“It’s not your fault. Thank you for everything,” said Drayaen.
The group said their farewells, and the prince motioned to his troops. They clustered around him as he reviewed their next steps.
Aisling retrieved her sword.
She had plans of her own.
Her mind raced as she thought about the possible solutions to their problem. First, she realized, she had to get a message to her officers. Given the restless horde, it would be difficult for them to see beyond the immediate threat. She headed to a quiet spot around the corner and held out her dagger.
“I command that a message be delivered to Ryen and Sean, so they are able to assist.”
As the energy hurled into the air, Aisling wondered if she had the power to make it happen.
As his soldiers braced for a potential confrontation, the prince studied the buildings around him. He was not a patient man, and the thought of waiting until someone might notice them was not in his nature.
At the end of the narrow road, there was a tall building that looked like a warehouse. Upon closer inspection, he could see a staircase on the side that led up to the roof. He climbed to the top and removed the ornamental buckle on his royal robes. If there is any nearby light, he thought, this might work.
Drayaen flashed the object toward the lookout tower of the Saoirse, the vessel that was closest to them. After several attempts, he sighed in frustration. As he thought about other options, one of his soldiers turned to him. “Your Highness, I think they see us. It looks like they’re lowering the boats.”
The prince strained to see the ship.
Help was on the way.
As the rescue boats arrived, Aisling, the prince, and their entourage scrambled to board the vessel, before the violent horde took notice of their departure. After several minutes of concerted rowing, the group reached the Saoirse.
The princess headed to the upper deck and looked out onto the shore. The throng of people was increasing. Aisling wondered what would cause them to react in such a violent manner. She peered through her spyglass and watched the crowd surge, kept at bay by the guns from her vessels that were aimed in their direction.
While all other eyes were riveted to the wharf, Aisling turned her attention to several ships that were approaching the Cara. At first, she thought they were planning to anchor in the bay, but upon closer inspection, the ships were flying the flag of Insula.
She frowned, and turned to an assistant. “Please summon the prince for me. I need him right away.”
“Yes, Commander,” he said, rushing down the deck to the armory. A few minutes later, Drayaen appeared.
“What is it?” he asked, as he looked at her worried expression.
“Enemy ships are heading in our direction.”
“How fast can we pull anchor?”
“They’re working on it now, but there won’t be enough time. Those vessels will be here before then. I don’t know which is worse, the burgeoning crowd or the encroaching boats.”
“They may be planning to block our exit.”
“I think you’re right. We need an advantage. I’ll do what I can,” said Aisling.
“Let me get all our soldiers onboard.”
As the prince disappeared from view, Aisling summoned her dagger and issued a command.
“I decree that a violent storm push back the approaching threats.”
She closed her eyes and clung to her wand. A few minutes later, torrents of rain swept across the deck. There was a collective murmur from the crowd on the wharf as they eyed the menacing weather, but to Aisling’s surprise, nobody moved.
She glanced at the approaching vessels. They were making progress, but the harsh winds forced them to reduce sail. The crew scurried across the deck, adjusting the riggings.
Her thoughts were interrupted as Ryen sprinted in her direction.
“What is it?”
“There are men with torches on the dock.”
“How many?”
“Enough to cause serious damage.”
“How much longer before we proceed to sea?”
“The Cara has a problem. They’ve signaled that they need more time.” There was a cry from the lookout tower. Ryen moved closer to hear their message. “Commander, the protestors have broken through our barrier.”
Aisling tapped her fingers together. It looked like more drastic action was needed. “Have the Saoirse pull away from the dock, and tell the prince the wind is in his favor.” She hurried to the Captain’s Quarters to buy them some time.
Aisling heard muffled voices on deck, but most of the crew was on alert, guarding the lower levels of the ship. The Saoirse moved into the bay, while the crew of the Cara struggled to fix their issue.
She raised her wand into the sky. “I command that a hurricane wind approach the enemy from both sides, holding them in place.”
A few minutes later, the prince and his soldiers readied their weapons.
The ships from Insula scrambled to shift positions when they saw the Saoirse take aim.
Aisling rejoined Ryen, and retrieved her spyglass. The royal guard had arrived, and arrested some of the troublemakers in front of the Cara. She could see some men being dragged away from the scene.
From the upper deck, gunners and soldiers shouted as they coordinated their efforts. A few minutes later, there was a deafening roar, and a cannon blast hit one of the enemy ships. There were shouts, as the opposing forces tried to put out the fire.
In the next onslaught, the Saoirse shot flaming arrows into King Gardari’s fleet. Unable to move from the fierce winds that locked them in place, the sails were shredded in a matter of minutes.
The Saoirse pounded the vessels, until they were all disabled.
As Aisling watched events unfold through her spyglass, there was a signal from the Cara. They were ready to leave at last.
As the winds howled and smoke wafted over the bay, the ships headed north, to the Oresund Straits.
CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO
PORT IN A STORM
The city of Gothenburg, Sweden, was awash with color. The crystal waters were a perfect backdrop for the green roofs and red, orange, and blue buildings that dotted the landscape. The sun cast a warm glow over the city, turning the harbor into a kaleidoscope of rainbows.
After their perilous escape from Penge, Aisling and the prince decided that a break was needed. The crew went ashore, while the prince and princess headed off to visit a friend of Lord Bailey’s.
Elias Johansson owned a shipbuilding business, and had met Aisling’s father when they were young men. Lord Bailey had sought his help after a storm disabled his ship, and they had been friends ever since.
Aisling and Drayaen traveled to Johansson’s estate, located a short distance from the city center. It was an imposing white house with large columns and a portico that ran the length of the structure. There were wings on each side, and sweeping gardens filled with lush flowers and sculpted trees. They passed through the gate, and arrived at the entrance a few minutes later. Elias was waiting for them.
“Hello, Aisling, it’s wonderful to see you.”
“Thank you for inviting us, Elias. This is my husband, Fifth Prince of the East Kingdom.”
“It’s a pleasure to meet you,” said Drayaen.
“You as well, Your Highness. I’m so glad you accepted my invitation,” Elias said, as he guided them to the drawing room. He turned to the prince. “The last time I saw Aisling was a few years ago. I’m startled at the difference a few years can make.”
“What was she like then?” he asked, as he smiled and glanced at his wife.
“Confident. Headstrong. Her father was very proud.”
“Thank you for saying it,” said Aisling. “I miss my parents. Sometimes, it feels they’ve been gone a short time, and other days, a lifetime.”
“I understand. I lost my wife a few years ago, but once in a while I feel her presence. That must sound strange, but I believe it to be true.”
“Have you learned anything more about the death of your parents?” asked Elias.
She shook her head. “Right before he was killed, we fled the estate. I know he had powerful enemies, but I wondered what would make him leave right before a planned trip.” She paused and rubbed her eyebrow. “I did find out from Maológ that my father received letters, warning him about a powerful enemy, but they were anonymous.”
“Were they on white paper with a blue design?”
“Yes,” said Aisling, her eyes widened. “How did you know?”
“I sent him those warnings.” He looked at his guests. “Lord Bailey and I used to share information. Anything that might impact our shipping businesses was fair game.”
“If I can be so bold, why weren’t the letters signed?”
“I know your father was involved in some sort of clandestine operation, and I never asked questions. We decided we would be cautious when communicating to each other, in case our enemies tried to harm us.”
“So you hid your identities, as a precaution?”
“Yes, but the design on my correspondence was something he would have recognized.”
“What made you suspect King Floe?”
“For years, I’ve been involved with the Swedish East India Company. During my travels, I saw horrendous acts of greed and corruption, perpetrated by the Realm of Ice.”
“And the co-conspirator you mentioned in your letter was King Gardari?”
Elias nodded. “Both kings were evil, with tentacles in many countries. As your father took action to slow their destruction, they began fighting back.”
“How?”
“Your father received a threat against his family. I don’t know the details, but he told me about his decision to get away and sort out his options. I offered him refuge here. That was the last time I heard from him. My guess is that the warnings came from one or both of the kings.”
Aisling’s eyes watered. “We just left Penge, where we battled with Gardari.”
“What?” asked Elias, casting an anxious glance at his guests.
“King Gardari sent someone to the palace to harm Aisling,” said the prince. “When that plot failed, our exit from the harbor was blocked, and mobs descended on our ship. We had no option, other than engagement. We inflicted severe damage to his vessels.”
“Was anyone in your party killed?”
The prince shook his head. “No, we’re thankful for that.”
“I’m worried,” said Elias. “Gardari is a formidable opponent. He’ll resurface when you least expect it.”
“Have you ever been threatened or harmed by him?” asked the prince.
“Oh, yes, many times, always through an intermediary. That’s how he works. He’s tried blackmail, theft, arson—anything that will get him what he wants.”
“Which is what?” asked the prince.
“Power and money.”
“How do we fight back?”
“Line up forces against him. I’ll help you. I know there are many others he has harmed. They have a vested interest in seeing him defeated.”
“That sounds like a wise plan,” said the prince. “We appreciate your advice.”
“Where are you off to next?” asked Elias.
“We’re heading back to Ireland,” said Aisling. “The prince and I have started a business that makes sails. Father discovered a special material that we think will improve performance. If the ship’s speed increases, it will reduce the length of our trips, and the cost.”
“I’d like to help, if you’re interested. I work with another friend of your father’s, Kyle Hurley, and we have many customers around the world. I’m sure we can introduce them to your new sails.”
“That would be wonderful,” said Aisling. “Drayaen and I saw Kyle a few months ago, in Cork. We would love to work with you both.”
“To start, I’ll send you an order before you leave Sweden.”
“Excellent,” said Aisling. “This will be a new adventure for all of us.”
After an elaborate dinner and animated conversation, Aisling and the prince bid farewell to Elias. They headed back to the harbor, excited about their visit and the prospect of new opportunities.
For awhile, all their troubles were forgotten.
A few days later, the Saoirse and the Cara pulled anchor. Aisling stood on deck and watched the breathtaking sunrise, its orange and amber rays bathing the city in radiance.
They passed the jutting spires and miles of tree-lined walkways, and headed out to sea.
As the shore faded from view, Aisling retreated to the Captain’s Quarters, and studied her Book of Magic. She was haunted by the words of Elias, who believed that Gardari was somehow involved in the death of her parents. It was interesting that both he and Chindor had recommended forming alliances against the despot. As she searched for solutions in her text, she was overcome by a feeling of foreboding.
Aisling began to pace. She thought about the secret society. For many years, the burden of communicating to each member, and coming to their aid when needed, was laid at her father’s doorstep. Now, she had assumed that responsibility, and realized the inefficiency of the system. We will be stronger as a group, she thought, if the members know each other’s identity. That way, they could seek help from their allies if they chose. The idea seemed like a perfect solution to some of her problems.
She sat at her desk and thought about the King of Insula, and his nefarious dealings across the globe. Somehow, she needed to diminish his power. Aisling began making a list of her allies, and the ways they could help. After several hours of studying the problem, she was exhausted, and fell asleep.
When she awoke, it was raining. Storm clouds had turned the skies a menacing black, the last rays of sun fading into a sea of murky shadows. As she sat up and peered into the space, something caught her attention.
It was her magic wand.
She stood and steadied herself against the rolling motion of the ship, then walked to her table. Her saber was within clear view, for all to see. This makes no sense, she thought. I never leave my dagger out in the open. The instrument lit up and vibrated against the surface of the desk. She grasped it in haste, and watched, her brows furrowed, as mist surrounded the pommel.
She leaned back in horror as she saw the image of King Gardari. He was on a ship in a harbor. The background seemed familiar. She scanned the scenery and recognized Amsterdam. All of a sudden, he began to speak.
“I have a message for you, Princess.”
She shook her head. “I’m not interested in what you have to say.”
“You’ve inflicted damage upon me. I won’t rest until I have my revenge.”
“You’re getting what you deserved. It’s long overdue.”
“It’s easy to deliver threats when you’re far away from Insula. But I will always be there, lurking where you least expect it.”
“What do you want?”
“The best way to harm you is to hurt those you care about most. You see, it’s my specialty.”
“I won’t listen to your nonsense.”
“You won’t say that when the prince is dead.”
Aisling inhaled a deep breath, and tried to remain calm. “What?”
“Enjoy your remaining time with him. He won’t be with you for long.”
Her heart pounded as she flung the dagger to the table. A minute later, the light faded. She secured her scepters, and steadied herself against the desk. A feeling of dizziness came over her, followed by a sharp pain. She doubled over and gasped for air.
Before falling to the floor, she saw a faded image of the prince, running in her direction.
CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE
DANGEROUS THREATS
Drayaen worked with the crew to reorganize the armory. They had used some supplies during their battle in Penge, and needed to repl
enish the weaponry. It had taken most of the day, and the prince was weary. After thanking his men, he headed to the Captain’s Quarters. He smiled as he thought about Aisling. He was looking forward to spending time with her.
As he flung open the door, he saw her doubled over in pain. Her face was white and she was gasping for air. He raced to her side and caught her before she hit the floor.
Carrying her to the bed, he glanced at her face. Her eyes were closed. He reached for her hand and checked her pulse, which was racing. He summoned the ship’s assistant.
“Find the surgeon. Tell him he’s needed now. Not a word to anyone.”
“Aye, Your Highness, right away.”
Drayaen turned his attention to the princess, and hurried to the nightstand. He dipped a cloth in cool water and laid it on her forehead. Sitting on the side of the bed, he held her hand, until the sound of footsteps echoed from the hall.
The prince flung open the door, and ushered Patrick into the room.
“What’s happened?” asked the doctor.
“I don’t know,” said the prince. “When I came into the chamber, she was in distress.” He followed the surgeon to the bed.
Patrick turned to Drayaen. “I need to examine my patient. It would be better if you sat over there,” he said, motioning to the table.
The prince nodded, but he couldn’t stay still. Instead, he paced in front of the window.
After a few minutes, Drayaen heard coughing, and rushed back to Aisling’s bedside. She had been revived with a solution of ammonia and lavender, and was struggling to sit. She looked up at the worried expressions of the physician and her husband.
“What happened?” asked Patrick, as he checked her pulse.
“It’s nothing. I became dizzy for a moment, but I’m fine now.”
She glanced at her husband and noted his intense expression. He wasn’t convinced.
The doctor turned to them both. “You and the baby are fine.”
Aisling could see the look of relief on Drayaen’s face.
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