“You think so?” I beamed. I’d always hated the way my own kingdom’s colours looked on me. Perhaps I was meant to wear Aquila’s.
“I know so.” He took my arm and led me out to The Blue Angel waiting for us at the dock.
It wasn’t a large ship by any means, but it looked sturdy and had rippling, pale blue sails that caught the chilly wind blowing off the sea. We didn’t need much room. There were only four of us, including myself, Percifal, Admiral Ruess, and his first mate, who we called ‘Hobbles.’ I guessed he’d earned his name from the way he limped when he walked. He was a kind, scrawny man, whom I quickly grew to like.
Unfortunately, the sailing wasn’t smooth. The excitement I’d felt at the notion of being on the water soon gave way to a bout of seasickness that took me days to shake. The pungent scent of fish wafting through the air didn’t help. While I spent most of my time below deck, nauseated, Percifal spent his above, helping Admiral Ruess and Hobbles man The Blue Angel through the treacherous winds that the admiral had warned us about. When he wasn’t helping up above deck, he was comforting me and holding my hair as I retched my guts into a metal bucket. I felt guilty that he had to worry about me while also helping the others get us to Gwon in one piece.
One night, we sailed through a storm so treacherous I feared we wouldn’t make it out alive. Heavy winds slammed The Blue Angel hard against the water. Rain pelted down upon us in buckets as lightning hit dangerously close. The others made me wait below while they tried to take back control of the ship, saying that I would be most help if they didn’t have to worry about me. Who was I to argue with them? It wasn’t like I had the power of wind or water to aid them. Fire would do no good in a storm. Chelela would have been able to help us through the unforgiving weather, but she wasn’t there.
Feeling useless, I did the only thing I could think to do; I prayed to Celestia for mercy. As we began to lose hope that we would make it out alive, the clouds finally broke, and the cruel wind died down. It seemed our goddess had answered my prayers. I joined the others above deck as the ship steadied. The clouds parted, and the moon appeared as a beacon to light our way, as if Celestia herself guided our way. I sent her a silent prayer of gratitude.
After that night, it was only two more sunrises until I heard Hobbles bellow, “Land! I see land!”
I rushed up to the stern with the others; my stomach had finally gotten used to the movement of the sea beneath. What looked to be an island grew closer and closer.
“Is that Gwon?” I could barely dare to let myself hope.
“Aye, milady. That is Gwon,” the admiral answered, in awe himself.
I laughed with glee. We had actually done it! We’d made it to Gwon in one piece.
Percifal embraced me as tears of joy streamed down my cheeks. With his strong arms encircling me I felt like we could do anything, as long as we were together. We’d escaped King Zaeden’s dungeon and braved the sea to reach Gwon successfully. Now, all we had to do was find Chelela, and she would help us end King Zaeden’s tyranny. As Percifal peered down at me with those warm aqua eyes of his, I knew this was my destiny.
Epilogue
I sat on a wooden stool in what must have been our twentieth dim and musty tavern, filled with noisy, stinking men.
Percifal slouched across from me, looking defeated as he stared into his mug of ale. “It’s hopeless, I swear we’ve searched every brothel, every tavern—every corner of this damn island, and still, there’s been no sign of my sister.”
“I know, but what other choice do we have but to keep searching? I’m sure she must have escaped and is hiding someplace we don’t know of. ’Tis the only feasible explanation,” I offered, touching his forearm. It pained me to see him this way.
He looked at me with such regret that I almost winced. “No. It’s not the only feasible explanation. She could also be dead.” He slammed his mug down and squeezed his eyes shut.
His words were so blunt, I had to look away to hide the hurt in my own eyes.
He noticed it anyways. “Forgive me. I don’t mean to take my frustration out on you. I only wish we could find Chel, but time’s running out. The longer we spend here the longer King Zaeden has to —”
“Did you say Chel?” a sultry, feminine voice interrupted from somewhere behind me.
We both turned to find a tall woman with sleek, sable coloured hair standing with her hands on her hips. From the look of her, she was well off, and I guessed, not afraid of much in this world. Her tight leather corset showed off her bountiful bosom, and the golden jewelry around her wrists and neck glittered in the low tavern lamplight. She had full, dark pink lips and cat-like eyes, and I’m sure, if her black skirts weren’t hiding them, I would find her legs to be lean and muscular like the rest of her body.
I found my voice before Percifal. “And if we are, would you be able to tell us anything?”
“I might—for a price.”
“Name your price,” Percifal said before I could answer.
The woman smiled slyly, setting her dark gaze on Percifal. For a moment, I was worried she would name him as her price, but then she tilted her head and said, “Your sword. That is my price.”
His eyes widened at the same time I gave her a stern, “No!”
“Zephyra—” Percifal began.
“You cannot,” I cut him off. “That sword is important to you, and we might yet need it.”
“My sister is more important to me. And we can find another weapon. Besides, we have you.” He eyed me, and I knew he referred to my power.
I exhaled and gave in. “What does a whore need with a sword anyways?”
My question only seemed to amuse the woman more. She smiled wider and bent down and whispered in my ear, “This whore needs to protect herself. She also knows where your man’s sister is. So bite your tongue, my lady.”
She was mocking me, but before I could retort, Percifal cut in. “The sword is yours. Forgive my lady for her rudeness. Now, tell me where Chelela is—please.”
“As you wish.” She straightened. “But not here. Follow me.”
We did as she bade. A few eyes peered at us as we made our way toward the back of the tavern, but when our guide winked at them they looked away, blushing. To others, it appeared as though we were her customers. Let them believe that, I thought to myself. It was a good cover.
We followed her to a wine cellar hidden away from the tavern’s inhabitants. Once inside, she checked to make sure we were alone, and then she turned and held out her hand for the sword.
“First, tell us what you know of Chelela,” Percifal said, keeping the finely crafted blade by his side.
“All right, but try to leave without giving me the sword, and I will scream and others will come to my aid. Then, you will be taken to Khadji for harming one of his precious courtesans.” She raised her chin, meeting Percifal’s stare. I had no doubt she spoke the truth.
I bit my lip and decided to keep my mouth shut.
“You have my word that the sword is yours, once you have given us all the information you know about Chelela.”
She held out her hand again, but this time, for Percifal’s own.
He accepted it, and they shook on their agreement.
She sighed before starting, pacing slowly like a wildcat as she spoke. “I worked with Chel for a time. She was new and foreign to this island. I pitied her, so I helped her learn the trade. I told her it was her only hope in remaining alive, because in Gwon if you are bought as a whore and can’t do your job properly, you are discarded. You’re a mouth not worth feeding.”
Percifal grew cold at her revelation. Afraid he would end her like he had the duke, I interjected, “We’ve checked all the brothels and taverns in Gwon. She’s nowhere to be found. So where is she?”
“If you would let me finish,” she replied, obviously annoyed. She continued on in her singsong voice, “Once she figured out that strength came with knowledge of the trade, because that’s when men are at their weake
st, she escaped. How? I’m not sure. I’ve heard stories that she killed a man and disappeared to the sea. If it is true, I know not. I only know that Chel no longer works in the trade she was purchased for. Some say they have spotted her at Siren’s Cove, a place where sailors have gone missing. Seems fitting for a runaway whore, if you ask me.” Her laugh was like liquid honey.
“Don’t call her that,” Percifal spat.
“Percifal,” I warned. “We have what we want. Just give her your sword, and let’s go.”
The two stared each other down for another moment before Percifal tossed her his weapon.
She caught it with a grin, examining the glorious steel with her dark golden eyes. “T’was a pleasure doing business with you, Sir Percifal. Good luck with Chel,” she offered, turning and sauntering away, her new sword dangling from one hand. “Oh, and tell her Malyi misses her and wishes her luck,” she called back over her shoulder. She disappeared out of the cellar and left us alone.
So there we stood, weaponless except for my power. At least now we had an idea where to look for Chel.
I knew with certainty we had to rescue Percifal’s dear sister, the woman who could help us save our home. I also knew I would do anything for the man I loved. Steadying myself, I clasped his hand with mine, and we left the tavern.
The adventure continues through the eyes of Chelela in book two of The Elemental Diaries.
For Jenn
Thank you for being the wonderful friend that you are.
I don’t have any words of wisdom for you,
and I’ve never had too much faith in my goddess.
She seems to have faith in me, nonetheless.
So I will use the gift she has given me, if only to end the one who has taken from me.
I am Chelela Lacrima, and my story is one of vengeance.
Chapter 1
It wasn’t until the sea nearly claimed my life that I learned I wasn’t normal.
Even as a child, I was drawn to the sea. When no one could find me, my mother knew I’d be playing on the rocky beach of the Vitreus Sea.
“Chelela, you know better than to venture so close to the water by yourself,” my mother reprimanded me. Even at the age of six, I was defiant.
“I wasn’t that close to the water, Mother,” I pouted.
“I’m not going to argue with you. We must make haste, or we’ll be late for our meal.”
I dropped my chin and followed her up the path through the grass to the white limestone palace that was nestled in the golden cliffs of Aquila.
The king had given our family a separate apartment, but we ate most of our meals inside the palace with him.
My parents were close with King Zaeden and Queen Thea. My father had helped King Zaeden take the throne from the last King of Aquila, and because of that, my family was held in high regard. Too bad I didn’t know then what I know now about Aquila’s dear king.
We entered the well-lit dining room. Its long, rectangular, wooden table was covered in navy blue linens topped with silver dishes. Everyone seated stopped their conversation and eyed us. They had all been waiting on me.
“Good of you to join us, Chelela,” King Zaeden said with an inclined forehead. Some would have found him intimidating in his royal blue robes and sapphire jeweled fingers. To me, he was like an uncle. The gentle woman my mother called her best friend, Queen Thea, smiled warmly at us.
I curtsied, still knowing my place. “Apologies, Your Majesties. I didn’t realize it was time for dinner.”
“Never mind that, you are here now. Sit and eat.” The king gestured to the empty chair beside my brother, who was always on time.
Percifal had reached his first decade recently and knew Father wanted him to take his place as constable someday. As a result, he was always on his best behavior, a fact which sometimes annoyed me.
Now that everyone was present, we dug into the delicious meal the kitchen staff had prepared. The smell alone was enough to make one’s stomach whine. I closed my eyes as the juices from the golden, roasted chicken sprinkled with tasty herbs entered my mouth and dripped down my chin. Apparently I was hungrier than I thought. Soft sweet potatoes seasoned with salt from the sea complimented the meat perfectly. We always enjoyed many delightful flavours as the climate made the soil around Aquila perfect for growing.
“Will you take me to the sea tomorrow?” I whispered to Percifal, tugging on his sleeve as a servant clad in grey removed our plates.
He paused for a moment. I was afraid he would refuse, but then he said, “Sure, for a little while.”
I squealed with glee, and my mother gave me a look that had me slapping my hand over my mouth.
The next morning, as promised, Percifal followed me as I skipped my way down to the sea. The sky was covered with puffy clouds, but the spring sun still broke through enough to keep the chill away. The waves beating hypnotically against the golden shoreline was music to my ears. I felt at home by the sea and rightfully so. I was born in the kingdom of water, after all.
Percifal crossed his arms, watching me as I scoured the shoreline for treasures. I usually found a few seashells to take back with me. Noticing the bored look on his face, I strode up to him and splashed water at his chest. I ran away, giggling as he chased after me. Not paying attention to where I was going, I tripped and fell face first into the water. Before I could even process what had happened, the powerful waves pulled me further into the sea. Head fully submerged, I began to panic. I needed air. My body refused to listen to my mind, and I felt the salty water run into my lungs as I gasped for breath. This is it, I’m going to die!
But I didn’t die. Somehow, I was able to breathe the water in as if it were air. I was shocked!
I opened my eyes and took in a world that was shrouded in shades of blue. I marveled at the couple of silvery fish swimming past me. I meant to explore further, but a pair of arms scooped me up, brought me back to the surface and carried me away from the water.
Percifal laid me down in the sand. His face was stark white. “Chel! Oh Chel, I’m so sorry. Are you okay?”
I peered up at him. His black hair was sopping wet and fell into his eyes so I couldn’t tell if those were tears or water falling down his cheeks in little rivulets. “This is the best day of my whole life! It’s okay, Percifal. I can breathe underwater!”
“Are you insane? You could’ve died, and it would’ve been my fault!”
“You don’t believe me?” I frowned at him.
“That you can breathe underwater? Of course not. People can’t breathe underwater. Why would you make such a thing up?” His face contorted with the accusation.
“I’m not making it up!” My lower lip jutted out as I sat up and crossed my arms.
“Come on. I’m taking you back inside to warm up. We’re never speaking of this again. Please don’t tell our parents. What would they think of me if they knew I almost let my own sister drown? They’d say I’m not fit to lead an army.” He said the last part more to himself. The worry on his face was evident.
I let him help me up and surrendered. “Don’t worry, I won’t tell anyone. I’m okay. I didn’t die.” I pinched his arm, trying to lighten his mood. “See?”
“Ow!” He pinched me back, finally relaxing a little.
So he didn’t believe me. I probably wouldn’t believe me either if I didn’t experience it for myself. I’d be alone with my secret. The sea was even more alluring to me now. The deep waters called for me to come back soon.
After that day, Percifal always came up with an excuse anytime I asked him to take me to the shore. I felt trapped inside the palace walls. I was suffocating like a fish on dry land. Sure, my mother had her handmaiden take me out once in a while, but it wasn’t enough.
I spent much time staring into the majestic fountain of two entwined mermaids sculpted from white marble that sat just inside the palace entrance. Water shot from a wrist of each mermaid and into the wide bowl beneath.
As the last full moon of spring
approached, the king and queen prepared to leave for Terra, where Noctis De Celestia was being held. Noctis De Celestia was the night we celebrated our love for our goddess. The kingdoms took turns hosting the festivities each spring.
Aside from our king and queen, a few others with important titles were invited to celebrate in Terra. I had always spent the event with my family, unless it was being held in Aquila. If my home kingdom was hosting, I’d spend it with Percifal and my mother’s handmaiden while my parents attended. Those who hadn’t reached their first decade yet weren’t allowed to attend. I realized Percifal would be able to attend the next time our kingdom was hosting. Perhaps he’d even be allowed to attend ones in the other kingdoms soon. I’d never really cared about the celebration. I loved Celestia, but I would’ve rather thanked her by enjoying the sea in which she gave us.
Chapter 2
Two springs later, when it was Aquila’s turn to host, Percifal did indeed attend the celebration.
“Don’t you wish you could be there tonight?” my friend Secily asked me while twirling her ebony hair around her finger.
“No, not trapped inside the hall with all those people. I’d rather be outside.”
Secily wrinkled her nose at me. “You’re so strange.”
“You’re strange.” I laughed as I pushed her shoulder and ran away.
She chased me down a corridor in one of the guest wings of the palace glimmering with torchlight. I stopped abruptly when I noticed a door partially open. Hearing voices from within, I peeked through the opening with one eye. What I saw inside astonished me. A woman with hair so blond, it was almost white, lay in a large bed. Her eyes were closed, and her face was a pale, ashy shade. A man with wheat-blond hair and striking features sat by her side, holding her hand. Another woman stood on the other side of the bed. She wore thick, tattered robes. Her long hair was silver, though she appeared to only be in her third decade. A soft, white glow came from the robed woman’s hands as she held them over the bed.
The Elemental Diaries - Complete Series Page 24
