, and the peaks of the Black Mountains were already covered in snow.
As they had gradually descended toward Mauri's plain, the temperature had risen a little, but not by much. Soon, the familiar sight of the three riverbank cities had greeted them, and they had said their farewells to the Demon escort which had accompanied them. For Marzio, who had befriended most of the riders, it had been a sad leave-taking, for it meant leaving behind Demonis and all that it had meant for him, and most importantly Ignis - Ignis, who had been with him in spirit for the entire trip.
In Tulse, another escort had awaited them, this time of the Angelian cavalry. Most of these men knew Marzio and had greeted the High Commander with an open heart, if not even relief he was now free from Demon imprisonment. The general had found it hard to explain to them why he was not as content as he should have been, or at least as content to go to Mnemon as the Lords of the War Council were.
Unfortunately, Ceni Mah-Kel, Marzio's Second-in-Command, had not been able to come greet them himself, which had left Marzio brooding for the rest of the trip. There were very few people he trusted, and Ceni was one of his closest friends and confidents. He would have liked to share with him all he had experienced, but now it had to wait for at least another two weeks. The only good thing about it was he could probably get away easier by speaking to both Ceni and Princess Selena at the same time.
The only major break in their journey had been made in Scyris, the centre of the province Scyria; the rest of the trip had been another chain of inns and guest houses, and the general could now easily compare them to their Demon equivalents. He had had many things to consider, this time, and a different approach on things. It had been strange, to find he had changed quite a bit in the past few months. Or, perhaps, not surprising at all...
At any rate, the moment they reached Mnemon he did feel a certain relief, even if it would be a short-term one.
Unlike the Demon capital, Mnemon had pretty much maintained its initial aspect of a citadel and at its centre was the ancient castle that had served as home for the Royal Family since the beginning of known times. Around it rose the equally ancient city walls, compete with defence towers that were still in use. The only difference from the original plans in this area were the streets, which had been widened sometime in the seventh century.
Around this core newer buildings had been built as the city had developed until the sixth century, when Angelia had faced an attempted invasion of the desert tribes and another fortification belt had been built, this time in stone rather than clay bricks and wood. Then came the newest part of the city with the final fortifications added not a century before Marzio's birth. All in all, the city consisted of three concentric circles each containing its own share of buildings, from which the newest section was Marzio's favourite. He even owned a small house there, to get away from the castle when he felt like it.
It was just past noon when they entered the city, and the people who had dared venture out were more than they would have been had it been raining. It was only natural for them, therefore, to stop whatever they had been doing and look at the carriage directed towards the castle, even more so because there were so many guards escorting it. From there, it was just a matter of time until somebody recognized one of the hooded riders as General Marzio Zain-Reil, and a roar erupted from the crowd as the name passed from mouth to mouth.
Marzio let out a small sigh of relief when the crowd did not start throwing things at them; on the contrary, the people seemed actually happy to see him. That didn't change the fact that, if he was there, they would also know who was in the carriage - namely the Lords Kelan, Elssi and Angus. He was extremely thankful that the crowd didn't try to storm the carriage until they reached the castle.
Still, he found it harder and harder to explain the relieved looks on people's faces; his mind told him they were happy the Demons had not harmed them, but his heart protested against that notion. More and more he had been divided between the old beliefs that had been instilled into him his whole life and his recent revelations.
He needed more time to think, to find a balance between old and new - but he couldn't afford that right now. He had to see King Teh-Kai first, go through various discussions he generically named 'interrogation sessions', and then take care of various military issues that undoubtedly required his immediate attention. (Envisioning his desk filled with piles of paperwork didn't do much for his morale.) But hopefully it would all be done in a month or so, and he would be able to take a vacation around Midwinter, in which he was planning on going back to Meralda and spend a few weeks with his family. By the gods, he needed it badly!
The guards on duty at the castle's gate saluted him merrily, which helped lessen his dark mood by a few degrees. There was an official reception awaiting them that evening, if one were to judge by the great fuss of pages and servants webbing through the courtyard. A small welcoming party awaited them near the main entrance, and another jolt of happiness ran through Marzio's heart as he noticed Ceni Mah-Kel was one of the people there. He had missed his best friend during all these months, and he was the captain had made it home all right.
There was a short commotion when the Lords of the War Council left their carriage - Kelan threw him another poisoned glare but Marzio pretended not to see it as he dismounted - and the general caught words of worry, reassurance and even happiness among the highborn gathered there. He wondered what would happen when they noticed he was there while removing his hood and handing the reins of his horse to one of the stable-hands, but Ceni was quicker than anyone.
"You made it!" his Second-in-Command exclaimed excitedly. "I never thought it would be so good to see you again!"
Marzio was pulled into an enthusiastic embrace that nearly crushed the air out of his lungs and gave his friend a mocked glare as he was released.
"That is hardly a good reason to asphyxiate me," Marzio pointed out, but couldn't hide the smile that came freely to his lips. "But I'm glad to see you as well." He gave Ceni a look over, noticing the slightly different uniform. "Lieutenant-Colonel, is it? Well then, I suppose things can't be too bad after all."
Ceni shook his head as he impatiently pulled Marzio after the already departing herd of courtiers. "No, but His Majesty wants to see you as soon as possible. Thankfully he's had plenty of time to mellow down. It seems there are plenty of highborn who didn't approve of this war, and they all spoke in favour of a peace treaty with Demonis."
"I know. Lord Roland Bela-Fer told me about it before we left Aquiline. He seemed very enthusiastic to start working on it; almost as enthusiastic as Ig- Prince Sagni-Dor." He hid his slip behind a cough; he'd have to get used to not calling Ignis by name, at least in public.
Ceni kept a blank expression at the mentioning of the Demon sovereign, though Marzio knew his friend was dying to find out more details about the prince. But it would have to wait until later on.
King Raresh Teh-Kai, an elderly man with whitening light auburn hair and amber eyes, received them in his private office rather than the Throne Hall. Marzio was thankful for it, and of the fact he went in before Lord Kelan. It was a short meeting, and the king looked suspiciously detached; he could only hope the meeting he would have with Kelan Loreh-Ven later on wouldn't change his mood too much. He was asked about how they had been treated by the Demons, if he had learned something useful during his stay, and so on. Then he was politely dismissed, and the king's secretary informed him there would be a council meeting in two days to discuss their defeat in the war. Marzio, having agreed with Ignis that what happened had not been an actual war - a single battle couldn't be called that - but regretfully a slaughter, nodded emphatically and asked the secretary to make sure Lord Kelan gave King Teh-Kai the letters the Prince of Demonis had entrusted to him, and then gracefully and quietly retired, hoping to finally catch up on his rest.
The following day, Marzio organized a quick inspection of the troops stationed in the castle, mainly to reacquaint himself with such duties, gave his office a quick dust-over, glared at the pile of official documents that waited for his attention, which was actually smaller than he had expected, and sent someone to track down the now Lieutenant-Colonel Mah-Kel to ask him about it.
Ceni showed up and they went to lunch, during which he informed Marzio that he had indeed taken care of some paperwork in his stead, because otherwise they would have threatened to overflow not only the general's desk, but probably the floor as well. The rest of the meal was spent in relative silence from Marzio as he listened to a quick review of what had transpired since they had parted ways nearly four months before.
Still, he refused to give in to his friend's inquiring looks until after lunch, when he got up and motioned for Ceni to follow him, taking the shortest route toward the small garden that had been created near the castle. The weather was still bleak, which meant there would be very few people who would come take a walk in the garden; besides, most of the highborn were having their afternoon rest at that hour.
"Ask away," he said when the occasional guards saluting them and congratulating Marzio on "escaping the Demons' hold" became rarer and he was fairly certain nobody would hear what was being said by either of them.
Ceni's face lighted at this, but Marzio's somewhat nostalgic expression kept his voice from being too enthusiastic.
"So, how was your stay in Aquiline?"
Marzio couldn't help a small smile. "Very good, thank you. I was fed, clothed and spoiled rotten. I was even taken out hunting and enjoyed it, unlike a certain moody advisor."
"Ohh... Marzio, Marzio!" Ceni tsked, his good humour restored at Marzio's positive reaction to his question. "You didn't take too much advantage of Prince Sagni-Dor's generosity, did you now."
"Ceni, curiosity never became you. Although I think Ignis could say the same about me. But I did not have to take advantage of his generosity, because it was all freely offered, and I even had to refuse certain things. If you think my uncle's hospitality is great, then you should spend a week as Ignis' guest and I can guarantee you will quickly change your opinion."
"And? Anything else I should know?"
Marzio groaned, knowing well what he was asking about, but just as he was about to reply a high-pitched female voice called out, "Marzio! Wait for me!"
Marzio knew the young woman running down the hallway, a concerned older woman on her trail, very well. Princess Selena had matured a little since he had left, but she had the same pale blue eyes and wheat-blond hair he remembered, and her joyous voice filled the sober corridor as she threw herself at the general.
The general opened his arms to catch her and hold her still at the same time, and laughed heartily as she hugged him. "Oh, Marzio! You're back! I was afraid we had lost you to that horrible Prince of Demonis. Lord Kelan says he is such a cruel being!"
Marzio was not surprised that Kelan would spread vicious rumours concerning Ignis. He wondered what the old man had to say about him, though. He would probably have to defend his honour and family name when he set foot at Court again.
He was now seriously considering going home to Meralda after he concluded all his business in Mnemon for that year.
The old nurse caught up with her ward, which was still hugging Marzio, and made an angry face at them. "Your Highness, it is not proper for a Princess to run like that through the hallways. Not to mention throw yourself at a man in such an unbecoming manner."
Selena Teh-Kai pouted, slipping away from Marzio's arms. "And what business is it of yours? I am in my free time now, and I am not a little girl anymore so stop following me around!"
Marzio grinned at the nurse over the princess' blonde head. "Don't worry, Elissa, you know she's safe with me. I'll keep any vicious courtiers away from Her Highness and bring her to her rooms unharmed."
Elissa threatened him with a finger. "You'd better take good care of my angel, General Zain-Reil, or you will not hear the end of it!" Then she turned and walked back the way she came, shooting glances behind her when she thought the three were not looking.
Selena quickly straightened the skirts of her gown with a hand and took on a proud stance. "Welcome back General Zain-Reil," she said gravely and offered Marzio her small hand.
The general took it in his and kissed it reverently, smiling at his young friend. "It is a pleasure to be back, Your Highness. I am glad to find you in such good health."
Then he grinned and grasped her around her slim waist, spinning her around once while she cried out in surprise. Setting her back on her feet, he offered her his arm which she kindly accepted like the well-bred princess she was supposed to be. They started walking through the corridor, Ceni one step behind. For some reason, Ceni and Selena had never gotten along quite well, but for as long as he was there they would likely not try to insult each other in any way. Besides, he had gotten his wish: he wouldn't have to answer the same questions more times than necessary.
Mnemon was much warmer than Aquiline, especially in winter, so the three found a deserted bench and sat down so Marzio could give them all the answers they wanted in relative privacy.
Selena was the first one to question him. "So tell me, did they really keep you closed in your rooms and only let you out every now and then? Lord Kelan said he's had such a horrible time, not being able to breathe without anyone watching!"
Marzio gave her a worried look. "Is that what he says? Because I was under the impression he was as free to roam the castle as I was, and I never saw one guard following him."
"Then Prince Sagni-Dor didn't keep you locked up? He didn't force you to betray Angelia?" she asked, looking at him with widened eyes.
Marzio shook his head. "Ignis had no need to interrogate us, he already knew all he wanted to know through his spies. Quite the contrary, he was a very kind person who tried to make our stay there as pleasant as possible."
Ceni chuckled at this, and Selena looked at both to see what was so funny. "And he's not a cruel tyrant?"
"No, he is a wonderful human being. I think you would really like him if you met him."
"Yes, princess, you probably would," Ceni intervened. "Marzio seems to have liked him quite a lot."
Selena jumped up at the words and turned to the general. "Really? He and you? That is so romantic! But... does father know?" she asked cautiously. "Marzio, say you haven't told father! He would be extremely furious!"
"No, princess, I haven't told your father; nor am I planning to. And I trust you will keep this little secret."
She smiled up at him. "Oh, Marzio, of course I will. There is nothing more romantic than forbidden love!"
Well, Marzio honestly didn't see it as romantic as she did, but he supposed young women should be allowed to dream, especially in Angelia where they rarely could do anything else. However he was certain she would not say a word, although she would squeeze every little detail out of him. Unlike her father, Selena had a quick and inquisitive mind, and had she been born a man she would have become a great sovereign. As it was, he could only hope that things would either change in Angelia, or that her husband would listen to her advice.
"So, what's he like?" she asked, peering up at him from under lowered lashes. "If you liked him, he can't look anything like those silly gossips at Court describe him. He has no eyes that burn your soul, right?"
"Well, that is perhaps the only half-true thing they say about him. He has incredible eyes, dark burgundy in colour, and he does have the ability of reading people very easily. But that is all. And he is very, very beautiful. Ceni saw him, so he can confirm this."
Ceni nodded from next to him. "He would look very Angelian, if he had white wings and no accent."
"Really?"
"Yes," Marzio confirmed. "He has waist-long red hair and very pale skin. I thought he was a half-breed at first, but apparently there is no drop of Angelian blood in his veins. And he is everything a true prince should be like; which is probably why he has such an impact on everybody. The women are crazy about him - it was a bit embarrassing for me at first."
"And you and he... you know?" Selena asked.
Marzio blushed. "Yes, we did," he confessed.
"I knew it!" Ceni declared. "I knew you would!"
"But isn't that bad? I mean, you were his hostages and he was the enemy and..."
Marzio smiled. "Easy, Selena. All that is good and true, but Ignis is not the type to force information out of someone that way. In fact, I was repeatedly assured he doesn't mix business with pleasure and warned not to take advantage of his kindness. Hell, General Neri-Lokh threatened she'd kill me if I harmed their precious Prince in any way."
"Hn. She seemed like the type," Ceni mumbled, his comment almost forgotten as Selena wanted to know everything about what Demonis was like, and the discussion turned into a description of the land as Marzio saw it. He took great care to outline the fact that Demons were not too different from Angelians, but that their mentality was very different from what Angelian philosophers and politicians claimed it to be. He could see the princess practically feeding on his words, her youthful curiosity winning over indoctrinated beliefs. Perhaps that was the way to follow, then - showing the younger generation how old-fashioned Angelian mentality was.
"They are extraordinarily open to new ideas," he finally said, "and eager for peace. And yet they would die to protect their homeland from invaders. Ignis in particular told me that the path to peace is hard, and even with a peace treaty they wouldn't stop training soldiers, because that would mean that they would forget how to protect their land. He said that a piece of paper and an empty promise cannot defend a person against a well-aimed arrow or a sharp sword."
Ceni nodded. "He sounds a bit like Lord Tanis Seer-Nis. Too bad your uncle's friend is dead, I'm sure he would have been a useful emissary to our delegation."
Marzio wavered, not knowing if he should tell them that Tanis was still alive, and had been Ignis' teacher. Lord Roland had been thrilled to have Tanis act as an intermediary between Demons and Angelians, but he was the only member of the delegation that knew the old strategist was alive and their collaboration was a well-kept secret.
"There are other pacifists in the Council," Selena informed them merrily. "I'm sure this peace treaty will have plenty of support. But father is still a little upset about the army's failure. I'm not sure he holds you responsible, Marzio; and I think it was Lord Loreh-Ven's fault. But nobody cares about what I think." She pouted a little and stood up abruptly. "It's not fair! They treat women as equals in Demonis! Why don't we?"
Ceni seemed a bit outraged, but Marzio simply shrugged. "With a bit of luck, one day we will. If we open our borders and allow Demon culture to influence us, it will happen. Hopefully we'll all come to work out our differences and become one people again."
"That will be hard," Ceni intervened. "Not everybody is as tolerant as you two. Some of us still see the Demons as inferior, you know..."
"Oh, come on! I know you were in favour of the peace talks!" Selena pointed a finger at Ceni accusingly.
"That has nothing to do with it! Tradition demands that we don't mix with Demons!" Ceni retaliated.
Marzio groaned as they kept on arguing. "Enough! Selena, you shouldn't act like this. You are the Princess Heir of Angelia, after all; you should express your ideas gracefully, not by yelling at people. And Ceni," he turned to his other friend, "you shouldn't defend a position you don't believe in. Selena is right, you supported the peace delegation. And as far as I recall you also practically gloated in knowing that I would have a relationship with Ignis if I stayed in Demonis... so you're not one to talk against mingling with Demons. Besides, don't think I didn't catch you checking out General Neri-Lokh when you thought no one was looking."
Ceni's eyes went wide as Selena burst into laughter.
Chapter Eighteen
Marzio made it to Meralda by Midwinter, just as he had hoped. Unfortunately, his other hope - that he would forget about Ignis for a while - did not come true. As days and weeks passed by, he had felt the prince's absence keener than he had before, especially now that he was surrounded by people he knew and who knew him. Their presence was welcomed... but something was missing.
He'd also run across some of his former lovers in Court. And while he liked having his friends around, his former lovers were an entirely different story - especially those who had tried to get him back into their bed for however long they were willing to this time. He found this utterly disgusting - and them rather plain compared to Ignis. He knew it was not at all a fair comparison, but he couldn't help making it every time someone showed interest in him. He found himself looking at red-haired courtiers more than he looked at others, but he was still not satisfied. That something was still missing.
Finally he'd given up on the idea of finding a new lover anytime soon - technically he and Ignis had never broken up, had they? - and abandoned Mnemon for a few quiet weeks spent with his family.
Everyone at Meralda Castle had been overjoyed to have him back, from his family to the lowest servant. He found himself cosseted from the day he'd gotten there, and treated as if he had been gone for ages, not a mere year and a half. He had missed them as well, and delighted his niece and nephew with stories of his exploits.
Still, that did not explain why he spent most of his nights awake, exploring the castle that had housed many generations of the Zain-Reil family and which should have made him feel at home, yet did not. It didn't account for him daydreaming about things beyond his reach.
And it did not account for him being all alone in the library two nights before the Midwinter Festival, leaning against the cold glass of a window with his gaze lost in the distance.
Just like his friends and acquaintances, his family had noticed the changes in him, but had yet to confront him about this. Therefore it was no great surprise when his uncle approached him that night.
Marzio had not heard him come into the room, but he had been lost in thought for nearly two hours so to him it was understandable. There was only one man who could have made him aware of his presence the instant he was in the room, and it wasn't Lord Derek Zain-Reil. Therefore the hand on his shoulder startled him a bit, and he turned questioning green eyes on his uncle.
The Count looked young for his age, which was nearing its sixth decade. He was a bit shorter and sturdier than Marzio, and his hair was nearly white now. Yet his eyes had not changed, of a dark blue colour and betraying wisdom. Derek had been in the army as a youth, but had not made a career out of it as had Marcus, his elder brother and Marzio's father. Instead, he had been the one in charge of the family's estate, and had done a great job in Marzio's opinion. Sadly, he had never married and had no children of his own; it had come as no great surprise when he had practically 'adopted' his brother's family after Marcus' death and had named Marzio his heir.
And now, he was there to confront his nephew about whatever troubled him. And the young general was not sure he was ready to speak about it just yet.
There was a short silence before Derek asked Marzio to sit down and talk to him. The younger Angelian nodded and did as told, not certain what he could tell his uncle and what he should keep to himself. After all, Derek was one of the 'old school' Angelians and there was no way to predict his reaction at the news that his nephew was in love with the Prince of Demonis. Still, there were other matters, such as those Marzio had already discussed with Ceni and Selena, and they were a much safer topic. The count may have been 'old school', but he was also tolerant and open-minded.
Marzio's discoveries about the Demons' nature and the differences between Angelian beliefs and reality were met with a raised brow, but as he continued his explanation as to why he though diplomatic relations with Demonis had to be improved Marzio was amazed to see his uncle nod several times.
"Ideas such as these will be frowned upon in many circles," he finally said. "But I can understand their appeal to you. And while many people will not understand them, the younger generation can be influenced much easier. If a long-term peace treaty between our lands is achieved, mentality is bound to change due to the cultural exchange. Still, I am not overly-confident in this treaty project the Demons have come up with."
Marzio shook his head. "It is a revolutionary concept, uncle. I read it, and could see little wrong with it. I'm sure they will come to a settlement that is beneficial to both sides. From what I have seen, the Demons are very open to other cultures, ours in particular. Think about the Mauri Confederation and what has been accomplished there!"
A shadow ran over Lord Derek's face. "Yes, it is true. The Confederation is a perfect example of cohabitation and collaboration between our two people. Yet I doubt Prince Sagni-Dor will be careless to open his borders to everyone once a peace treaty has been signed. From what you tell me, he is much too clever to make such a great mistake."
Marzio, who had taken care not to talk about Ignis unless he did it in the most detached way he could manage, could not help startle a bit at his uncle's mention of his beloved.
"Yes, he is... an extraordinary person," he replied, his eyes positively glowing at a more private memory of the red-haired Demon. "He had a great influence on me," he finally admitted, to his uncle as well as to himself.
Derek's gaze darkened at that. "I can see that you have indeed changed a lot, and hope it's for the better. But I want you to listen to my advice. I know that the Demons are an appealing people to us, but their influence is not always a good thing. I too have been fascinated by them in my youth, and that experience has left a bitter taste in my mouth. I cannot say it will be the same with you, as your experience was different from mine. But promise me you will be careful, and not take everything you saw or heard when you were among them at eye value. I hope you have not been deceived, but still it would be better to be cautious when it comes to trusting a Demon. You never know what surprises he has in store for you."
Derek's bitter tone was clear, and Marzio wondered what had happened to make his uncle think that way. Yet he did not wish to upset him, so he promised to think things over again. He did not believe Ignis had deliberately deceived him... but could he have done it unintentionally?
The thing was, he realized after his uncle had left, that it did not matter. He still missed Ignis more than he'd thought it possible, and the more time he spent away from him the more his longing grew.
On the other side of the Mauri, things were not going much better.
The Midwinter Day celebration was the usual loud and lavish affair, with all the important families attending the celebrations at Court and everybody reminiscing what the year had been like for them and sharing stories with anyone that was willing to listen.
All those present seemed to be in good spirits... All safe him, that is. Ignis, seated in his regular place at the high table, tried his best not to let his foul mood show and pretend he was actually interested in what was being said to him. He masked a yawn fixing his eyes on the man speaking to him over the table, a young thing he had not seen before but whose parents had to have enough money to introduce their son at Court. He could not remember the youth's name, nor could he remember those of all the others that had spoken to him that evening.
To the Prince of Demonis, life had lost its taste. He was aching. And the worst thing was he had begun to alienate himself from his friends, spending more and more time buried in work. The more he kept busy, the less time there was for memories to invade him, for him to think of Marzio.
Seated next to him, Sanja had made another off-hand comment. He knew that because Tempesta was rolling her eyes, annoyed with the other woman. It was just as well - he had no idea what Lavian's niece had said. To him, the whole congregation was moving in slow motion. He could see people laughing, drinking too much, dropping their food, flirting, trying to sneak out with a lover or a bed companion and find an empty room.
It was that which bothered him most. He could have anyone in there, had he wished to. But the only one that he wanted was not present, and he did not even know if he would see the man again.
"... and it would be wonderful if you could attend, my lord. Oh please, will you come?"
He sighed. Where did the accursed woman want to take him this time? "I'm sorry, my lady, but I am extremely busy these days. I am trying to improve the efficiency of..." Of what? He had no idea what to tell her, he had already come up with all the possible excuses.
"Our southern commercial routes," Tempesta offered.
"But you were working on that one month ago!" the woman complained.
"Well, I was not satisfied with the result!"
His voice had been loud enough to interrupt all conversation at the adjoining tables. Damn! He held his forehead in one hand and fought the sudden desire to scream. He was getting angry. He never got angry. Jaded, annoyed, nervous perhaps, but not angry. He had to get out of there, and soon!
He got up. "Please excuse me. I am not feeling very well tonight. It must be all the wine. Have a pleasant evening."
"Good night, Your Highness," several dozen mouths said at the same time.
He made for the nearest door and hurried down the corridor with no precise destination. Things were beginning to get out of hand, and that was never a good sign. Not for him, who had always been able to control his emotions. All he felt now was a great emptiness eating his insides, getting hold of him every time he closed his eyes.
'Why do I have to keep going on like this? Why can't I forget him?'
Without realizing it, he approached the palace gardens. Everything was covered in a thick layer of snow, small stars glittering surreally in the night light. No windows here, no candlelight to spoil the moon's gilding on the pure white. Strangely, it was not excessively cold either. Alone under an arch, the prince felt he was part of a large spell that shrouded this little piece of the world, and his heart with it.
He had to try and forget the bitterness. It was not the end of the world. He had to move on, like he had already done three times before.
'Yes, but this time it's different. He isn't dead.
'I wonder what he's doing tonight. Has he found someone to keep him warm, or is he feeling as cold and alone as I do?'
"My lord, there you are!"
He startled and turned to see who dared disturb him. Sanja again. It seemed the woman never got tired of stalking him. He had to put an end to this, and soon; or he might do something he would later regret.
"What is it now?" he asked passively, keeping his eyes on the snow-covered path guarded by evergreens.
"My Lord Prince, I cannot help but notice you have been extremely weary these past weeks."
'And here you are ready to revel in it!' He kept the thought to himself. "Lady, I have an excessive amount of work, and it requires my full attention."
"But you hardly come down to dinner anymore! You missed my coming of age party!"
'I know, you stubborn goat! And I did it on purpose, in case you haven't noticed!' "My apologies, I have had the tendency to lose track of time lately. Now, what was it that you wished again?"
She looked at him with puppy eyes, smiling shyly at him, as if she had been taken aback by his question. "My Lord Prince, if I do not ask too much... I was wondering if you would be free to accompany me to the ball Lady Teresa is having in two weeks' time."
'So you can brag about it for months to come, and have everybody think we do a lot more than share the occasional dance,' he completed the phrase in his mind. 'How predictable.' He pretended to think about it a little. "Let me see... Lady Teresa is having a party when? Oh yes. But I am afraid I have an official meeting that evening, and it would be absolutely impossible to reschedule it."
"Your Highness, why are you doing this?" she suddenly cried out, and gripped his arm as if she was drowning and he was her only way to salvation. "Why do you always push me away? You know I would do anything for you, anything. Just tell me what you wish and it shall be done. Should I lie at your feet and beg for your attention? I can do that. Only please, let me... let me love you!"
He was sick of her, sick to the point of nausea. "You don't get it, do you?" he said coldly, pulling himself from her grip so powerfully she was forced to take a few steps back in order to regain balance. "All that I want - all that I ever wanted - is to be left alone! You irritate me. I don't want anything to do with you, or any of your annoying friends!"
His voice had been devoid of all emotion. He could not feel a thing for her, not even pity. She was just another one in a row. Marzio had been so much more than that...
"But my prince..." Sanja tried.
"Don't call me that! Don't ever call me that!" He took a step forward giving her a look that could have frozen a river. Only Marzio could call him that, on such a tone. "Did you really think that I wouldn't find out about what you and your accursed uncle have so carefully planned? Well think again. I know very well what you are after, lady. And you are not going to get it."
She looked up at him, terrified. "Who told you such lies, my lord? Who told you these terrible things? I swear, they are not true! All I want is..."
"... to get into my bed, have me get you pregnant and then force me to take you as my Consort. Yes, I know." His voice was malicious now. "If you really want to do me a favour, remove yourself from my presence. I want nothing to do with a leech! Are you still here? Go on, run away!" he snarled at her. She took off instantly, tripping on her overflowing dress several times before she was out of sight.
He returned to watching the moonlit garden. It seemed some semblance of inner peace had returned to him. At least he would not have to fend Sanja off on every occasion anymore. He doubted she would still say she loved him after this little display. She was weak - he did not like them weak. He needed someone who could take care of himself, who would be his equal in certain aspects. He needed someone who would make him laugh at his ingenuity, who would be unconsciously overprotective and always willing to experiment something new. Someone who would be content with an embrace and not ask him to do things constantly.
Who was he trying to fool? He needed Marzio. The Angelian High Commander was all he could think of. He didn't know why he had bothered not to admit it
Footsteps made him put his thoughts aside once again and turn to face this new intruder. He sighed; he had nothing to fear from her, at least. He even tried his best to smile as she approached.
"What happened to Lavian's niece? She burst into the hall in hysterics. They had to carry her to her room."
"Good." He looked at the snow that had begun to fall slowly, reaching out to capture some of the flakes. They fell on his gloved hand and melted almost instantly. He rested his back against one of the columns supporting the arcade and sighed. "Is there anything else you want to tell me?"
"Why won't you tell anyone what troubles you, Ignis? You can't go on like this, you know."
He could sense her honest-felt concern. All she wanted was to know he was not in any danger, and that whatever bothered him would pass. The Prince of Demonis could not afford to show weakness in front of his enemies. They would instantly take advantage of it.
"I tried to forget, but there is no way I can get him out of my mind."
"Marzio?"
He nodded.
"You still love him, don't you?"
"Worse. I am madly in love with him. And you know what the worst part is? I couldn't bring myself to tell him this. I was too busy worrying whether he was really the one or I was just trying to convince myself." He leaned his head back and stared at the sky. "She was right, Tempesta. I am not the only one to decide if this is going to happen now, or not at all."
"Ignis, you are getting cryptic here. I can't understand a word of that last phrase."
Another sigh. "Don't worry, you don't have to. Let's just say that, if he does not come back to me, all I have struggled for might have been in vain, and we might have butchered a few thousand Angelians for nothing. How long do you think this peace treaty will last? Until I am dead, if we get lucky."
Tempesta placed a hand on his shoulder. "You worry too much. You never know... maybe someone will show up and sweep you off your feet. Another handsome soldier, only Demon this time?"
She hit a nerve there, though he could not hold it against her. She was only trying to get him out of this sour mood.
"Sorry to disappoint you, but it is either Marzio or no one at all. He is, after all, my soul-mate. However, to answer your question: yes, I am going to stop acting like all my ships have drowned, and concentrate on more mundane matters from now on."
She glared at him. "How did you...?"
"Know you were about to ask me that? Does it really matter? I'll go to bed now. And when I wake up in the morning, the Angelian delegation would do well and be ready to finally discuss those damned details of the treaty we haven't settled yet."
The Demon Supreme Commander watched her friend and liege leave, curiosity creeping all over her. Ignis had called Marzio Zain-Reil his soul-mate. She wondered if that could possibly be true, if the handsome Angelian had meant a little more for her prince than a lover.
And the puzzling words... who was the mysterious woman Ignis brought up every now and then, and whose opinion had repeatedly topped those of his advisors? She sighed, looking at the marvellous snow-covered vision of the garden. She would probably not find out, the prince could be impossibly secretive when he chose to. She was certain he had told Keefer. Master of the Monastery and Ignis' beloved teacher, the old Dreak was the only Luminate in the land, the only one to be offered the guidance of the Sorceress.
Actually, she had walked in on them in the middle a discussion involving the mystical creature once. And even now, it seemed strange how Ignis had replied 'I know exactly what you must have felt like' when Master Keefer had accounted one of his particular vivid dreams...
Tempesta's hand landed on her forehead hard enough to make it sting.
'Vivid dreams! Why haven't I thought of it before? Perhaps... perhaps the old Dreak isn't the only Luminate in the land, after all!'
But it would be too much, even for Ignis. He was not only a charming and intelligent young man and a skilled warrior; he was also gifted with the Healing Touch, and carried the problems of a whole country on his shoulders. Surely, he was a good ruler, although it had cost him very much to achieve that. His private life was all he had left that was somewhat his own, and that was not much better at that particular moment. Also, all the Princes and Princesses of the House of Sagni-Dor had displayed a particular talent at reading people like an open book. There was even an old story about an eccentric Prince who could read people's minds, though that must have been pure fantasy.
But if you added to all that he gift of Vision that was offered by the Sorceress' guidance, you were presented with a lethal combination. And Ignis was of course Chosen...
Another slap followed the first; then the general began laughing madly. This couldn't be... it was too good to be true...
'Ignis, the Chosen Prince! Lavian would have a stroke!' And a Luminate also - when it was commonly known that the haughty High Priest had not once been gifted with a Vision, in spite of his position. 'Come to think of it, Ignis also had something to do with that particular revelation... Ah, my sneaky friend, you should have told me something of such proportions was in the making!'
It was all in the Prophecy, and so far she had been completely blind. The thousandth year, the Chosen Prince, a war between the lands, the coming of the Angel of Peace... If these events were indeed the same ones taking place right then, she had a fairly good idea who the latter would be. 'Why General Zain-Reil, no wonder he didn't want you killed. And the two of you were lovers... I never thought you could be that important!'
Holding her head, Tempesta swiftly made her way back into the banquet hall. She needed wine, and badly. Suddenly, getting drunk was a bright prospect to confronting the prince about this matter. A good headache would account for her crazy ideas when she woke up the following day, and she would just blame it on her inebriated mind.
Or so she hoped.
Chapter Nineteen
Upon his return, Marzio found the people of Mnemon getting restless, and there had been revolt at nearly every inn he had stayed in on his journey. Things did not seem to go too well between the monarch and his council, and added to the fact that taxes had been high that winter it was no wonder the common people were discontent with the government. Still, he forced himself to withhold judgement until he got to see how things were at the palace, and what exactly the government's new policy was.
The Royal Castle was bursting with activity even in mid-winter, of course, but that year the nobles seemed more subdued. The general also noticed the increasing amount of time they spent talking in small groups and private meetings, and word among the guards was it that they did not agree with the current regime any more than the lower classes did. Which was strange, to say the least.
Ceni Mah-Kel told his friend the reason for the sudden changes. Apparently the Trade Council had planned to take some drastic measures to reduce the effect the war had had on the population of Angelia, but some members of the other three Councils had disagreed with this redirection of funds and had done their best to undermine the spending of gold on causes they did not see as their own. This had caused not only confusion among the people, but a gap in the relations between the four decision-making fractions - a gap the kind had, not surprisingly, not managed to mend. Not only that, but with Lord Kelan's return the monarch's judgement seemed to be getting impaired once more, and that wasn't good either. Still, no one had dared voice discontent in face of the king, and apparently he was oblivious to the problems his country faced, spending more time than ever away from court life.
It was then that Marzio realized just how serious the situation was, and that Angelia would be facing a crisis unless things changed rapidly for the best. And he had never felt so helpless before, and he had not experienced the sudden need to actually do something that would change the course of things since his early youth. And he also realized that this change that everyone who knew him seemed to feel in him was not just their imagination. He had changed, indeed; and he could not say if it was for the best. Because while before he had simply chosen to focus on his military career, now he wanted to make a difference for his people, not just for himself. And this need frightened him.
Still, it soon became apparent that this time he simply could not stand aside and watch others decide his destiny. Because with the first Council meeting of the year approaching, talk of war was once again on everybody's lips, and this did not bode well. So when he was invited to take part at the meeting, like it was the custom, he immediately accepted - something no High Commander of the Army had done in at least five decades.
Half-way through the meeting, he was glad he had accepted. For in spite of the questioning looks he had gotten when he had taken his chair and the pointed look Lord Kelan had given him before the man chose to completely ignore his presence there, the general realized exactly what the purpose of the meeting was, and his blood ran cold. What the King's chief advisor was aiming for was gaining support in favour of suspending the peace talks with Demonis, and preparing for another war in the immediate future.
Of course, all of this was hidden behind veiled allusions, but that did not stop the general from growing annoyed, and then angry, at the old man's preposterous plans. Did he not see how the country was weakened, and how the people were just a few steps from revolting? Was he completely blind to the benefits of a long-lasting peace with Demonis? True, Marzio was a little biased when it came to this subject, but the fact remained that the treaty Ignis had proposed was very, very advantageous for both lands.
So he listened as Lord Kelan outlined 'the necessity of fighting Demonis' and 'Prince Sagni-Dor's vile plans' with his fists clenched underneath the table; and when he was done, he took a deep breath and exclaimed, "Under no circumstance must you proceed with such a plan."
A deep silence enveloped the room, and heads turned towards him, some lords alarmed by this interruption. Even the king watched him with something akin to amazement; Lord Kelan alone seemed outraged.
"General Zain-Reil, you are in no position to tell us what to do! Or is it true that you have become one of that wretched Demon's puppets?"
"You have no idea what you are implying. But then again, I should not be surprised. Whatever I was thinking when I accepted command of the army is beyond me, right now. We were doomed from the beginning. And you cannot ask the people to start another war after this disaster."
"A disaster you are responsible for, General," the king seemed to try and remind him, and everyone else. But it was far too late; for this argument between Marzio and Lord Kelan had been long in brewing.
"No. A disaster you are responsible for, Your Majesty. I have warned you, and I have warned Lord Loreh-Ven afterwards. We simply should not have ventured into unknown territory as carelessly as we did. And we had no chance to begin with - Prince Sagni-Dor was aware of our plans long before we crossed the Mauri. And that is certainly due to Lord Kelan's careless behaviour."
"This is ridiculous!"
"No, it is the truth. You must have known that the Prince had spies among our people - why did you brag about your 'carefully planned actions' to all?"
Lord Kelan jumped from his chair and hit his fists on the table. "My friends, spies!? Why you...!"
"Yes. Spies. And do you want to know how I found out? I'll tell you how. While you and your friends were busy looking down at me for socialising with the enemy, I befriended Prince Sagni-Dor. It may have made you angry, but that is of little importance to me. And do you want to know why? Because he told me things. Things that are not written anywhere and yet have great value.
"You want another war with Demonis? That would be a great mistake. First of all, because no sane man that took part in this campaign is going to join the army. The people have seen the Demons fight, and they are most likely not going to want to fight against them again so soon. As a consequence, Your Majesty, ordering conscription might even cost you your throne.
"And secondly, because another war would mean the ruin of Angelia. You all know about the treaty Prince Sagni-Dor has recently signed with the Lord Protector of Terlandia. What you do not know is about that treaty's secret annexes. Starting with the beginning of this year, if Demonis ever imposes a trade embargo against Angelia, Terlandia obliges itself to do so as well. Moreover, if requested by Prince Sagni-Dor in the case of an open conflict initiated by us, the Terans would attack our commercial vessels in exchange for trade monopoly with the Western Lands. Therefore, while the Demon Army will be busy tearing our country apart, the Teran navy would do the same with our fleet. And Prince Ignis Sagni-Dor, whom you all obviously regard as a wolf cub who has yet to show his teeth, would laugh at our stupidity and enjoy every bit of it - because in the end he would bring peace, even if he has to permanently destroy his enemy."
The hall was silent when he stopped, and King Teh-Kai's face was white as chalk. "That... is not possible. We have copies of that agreement. Lord Kelan..."
Marzio snorted. "Lord Kelan only saw the copy kept in the archive. I, however, just happened to look at the one kept in the Prince's private study. It is a lot more accurate than the one his secretary has, and signed by Demonis' External Affairs Advisor and Terlandia's Minister of War, in addition to the others."
"So the Prince of Demonis is preparing for a war against us?" one of the members of the Trade Council inquired.
"No, merely covering all possibilities. As he himself said, he wishes for peace. And to be honest with you, he can afford the luxury to dictate any conditions he wants. But he also confessed to not wanting to destroy our country. Quite the contrary. He sees Angelians as his 'brothers'; a bit idealistic, true, but it could work in our favour.
"And I believe he is honest in his request for peace; perhaps you should at least consider doing the same. The fact that he treated us so generously when we were his hostages was meant as a sign of good will on his behalf. Maybe we should return the favour."
"Treated us generously? You, perhaps. We were always followed around by guards; you were not! Moreover, you were the one following him around like a puppy. What does that tell us about you, General Zain-Reil?"
'Oh, you mean besides the fact you are an idiot?' Marzio thought as he glared at the advisor.
"I don't give a damn what it tells you about me. And if you think I was not closely watched, you are wrong - I was watched by the Prince himself, his servants, General Neri-Lokh, and every other Demon that set eyes on me. They thought me far more dangerous than you three, because I was the one asking all those questions you should have asked. As for the guards following you, they were for your own protection. Don't you think there were some Demons not very pleased with us not being thrown in the deepest, darkest dungeon of the Aquiline Prison?"
He drew his breath, and carried on. "Yes, Prince Sagni-Dor did call me his friend. Yes, I did follow him around whenever he would allow it. Is that what is bothering you so? Or is it the fact I might have learned how to stand up and defend my own opinions instead of just listening to you carry on about 'what would be best'?
"That is what this is truly about, isn't it? Me challenging your power. Well, let me tell you one last thing. I spoke with many of our people - commoners and nobles alike - and they are not happy about how this country is run. They will become restless if you do not allow them the time to heal. And they will also do whatever they consider necessary for their country's welfare - which, at this point, means peace with Demonis."
There were hushed whispers and much movement of hands all around the room, but Marzio's eyes stayed where they had stopped, which was on the annoying King's advisor. He had struck a nerve there, and he knew it well. All the possible consequences for his actions swarmed through his mind, but his gaze did not falter.
And seeing Lord Kelan pale as a sheet and struggling to remain on his feet was far too enjoyable, to tell the truth. Besides, the general had caught some of the councillors' whispers, and knew that some would see things his way, no matter what happened to him. A few of them may have been Kelan's pawns, but the others were not blind, and certainly not stupid. In the end they would see the truth, no matter what happened to Marzio.
The Kelan smiled his wicked smile, and Marzio knew he was up to something.
"You slept with him, didn't you?" the old man asked in a deceivingly sweet voice, and for a moment the general was glad he was still sitting down. But that moment passed, and it didn't matter anymore. Not the fact that admitting to it would doom him, or denying it and be called a liar.
'In for one silver, in for one gold,' Marzio though. Whatever they did to him, it didn't matter - things could not get worse than telling the King of Angelia that he was an idiot, could they now.
So Marzio answered the smile with one of his own and got up. "If I did, I do not see how it would be any of your business. Nor does it change anything. You are still an idiot, and so is anyone who listens to you. If you want to doom this country, then so be it - but afterwards, do not claim that you were not warned about the consequences of your actions. And I swear to you, this is the last time I'll even bother to save your sorry asses."
And saluting the king, he walked out of the room as if nothing had happened.
Marzio finished the second letter and signed it, then leaned back in his chair and took a deep breath, waiting for the ink to dry before he put it in a blank envelope and sealed it. He could only hope for understanding from his family... and from that special someone. Because that would be the hardest thing - making Ignis understand why he couldn't come meet him as promised. Because even if the Prince of Demonis understood duty, this went a little beyond that; and the Demon had the tendency to take things as a broken promise seriously.
A knock saved him from starting to mentally kick himself for his stupidity, and he rose to open the door. Ceni stood in the hall, a solemn yet resigned expression on his face, and still managing to look horrified. As did the two guards in the corridor, which were quite heavily armed and trying their best to hide their discomfort from the man they had sworn loyalty to.
"Prison then," Marzio said, mostly to himself. "Would you like to come in?" he asked Ceni, and the younger man nodded vigorously.
"So, what hole did they decide to throw me in, and for how long?" Marzio asked once his friend was in the room and he had closed the door. He surprised himself by sounding almost cheery, which was not at all suited to the occasion.
"You are out of your mind," Ceni replied. "What the hell did you think you were doing in there, calling Kelan a liar in front of the king and councillors?"
Marzio snickered. "Ah, so they did tell you what happened... very good. And were there any reactions? I mean, besides obviously declaring me a traitor."
"Marzio, this isn't funny!" the lieutenant-colonel protested. "And they did not declare you a traitor; not yet, anyway." Marzio snickered again, making Ceni look ready to throttle him. "You should be grateful, you bastard! Princess Selena practically begged her father to spare your life. Do you have any idea of the amount of trouble you're in?"
"I have a perfectly good idea," Marzio replied. "But it does not matter, not any more. I did what I could to prevent the government from making a big mistake. And trust me, Ceni, it doesn't matter what happens to me. In the end, the only thing that matters is the welfare of our people. My fate is irrelevant, if the king and his councillors finally realize the true state of the country and do something to change it for the better."
"Marzio!"
"Someone had to open their eyes, Ceni."
"Yes? And what about us? Doesn't our opinion matter at all? Doesn't your family's sorrow at losing you count? Or what your friends might feel? Did you ever think how I felt when they told me I had to place my best friend under arrest? How Selena felt when the king nearly ordered you executed?"
Marzio smiled again, this time sadly. "It does matter, Ceni - only not as much. Because if they agree to Kelan's plans, then in the end all my friends will end up dead."
"You chose a damn bad timing to show this zealous patriotism, Zain-Reil. And what about Prince Sagni-Dor? Don't tell me you didn't think about him while doing your little speech this morning."
"I thought about him afterwards. I think he would be proud. Even if..."
Even if they might never see each other again. Yes, Ignis would be proud. He would undoubtedly call Marzio an idiot, but he would still be proud. And if the general contributed to the red-haired prince's efforts for peace even with this little, then there was no need for him to feel sorry for himself, or worry about his fate. Because, after all, what use was happiness and love if one didn't have the possibility to indulge in it? And besides, his love for Ignis had been doomed from the beginning, and the prince would forget about Marzio in time. Surely he would.
"So, where are you taking me?"
The younger man seemed to hesitate for a moment, and then his eyes shone dangerously. "There's a carriage waiting for you at the secondary entrance," he said quickly, keeping his voice low. "I can see you've already packed. Just hit me as hard as you can. I paid the two guards outside - they will let you pass. Get the hell out of here while you still can!"
Marzio rolled his eyes. "This is a tempting offer, my friend, but one I cannot accept. I knew the consequences for my actions, and I am ready to pay the price. I refuse to destroy other people's lives. They would know you helped me, Ceni, and they would also blame the guards for my escape. Besides, where would I go? I cannot simply go back to Meralda, you know."
"Then go to Demonis! Prince Sagni-Dor wouldn't think twice about allowing you to stay there."
Marzio's heart sank. Flee to Demonis and ask for political asylum? No, he would not be turned down, but... "I will not cause Ignis any trouble either. He has his hands full as it is, he doesn't need me showing up on his doorstep with a courier carrying extradition orders a short distance behind. No, Ceni, it is time that I face the consequences of my action, whatever those are. I am, however, asking you for a favour."
His friend looked most pained by his decision to stay, but he nodded anyway, so Marzio produced the two letters and gave them to him.
"One is for my family, the other is for Ignis. They deserve to know what happened from me, not from others. But send them under your name so that they reach destination."
Ceni's voice was getting suspiciously emotional. "I will do so."
"Thank you. And now, I do believe it is time to go. Can I take a few things with me? Clothes, and some books perhaps?"
"Of course. From what I heard your 'speech' was quite impressive, and it's won you the right to stay in one of the cells reserved for noblemen. In the Mnemon Prison, of course."
"They're not taking any chances to allow me to escape, are they. How incredibly touching."
One month later, Ceni Mah-Kel walked to his meeting with Owen Alisi-Feit in a downtown inn with a sudden feeling of dread. He hadn't sent Marzio's letter to Prince Sagni-Dor, preferring to deliver it himself once the Angelian delegation had reached Quiris. Marzio was still in prison, but his trial had been postponed until after the final negotiations for the peace treaty between Angelia and Demonis.
Which was not necessarily a bad thing, in Ceni's opinion. Still, there was no predicting Prince Sagni-Dor's reaction to that letter. The Demon ruler had seemed deeply disturbed during his first meeting with King Teh-Kai, and his eyes had kept straying through the crowd as if he were expecting something to happen. Or someone to show up. And the Angelian lieutenant-colonel had a very good idea exactly who the prince was looking for, in spite of knowing for a fact that Marzio was not there.
Ceni had given Marzio's letter to the fist person he knew he could trust to deliver it - Owen Alisi-Feit. Incidentally, he was in charge of security for the duration of the peace talks, and so was the Prince of Demonis' Captain of the Guard. The letter had earned Ceni a strange look, but the captain had promised to deliver it.
Two hours later, the request for this urgent meeting had arrived at the Angelian's quarters. And Ceni had a feeling this was not a good thing.
Still, he had to admit that the Dreak knew how to choose a neutral location. The inn he had chosen was half-full this early in the evening, but it spotted a crowd of mixed backgrounds and the innkeeper was a middle-aged woman whose face inspired confidence. It did not strike him as a place where one would plan or carry out an ambush or assassination.
He was directed to a smaller room in the back, which was supposedly reserved for guests who wanted to avoid the bustle of the common room. As expected, there was a Demon waiting for him - but it was not Owen Alisi-Feit. Chills went through Ceni as the man, dressed in a guard's uniform, fixed him with burning eyes before motioning for him to close the door.
"Sit down," he said and the Angelian complied. "I already know what happened, but I want to hear this from you as well. In detail." His voice was neutral, as was his stance, but the slight tightening of his lips and narrowing of those eyes indicated that this was an irrefutable order.
So Ceni did tell him everything he knew about Marzio's arrest, and also about his rejected offer to help the general escape. He did not really know why he did it - except for a recurring thought that this man could help Marzio in some way
The Demon had in the mean time sat down opposite to Ceni, a crude wooden table providing the only distance between them; now he leaned back in his chair and closed his eyes. "Little fool," he whispered. "Brave, loyal, stubborn little fool." And there was no hiding the sadness in that voice, or the admiration.
"You would have helped him, wouldn't you?" Ceni asked.
The Prince of Demonis sighed. "Oh yes. And I still intend to, whether he wants it or not." He rose from the table and Ceni couldn't help but stiffen as he went around the table and stepped behind the Angelian, dangerously close. "But first, I have a question." The sweet voice that sang the words in the Angelian's ear was even more disconcerting than the sudden hold on his shoulders that held him pinned down.
"Are you willing to help him, Lieutenant-Colonel Mah-Kel? Are you still his friend, or have you deserted him?"
Khest! How could he ask such a thing? Of course he was still Marzio's friend! But did he want to help? That was the trick question... would he help his friend, or refuse to and lose the trust of such a powerful man.
Because Ignis Sagni-Dor was powerful, more powerful than many people imagined. And, in the short time he'd spent as a prisoner in a Demon war camp, Ceni had learned that the prince always kept his word. Always. He would certainly find a way to help Marzio even without Ceni's cooperation...
"Not if it goes against my code of honour," he finally blurted out, causing a soft laughter in his ear as deceptively lean fingers eased their grip on his shoulders.
"It does not. I only wish to send him a letter."
"You are mad! That would be like killing him with your own hands." Ceni jerked up wanting to face the Demon fool, only to find himself forced down once more.
"Quite so," the Prince crooned. "But I wasn't thinking about just any letter, and certainly not one signed by the Prince of Demonis. No, this would be a different kind of letter... a very special kind of letter." He released Ceni and sat down again, tapping one finger on the table and appearing lost in thought for a moment, before smiling. The Angelian cringed again. That smile promised nothing good.
He was quite right.
"It has come to my attention today that General Zain-Reil's former personal servant has come to be in your employment." The smile turned into a grin. "Now, I am certain that the poor man, having been in his service for a few years now, misses his old employer. He misses him so terribly that he would ask you to add a little note to the message you will be sending your friend in three days. And you, being the kind and accommodating man that you are, will accept his request."
'Damnation!' Ceni thought, not able to look away. 'Marzio was right about those spies. For how long did this little hellion have me followed?'
Two fingers rapped on the table, and the Prince said in a cold voice, "You will accept his request."
"You do realize my career will be at stake if they find us out," he said quickly, trying to gain some more time to think. What the Prince was asking was definitely not legal. But he was also right - Ceni was Marzio's friend.
"I will need to read the note first, but if it's nothing suspicious I'll send it" he finally conceded.
If possible, that grin turned in a most evil-looking smirk, and the Demon Prince stood up again, fetching a cloak that had been abandoned on the back of another chair nearby.
"Quite harmless, Lieutenant-Colonel Mah-Kel, quite harmless. Just something to let Marzio know I'll help him, and that when I see him next time I'll put him over my knees and spank him for being a tactless idiot. I'll have Owen deliver it tomorrow."
And he simply walked out the door, leaving Ceni spluttering at the mental image of what he had just suggested.
Chapter Twenty
Spending time in the Mnemon Prison as a "guest" rather than a visitor was not as bad as Marzio had imagined. Then again, his cell was at one of the upper levels, and in a wing reserved to prisoners of noble ranks, so he really didn't have much to complain about at first. True, the cell was smaller than his old room at the castle, and tiny if one compared it to the rooms he'd had at the Aquiline palace. But it had a small fireplace, a wardrobe, a table, comfortable chairs and bed, and even two shelves for his books. The window, though barred, was of relatively normal size, and he had a view of the city's noble quarters. And the food was good enough.
But it was still a cell, and not being able to leave it except twice a week for an hour - when he got to make use of the bathing facilities - soon made him realize that, no matter how nice the cage, he was still a prisoner. Being a soldier for most of his life, he had always appreciated wide expanses of land, and most of all the freedom to travel and explore. After two weeks, even the thought of being stuck in that room made him want to pound at the door and scream to be let out.
Not that he would actually do that. He still had his pride, after all; and he wouldn't give anyone the satisfaction to see him beg to be released. They couldn't delay his trial too much, could they?
His family was suitably outraged about the situation, especially his uncle - who had served under King Raresh's father and thus knew what distinguished a good monarch from a puppet and had sworn to come to Mnemon and pound Kelan's ass if necessary in order to have Marzio released. All this Marzio knew not from Derek Zain-Reil's letter - which had been quite scolding, to tell the truth - but from Ceni, who had thankfully come to visit every week and had kept him updated on what was happening at Court.
Thus Marzio learned that his speech had not been in vain, and that the majority of the Council had been in favour of signing the peace treaty. Also, many people were suitably upset about Marzio's arrest, which was generally viewed as a suppression of a person's freedom of speech, a freedom that the Angelian nobility had always prided itself on.
Not that, two days after his arrest, Marzio had not realized that he was mortified by what he had done. But he had been right, and he would not take his words back and give Kelan the satisfaction. No, he would wait until his trial and use the time he had until then, which was quite a lot with nothing to do all day long, to build a solid defence.
It was on Ceni's third visit that he learned that said trial had been postponed, and that most of the Court would be moving to Quiris for the duration of the peace conference. Having had no word from Ignis - not that he expected to, because the risks of the Demon contacting him were very high - he could only dread the idea of spending at least two months in Mnemon when he would rather get to Quiris as soon as possible.
And then something else happened, something that filled him with dread and made his imprisonment even harder to stomach.
A few hours after Ceni had visited him to let him know he was leaving for Quiris the next morning, he had another visitor. It was not someone he had expected to come, namely because this was a prison and she was not allowed out of the castle without a guard. But there she was, Princess Selena Teh-Kai, looking around with wide blue eyes and finally telling him, while she kept glancing nervously at the door, that she had overheard something she was not supposed to know. That Kelan and some of the other lords, with the help of Lord Lavian Drak-Mer, high Priest of Demonis, were planning an assassination; and that the target was, predictably, none other than Ignis.
He had trembled with rage then, knowing that there was nothing he could do to stop this, no way to let Ignis know. And he had asked Selena to go to Ceni, and tell him this immediately. But it did not help. Selena and Ceni did not like each other, and she did not trust the younger man. And although she had promised to find a way to let Ignis know abut this, Marzio couldn't help wondering what would happen if she didn't, and if those bastards were successful, and Ignis did not find out, and...
So many possibilities, and so little chances of warning the man he loved about this plot. As weeks passed, days filled with memories and nights with nightmares, Marzio started feeling more and more helpless, and useless.
But when he had almost lost faith, one of the guards became the unknowing carrier of a little ray of hope.
"Letter's here for you, general," the guard said, waving the envelope with a toothless grin.
Marzio put down the book he had been reading and looked at him curiously. "From my family?" he demanded.
"Nay, your friend." The envelope Marzio was given bore the seal of the Mah-Kel family. The general frowned - it had been opened and undoubtedly read before they gave it to him. It was not a practice he approved of, even if he was a prisoner. It also meant he was considered dangerous.
He tried not to show his discontent as he pulled out two paper sheets. As he unfolded them, another one fell in his lap from between the two - a piece of cheap parchment, clumsily folded into an uneven square. He raised a brow and picked it up, not too sure what to make of it.
Ceni's letter was carefully phrased, with allusions to things that could not be directly mentioned but which would have been expected from a friend. Apparently everyone was aware of Captain Mah-Kel's position regarding Marzio's arrest by now, and thus his letter had seemed harmless to whoever was responsible of supervising the prisoners' correspondence. It began,
My dear friend,
I write to you from the city-port of Quiris, my satisfaction of an uneventful trip thus far shadowed only by your most regretful absence. I am not the only one to feel this, as you may well know; alas, many of your acquaintances lament about the sad circumstances that keep you away in these important days.
We have arrived a few days later than predicted, due to the poor state of the country roads this time of the year, but we found everything in good order. His Royal Majesty is safe at his temporary estate - a small castle really, owned by our regretted friend Tanis' family. Security had to be dealt with, but it was nothing beyond our efforts.
The Demon delegation has arrived earlier than expected, shadowing us all with their elegance and pragmatic spirit. Though some of our delegates have not been too happy about it, Prince Sagni-Dor has insisted upon negotiations beginning immediately, not wanting to linger as is the usual tendency in these affairs. He has been rather enthusiastic about getting things on the move as soon as humanly possible, avoiding any public offence of course. At this pace, it will probably pass a little more than a month before the treaty is signed.
His Highness has also publicly expressed his disapproval regarding your arrest the moment it was brought to his attention. Indeed, he has noticed your absence and, when His Royal Majesty informed him of the situation, he did not bother to hide his displeasure and has demanded your immediate release. They seem to be still debating the issue. Let me tell you that, if looks could kill, an illustrious acquaintance of ours would regretfully not be with us any longer.
At any rate, I take it upon myself to keep you informed of the ambience here and the course of things. I leave you now with a note from your trusty personal servant, whose services as you well know I am temporarily employing. He has insisted on sending you this short message.
Good bye, my friend, until fate rejoins us once more.
Lt.-Col. Ceni Mah-Kel
Marzio was a little puzzled at the last few lines. He did not remember his personal servant being particularly fond of him; and besides, the man could barely spell his own name.
Putting aside his friend's letter, he stared at the folded note a little at a loss, the cheap parchment feeling rough under his fingers.
Noticing his hesitation, the guard saw fit to intervene. "An educated man, this servant of yours. Has a fine hand too. A bit silly though - he goes on and on about birds and hounds. Me says you won't be too interested in that story."
Marzio eyed the man suspiciously, wanting to tell him it was none of his business. Then he made up his mind to see what this was about.
It was not at all what he had expected: elegant and frighteningly familiar handwriting, letters small yet highly legible, a lot of information filling such a small note.
He stifled his laughter, praising the author for his astute mind. 'My servant indeed,' he smiled broadly, and set about reading the message eagerly.
Most-esteemed lord,
Although this new assignation has not been the prettiest thus far, and I sometimes have to fight a lack of understanding among the people I am forced to deal with, I take solace at the fact that your imprisonment will doubtlessly be a short one, and that I may finally return into your service. Captain Mah-Kel has proven very indulgent with me, and has agreed to send you my note along with his own letter to you.
It is a rather large household here in Quiris, but I have been able to make a few friends among His Majesty King Teh-Kai's entourage. The only difficult task I have had to deal with lately is recover one of the hunting birds, who has stubbornly refused to let itself captured.
This reminds me of a story the cook has told us yesterday. This Nobleman had captured a rare Phoenix bird and had imprisoned it, letting his hounds guard the cage. But just when all hope seemed lost, a fierce Dragon descended from the skies and set it free.
Farewell, my lord. Rest assured of my undying loyalty; the moment you are free, I shall be the first to rejoice.
Your willing servant to the death
Forgetting where he was for a moment, Marzio clutched the parchment to his heart and flung himself down on the bed, laughing fiercely. Tale of dogs and birds, indeed!
The guard cast him a weary look, not understanding the extent of the thing which had slipped through his fingers. "See sir, I told you - the fellow's a bit slow of mind."
Marzio shrugged, suddenly in the best mood he had experienced since he had left Aquiline. He had known Ignis to be brilliant, but this note had been more than he had expected from his spunky lover.
For the man's benefit, he said. "He's loyal and good at his job. He's like family."
It was not a lie, but half-truth at most; the 'fellow' was family. And he was anything but slow of mind. Anyone with a good knowledge of heraldry could have easily associated the words in capitals to their correspondents; had such a thought occurred to the prison's censor, the message would never have gotten through.
As it was, he praised Seleh and Drako for the guard's stupidity, and chuckled lightly as the man finally went away, still shaking his head in disapproval. Left to his own devices, the general folded the piece of parchment neatly and slipped it inside his tunic, close to his heart. He took out the gold medallion and fingered the thin braid of red hair for the thousandth time. It had become some sort of ritual for him - only now he had the certainty that Ignis had not forgotten him.
Closing his eyes he imagined himself back in the Prince of Demonis' bedroom, buried in cream silk, Ignis' weight familiar against him, warm lips pressed against his. If he tried hard enough, he could even feel the sweet scent of their lovemaking clinging in the air.
It was then that he decided he absolutely had to find a way to get word to the prince. Perhaps a short reply, though it would be a bit odd to answer a servant's note. But if he would have the certainty it would reach its destination, he would risk it. Now more than ever, he was determined to let his beloved know about the threats to his life.
He sighed, chasing away the dark clouds that plagued his thoughts for a few hours; they would return promptly in the evening. Relaxing a little, he imagined himself returning Ignis' kiss fervently.
He did not know whether what woke him up that night was the cold in his room or the feeling of someone watching him. But as he opened his eyes and stood up on the bed, hand reaching for his belt where his sword would have been, Marzio knew for sure something was very wrong.
And it was, indeed. For there was someone else in there, a dark silhouette hiding in the shadows. Watching. Waiting.
Marzio pushed away the covers and stood up, gathering his wings about him. Damn, but it was cold in there! And there had been no need to light a fire for two weeks now, spring arriving faster in Northern Angelia than it did everywhere else in the country. Then he turned to face whoever was in his cell.
Had Kelan perhaps sent an assassin to kill him? Or had King Teh-Kai? Or maybe he was wrong and this was not an assassin at all.
"Who are you?" he asked defiantly. "And what in all hells are you doing here in the middle of the night?"
Strangely, the shadows seemed to shift even as the person moved forward, stepping into the moonlight coming through the window long enough for Marzio to see the almost-too-thing body of a woman with long hair and piercing eyes. Then she shifted back into the shadows, her dress swishing on the floor.
"I am the one in charge of making sure you fulfil your destiny."
Her voice was cold and emotionless, at odds with the words she had spoken. The only features of her shadowed face that Marzio could see clearly were her eyes, of a glowing teal colour.
'Not natural,' he caught himself thinking. 'No mortal being can have eyes like that.'
"What are you?"
The creature laughed. "Ah, so you caught on fast... just as well. But what I am is not relevant either. The thing that matters is not what I am, but what I came here to do."
Marzio took a step forward, drawn to this strange being in spite of himself. He watched her for a few moments, wondering if he was actually dreaming, and if he would wake up in the morning after yet another bad dream.
But none of his previous nightmares had involved strange creatures like this one. In fact, in one way or another they had all involved Ignis and Marzio himself. And this seemed too... odd... to be a dream.
"It is no dream," the creature answered his thoughts. "But it is not reality either. Right now, we are trapped somewhere in between real and imaginary, between dreaming and awake. This is the realm of angels and daimons; this is the limbo."
"And why am I here?"
She stepped forward again, making him draw back involuntarily. He could now make out her face, which was smooth - too smooth - and yet made her look old; as did the white hair. The best way to describe her clothing was to say 'indescribable', not because they were awful or anything but rather because they did not leave any impression at all. What did make an impression were the large wings, a motley black-and-white in colour.
And her eyes, of course. The eyes that burned inside one's soul, a hundred times stronger than Ignis' eyes did.
"You are here because Seleh desires you to be here. Because Drako desires you to be here. And because it is time to open your eyes and make you face your destiny." She did not leave him time for another question, or perhaps a dazed reply. "You are here because you need to be here, and it is not for you to question the will of the gods!"
'Khest! This must be a dream!' Marzio had never been particularly religious, and the fact that he did believe in the divinities was mostly a reminiscence of his childhood, and his mother's teachings.
"Look, I don't know what destiny you're talking about, but I'm sure you have the wrong man. I am not..."
"Yes, you are. The right soul, inside the almost perfect shell. And you shall listen to me, if you want your dear Prince of Demonis to live."
'Oh shit!'
She smiled, but it was a cold smile. "I was sent to make a bargain with you. I have the power to let you out of this prison, and to offer you the means to reach Quiris before it is too late to save him. But there is a price for all this... a price you may not be willing to pay."
"What if I do?"
"Then you get to save the one you love, the treaty will be signed, and there will be a long-lasting peace between Angelia and Demonis."
"And if I don't?"
"Then he dies, you die, and there will be a great war which will destroy both your people."
The general stared at her wide-eyed, not knowing if to believe her or not. "And there is no middle way, no other solution?"
"Not this time, Angelian. The Demon made his choice a long time ago; now it is time for you to make yours."
"But why does it have to be me? Can't anyone else save him? Why don't you tell him..."
She pointed a glossy finger at him and he found himself silenced. "You ask too many questions," she said. "So many questions, for such a simple decision. But I shall answer this one, I believe. Your destinies are linked. One's actions influence the other in more ways than a mortal mind can possibly comprehend. He already walks the path, but you are at a crossroad. If you accept, then your paths shall meet again and he shall be saved. If you do not, then your paths shall separate, and you shall never see him again."
And which path could he possibly choose? Which path, when all he could think about was how to save Ignis' life? Which path, when he had just thrown away his freedom in order to chase someone else's dream of peace?
"Name your price," Marzio stated, meeting her eyes. "Whatever it is, I shall pay it."
"There is no turning back," she warned.
"Name your price!"
He stood still, like hypnotized, as she circled around him, smiling. He felt her hands on his wings, spreading them and caressing the soft feathers. He could not help but shiver at her touch, waiting for a word, a sign. What did she want from him?
There was a sudden flash of pain so intense that his vision went red, and the sensation of falling.
And then there was darkness.
When he woke up, he could feel fresh grass underneath him. He was sprawled on his stomach, head resting on his arms, and he knew for sure he was no longer confined between four walls. Nor was he capable of telling how he had gotten there, or what had happened after he had fainted.
He struggled to sit up and look around him. It was around noon, and he was in a clearing not too far away from Mnemon. A clearing he knew well, for he had come here on countless occasions. His horse was tethered nearby, already saddled, and his weapons lay a few feet away, as did a few bags he recognized as belonging to him as well. Food bag, clothing bag, water skin. A thick cloak good for travelling in early spring.
How had they gotten there? And how had he gotten there? He had no idea, but he would not linger to find out either. He had to leave for Quiris immediately.
It was only when he struggled to sit up, his balance severely impaired, that he found out what price he had paid for his freedom. When he fought for every step, like he had forgotten how his body worked. And then he knew why he would get to Quiris unobserved, why he would not attract any Angelian guard's attention.
For all the others would see now was a man on a horse hurrying down the road, and they would pay no attention.
Because the only living being Angelians chose to completely ignore was a person without wings.
Chapter Twenty-One
"I swear, the man is more stubborn that an ox." Ignis threw up his arms and let himself fall on the couch. "No, scrap that. To compare Kelan Loreh-Ven to an ox would be an insult to the animal. Who in all heavens has ever heard of 'taxes for intellectual export'?"
"Kelan did, apparently," Owen snickered. "What is this 'intellectual export', by the way?"
"The migration of intellectuals from one country to another. It seems that the Angelians fear of losing their brightest scholars once the borders are opened. Not that their new emigration fees are anywhere near affordable for most people." Tempesta grunted, pouring herself a glass of wine. "Apparently someone tipped off their scholars about the kind of manuscripts that can be found in the Aquiline library, and by now half of them have applied for emigration and another quarter for extended stay permits."
"That was Roland Bela-Fer and Tanis' fault, not Marzio's," Ignis interceded.
"Ah. And speaking of our dear general, how far along are you with getting him released?"
Ignis gave Owen a pained look. "Quite far, I think. If I could have spoken privately with the king sooner, Marzio would already be here. But Lord Kelan..." He closed his eyes and sighed.
"We know, we know... The man has been a thorn in your side ever since you two first laid eyes on each other. You know, we could have gotten rid of him and make it look like an accident while he was still our prisoner." The Supreme Commander of Demonis shook her head and sipped at her wine. "We still can."
Ignis groaned. "Not that I don't find it an excellent idea, but we really don't want to delay negotiations any further. We are this close to signing the treaty. Less then a week... and in the mean time, I'm sure we can come up with a plan to get Kelan out of the way without having to kill him."
Kheerah came into the room with a tray of appetizers; Owen and Tempesta helped themselves to some, not having eaten since that morning. Ignis, however, was by now sick of food - too many business meetings over meals did that to a man, and he'd just had lunch with a member of the Angelian Trade Council. He spared Kheerah a smile, though. He was a very nice, thoughtful boy, and very good at keeping the things he happened to overhear while attending to Ignis' needs to himself.
Presently, the boy fumbled in his pockets for something. "Milord, one of the servants found this in the foyer. He thought you might have accidentally dropped it." He produced a medallion and offered it to the prince and then retreated at a proper distance, giving Ignis time to study the piece of jewellery.
Ignis' hand tightened onto the locket; it was painfully familiar. In fact, there was no way it could have gotten there, unless...
"Kheerah, who was here today?"
"Milord?" the boy asked, his head jerking into the prince's direction at the cold tone of voice.
"Who was here today, while I was at the City Hall?"
"I do not know, sire. I was in town until this afternoon."
"Then find out for me. Now."
While Kheerah left to inquire about any visitor the prince might have had, Ignis returned to his study of the locket. He did not doubt whom it belonged to - it was one of a kind, custom-made. But how exactly had it reached Quiris, if Marzio was imprisoned in Mnemon?
"What's so special about a medallion?" Owen asked, not aware of its meaning.
"I gave this to Marzio when he left. It simply shouldn't be here, and I don't think I like any of the possible explanations for its sudden appearance."
Kheerah returned accompanied by one of the guards who had been on duty that morning. At Ignis' question, the woman replied, "Yes my Lord Prince, there was a man here around noon; a Teran asking to speak with General Neri-Lokh. Lord Lavian received him."
"Lord Lavian, you say? And where is this man now?" Tempesta inquired. "Because I didn't see him."
"General, I do not know. But..." The woman seemed to consider something. "Lord Lavian left in his carriage soon after, and I do not think he was alone."
"He wasn't!" Kheerah jumped in. "The driver picked him up right in front of the stairs, and one of the maids thought she saw one of his bodyguards carrying a body."
"Tell me, Lynn," Ignis told the woman, "this Teran didn't by any chance happen to be carrying a message from Angelia, did he?"
"I am sorry, but he did not say. Still... if I may be forgiven, he looked suspiciously familiar, in spite of the hooded cloak he wore. I could swear I saw him before, but I don't know where."
Under his friends' eyes, Ignis turned white. A flash of memory from her had been enough to confirm his suspicions. He closed his eyes and leaned against the back of his chair taking a deep breath, while his hand tightened on the gold locket.
'Marzio... here...' It was a foolish thought, and yet... was it possible that they had released him? That he had found a way to come, after all? Hope died last, it was said. But how could he been mistaken for a Teran? After all, the people of Terlandia had no wings!
Another thought crept into him; had King Teh-Kai found a way to rid himself of the general once and for all, by discrediting him in the eyes of all his subjects? But to declare Marzio a traitor meant going a bit too far, even for the foolish Angelian king.
However, right now Ignis had to find his lover - or the man that looked like him, in any case. His heart told him it was Marzio, and his mind tended to follow his instincts. The question was, where had Lavian taken him?
"Did the High Priest take his carriage now as well, or is his coachman still here?"
"He just came back as we came here," the lieutenant answered.
"Very good, Lynn. Now if you would be so kind as to fetch me that coachman..."
Ten minutes later, an elderly Demon was escorted in by two guards, and Ignis did not even wait for him to kneel before he inquired about Lavian Drak-Mer's latest carriage ride. The man, fidgeting under his monarch's fiery eyes, revealed that the High Priest had gone to the Temple of Drako, and had remained there with his bodyguard.
It was all that Ignis wanted to know. Placing the coachman under the guards' care until further orders, he ordered Owen to make sure no one left the villa that evening before he returned. Taking Tempesta and the first three Dreak he could find, he left for the temple in his own coach.
The building seemed quiet from outside, but as he went up the stairs Lavian's bodyguard appeared in the doorway, blocking his path. The man did not stand a chance in front of a determined prince, however, and his unconscious body was left in Tempesta's care. Two of the warriors he had brought with were posted throughout the temple, and one was sent to make sure none of the priests, priestesses and acolytes that lived in the adjoining building showed up to ruin Ignis' impromptu descent into the most secret of the temple's rooms: the underground cells.
As Ignis descended the narrow staircase, Master Keefer's lessons on stealth came back to him. Unlike most Dreak warriors, his lessons at the Monastery had included some very unorthodox training. Not that his father would have been very happy had he found out about it, but Ignis had insisted. After all, what better way to thwart an attempt on one's life than to anticipate the assassin's moves? And Ignis had been good at it - almost as good as Keefer himself had been in his youth.
The dark corridors proved ideal for going about unnoticed, and Ignis paid great attention to his steps. He didn't want to let Lavian know he was coming, perhaps even catch the High Priest with his guard down this time. And if the damned man had dared harm one hair on Marzio's body...
Light and a low voice coming from one of the cells ahead had him tread more careful, pulling the hood of his mantle even lower to hide his face. No, Lavian would not know he was there until it was too late.
"... and I won't allow you to jeopardize my plan. I don't know how you could possibly find out about this, but you picked the wrong person to mess with."
It was Lavian, no doubt about it. Thankful that the door was half open, Ignis dared sneak a look into the narrow underground cell. He couldn't make out much because the High Priest stood just in front of him, the light of a single torch hanging on the wall next to the door falling on his back. But it took no great genius to interpret the rustling of chains that came from beyond.
"Ignis will know."
Just three words, carrying a final resolution. And yes, it was Marzio's voice that spoke them, making Ignis cringe on the other side of the door.
Lavian's wicked laughter echoed in the cell. "Will he, now? He will be dead before he realizes what is going on!" The few instants of utter silence that followed gave his words a whole world of meanings. "You see, my plan is perfect. And with him out of the way, who will be mad enough to stop me?"
"You will give yourself away," Marzio's voice answered. "Do you think nobody will realize there was a traitor among your people? General Neri-Lokh is not stupid. If something happens to the prince, she will start an investigation. And she will kill you for harming Ignis."
Lavian's robed figure shifted, and Ignis pulled back a little fearing the priest might have noticed him. He hadn't; instead Lavian leaned forward and his hand shot out. The prince noticed familiar blond hair as the prisoner's head was being forced up, and he instantly reached for his dagger. There was no way Lavian would harm Marzio if Ignis could prevent it!
"She will not. You see, I made sure all clues will point to Lord Loreh-Ven. Even she will not be able to deny it was your people that poisoned the prince. And with him dead, I will make sure Demonis declares war against Angelia, to punish you for such a horrendous crime. Your country doesn't stand a chance in front of our troops, Zain-Reil! Driven by the desire to avenge their dear sovereign, our army will wipe out everything in its path. Angelia will lie in ruin at Demonis' feet!"
Ignis could practically feel Marzio flinch, perhaps because he himself did. He had tolerated the High Priest's crazy ideas so far, but Lavian was truly mad! Only a sick mind would plan the destruction of so many innocent lives. Everything Ignis had fought hard for would have been rendered useless if Lavian went through with his plan. No, he had to be stopped!
The dagger's sharp blade came out of its sheath just as soundlessly as Ignis had moved. The prince's hand tightened on the familiar shape of the handle. Wings wrapped around a human shape; the weapon was meant to protect the life of the one carrying it. This time, it would protect not only Ignis' life, but his loved one's as well.
Lavian, on the other hand, wouldn't be that lucky.
The Demon stepped through the door and into the cell, advancing one quiet step at the time, his body and his mind wrapped in darkness.
The High Priest let go of Marzio and produced a tiny flask from the folds of his ample robe. "Belladonna. Mixed with any food or drink, this extract is lethal. A fever at first; then serious metabolism disorders. He will die a slow, painful death. And I will be damned if I won't enjoy any single moment of his suffering. He will pay for underestimating my hatred. I will kill this hell spawn that has made my life miserable for the past five years. He should have died three years ago, not his pretty captain. I won't fail again. Drako is with me this time! And I promise you this, Angelian: you will follow him soon."
Lavian began laughing again, but he stopped abruptly and his speech died in his mouth as he felt something moving behind him just before a cold, sharp blade went through his heart. The poison flask dropped on the stone floor and broke as Prince Sagni-Dor's voice spoke deadly in his ear, "It looks like Drako wishes you to fail. And honestly, I don't think I will miss you much."
Ignis turned the knife so it would cut harder, deeper. His eyes stopped past the priest: Marzio, wingless and chained up against the wall, head hanging low as he sobbed.
Ignis pulled out the weapon and lowered the body on the floor. The blade was red with the High Priest's blood and he wiped it clean on the now dead man's robe, sparing a thought for the sins he had confessed to. Drako, how many lives had Lavian had on his conscience?! Rasya... Marzio, almost! He wished he could pity the lord, but he didn't.
He searched the body quickly, hoping to find the key to Marzio's shackles. It seemed a fruitless effort at first, but he finally found it hanging on a chain from the priest's belt. He retrieved it and hastily stood up; he had to take care of Marzio now.
The general seemed oblivious to what was happening in the cell, even as Ignis reached out to free him from the restraints. His right arm dropped lifelessly at his side and Ignis thanked the gods he had had enough presence of mind to support his lover lest he should fall. Marzio's body was limp against the prince's own as he struggled with the other cuff, finally managing to undo it. He lowered Marzio and propped his back against the cold wall, lifting his face to find dead eyes looking through him. Fearing the worst, he searched for a pulse, and was grateful when he found it.
"Marzio," he whispered softly, "can you hear me?"
The green eyes blinked and seemed to focus, and cracked lips moved. "Ignis... danger..." It was all the Angelian could utter before his eyes closed. The prince pulled him forward, feeling faint breathing against his face as he tried to cross Marzio's arms around his neck.
It took him four tries to do it right. Then Ignis put one arm under his lover's knees and lifted him up. Tempesta was waiting upstairs, and he couldn't leave Marzio in there with Lavian's corpse for company. The Angelian was lighter than he had expected, but he did not look entirely healthy either. He just hoped it was nothing a healer couldn't handle.
Except for the missing wings... nobody could replace such a loss.
Marzio woke up to the smell of orange blooms thick in the air. He was lying on his back, gazing at a canopy embroidered with tiny beads that reflected the dim light in the room, and he could feel soft sheets on his body and a fluffy pillow under his head. There were other clues showing he was finally out of the filthy dungeon, like the fact he was no longer shackled nor was he restrained in any way.
He tried turning on his side, only to discover an unfamiliar weight pressed against his chest prevented him from moving. But just as he lifted his head to see what it was, it shifted and the Angelian found himself staring into claret eyes that blinked sleepily, lost in a familiar mass of red hair.
Next thing he knew, he was being pulled off the bed and into a warm embrace, his face burying in cool silk as a hand tangled in his hair and another sneaked around his waist. He guessed more than heard a relieved sign, and indiscernible words were murmured in his ear.
After the initial shock, Marzio allowed his hands to stray and circle Ignis' body. The warmth, the smells and the textures against his skin told him he was not dreaming, not at all. Ignis was there, a reassuring presence he could hang onto for support, although how the Prince of Demonis had managed to find him was yet to be revealed. An immense sense of relief overcame him, and with it the thought he had made it after all.
Marzio pulled away slowly, eyes downcast, not knowing what reaction to expect from the prince. "Do you still think of me handsome now that I am starved and covered with scars?" he managed, his voice hoarse from lack of use.
But as he raised his head he found a genuine smile playing across thinned lips, and deep eyes looked at him filled with worry and so much love it nearly threw him back. His heart sank, realizing those eyes mirrored his own feelings, and that there was none of the rejection he had so dreaded. And then Ignis kissed him, and the world swirled around them once more in the light of morning, and it was not that different from what it had been like between them several months back.
The Demon broke the kiss and laid Marzio back on the bed, stretching himself next to him and pushing a few wavy strands away from Marzio's face. The golden hair was longer than he remembered, and not exactly clean, but it still caught the eye.
"I think you are the most handsome man in these godsforsaken lands," he replied, smiling down at the Angelian once more. "But I should still kick your sorry ass for having me so worried when you passed out."
"How long?"
"Only a couple of hours. Zehi says you're going to be all right, given a few weeks' worth of rest and several good meals a day. Still, you have a lot of explaining to do."
The Angelian nodded, wondering how exactly he was going to tell Ignis about everything, especially about the old woman and the deal he had made; not to mention he had no proof of the accusations he was going to make against his own countrymen, which sounded exactly like what they were - treason. "Does anyone else know I'm here?" he asked quickly, wanting to find out how much time he had before being handed back to his own people.
"A few persons I trust - none of your own people, though. I thought it best, considering..." A deep breath, and then, "Get some more rest. We can talk later. About everything." He made to get up, but Marzio caught his forearm and held onto it with dubious strength.
"Could you stay a bit longer? After two months spent in prison and a week on the road, I find your presence very comforting." He knew that keeping Ignis there was really selfish of him, but the Demon prince still had no idea of the plot against him.
Ignis nodded. "I was only going to order some food. Just stay put and I'll be back shortly, I promise." He removed Marzio's hand from his arm gently. "I won't leave your side, my love, at least not until we have a proper chance to talk. You have my word on that."
Lying back down and watching Ignis leave through an ornate door, Marzio considered his alternatives carefully. Should he manage to persuade Ignis his story was real - which he honestly doubted, for it really seemed more fantasy than reality - things would be quite easy to handle from that point on. And the best way of doing that was by telling the truth, and hope the prince would not burst out laughing and declare him a raving lunatic.
He was hungry though, and when Ignis returned carrying a tray of steaming food his stomach rumbled. Ignis chuckled and advised to start with the soup, and not to drink it down too fast. While Marzio busied himself with that, he cut the steak into small pieces and when Marzio put down the empty bowl he fed him the meat himself, making small pauses between bites. Very little was spoken, both men trying to gather their thoughts and tighten their resolve for what would come.
Then Ignis took the empty dishes away and returned to lie down next to Marzio, leaning against the headboard and allowing the now sated Angelian to lean against him. "Would you rather talk about it now, or wait for Tempesta and Owen to return? I don't want to put you through any unnecessary pain, and I have the feeling that this particularly story has a lot of that in it. So perhaps I should tell you what happened here first."
"I got your note. It told me pretty much everything about what was happening here at the time. I still can't believe you pressured King Teh-Kai to release me, though. That must have been odd for him."
Ignis' eyes darkened, as they always did when he discussed something serious or when he was angry with someone. "Your friend Ceni Mah-Kel told me what happened in Council. It struck me as very unfair to arrest you for simply expressing your opinion. Besides, I was not about to let you rot in a cell while Kelan was enjoying freedom after having destroyed hundreds of lives."
"Oh, I believe my execution would have come in due time," Marzio replied smugly. "Of course, that was before I broke out of prison and came here... By the way, how did you find me last night? Lavian said nobody would know where I was."
Ignis retrieved something from the nightstand and showed it to him. It was the golden medallion he had dropped on the floor when Lavian's bully had struck him from behind. "Kheerah found this in the foyer and thought I had accidentally misplaced it. This, and strange images of you chained to a wall that kept appearing in Lavian's mind. I simply took my cue and followed him to the temple dungeons." He refastened the gold chain around Marzio's neck, and caressed the Angelian's shoulder lovingly.
Marzio was a bit puzzled by some of the words. "In Lavian's mind? So you can truly read people's thoughts? Well, to tell you the truth, nothing much fazes me at this point. What happened to Lavian, anyway? Shouldn't he be around here somewhere, giving you a hard time?"
Ignis snorted. "Lavian is dead; I killed him last night. One less traitor to deal with; I heard most of what he told you, so it was just as well I did it myself - he couldn't have escaped trial this time. You knew that he was going to poison me, didn't you?"
"Yes," Marzio confessed. "I came here to warn you. Selena said she was afraid to tell Ceni so he could warn you, and there was no other way to let you know about except telling you myself. I was about to answer your note, but... something happened..."
Ignis' arms closed around him, the prince's touch light as a feather. "And you will tell me all about it, and then... then we will do some scheming of our own. I am not going to treat this lightly. I do not like it when the ones I care for are hurt and their life is being threatened. It has to end, and I want someone's head!"
It was scary to see Ignis so determined. Yet his hold never tightened, his body did not tense, only his voice carried signs of internal turmoil. Marzio knew it was just a matter of time until he would make his threat real, and then Seleh save whomever opposed his will.
But the Angelian also felt a bit slighted. Never before had Ignis seemed so distant, in spite of being so close. Marzio even wondered if the Demon's mind was there with him, or somewhere else planning his revenge. But he could not complain, could he? He had gotten his wish - to be in Ignis' arms for one last time before he gave up his old life and tried to make it on his own. He had a vague feeling Ignis was not going to let him go easily, though Marzio had to leave for both their sakes. But he still had time to enjoy this, just a bit longer until things settled down and everything returned to a normal path.
"Does it still hurt?" Ignis whispered suddenly, running a hand over the area where Marzio's wings had once been attached to his back.
Marzio shook his head. "No. Not physically, at least. It was the price I had to pay for my freedom."
Ignis' hold did tighten then, and Marzio was drawn closer to him. "Tanis once told me what this means in your land. I understand this must have been a hard decision for you."
"Let's not speak about it now. Both our peoples' destinies are laid out before you. There really was no choice, not in the long run."
Chapter Twenty-Two
Having to lean on someone for support while walking was something Marzio was not entirely comfortable with, but Ignis considered he was still too weak to manage on his own. The worse had been when Marzio had to make use of the privy, which was located down the hall from the suite the prince currently occupied; but it had been amazing how quickly Ignis' guards had cleared the corridor from any unwanted witness - including themselves, as well as prying servants and other Demon delegates.
Ignis was currently staying at a private villa located right outside Quiris, which judging by the amount of people that had moved in had become a miniature copy of the palace in Aquiline. However, also this meant that the prince had the luxury of a private bathing room which Marzio made good use of that afternoon. He was also provided with clean indoor clothing, including a thick robe which kept away the chill that took hold of the Angelian's body at times. And, most importantly, he got to share Ignis' living quarters. What more could he ask for?
His mood changed with the arrival of Tempesta Neri-Lokh and Owen Alisi-Feit. Apparently, Ignis had ordered his Supreme Commander to take over the negotiations that day, for he had been 'indisposed'. How he had managed to get away with it was, for the time-being, a mystery.
Steeling himself for what would come, Marzio allowed Ignis to lead him into the small receiving room outside his bedroom. The guards had been given specific orders not to let anyone in all evening, so it was just the four of them.
'At least I won't make a fool out of myself in front of people I never met,' Marzio reasoned, not missing the glance Tempesta and Owen exchanged when he entered the room, leaning on Ignis as he was directed to a couch in front of the fireplace, opposite to the one that the two Dreak were currently occupying. 'And I will be physically comfortable, if nothing else.'
The Demons were silent as he recounted his story, from the way in which he had defied Kelan in Council to his brief detention in Lavian's hands, trying his best not to leave out any detail that might prove of importance.
After he finished, he room was wrapped in silence. Ignis seemed deep in thought and Tempesta kept shooting questioning glances at both of them. Owen apparently did not know what to believe, but by the look in his eyes he probably considered Marzio crazy - which was not that different from the reactions Marzio had anticipated.
Then Ignis snapped out of it and turned to his lover, touching his cheek and smiling gently. "I am sorry," he said. "I should have anticipated at least part of what happened. And I should have warned you about her."
"You... you know that woman?" Marzio asked, still not quite sure what to make of the fact that Ignis apparently believed him.
"Pale skin, long white hair, teal eyes, voice sounding like it's coming from inside a tomb... She is not really a woman, you see. She is... how can I explain this? In Demonis, we call her the Sorceress. She is a high-ranking daimon, and there are some people who occasionally dream of her. It is said that she brings the guidance of Drako to his chosen servants, called 'the Luminate'."
"Yes, it is said." Owen's sarcasm was quite obvious. "Of course, there is a difference between fairytales and reality..."
"A difference that is not as great as it seems," Tempesta cut in. "Of course, there are still many things you have to explain to us, Ignis. Like the matter of a certain prophecy?"
Ignis shook his head. "Not now. There are other, more important things that we need to decide upon tonight. If Lavian and Kelan really were working together, then we need to find a way to keep the information about the High Priest's untimely death from leaking, and at the same time find a way to ensure we haven't spent all this time on peace talks that will have no finality."
One had to hand it to him, the prince really knew how to turn a discussion away from topics he was obviously uncomfortable with. And it was plain that everyone in that room had noticed that. It was clear that Tempesta really wanted her answers, and by now Owen probably had a few of his own, even if he did look at the three of them like they were quite insane. Marzio himself had a few questions for his secretive lover.
"The way I see it," Marzio began, "Kelan would have avoided contacting Lavian unless it became absolutely necessary. He may be a pain in the ass, but he's not stupid. According to Lavian's words before he found himself at the pointed end of your dagger, a position I do not envy him," he winked at the prince, who winked back, "he was supposed to poison you during the weekend before the treaty was signed. How many days are left until then?"
The three Demons looked at each other and blinked. "Two days from now."
Suddenly, Marzio found himself swept in an enthusiastic hug. "You are a genius!" Ignis declared, kissing him soundly. Deciding it was not worth letting go, he let Marzio rest in his embrace; which was just fine with the Angelian, as he had started feeling tired again. "There are no official meetings scheduled for the next two days, and if I keep well out of sight there is no reason for Kelan to suspect something has gone wrong.
"I can cancel all of your appointments," Tempesta suggested. "Or I can go in your place, whichever suits you best."
Ignis considered this. "I have no important meetings tomorrow, but I am supposed to see the mayor and some merchants' representatives from Tulse the second day. Cancel everything except that one. If anyone asks, I am feeling 'indisposed'; they can interpret that any way they like.
"We also need to know exactly where the Angelians stand regarding the treaty. Not the Councils, but the rest of them. Owen, I want you to get in touch with Ceni Mah-Kel first thing tomorrow morning. Schedule another 'dinner meeting' for the evening after. He'll probably be able to provide some information our regular channels may not find out in time.
"We'll hold our planning sessions here, for lack of a better space. Marzio, don't get any strange ideas: you are in on this."
"Hmm?" Marzio said, opening his eyes; he had nearly fallen asleep in Ignis' arms. He was so tired...
"Alright, time for you to get some sleep," Ignis decided. "Tomorrow should be a busy day." He dismissed his friends, then he helped Marzio on his feet and directed him toward the bedroom.
The following day was spent going over different ways off approaching the matter. Finally everyone agreed that a lot depended on whether the Angelians approved of the peace treaty or not - Marzio believe that most of them did, but Tempesta had decided that they needed solid proof - and on keeping Kelan and his cronies in the dark for as long as possible. The chaotic day ended with a trip to the tailor, everyone acting exhausted over dinner, and going to bed early.
Compared to that the following morning was uneventful, with breakfast a quiet affair after which Ignis and Marzio chose to retire back to the prince's bedroom to keep up with appearances.
The prince told him exactly who the Sorceress was supposed to be, and everything that was known about her. Marzio became lost in the tales, Demon mythology proving to be a fascinating subject. Ignis would not say much about the prophecy, however, which made the Angelian very suspicious because Tempesta had mentioned it and also because there was obviously something she knew that Marzio did not and that Ignis didn't want anyone to find out.
Still, that did not account for the sudden pause in conversation during which Ignis studied Marzio quite intensely, then turned his attention to his own hands as if they were something fascinating. All in all, he had the air of a man who wanted to say something but did not know if he should; which did not fit the Demon's personality at all.
Finally, Marzio gave in and sighed deeply. "You might as well say whatever is on your mind. I can see that it troubles you."
The prince looked up and smiled shyly. "I have a question, but I do not know if this is the proper time for it."
Marzio laughed. "Ignis, if there is one thing I learned in the past few months, that's that there is no time like the present. Just ask."
"Well... Marzio, please stop chuckling, this is quite serious. I know we have tried to live in the moment and never quite talked about the future, but I was wondering if - after things settle down of course - you would consider coming back to Aquiline with me and do me the honour of becoming my consort."
It took Marzio a few good minutes to recover from the shock of Ignis' words. A few minutes for their true meaning to sink in, for him to realize the whole suite of implications that would follow. At first, he thought the prince had not truly meant it, that it was just something to make his lover feel more comfortable with the whole situation. But no, Ignis had meant every single word - one look at him sufficed to bring forth the cruel confirmation; and Marzio felt awful about it, because he knew he would have to give an answer on the spot. And he did not wish to be a burden, or to turn Ignis' life into a nightmare. No, he certainly couldn't do that.
He sighed deeply as he looked at the Demon again; Ignis was carefully posed and ready to intervene at any sign of weakness that Marzio might give. Ready to confront another fit of hysteria, or offer him anything he might ask for.
At the moment, the Angelian wished Ignis he weren't dealing with this deeply-concerned lover, but the strong and authoritarian Prince of Demonis. He was aware they were one and the same - but he also knew that Ignis would not even dream about ordering him around as if he were just another person to deal with. And that was precisely the hard part.
Marzio closed his eyes for a moment and gathered his thoughts. He would have to be strong now, and not let his emotions get hold of him. He would have to go against his heart and speak a truth that was in fact a lie, a great lie he had devised to keep himself from further emotional turmoil. It was resignation, and the fact that not even Ignis could change the past, that Marzio had made his choice and that, perhaps in time, both of them would understand the true depth of that sacrifice.
"I cannot," he told his lover. "You know I cannot accept what you offer."
Ignis just stared at him. Marzio expected now his acceptance, the kind words of reassurance that always came...
"You can't be serious!" the prince blunted, bedazzled at the refusal. "Marzio, if you truly love me..."
"It is because I love you. My prince, try and understand. I was raised to believe in honour and devotion." His voice caught and he forced himself to continue. "All these things are lost to me now. I have betrayed my country, and given up my honour. I am no longer the man I was when we first met; I am not General Zain-Reil anymore. I am nothing now. Nothing. I no longer have a name, a home, a place in the world. I knew this was the price I would have to pay for my decision, and I accepted it then as I accept it now.
"But you, you have everything you had before, and more. The treaty is almost signed. Kelan's conspiracy will be thwarted. You will bring peace to our lands, and your people will love you even more for it. You will be that legendary prince, with or without his companion.
"And there is no place for me in all of this. I have no place by your side. The Angelian traitor." He snorted, disgusted he would use such words to speak of himself in front of the one he loved and respected above all. "What would your people say if I were to become your Consort? They would call you mad. A wingless Angelian! Ignis, they would undoubtedly overthrow you and choose another ruler. One that would never share his power with a worthless cast-out!"
Marzio's laughter was grim and ironical. No, Ignis could not be allowed to do that mistake. Ignis could not throw away all he had accomplished so far.
All the time, he watched the Demon's eyes widen in astonishment, then probably utter disbelief. Then, when Marzio spoke no more, and when he had digested all of it enough, Ignis stood in front of him, his eyes severe. No longer the lover, but the Dreak. No longer compassionate, but determined. Had he realized the truth, then? Had he believed what Marzio had forced himself to accept as reality?
"Is this what you think?" the prince demanded. There was an edge to his voice that Marzio had not heard in almost half a year. "That you are worthless now? That you should mean nothing to me, after all you have done for me?"
"I have not done anything. You know that is true."
"I know nothing of the sort." The voice was gentler again, persuasive. "What I do know is that you were willing to risk everything pursuing something that might have been a false lead. That you have come here to warn me, ignorant to what that meant in terms of your own safety. You have risked your life to save mine, damnit!"
His hands were on Marzio's shoulders now. The two marks on the Angelian's back burned, making him aware of what he sought to obtain. Goddess, how he wanted to accept Ignis' offer, to be in the safety of those arms forever, abandon all prejudices and grasp that new truth, living by its rules as if nothing else mattered.
But he could not, could he? It would go against everything he had believed in his whole life.
"Truly, Ignis, this is going nowhere. I cannot accept something you cannot offer without destroying everything you have worked so hard to accomplish."
Rage crossed the claret eyes. "And who are you to determine that? How can you know what I hold true, what my people holds true?"
Marzio tried to sound reasonable. "I know you, my prince. I have grown to know you better with every moment we have spent together. I..."
"You what? You know me better than I know myself?" The Demon was positively furious now. "Do you realize how many times I have heard these words? How many mouths said them, not knowing what a great lie they were? You know nothing, Marzio. And you cannot decide my future in my place."
Without realizing it, the Angelian shot back, "I wouldn't try to if you would think straight! How can you possible want to share your life with a crippled traitor?"
The back of Ignis' hand landed across his face making him fall back on the bed. It was a good reminder of the prince's physical strength, which Marzio had almost forgotten; and it also showed the Demon did not like to be questioned about his decisions. However, he had never before hit anyone in Marzio's presence. In all their contradictory debates, he had never raised a hand against his lover.
Marzio's left cheek burned like fire and he instinctively covered it with his hand, the fall of his hair hiding it from sight. It would undoubtedly bruise; but what was one more mark to the ones already covering his body? Why would this one be any different?
'Because he did it. The one you love gave it to you!' his mind told him just as Ignis spoke again, all of a sudden distant and cold.
"If that is how you feel, then there is nothing more to be said between us."
The door was slammed almost hard enough to make it jump from its hinges. Ignis left Marzio to crawl fully onto the bed, still holding his face, alone with a myriad of unpleasant feelings and thoughts.
Three hours later, the Prince of Demonis was still pacing furiously in the antechamber, mumbling incoherently under his breath. Tempesta had been watching him for some time, though he had barely acknowledged her presence since she had returned from the lunch meeting with the mayor.
And he was quite angry.
'Why would Marzio say such things? Does he truly believe he was worthless? And crippled, of all things?! Why, he radiates more strength and self-awareness that I can remember ever seeing in him!'
That Marzio loved him, he had no doubt. Nor did he question his own love toward the Angelian. But then, why had Marzio refused to see the truth? Why would he hide behind lies and superstitions he no longer believed in?
"Fool!" he said out loud, wearing another trail in the thick carpet. "Angelian idiot!"
And Tempesta knew better than argue with him, of course. Actually, she probably agreed to these epithets, deep inside... But no, she respected Marzio just as Ignis did. She did not show it, that was all. She had never liked discussing this matter.
"I wish he's crawl into a hole and stay there!" the prince spoke again, eager for the utter cliché that the words represented, eager to be someone normal for a change and not the sovereign of Demonis, the future of two lands laying on his shoulders. Why did this always happen to him? And why in Drako's name was he always doomed to loneliness?
"You don't mean that," Tempesta finally cut in, sipping elegantly at a glass of ruby wine.
He glared at her. "And how would you know?"
He was being mean to her without a reason, and he knew it just as well as he knew he didn't really want to lose Marzio. But the Angelian general had always had the most annoying ability to twist Ignis' words and give them a meaning they did not have.
His friend smiled. "You said it yourself - you're in love with him. And frankly, this time even you know it's the truth - prophecy or no prophecy."
He growled and let himself sink onto the couch next to her. "Why are things so complicated? Why does he always have to interpret everything I say? Was I not blunt enough? But he is smart, he figured out what I meant. Then why...?"
He let his voice fade out, and wished his inner turmoil would take the same path. "Perhaps I should have waited a little longer. Maybe he is not ready for such a commitment." So many explications ran through the prince's mind, so many alternatives unexplored before that detail had caught his attention.
And he had slapped him; he had slapped his lover like a haughty lord would a lowly servant. He was ashamed of it, and it pained him a great deal. Just as the harsh words he had forced himself to say, and which he wanted to take back. He wanted to go back into that bedroom and make things right between the two of them.
"This fight, was it his fault or yours?" Tempesta demanded, still sipping at her wine, her mind elsewhere.
"I believe we both said things we should not have brought up. But he looked so convinced of them - a pack of lies, really. He said he loves me, and yet his following words spoke different. He declared my best interests... and yet I do not see things that way."
She nodded. "And is there another secret behind this?"
"I only asked him to come back to Demonis with me and become my Consort."
The woman chuckled. "No wonder he quoted your best interests! I imagine he did not agree."
Ignis frowned. "He claimed he has no worth left, that he is no longer the man I knew." He shook his head indignantly. "He is. Not the one I knew, but the one he would have been, had he been allowed it; the one I caught glimpses of all the time. And he is too stubborn realize it!"
"And his refusal made you furious, I imagine," Tempesta concluded.
"Hell yes. Raving. I shouted at him and..."
"Ignis, to paraphrase something you said long ago, there is no couple I know of that does not have a fight every now and then," she interrupted him. "But things often turn out for the best. Now, why don't you go apologize and explain yourself to him? I'm sure once he understands the way you see things, he will reconsider."
There was truth in her words; and yet he had been so harsh with Marzio! Would his lover ever forgive him?
'Well, there is only one way to find out, and it is not by sitting here,' he decided. He stood up and made for the bedroom hurriedly, not bothering to face his general and friend as he said, "No matter what you hear, stay out of that room. This is between him and me alone!"
Chapter Twenty-Three
Everything had ended; and Marzio knew it was mostly his fault. He should not have turned down Ignis' offer. He should have gone to Demonis and started a new life at the prince's side.
Oh, who was he fooling? It had been an offer made in pity, had it not? And Ignis' last words stung him, gradually making place for a deep ache that consummated his whole being.
A lie, that's what their relationship had been. The prince hadn't really loved him. No one could love him, in spite of all better hope. And why would a Demon feel what one of his own people couldn't? Why would a prince lower himself like this, when he could have anyone he wanted?
Desperately clutching a hand at his chest, Marzio curled up on the bed. He would be asked to leave, soon. He would never see the Prince of Demonis again. And he had nowhere left to go.
His left cheek hurt where the blow had landed. A proper mark, for daring to talk up in such a manner, he reckoned. But it was nothing compared to his inner turmoil, to the deep sorrow in his heart.
He heard the door slam again, furious steps come towards him. The time to leave was apparently nearer than expected. Well, he would go then; go without looking back.
He raised his head to see who the new assailant was. It was Ignis. He would order Marzio away personally, then - it hurt even more, to be cast out by his lover. Yet Marzio knew he would obey; he would obey any order or request coming from the prince.
Hands grabbed him; curiously, instead of pulling him off the bed they shoved him back down, as the red-haired Demon climbed on top of him with no hesitation. One hand pushed the blond mane away from Marzio's face, slender fingers impossibly soft and patient as they spread the long waves in a golden halo around his head. The drowning eyes held no hate or revulsion, but love and desire. And pain.
Then Ignis closed his mouth on Marzio's, ravishing his lips with a passion he had never shown before. He had always been tender, but now he was almost brutal in his need.
When Ignis pulled back, the blond opened his mouth to ask what this was all about; but in a flash he was silenced, a warm tongue forcing itself past his teeth, claming him with ardent passion. And when this second kiss was broken as well, the prince ordered, "Silence, my foolish lover! I don't want to hear another word. I've had enough of talking! I'll simply show you that you are not worthless."
Marzio could only stare at the determination on Ignis' face, at the firm set of his mouth as the pale fingers hastily got rid of the robe Marzio was wearing, one hand pulling him up long enough to push the offending garment out of the way. Ignis' hands were everywhere now, rashly running over Marzio's exposed body, demanding in their urgency.
Still not completely sure where this would lead, Marzio just stood still, afraid he might ruin it. A few moments in Ignis' presence and his fears had already melted away; and the Demon was so eager in his insistence, so willing to please. Suddenly there was no denying what would happen next. And Marzio was frightened at how much he wanted this. Frightened by his body's prompt responses, at the passion growing with each touch.
Placing hungry kisses on Marzio's shoulders and neck, Ignis now firmly pulled his body up again and crawled behind his lover to explore the two long scars. They had healed fast and nicely, two parallel lines of angry red the only proof there had once been wings attached to the broad back. Just a little hesitant, the prince traced one of them with the tip of his index finger, so lightly it could have been a blow of the Mauri's breeze. His lover's body shuddered violently at the contact, and a moan escaped his lips. Marzio could feel the heat gathering inside his body, and he fought the desire to lean back in the touch, gripping violently at a pillow that happened to be at hand.
Pleased with the result, Ignis traced the other scar in the same fashion, and then he bent his head to run his tongue up the vulnerable area. Scar tissue was always more sensitive to the touch than the rest of the skin; yet he had to be careful not to cause pain instead of the pleasure he sought to offer his lover. His foolish lover, who saw himself worthless now that he had managed to warn Ignis of the danger that lay ahead. His foolish lover, who would soon realize he was nothing of the sort.
Lightly running his fingers over the scars one last time, the Demon used his other hand to lift the golden hair and bare Marzio's neck, and he nibbled at the skin behind his ear. It was one of those secret pleasure spots, which had always sent a thrill of sensations through his lover's body. How well he remembered it, as if it had been merely hours ago, not the long winter months that had truly passed since they had last made love.
Yes, they would have that closeness again. Nothing would part them this time, not even Marzio's silly ideas that had led to their earlier fight. Ignis realized they had this tendency to always make love after they had quarrelled. It had been some sort of unwritten ritual, to forget all about the harsh words in the heat of passion.
This time didn't seem to be an exception.
His restless hands found Marzio's already building erection and stroked it mercilessly through the cloth of his trousers. The deep throaty sounds his lover was making only served to turn him on more. An urgency he had not felt before was taking hold of him and making his motions almost aggressive.
But Marzio did not mind; quite the contrary. Fighting back the urge to abandon himself to the sensations and feeling such need he had not experienced in a very long time, he suddenly whirled around and pinned Ignis down on the mattress, letting go of all thoughts except having the prince squirming under him as soon as possible. His desire, repressed for too long, finally took over as he straddled his lover and forced his hands up, holding them over his head in a firm grip, looking down at his captive prey in hunger and anticipation.
He licked his lips. Ignis' false helplessness had him looking as tempting and alluring as the most forbidden of pleasures, eyes half-lidded and mouth parted invitingly, body trembling slightly as if in fear. The illusion was perfect, although Marzio was sure the prince could have broken free at any moment if he wanted to.
Marzio looked around him for something to bind Ignis with. The easiest choice was the sash that had held his robe into place, and luckily it was within a hand's reach. As he made a lounge for it and grabbed it, Ignis' eyes widened. But he did not protest when Marzio bound his wrists together, over his head. Now Marzio had all that lean body to himself, to sweetly torture his lover until he would beg for release.
Too late did he realize Ignis was still clothed.
Well, truth be said, he actually enjoyed ripping the shirt from the man's upper body. After all, what was a ruined piece of clothing compared to the toned and yet stunningly soft flesh that it hid from sight?
Soon, not an inch of exposed skin had escaped Marzio's unrelenting caresses, his fingers running over his lover's lean abdomen as he bent down to bite at a pink nipple. The stretched body under him tensed as he ran his tongue over Ignis' chest, taking a sharp breath as Marzio's teeth finally closed on their target.
Delicious, the musky scent coming from the Demon's flesh, the slide of his skin against Marzio's as the prince pulled himself up, using the headboard and his feet for support, his manhood rubbing against the Angelian's in the motion.
A fire erupted inside Marzio, and he could wait no more. Instinctively reaching out for the top drawer of the little nightstand, he found what he was looking for - a little glass vial. He cast Ignis a glance to find him grinning sheepishly, and he laughed out loud. In his mind, he praised his lover for anticipating this. But Ignis had made it clear that no words were needed. Words would bring pain where there was no need for it.
Sighing, Marzio decided not to dwell in it for too long. Instead, he took off the rest of their clothing and ran his fingers up Ignis' thighs, enjoying the familiar feel of muscles under tender skin, of tendons stretching as he parted the Demon's legs, at the same time pushing his knees up and positioning himself between his lover's legs.
Ignis was proudly erect, demanding Marzio's attentions. As he bent down and ran his tongue over the oversensitive inner side, the Demon gave sound to a loud moan which soon turned into a desperate groan as Marzio ran slow circles with his tongue down the shaft, and sucked at each testicle.
Now Ignis truly began trashing under him, almost wild with desire. He wanted Marzio inside him, filling him, completing him. He pulled at the bonds tentatively, careful not to hurt himself and yet strongly enough to loosen them and free himself from their restraint.
Marzio took no notice of this as he continued licking Ignis' erection. Feeling his lover's distress, he finally pulled back and poured some of the oily liquid onto his fingers, lightly running them over Ignis' opening. He pushed one inside, muscles quickly clenching it in exquisite heat. He pulled it out and penetrated Ignis again, with two fingers this time. The prince buckled under him, biting his lips and struggling with the bonds, apparently to no end. Roughly inserting a third finger, Marzio delighted in a loud groan of agonized need. He kept moving his fingers in and out, and used his free hand to lubricate his aching erection. He would soon be buried in the searing heat of Ignis' body, muscles clenching his burning desire. The mere thought made him shiver as he removed his fingers and prepared to enter his lover.
It was the perfect timing for Ignis to make his move. Gripping Marzio's waist firmly with his feet, he finally managed to release his arms and used his full strength to turn Marzio over, pinning his back and arms against the headboard, a grin his reply to the sheer amazement in the Angelian's eyes. Now Ignis had Marzio right where he wanted him.
Grabbing the sash Marzio had used to bind him, he gave his lover the same treatment, only he fixed the Angelian's wrists apart on the headboard so there would be no chance of escape. He could feel Marzio's hardness pulsing firmly against his buttocks, ready for penetration. Well, he would not keep him waiting for long.
Pulling himself up on his knees, resting his palms on Marzio's broad shoulders for leverage, he started his slow descent over the awaiting rigidity of his lover's glistening erection, fighting the inevitable resistance of his muscles. Something like 'we shouldn't have waited this long...' vaguely crossed his mind, but it was not the time to reflect on such issues. He needed to show his Marzio how precious and dear he still was to him. And if words were not enough to convince him of his devotion, he'd use the full force of his passion as his soundless cry of love. With that purpose in mind, he took a deep breath, and willed his body to embrace his lover's velvety heat.
Pain. Nothing he had not known before. Stillness, and his lover's look of concern. He didn't know if he wanted to kiss him or slap him again. This was not their first time, after all! When was Marzio going to learn he was not made of glass? Clenching his teeth to drive away the pain he had no means escaping, he forced himself down until Marzio was fully inside him, his erection pulsing in the tight depths of his body.
The Demon seethed. It had been a foolish thing to do, but he had waited for too long to give up at the last moment. He closed his eyes and breathed steady for a few moments, feeling the need to have his lover's guidance through this. He blindly reached out and unbound Marzio, apologizing with a kiss for what could not be unsaid or undone.
He was a little anxious, but the blond's reassuring smile told him it was going to be all right. Drawing a sharp breath, Ignis forced his body up and then down again, a little unsteady until he found the right pace and angle. Marzio's large hands took hold of his lean hips, gently helping him into finding a natural, comfortable rhythm.
It went smoothly from there. Frenziedly, urgently, but smoothly. Marzio's right hand left Ignis' thigh after a while to stroke his lover while the Demon continued his wild rhythm, head thrown back, hair fawning around him savagely.
Ignis was stunning in his passion, like a god of fire caught in the middle of his coupling dance, Marzio decided, increasing his rhythm in time with his lover. And his, all his! He could not remember why they had argued, or why he had ever doubted Ignis' love for him. There was no greater proof than the sheer abandon to passion that the prince showed, the chanting groans leaving his lips as he continued to willingly offer himself to Marzio, making sure his lover would receive the most pleasure he could offer.
It became unbearable, for both of them. Finally, the Angelian could hold back no longer; this sudden display of fervour combined with nearly five months of abstinence said their word as he came inside his lover's body with the same violence that had been at work throughout the whole experience. His release triggered off Ignis', who with a final moan came all over Marzio's hand, shouting his name again as he had done their first time together. Then he let his body fall on top of his lover, arms limp at his sides, his breath the only sign he was actually alive. He did nothing to prevent Marzio's arms encircling him, stroking his sweat-glistening skin and pushing away plastered hair from his face and lidded eyes. He just laid there, motionless, wings still fully stretched out as they had been when he had reached completion, heart beating wildly in his chest, mind blank except for the remains of the immense pleasure that had drowned him barely moments before.
"You are a bit crazy, you know that?" Marzio finally said.
Had the prince's head not been on his shoulder, he would have missed the weak nod. Ignis' lips moved twice before a weak sound was uttered: "... drained..."
Marzio smiled, knowing this to be an extraordinarily achievement considering the young Demon's seemingly endless stamina. "I can't believe I finally managed to wear you out."
A soft chuckle as Ignis' fingers regained their ability to move, running up Marzio's arms, delicate and moist and completely seductive in their innocent movement. The prince finally opened his eyes, blinking to clear his vision. The mid-afternoon sun cast orange and red reflections in the room through the pulled curtains, bathing them both in a soft and warm light. He looked up at Marzio, taking in the fair beauty of his features. In this light, his lover's hair was the colour of molten gold. He mustered enough strength to run a strand through his fingers. Yes, definitely golden.
"You are gorgeous," he whispered. "Utterly irresistible..."
This time, Marzio did not try to deny it like he had countless times before.
Ignis closed his eyes again, enjoying this intimate proximity of skin against skin. Marzio was still buried inside him, but the undemanding invasion of his lover's spent softness did not bother him at all. A secret smile played on his lips as he pondered with the idea of staying like this forever. It did not displease him one bit.
Still, he pulled away, carefully sliding off his lover, kissing Marzio tenderly. He could taste him for ages and still ask for more, he decided. But again, it was only an idea. Claiming his side of the bed, he moved to pull Marzio's body in the circle of his arms, dark wings enfolding him once more as if to reassure him of their owner's protectiveness.
"Did you sense it too?" the prince asked as he began playing in his lover's hair absent-mindedly.
"Hmm?"
"The way it feels like when we make love. It just seems right."
"Now that you mention it, I do feel something is different when I'm with you. I thought it was just me, but..." Marzio shook his head. "Tell me the truth, Ignis: did you ask me to be your Consort just because of this prophecy, or did you really mean it?"
"To hell with the prophecy! I would fight a thousand wars to have you by my side." Ignis sighed. "I just wish you would learn to trust me, beloved. I also wish you'd start seeing your true value. What you did in these past few months takes real courage, and it will only raise you in my people's esteem. Was it selfish of me to ask you to come back to Demonis and have your proper place at my side?"
Marzio let his hands circle the prince's waist. "No, just unexpected. I fear I have lied to you - right now there's nothing I want more than to be with you. But becoming your Consort... That's a serious commitment, Ignis. I'd just like to put some of order in my life before I can answer that."
"I understand." Ignis caressed the cheek where his slap had ended earlier. "And I apologize for hitting you. Normally I would never do that, but I've reached the limit of my patience a bit too often these last couple of days."
"It's all right. I should be the one apologizing. I should never have said those things, to you of all people." Marzio tightened his hold. "But I thought..."
Long fingers silenced him; warm lips touched his brow lovingly. "I know what you thought. Never out of pity, Marzio - do you hear me? I would never ask something as important as that out of pity. And you can take your time with the answer. There is no hurry. We have all the time in the world, my love."
Marzio wanted to believe him; he couldn't remember himself wanting something with such intensity before.
Then, typically, he remembered something he'd been meaning to ask the prince. "Ignis, about this prophecy... you were given a choice just like me, right?"
"Yes; when I was twelve. My mother had died half a year before, and I was having trouble finding a purpose in life. Then the Sorceress asked me if, were I given the chance to change the world, I would try to do it. Even then, I was such an idealist! What would a child know about changing the world? But I accepted. And here I am."
"Here we are, you mean," Marzio corrected him. "That woman... the Sorceress, you called her? She said I would never see you again if I didn't do this. I could not live with that, just as I could not live with the thought I might have been one of the causes of your death. And there was this voice in my mind that couldn't refuse the chance I was being offered. It kept saying I could start a new life, one in which I made my own destiny. And maybe, just maybe, you would be part of that new life too. So you see, in a way we are both idealists."
He laughed, and so did Ignis. "I knew you had it in you, Angelian! Now, how about we actually rest for a while, mm? We're busy tonight, remember?"
"Khest!" Marzio grumbled. "You're supposed to meet Ceni this evening."
"I'm sure he'll be happy to know you are safe. Now go to sleep, before I change my mind and ask for another bout of retribution! And if I have to do that, I swear I won't go any easier on you!"
Marzio chuckled knowingly. "Yes, I noticed you were quite enthusiastic. Not that I am complaining, mind it."
His mind drifted off, 'No, I am not complaining at all...'
Ceni knew something was wrong the moment Meris Owen met them at the gates that evening. There was a dark look in the Dreak's eyes he had not seen before, and that had not been there the last time they had seen each other. And the request for this meeting, though not really suspicious, had left the Angelian officer thinking about the last time when he had been supposed to "discuss security" with the captain, and had gotten to talk to Prince Sagni-Dor instead.
Ceni knew that today was a bad day to meet with the prince. A courier had arrived that morning from Angelia, bringing with him the news that Marzio had disappeared from the prison in Mnemon. Not escaped, but literally disappeared; and nobody had known where he had gone. So Ceni had spent the rest of the morning organizing guard posts at every single access gate into the city, a task that needed to be done but which he didn't enjoy. Laying traps to capture one's best friend was not something one could be proud of.
And on top of that, Princess Selena had practically stormed into his room that afternoon and demanded to be taken to see the Prince of Demonis, because there was something urgent she needed to tell him. After much persuasion, she had finally given in and told him what it was all about, and Ceni had just clenched his teeth, got her the most inconspicuous clothes he could find on such short notice, and smuggled her out of the palace.
So here they were, following the Captain of the Prince's Personal Guard through the villa's courtyard with the man looking not too pleased - a thing that could be due to Selena's presence, but also to something by far more serious. And no, the Angelian officer did not want to think what that 'something else' could have been. If Selena's warning came too late...
"Your lady friend shall have to wait here," Meris Owen said as he stopped into an empty receiving hall on the second floor.
Ceni cleared his throat. "Well, you see... she would like to speak with Prince Sagni-Dor, if possible. And she is not exactly my friend. More like a pesky acquaintance."
Selena stepped on his foot, making him yelp in pain.
The Demon crossed his arms over his chest and addressed Selena for the first time that evening. "State your name, rank and business with the Prince."
The Angelian princess looked around and, seeing that there was no one there except the three of them, removed the hood of her cloak. "You already know my name, and this is a matter that cannot wait."
The dark-haired captain raised a brow, then bowed ever so slightly. "Please wait here for a moment, both of you." Then he hurried through a door on the left.
"Khest! Did you have to step on my foot quite that hard? That was a very unladylike thing to do!" Ceni hissed at the princess once they were alone.
"You called me pesky. No one calls me pesky."
"Well, you are! And don't even think about throwing one of your fits now, because that will only keep you from seeing the prince. Why the hell did you have to come with me, again?"
"Because it was I who overheard Kelan, and because I don't trust you."
"Fine! Because I don't trust you, either!"
"Fine!"
"Are you two quite done yet?"
Blood rushed in Ceni's cheeks as he turned to see that the Demon captain was back. Thankfully, the princess looked quite flustered as well.
Meris Owen shook his head and held the door open for them. "Come this way."
Ceni could not quite shake the feeling that they were literally dumped into the opulent receiving room and left to their own devices... but it wasn't quite so, for they were not alone. Prince Ignis was seated elegantly in an armchair and looked at them with an expression that was only half-serious.
"Your Highness, Lieutenant-Colonel Mah-Kel," he greeted them, not standing up. "Why don't you have a seat?" He indicated a couch in front of him.
Both Angelians accepted his invitation, and Ceni made sure to sit as far away from the princess as possible. Though they were both friends with Marzio, for some strange reason they simply could not stand each other; and Selena tended to act like a brat around Ceni, which didn't help his composure at all.
"I do not mean to sound impolite, Princess Selena, but is there a reason for your visit?" the Demon asked. "If I recall correctly, my meeting this evening was only with Lieutenant-Colonel Mah-Kel."
'Oh hells! He knows about Marzio's escape!' That was the first thought that came into the officer's mind, and he tried his best to keep breathing steadily. If he knew, then he was planning something. Again. And Ceni wasn't very sure he could turn him down if he asked for his help. He hadn't been able too, before.
If the prince noticed anything, he did not comment on it. In fact, he wasn't looking at Ceni at all.
"I hope you don't mind my presence," Selena replied.
The Demon raised a brow. "Actually I do mind your presence, but not for the reasons you think. You simply shouldn't be here, lady."
"And why is that? Because women shouldn't interfere in men's business? Well, I choose to interfere! What are you going to do about it, spank me?"
The prince's face was firm, but his lips twitched up even so slightly. "If you insist... There is no law, written or unwritten, that prohibits women from taking part in any type of conversation in Demonis. But if your father finds out you came here, he might interpret this as an attempt at seduction on your behalf. And we don't want him to think his dear daughter would be attracted to filthy Demon scum, do we now?"
Selena bristled, but managed to keep her mouth shot - something that surprised Ceni to no end. "The reason I insisted on coming here tonight is a serious one. I overheard Lord Kelan..."
"... talking about a possible assassination attempt on my person, with Lord Lavian right in the middle of it." The prince laughed at what must have been the Angelians' poleaxed expressions. "But as far as I know, my dear, you overheard this discussion quite a few weeks ago, in which case it does not explain your need to suddenly divulge this secret to the lieutenant-colonel here, after having been totally against the idea when General Zain-Reil suggested that you did so, also several weeks ago." He grinned. "Did I get that right, or were there some details that I missed?"
Selena seemed to find her feet most interesting. "H-how do you find out all this?" she asked.
The Demon gave her a mysterious smile. "Oh, I have most reliable sources. Still, it does not explain your presence here, Princess."
"I though... that is... if I told you myself, you might believe it, so..."
Ceni groaned. "Damnit, Selena, why didn't you tell me sooner? If Marzio said to tell me, then you should have."
"Because you're an oaf. And how was I to know you would not run and report to Kelan instead?"
"I would never betray Marzio's trust!"
"Like hell you wouldn't!"
"Would not!"
"Would too!"
The prince's laughter interrupted them. "Marzio was right, you do bicker like a married couple."
"Marzio said that about us? What else did he say?"
"He said many things, my dear princess, but it is not for me to reveal them. Still, as entertaining as it may be to witness one of your arguments, may I remind you that we are running out of time?"
She blinked. "Running out of time for what?"
"For the meeting, of course. And there was something I wanted to know, something relatively important."
His eyes turned to Ceni, who found himself sitting up straight on the couch. 'Here it comes...'
"Something that has to do with the treaty."
The Angelian officer didn't realize he had been holding his breath until her released it.
"Oh, and I can see how that is more important than your personal safety," Selena jumped in. "We came here to warn you that your life might be in danger and all you care about is your blasted treaty?"
Prince Ignis rested his chin on one hand and studied her through narrowed eyes. "The treaty means a great deal to me, and I need to know how your people feel about it. Since I cannot rely just on my sources for that information, and since I am sure there are in fact different opinions and speculations, I thought I might ask someone who knows what goes on."
Feeling left out of the conversation, the princess huffed. "Ceni isn't the only one who knows what's going on, so listen here! Not only are my people quite happy with this treaty thing, but they are most unhappy with Kelan doing his best to sabotage it, and say that if daddy had more brains then he would have done this a long time ago. How is that for information?!"
Ceni fought hard not to groan at the fact that she had just given the Demon very valuable information without realizing it, and at the language she had used. When she got angry, she did not sound like a princess at all. More like a spoiled brat... though one had to admit she was not stupid.
Prince Sagni-Dor was smiling. "Thank you, your highness. That was most valuable information. And I do believe that, with a few lessons in manners and speech, you would make an excellent politician."
Whereas she had been angry, now she blushed and looked down in her lap. "You really think so?"
The Demon laughed. "I think so. Lieutenant-colonel Mah-Kel, is something bothering you?"
"If I could have a word with you in private..."
The prince nodded. "If you excuse us, Princess," he said in his most charming voice as he escorted Selena to the door, leaving her no time to realize she was being kicked out until the door closed in her face.
Ceni stopped kneading a corner of his cloak in his hands and stood up. "A courier arrived today from Mnemon. Marzio escaped from prison nearly two weeks ago."
The prince did not seem surprised at all. "Please continue."
"King Teh-Kai... Well, not him but the Council members, ordered patrols posted at every gate of the city. They think he might be coming here. Your highness, I... I do not mean to sound cruel, but if they catch him there is nothing I can do to help him. So I thought you could... I don't know what I thought you could do. I... I just wanted you to know he escaped."
Ignis stepped forward and placed a hand on Ceni's shoulder. "Don't worry, Ceni. I can guarantee no patrol will catch Marzio sneaking into the city."
"He trained those men himself..."
"I do not doubt their abilities; but they will not catch him. Not because they are not well-trained, but because Marzio is already here."
If not for the prince's hand steadying him, Ceni would have probably felt on the floor in a heap. As it was, it was all he could do to keep his knees from completely giving up on him as he looked at the Demon hopefully.
"Understand that I am telling you this because you helped me send that note to him even if you didn't have to, and that even if you tell anyone your people cannot come and take him away from me. But I also wanted to give you a fair warning. Marzio will be with me in the City Hall tomorrow, a thing that might not make Lord Kelan very happy."
"I understand. But... can I see him? Speak to him? Please, I have to..."
The prince shook his head. "He doesn't want you to see him. I think he is, in a way, ashamed of what happened to him. But I am sure he'll appreciate your concern."
"Then please give him a message from me. Tell him... that while I think he's the craziest person I've ever met, I am glad that he finally came to his senses and got out of Angelia for good. He didn't fit in there anyway. His ideas were far too progressive for our people."
There was a hidden sadness in the prince's smile as he released Ceni and led him to the door.
Chapter Twenty-Four
Marzio's clothes were delivered later that evening. Just in time, too - the treaty was to be signed in less than twenty hours. Somehow, time passed differently being at his lover's side, where he inwardly knew he had belonged the whole time. Ignis was still keeping to his rooms, in order to make his plan work, and Marzio had to do the same so that his presence would not be revealed to the Angelian spies - Kelan's spies. However, two nights before they had visited a tailor who had asked little questions about the opulent costumes he had been ordered to make in such a short time. Marzio suspected he had either been paid a great sum of money, had owed the prince something, or was a spy. Perhaps all three at the same time.
Trying not to think about facing his former sovereign, Marzio allowed himself to relax as his lover unwrapped the first of the two parcels the tailor's apprentice had delivered at the gate and Kheerah had eagerly brought upstairs. However, he was forced to get out of the armchair as the prince beckoned him over, a triumphant smile gracing his face. Marzio had witnessed Ignis drawing the sketches and, like all clothes in the Demon's wardrobe, they would be unique. Not having the Court of Demonis' tailor at his disposal had been an inconvenience, but as usually he had managed.
Currently though, Ignis was absorbed in the task of stretching a forest green tunic on the bed covers and checking every seam and the gold-embroidered lapels. He found nothing wrong and moved on to producing trousers of an even deeper green, lined with the same embroidered pattern of gold thread, from the bundle of wrapping paper. He set them next to the tunic and examined them just as thoroughly. Marzio suddenly realized the tunic was a little too broad in the shoulders to suit Ignis' lithe frame, and gasped in surprise. These were the clothes meant for him.
"What, no blue?" he asked, trying to hide the excitement under a little disappointment. It did not work, for he was once more overwhelmed by Ignis' generosity. This was the second time he received clothes from his lover.
Ignis did not reply, but handed him a sash of pure silk, in a gradient from the purest white to a deep blue. Sewn on it was the crest of the Zain-Reil family, a phoenix on a field of silver and blue, the contrast not managing to alter the harmony of colours. It was followed by a pair of white gloves, a collarless white shirt with loose sleeves, other items of clothing and finally a large burgundy mantle. The boots, black and polished so hard that they shone, had been delivered earlier.
Ignis disappeared into the bathroom with the other parcel and spent about ten minutes in there. Marzio was too distracted by his own outfit to notice. The cut was strange, not entirely Demon but certainly not Angelian. He wondered what he would look like in them... 'But no, not right now. Right now I have to thank Ignis for the clothes, and what better way to do it than...'
"Love?" Marzio turned to see he was alone in the room. "Ignis?" he called again, louder.
The prince was hiding a satisfied grin as best he could while he closed the bathroom door a little too fast to escape the Angelian's notice. "Yes?"
"Alright, you dreadful prince, what are you plotting again that I shouldn't know about?"
Ignis threw himself at his lover, pulling him down on the bed and barely missing the laid-out clothes. "Who, me?" he asked innocently, but did not conceal his amusement. He fluttered his lashes in a very good imitation of a high-born girl trying to seduce a stable-boy. "Why, you and the rest of the world shall have to wait until tomorrow morning to find out."
"You are awful, you know that?! But I love you anyway," he added and kissed the soft lips eagerly, as Ignis abandoned himself to his insistent kisses once more.
But later, much later, he told Marzio in his most serious voice, "Your dear king and his 'trusted advisor' will have a fit when they see me tomorrow."
The Angelian smiled. 'Knowing Ignis, they will probably not be the only ones.'
There was less than an hour before the treaty was to be signed, and the Prince of Demonis was still inside the bathroom, with Kheerah and a closed door between him and the world. The rest of the Demon delegation had already left the manor, receiving that order through four inches of wood. Ignis had insisted that Marzio waited for him, though, so there he was, wearing the green outfit that had him looking more threatening than his old general's uniform ever had, armed with broadsword and two hidden daggers, and gazing out the window as he waited for Ignis to finally come out. What was taking him so damn long?!
The sound of the door finally opening and hurried footsteps told him that Kheerah had left, also marking the point when he had had enough. He turned, taking a few angry steps ready to break down the offending obstacle... and stopped in his tracks.
Standing in front of him was the God of War himself, in pure black clothing lined with equally black thread, long black cloak thrown carelessly over one shoulder to reveal black feathers and the gilded pommel of a sword. His eyes were carefully lined with dark kohl and a faint silver shade covered his eyelids, drawing even more attention to those fiery flaming irises, and the gold-crafted Coronet of Demonis rested on a pure red waterfall. He was regal and serene, safe for the little mocking smile playing on his beautiful lips.
Marzio took a step back, actually intimidated. "Drako," he whispered, still not quite believing.
The expression softened and the War God suddenly transformed into someone more familiar. Ignis looked at Marzio lovingly and at the same time chuckled darkly. "Let us hope you shall not be the only one who gets that impression." He pointed to the edge of the bed. "Sit down. If you're eventually going to become my Consort, you might at least start looking like it."
Not quite sure what that meant, Marzio decided it was better to obey. Ignis produced some golden paint which he began applying to Marzio's eyelids.
"But I will look like a woman!" the older man protested.
"No, but if you don't stand still you will look like a highborn dandy."
That had Marzio calm enough for Ignis to finish, then put the paint away and retrieve a square box of indiscernible content. "We are running late," Marzio warned him.
The prince shook his head and let out an exasperated sigh. "That was the plan all along. Besides, important persons always run late." He drew Marzio up and opened the box to retrieve a band of sterling silver embedded with emeralds. "Kneel before me," he ordered, and when Marzio did he placed the band on Marzio's forehead. "Lord Marzio Zain-Reil, I hereby name you Commander of Demonis' Second Division of Cavalry. You may rise," he added a little less formally, actually lending him a hand up. "There, now you have a formal position among my staff, so no one can arrest you without my permission. Let's see what Kelan has to say to that, shall we?" he winked, and rushed the dazed Marzio down into the courtyard, where two saddled warhorses waited to take them to Quiris' City Hall.
Hooded and dangerous, they made it with only ten minutes delay, which actually had Ignis pouting a little. The anteroom was empty, but the two could sense the restlessness in the air. Ignis actually stopped, removed his hood and released his hair from the leather cord he had used to restrain it during the short ride. He turned toward Marzio, breathing deeply.
"Here's what happens now. Most of them do not know our delay was on purpose. Lavian is supposedly back in Aquiline with urgent state business, which Kelan should interpret that his plan has worked and I am on my deathbed. They probably think Tempesta is only trying to buy some time, and know she cannot sign the treaty in my place. When we walk in there, I want you to remain hooded until I say your name out loud. I shall try and make things as quick as possible, so don't worry. It is also quite probable that at a certain point I shall sound like I'm a heartless bastard - you know me well enough by now to know I'm just acting, but I wanted to warn you all the same. Also, when you speak up do it convincingly and without fear. Have faith in yourself, and in your friends. I get the feeling they will not let you down. Any questions?"
Marzio smiled and bowed deeply. "None, most cunning tyrant. Lead the way!"
The only way Ignis could refrain from laughing was putting on a furious face. Exhaling loudly, he took a step forward and, slamming the oak doors to the walls like they weighted nothing, he strode purposefully into the hall, Marzio in tow.
All eyes turned to see who had disturbed the increasingly agitated silence. King Teh-Kai drew back in his chair at the sight of the dark fury coming toward the dais, followed closely by a mysterious figure wrapped in burgundy. In less than a minute, the fiery red-haired Demon was mounting the two steps and sitting carelessly in the Prince of Demonis' throne, eyes cold as the cruel little smile made Marzio shiver in dread at the transformation in the Demon sovereign. Kelan looked like all the blood had been drawn from his body, managing a little sound as his mind filled with dread.
"Y-your Highness..." he managed.
Ignis' voice came out as cold as his smile had been. "Please excuse the delay. I had to deal with a traitor."
Marzio had expected him to come to that, but not quite so bluntly. He knew that, inside, his lover was probably not only nervous, but willing to end this uncomfortable situation as fast as possible. He strengthened himself at what was to come, including accusations at his person. They did not matter as they had before, but he somehow had the feeling Kelan would try and make him and the prince most uneasy. 'Oh well... he can try. I am ready for him.'
He made a quick sign to catch Ceni's eyes while Ignis and King Teh-Kai were busy staring at each other. His friend, stationed just a few feet away from the King's throne, stared at him for a moment, but then he nodded a greeting before looking away.
In the mean time, Ignis had joined his fingers and had been staring at the king in a most intimidating manner. King Teh-Kai, not quite knowing what to do, replied in a shaggy voice, "Shall we proceed then?"
Ignis nodded, and gestured for him to sign first. Three copies of the final treaty waited on a velvet-clad table between the two parties.
But as the Angelian king wanted to lean forward, Kelan intervened. "Pardon me, Prince Sagni-Dor, but you only have two witnesses. Lord Lavian is not here."
'Of course he isn't, you idiot. I killed him.' The burgundy eyes turned to the advisor and his smile grew malicious. "He most certainly isn't. In fact, I fear he is quite dead."
That flat tone frightened not only Marzio, but Tempesta as well. In the hall, people stirred at the news, but no one dared raise their voice. The newly-appointed Commander Zain-Reil turned his head to the Supreme Commander of the Army of Demonis and mouthed only for her, the hood hiding his face from the others, 'He's acting.' General Neri-Lokh gave him a quick nod - she knew, and it still frightened her. Meris Owen, Captain of the Guard, was feeling the same. Princess Selena and Lieutenant-Colonel Mah-Kel exchanged looks over their king's throne, wondering at the prince's cold blood. Kelan paled even more and King Teh-Kai looked quite startled.
"Excuse me, but was he not a very important chancellor?" the monarch of Angelia tried to say neutrally, but his voice betrayed his tenseness.
"That he was, and a traitorous snake as well. But I have brought a replacement." It was Marzio's clue; he stepped forward and dropped his hood. "Please allow me to introduce the new leader of Demonis' Second Division of Cavalry, Commander Marzio Zain-Reil."
This time, the hall was in uproar; but it was more of a startled tumult than an angry one. While people stared at him in an amazed shock, the king and Kelan looked like the ceiling had suddenly fallen over their heads. And Marzio could swear he could hear a contented laugh from Ignis inside his mind.
Outwardly, the prince was content to narrow his eyes even more and smile devilishly at Kelan. 'Son of a whore, how does it feel to be beaten at your own game?' The man looked like he was ready to burst, so in the same unfeeling voice Ignis inquired, "Is anything wrong, lord advisor?"
Burst he did, in an outraged fury of words. "What is this traitor doing here?! Guards, arrest him!" But the Angelian guards did not move; in fact, neither did anybody else.
"Lord Loreh-Ven, I expect you to address my future Prince Consort respectfully," Ignis stated.
"Your what?!" Kelan spat, not believing his ears. His sudden indignation was met by the Demon's eyes looking at him with a burning rage that made him stick his back to the wide chair he was sitting in, pinned without escape, fury replaced by dread - he realized that his plan had been discovered.
King Teh-Kai spoke firmly this time, being the only one not knowing what was going on in the hall. "Prince Sagni-Dor, with all due respect, that man is a traitor and a criminal."
Ignis' deadly smile did not waver for a second. "And why is that? Because he dared to speak against your chief advisor in Council, warning you what a great mistake you were about to commit? Your Majesty, when did you stop listening to what your people truly had to say?"
"How dare you..."
"Silence!" Ignis' voice boomed through the hall, covering Kelan's. 'One more word from you and you die. Painfully,' came the silent threat only the lord heard, imprinting itself into his mind. The prince's attention turned to the king again. "Whom did you listen to, when you sent half the men in Angelia to certain death?"
"My advisors, of course," the monarch replied.
"Advisors? Oh, but I believe it was your mistress. You know, Lord Loreh-Ven's wife..."
It was the king's turn to blanch. "What are you insinuating?"
Ignis' voice regained some feeling, but not much. "What Marzio told you a long time ago, Your Majesty. That you allow your Councilors to rule the country, and do not listen to those who are loyal to the Crown and Angelia, not to their own fame and pockets. Before starting this war - the results of which brought us here -, did you even bother to ask your officers what the odds were, and not some idiots who have no idea how to properly wield a sword in combat? Did you discuss strategy with anyone except that overstuffed noble standing next to you? Why, I bet you didn't even know when and where your army has crossed the border until you got my letter!"
The king got angry. "That is a preposterous thing to say, Your Highness!"
"Is it? Then enlighten me, oh most wise one, why did you arrest General Zain-Reil when he spoke the truth against Lord Kelan? You had confirmation that the general was not lying."
"He wanted to usurp our sovereign, marry the princess and have the throne for himself!" Kelan erupted, pointing accusingly at Marzio, who almost fell over. 'I wanted what?'
"Listen, you silly excuse of a courtier, I never wanted any throne!" Marzio roared at Kelan for the second time in his life. "You think leading an army is not hard enough? What would I do with a country?! All I ever wanted was to make sure His Majesty found out who you really were!"
The Angelian princess jumped as well. "Father, listen to me! Marzio is my friend. What he earned, he earned with his own power. He would have never ever done anything to cause me, or you, any pain. He was loyal to Angelia and he was loyal to you."
King Teh-Kai was beginning to get confused. Was his daughter speaking in the traitor's favour? And Prince Sagni-Dor, too? He looked at Lord Loreh-Ven only to find him looking at the Demon like the man was about to bite him. His former High Commander stood proudly next to Prince Ignis' throne - was he wingless? That would clearly mark him as a traitor, but...
"Zain-Reil, explain yourself, and do it now," he ordered. "And pray tell me how exactly you managed to break out of prison."
Jumping at the chance he was being offered and praying he would not sound too enthusiastic, Marzio engaged himself in explaining all about Kelan's foul plans, his own discoveries about the man, and the plot against Ignis that Selena had revealed to him. He evasively mentioned someone helping him escape imprisonment, and that he had reached Quiris only four days ago. He felt everyone in the room was glaring at him, waiting for that last detail - why had he warned Ignis?
"Your Majesty," he finally said, "I am aware that my final actions mean treachery against Angelia. That is why I am willing to leave the country, never to return. But please understand that I never wanted your crown. I give you my word, which I have never betrayed."
Kelan saw this as his last chance to intervene against Marzio. "You slept with the enemy prince! Your word is worth nothing."
Ignis, who for all that time had limited himself to listen carefully, and who hated it when people interfered in his private life, spoke before Marzio could even open his mouth. "I do not see it as your business to tell me whom I can sleep with. Do you think me so low and deceiving that I would dishonour my most esteemed adversary and have him betray his country for a night of pleasure? Your Majesty, I can assure you that what we did had nothing to do with politics."
Finally having heard enough on both sides, King Teh-Kai stood up and faced the hall. "Angelians," he said. "My people... I see myself surrounded by betrayal. So I ask you, what should I do?"
A cold wind passed through the hall. Then one voice shouted, and was quickly backed up by others. "Sign the treaty! Death to Lord Kelan! Peace for Angelia!"
The old king shook his head, and sitting down again he leaned for the quill. "As you decide," he whispered, and placed his signature on one paper. Kelan, by now blind to anything but rage, suddenly pulled out a dagger and wanted to plunge it in the monarch's side, under everybody's terrified eyes. Two signatures. Simultaneously, Ceni pulled out his sword. Finding no other way, he stabbed the man right in the heart through his back, at the same time catching the hand holding the dagger and pulling it back.
The blade slipped out of Kelan's hand as he fell on the floor, just as King Teh-Kai drew back after signing the third copy. The poor monarch looked at his former advisor with shocked eyes, until two of the other Angelian guards picked up the corpse and took it out of sight. Then he turned to Ignis, pleading, "Let us end this."
A sudden twinge rushed up Marzio's back, and he clenched his hands into fists fighting it back. He could not disturb this moment.
Prince Sagni-Dor nodded and a page turned the three copies of the treaty toward him. He picked up another quill and dipped it in ink, his signature in flowing calligraphy quickly joining the King of Angelia's on all three copies.
It was then that Marzio collapsed on his hands and knees, screaming. It felt like his back was on fire, and something was crawling under his skin. A strange force immobilized him, but did not dull the pain. What the hell was happening to him? Why now, when he had found love and peace? His thoughts suddenly defragmented as the hurting replaced all coherent thinking with noble perfidy.
Ignis dropped his façade and, among confusion and startled cries, rushed to kneel by Marzio's side and took him in his arms. The Angelian felt hands trying to soothe the searing burns in his back, tender and confident as only Ignis could be. He began hearing again, exclamations of surprise and a constant voice in his ear tenderly whispering indiscernible words. His vision began to clear, and the warm trails down his face told him he was crying.
Then the pain stopped as abruptly as it had begun, and all he could feel was tingling spreading quickly through his veins, the same one he remembered from when the Demon prince had healed his side wound. His face was pressed against black velvet, and the gentle hands caressed his back. Warm lips pressed against his temple whispered only to him, "Shh... All is well now. I am here. You'll never have to leave me again."
The weight of wings on his back felt strange. But he did not have any - they had been cut. He tried to flap the imaginary wings and actually succeeded. Amazing!
He pulled away and looked up at those eyes full with love and concern. He blinked; it was like seeing Ignis for the first time. The glorious Prince of Demonis, kneeling in front of him. "Ignis, what happened? I cannot tell what happened."
The Demon smiled as he rose elegantly and pulled Marzio up by his hands. The people gathered din the hall were still whispering something, something about magic and supernatural interference.
"Ignis...?" he pleaded.
Suddenly his hands were full of an overjoyed prince who embraced him, speaking against his ear with a voice that broke his heart. "Remember that mural in the Sanctuary, and the angel with red wings?"
Oh no! He hadn't! He couldn't possible have...
A pinch had him jump up, and a crimson feather was presented to him by this exuberant lover. "But you did, Marzio. You did! And now you are mine forever, my foolish and most fetching angel."
He pulled back all of a sudden, only to kiss Marzio victoriously. The entire world disappeared in an instant, and they were transported in a world of their own, oblivious to the shocked gasps and loud cheers erupting from their forgotten audience.
~ The End of Part Three ~
~ return to index ~