Shadows Through Time : The Time of the Souls

[Jackson Shadow]

He did not like the idea of Nala being gone but knew she would be safest in Pallia and that it would be better to have Sarabella where she was the only one he had to worry about. He did have Braxton ward the room before they all spoke that way no one could hear what was going on inside. He had hugged Nala and whispered something in her ear before she left with Braxton telling her not to let Braxton forget about the important note that they needed to deliver for him. He was hoping that all this would be over with in time for Christmas. After all he could not think about anything better than having their lives started for that season. He also had told Braxton to cover his tracks in case Franklin tried anything. Now it was time to play some. He grinned at her and kissed her.

I think we need to go visit your god parents for a day, that will also throw him off of where she is too. Do not worry I still plan on taking care of one little problem but first need to make sure we are not here.

He held her to him and kissed her again he knew this was hard on her.

I know it is the right thing for her, as there will be more there to protect her Braxton made a few things before he left as a precaution and Nala has a job to do in Pallia for me.

[Kira Connor]

What in the hell was all that?...
Kira asked the question while she came into the hall, flakes of snow were clinging to her red hair and her cheeks were tinted pink with cold. Jonathan was following right behind her. Like so many were that morning the twins were coming off of patrols, Kira and Jonathan had been working the town walking the streets making sure that their section of the realm was safe and snug the whole night through. When the snow started falling shortly before dawn the twins met in the center of town at the square and shared a few stolen moments of quiet and wonder over the mystery of nature then returned to their duties until it was time to head back to the hall. They had noticed Grady just getting off the ground covered in snow and that was what had prompted Kira to ask the question she did. Looking around the hall she was amazed at how much had changed but yet somehow stayed the same. Not so long ago Kira wasn't even sure if she'd ever be able to walk let alone regain her place as the one of the Elites best and yet there she was with her brother, throwing herself right back into the thick of the Order, only this time she had more to look forward to than just the Order. Her green eyes were shining brightly when she sauntered over to the table where her cousin sat, next to him was the not so timid Janessa. Leaning over she plucked a piece of pancake from Aidans plate and planted a cold kiss on his warm cheek.
Good morning monster...
Kira addressed Aidan by the name she had given him long ago, anyone who knew the history of Kira and Jonathan also knew that Kira loved her cousins more like they were her brothers and sisters because for the most part that was how they had been raised.
Nessa I hope he's been being nice so far today? Really it's too damn early for bitchy isn't that right Aid? Might as well tell you now there's nothing exciting to report from town, thank the damn gods the night went by quietly and without a single incident. So, now that I've reported in I'm going to turn in for the day. Behave yourself Prince...
Kira ruffled Aidans hair then went to her brother kissing his cheek like she had done with Aidan.
Oh, I almost forgot. Jonathan... you aren't pulling duty tonight, Errol and I have you covered. Dayle wanted me to tell you she's expecting you for dinner tonight. You owe me one Onyx...
She gave her brothers cheek a playful slap and started taking her hair down while she walked to the stairs leading to the rooms above. Once she reached her room and went inside she quietly changed into something to sleep in, yawned and slipped into bed stretching out along the frame of the body that had been keeping the bed warm. These shifts at night were starting to wear a little thin on her though she understood why her Aunt and Uncle wanted to keep those of the Elite who were involved with other members of the Order separated when it came to patrols and such it irked her a little that she and Errol had barely had one night to themselves. She would be gone at night, he would be gone during the day so when they had moments where they could have at least a little time to themselves Kira never took them for granted. She looked forward to her shift ending now, where as before she would always find something to keep her busy, now she had Errol to come home to and even if she could only lay beside him for an hour or so before he had to be up, it was better than nothing. Sighing, warm and content she lay next to him thinking that at least that morning he didn't need to be up because he would be running patrols with her that night so Jon could have the night off.

[Sarabella]

What are you up to Jackson Shadow?
Sarabella eyed him suspiciously and searched his dark eyes to see if there was any clues laying behind them that would give her at least a hint of what he was thinking, but all she saw there was the love he had for her. That in itself was still an amazing thing to her. How this man could care for her so deeply was a wonder indeed.
And what is this job you have for my niece? You know when Nala sets out to do something she doesn't stop until she gets it done so I hope that whatever it is, it won't involve her driving anyone too out of their minds. You know how bossy our little lady can be Jackson.
She had to smile when she thought of Nala and the attitude that was wrapped up in the little girl. She was something else and Sarabella could not have been honored to be her Aunt, Nala was special and not just because she was the true heir to Hallias throne. Whatever Jackson was up to if he said that Pallia was the best place for her to be and that Iallia was the best place for them to be for the time being then she trusted his word and his judgment.
Going to Iallia will be easy enough, I don't need to make up some excuse or reason to go, as you said we'd be going to visit my godparents and no one would dare to try and keep me from my Aunt and Uncle if for no other reason than the Queen of Iallia would send the King himself to collect me if anyone tried. Can you tell me at least a little of what you have going on up in that mind of yours or is it best I don't know just yet?

[Errol Lockheart]

He had felt her come to bed and he smiled even in his sleep. His arm went around her. He knew she was going to need sleep knowing he would not have much that he had to do that day he had stayed up some so he would be staying in bed with her. He opened his eyes and leaned over and kissed her.

How was your night uneventful I hope?

He smiled laying there with her he knew it would not take much to get back to sleep now that she was in bed. But he also knew moments were neither were rushing off these days were rare. So he kept his arms around her and leaned his head against hers and just had to smile. It was times like this that he had learned not to take for granted. He knew that he could not sleep too long there were things to do later on and if he was going to be on patrol that night then he was going to have to get sleep later on so he would not tire then. With a grin he stretched out with her making sure not to have her close enough to knock her out of bed or anything.

[Janessa]

It is too early for bitchy isn't it?
Janessa leaned forward on the table at the same time she pushed the plate of food that had been put down in front of her away. More and more lately she found she really didn't have that much of an appetite, it wasn't anything she was overly concerned with, she was just busy with Elite matters and she doubled her time with Cole wanting to get in as many lessons with him as she could before trials. Those were coming up sooner than she expected, but it was a good thing, she wanted to get through them and be done with them, then maybe just maybe she would be able to unwind and relax a little.
I think the sooner trials get here the better. I don't know why I couldn't just take them when the last batch did, I've been ready for a while now you know, but I guess late is better than never right?
Grady came back inside and didn't dare look at her while Aidan was watching him but as soon as Aidan looked away Grady pointed a finger at her which meant he was going to get his payback sooner or later. It took all she had not to laugh, she had a feeling if she did laugh Grady would end up right back outside.
Speaking of being ready, I have to meet with Cole this afternoon, if you aren't too busy being master of the order maybe you could come by the shop? I mean I'd understand if you can't but it would be nice if you could you know?

[Jackson Shadow]

I know exactly how demanding she is that is why I know she will make sure it is done. Now enough about that, as far as what is going on the less you know the better that way you do not have to lie if asked.

He smiled at her and kissed her wrapping her up in his arms he knew she did not like letting Nala leave her but he knew the safest place for her was not with them at the moment. Though he would never let anything happen to Nala he could not take the chance. with a smile he looked at her.

I know no one would question it even spur of the moment. And as your guard I am required to go along. So I would say that we need to get going and go see them. Don't want to be late for what is to be done.

He knew it was going to be time for Franklin to go on his hunt soon but Jackson was going to go on a hunt as well. As he would plan it out Sara would be in the shower in Iallia as he went out on his hunt. He did not plan on her still being in there when he went back to wash up. Though then again he did tell her to take an extra long shower. As he knew no one would enter the room while he was gone as it was locked and guards were standing outside.

[Sarabella]

Whatever he was up to Sarabella wasn't going to question it, not until it was completely over. She would expect that Jackson would tell her everything soon enough, but only when he thought it was safe to afterall he knew how she abhorred secrets now and if they were going to have a life together, they had to be honest with one another did they not? So it was that they went to Iallia and Sarabella did take a nice long shower, she needed it to get the knots out of her shoulders and the tension from her body anyway so who was she argue? When she was through and dressed she was sent for by the Queen and was told to meet with her in the Great Library. Sarabella loved Kaynes library. When she was a little girl she would spend countless hours lost in the neverending stories written on the pages of the tomes that caught her attention. One of her favorites was the histories written chronicling the lives of Iallias royal family. Kaynes parents were remarkable people with an amazing story. Kaynes father, the Prince of Iallia had fallen in love with the Captain of Iallias Guard and the rest just fell into place. It was sad that they died when Kayne was still a wee one but such was the way of it in the world. Entering the library she found the Queen sitting in one of the oversized chairs that Sarabella used to lose herself in and she went and sat in the chair opposite of her.
You sent for me Majesty?
Kayne smiled at her, reached over and took her hand.
That I have precious. First I want to tell you how happy I am to see you. I have been so worried for you Sara, and knowing you are here, safe... that Nala is safe...
Kayne chuckled a little at Saras reaction to the mention of Nala.
Do not forget who I am precious Princess, and remember who my Aunt was... it is how would you say... our business to know what others think are deep secrets, don't worry, no one else knows where the little lady is. I was told as a precaution no more no less. Now wipe that horrified look from your face and let me finish what I was saying.
Sarabella exhaled and sank back into the chair. Of course Kayne would know, Pallia was one of Iallias greatest allies, in fact it had been Queen Isolde, Kaynes Aunt herself who had worked with Kiara Jade to return the former NewPort Cove to it's rightful place in the Royal Nations with it's rightful name in tact.
My apologies godmother, I have been a little on edge as of late.
Kayne patted her hand.
Of course you have dear one, how could you not be? For now though, try to find some peace Sarabella, everything is pretty much out of your hands at this point. That's another reason I called you here. I wanted to let you know that I have taken over the transition from Zuri. She is on her way to Pallia for some much needed rest , which means that I would say in about... oh a week... you will be free to marry your farm boy... though Jackson Shadow looks nothing like farm boy if you ask me... and you will have your life. You have to remember something though Sarabella, you may not be Queen soon but you will always be a Princess as will Nala. Now my precious... I believe you have a godfather to see, and I am sure that Zane and James will both be happy to see you, that is if they can bring themselves to spend just a few moments away from those lovely mages that have them so enthralled.
Sarabella watched the Queen leave the library, and she stayed right she was. For the time being Sarabella was content to lose herself in whatever tome caught her eye. There would be time to catch up with her "cousins" later. She read for a little while in the library and then decided the shower wasn't enough. Taking the tome Sarabella made her way back to her rooms and drew a bath putting a few drops of lily oil in the water, stripped down and settled into the tub. Every bit of apprehension she felt right down to the tiniest sliver melted away and she lost herself once again in the book she had brought with her. Sometime later a noise from the door caught her attention and when she looked up she saw Jackson looking a little fierce and a little bit bloody. The book fell into the water and she was on her feet, out of the tub wrapping her robe around her and almost slipping when she slid across the floor in her haste to get to him.
What the hell happened to you? Jackson Shadow are you alright? Let me get healer...

[Harper Shadow]

What's on the agenda today?
Harper leaned back against Triftons chest, warmed even more by his arms around her waist and repeated his question in a whisper. There was something about that morning that left her calm and quiet, which if he was smart Trifton would take as a blessing considering how she usually was. Harper was content, and when she was like this her brothers would say that she reminded them so much of their mother, it was the highest compliment Harper could ever hope to have. She missed her mother so much, but at least she had the memories of the beauty that was Jessica Barrett Shadow to see her through life.
Look at the sky Trifton... it's going to be a gray day... and I could not be happier for it. There is something about a darkened sky and falling snow like there is some sort of secret magic hidden in the shadows.
Hearing herself she chuckled a little. A secret magic hidden in the shadows, the only thing hiding in the shadows was probably an actual Shadow waiting for his or her prey.
To answer your question, my brother Braxton is bringing a guest home with him from Hallia. Little Nala will be returning to Pallia, which means all the men in the surrounding area are going to be caught up in whatever magic the wee one weaves around them. Winter may not see her husband the whole of the season once that little girl gets her hands on him.
She turned in his arms, her own arms circled around his neck, she loved this man and wrapping her mind around that fact once she stopped being afraid of hurting him or herself had been so easy.
I know you won't object to spending some time with me and the little lady here and there, I told my father and more importantly I told Jackson that I would help with Nala in anyway that I could, so in a sense I volunteered you too because we are already busy enough with our duties, training and what not, so this way I could keep my word to my brother and still have time with you. That is all right isn't it? If not I will understand, I didn't mean to overstep if that is what I did. I was just thinking of about us and how to make this newest situation work for us without keeping us too apart.

[Kira Connor]

Snuggling closer to Errol Kira sighed into his neck and nestled deeper into the bed. There really wasn't too much to tell him, the night had passed by without so much as a shout breaking the silence that had fallen over Pallia in the darkness. It seemed that Pallia herself was healing from the deep wounds that had been caused by Alistar Runtsor and his conspirators.
It was a quiet night. The only sounds we even heard were mine and Jonathans own laughter here and there. We met in the square when the snow first started falling. It's a tradition of ours, one our mother started long ago. It didn't matter where we were or what time of day or night it was, when the first snow fell we would come together to watch it usually with cups of hot tea or warm milk in our hands.
Kira stifled a yawn, she was tired but not exhausted, it was that lazy kind of tired that would take someone over when they were happy in their life, and Kira was more than happy. She could walk again, hell she could do everything she had been able to do before only some of those things she did better now. Her upper body had become stronger over the year it took for her to be able to becoming mobile again and now she worked on making her lower half just as strong. She was surrounded by a family who truly did love her and she was loved by a remarkable man that understood her, flaws and all.
Are you sure you're going to be all right tonight? I know you aren't used to the hours, if you don't want to do it you don't have to Errol, getting Dominic to take over for Jonathan tonight won't be a problem.

[Aidan Shadow]

Not being bitchy Nessa but if anyone thinks they are going to handle
you like that they are mistaken. What's wrong are you not hungry I
would think after being out you would be hungry.

His hand went to hers and he smiled she was something else. He knew
that she had been waiting to take her trials and that she was ready.
He also knew he had not wanted her to rush it because he saw too many
rush into it.

Just think all the extra work you have done will pay off even better.

He got the mischievous boy grin on his face as he looked to Grady.

You lay one hand on her and you will be dealing with me. Don't you
remember my nickname that I have had since I was a baby. You really
want to mess with my woman? That could be one of your biggest mistakes
you ever make. After all don't you know how my family is when you mess
with one of ours?

His attention went back to Janessa and he smiled at her, something that
he found that he did a lot of with her around. With a grin he looked
at her.

Well I could make time to come by the shop was actually thinking dinner
away from everyone would be good and going out in the snow for a walk and
seeing what Pallia has to offer.

[Jackson Shadow]

I am fine Sarabella I just need to get washed up. I do not need a
healer the wound will be fine. Remember as far as anyone knows I was
here resting while you met with your godparents and that is the way
everyone needs to know. There will be less problems that way. Though
most of your problems in Hallia are now taken care of not really smart
to plan on assassinating someone that is close to my family.

He moved to the sink to get washed up and took out the simple wrappings
to wrap his wounds up.

I promise if things start acting up or anything we will go see my father
or brother in Pallia. I know you do not like secrets but I would rather
you not be put in the middle of having to talk against me. As far as
what Nala is doing I thought of something that would keep her a bit
busy. You know how that kid is, need to keep her moving and thinking
it is good for her too. Plus if she is kept busy with these things
then she will not have much time to think anything is wrong.

He smiled and leaned over and kissed her.

I am sure once the report comes in from Hallia it will be no surprise.

[Trifton Wakefield]

He smiled as he kept his arms around her and kissed her again, he loved watching the snow fall as well and he smiled at her. He almost laughed when she said about a shadow waiting for his or her prey.
You know you are one of the Shadows maybe not as dangerous as a few of them but still dangerous.
He listened to her about Nala and had to smile he knew that she was right that Nala had a way of wrapping the men of Pallia up. It was rather funny seeing even Lucky trying to please the child. He even saw Lucky sharing his favorite treats with Nala. Which with Lucky that was a sign that he was under the girls thumb already. For such a little child she had command of so many grown men that most would be scared of.
We can spend time with the little lady too. I know how important keeping your word to your brother is. Also I know how that child has a way of wrapping everyone around her fingers. You did not overstep, you should know that I want to spend as much time with you as possible. Everything does keep us busy at times, but I also know your brother would not ask if it was not important for her to be here either.

[Sarabella]

Without giving it any thought at all Sarabella took the wrappings from Jackson and the solutions used to clean minor cuts and scrapes from him and started looking him over to check for any other injuries before she tended to the ones she already saw. Jacksons father had taught her well and in the weeks she spent caring for Jackson along side his father she had learned a great deal.
Even if anyone tried to get me to speak against you it wouldn't happen you do know this do you not?
She circled him, reaching his back she couldn't help but wince a little at the scars that marred his skin. Scars that were the product of the explosion that had taken her brother Peters life, and could have possibly taken her and Nalas lives had it not been for him. Lightly she traced one scar with the tips of her fingers then finished her assessment and went right into cleaning him up and wrapping whatever needed to be dealt with.
My godmother will speak for you as well if need be, Kayne has never been opposed to lying to get her own way and if it comes down to it I know already she will not have an issues saying she saw you arrive, come right into this room and not leave... which on one hand is the truth but on the other hand isn't for no other reason than she knows your family so well.
Reaching over she grabbed the black shirt that was folded neatly on a little bench in front of the sink. Shaking it out she bunched it up a little and slipped it over his head shrugging her shoulders a little.
I had a feeling you were going to need fresh clothes.
She took the shirt with the bloodstains on it and threw it in a pail next to the sink, next she put that pail in the tub then went out into the room coming back a few seconds later with a book of matches. Striking a match she tossed it in the pail and watched the fire consume the shirt.
I know there were probably easier ways to be rid of that but why wait? I'll know your secret in due time so I'm not going to press the issue, whats the point? You did what needed to be done and that's that. As far as Nala goes I am sure she is having a grand time with whatever you've given her to do, but I do want to be in Pallia as soon as possible, not that I don't trust your family you know I do, I have just never been away from her for this long since Peter died and I have never been away from Ellysia for this long in my whole life. Until we can go though, we are expected at dinner with my godparents and the rest of the royal family which would include some people I think you may already know.
Sarabella winked at him thinking it would be good for Jackson to see his Uncle Aranor and his cousins, he had been kept away from his family for too long now she knew how close he was to his sister Harper but at least at dinner he could see some family and maybe have a sense of normal until everything was all settled once and for all.

[Janessa]

Janessa looked at Aidan with an eyebrow that arched and a bit of an "oh really" look on her face when he gave his little warning to Grady. She wasn't going to fight with Aidan over what he said, there was no reason to, she knew what she was getting herself into when she got involved with him. Hell all the men in the Shadow family were the same way, they were possessive but if you asked them they would say they were protective, and they were the jealous sort no matter how much they trusted their significant others, it was the rest of the world they had issues with. When she thought about it, the women of that line were the same way. It took a special breed to be able to become a mate to a Shadow or Connor, or Deamons, she was a little surprised she fit in that mold but nothing could make her regret the choices she made that led her to where she was now.
Easy now brat, Grady was just having a bit of fun, it started earlier in the night when I knocked snow from a tree onto his head, a little fun now and then never hurt anyone. You get your fun don't you? Dinner away from everyone sounds real good to me.
She stood up, stretched and leaned across the table giving him a light kiss.
I need to get some sleep, seems I have plans for afternoon and evening and I wouldn't want to be dead on my feet. I'll see you later then.

[Errol Lockheart]

Well I figure if I pull this shift than we would have some time together. I can see them not wanting us in the same area but this no patrolling the same shifts is starting to wear on me too. I do need to do some more things to finish up my healers stuff then my schedule will be crazy a bit.

He smiled and kissed her. He knew that she understood how important it was to him to move up the ranks with the healers. He grinned slightly at her,

You know just based on what we did together should be good for them to see I know what I am doing. But the tests are the tests. I have a couple of them this afternoon so I may not be here when you wake then I will be back to rest before the shift. But for now my attention lays solely with you.

He had to admit he loved just laying there like that with her. He knew that they had come to a point where nothing was going to come between them. The road to get to where they now were was tough and he had to admit at times he did not think it was going to happen. He had to smile though just as he had always known this was right being with her was right. Though he would tease at times he knew he had nothing to worry about from anyone.

[Aidan Shadow]

He smiled and grinned at her he just had to do it.

Well it all depends on how tired you are if I get to have fun or not. Well it also depends on Grady's idea of fun, if one mark gets put on you I will know and that will not be a sight others will want to see either.

He returned her kiss and he winked at her.

I might be up later to see how you are doing seeing since you did not eat anything and haven't really seen you eating anything much as of later, I think it would be good for you to see the healer too.

He smiled as he watched her walk away and he looked at Grady scowling. He had a few things on the plans for that day. He also needed to talk to his Mother though he was acting as Master of the Order his parents still had their hands in it, and he wanted to see what she thought about something. He knew where he could find his Mother later and he would.

[Jackson Shadow]

I know that no one could get you to turn against me or speak against me.

He smiled as she took care of him and after she was done he kissed her.

You have taken on the role of a minor healer quite well. You will know the secret soon enough as you said. I am sure Nala is having fun with it, but she will also learn things. How long do you think the men of Pallia can last before falling at her feet again. It was quite funny seeing how some of them would react to her. That kid is going to be a heart breaker when she grows up. Krys may have to give up the name Siren because Nala seems to be able to get everyone to do as she wants.

He laughed because he knew he was included in that everyone. He grinned though and kissed her. At least when there they did not have to hide anything. He walked with his hand in hers.

Well we can not keep your god parents waiting now can we?

He walked with her and smiled seeing all those gathered and greeted them all. He saw a messenger come in and heard what was said.

There is news from Hallia there was a hunting accident seems the Advisor Franklin and a few others got too close to some wild animals habitat and were killed. Not sure what did the damage to them but there was no saving them. They were dead before they were found though their screams could be heard they could not be found until it was too late.

[Alexis Shadow]

So this is what the light of day looks like huh? I damn near forgot!
Alexis came barreling out of the shadows and tackled her big, and she meant big brother to the ground. She knew the only reason she had been able to get him down was because he wasn't expecting it to happen, and she almost got her face punched in for it too until Aidan realized at the last second that he wasn't under attack by some enemy but by his sister.
Sitting right on top of her brother she was grinning like someone who was up to something.
Woah now slow down there killer! Ma would be none too happy if you gave me a black eye! Hell Aid you act like you don't remember what it's like to get trounced by one of your sisters! Has it really been that long?
The truth was it had been that long since Lex had even been to the Hall of Shadows, her life was centered at Black Rose and had been for longest time, it wasn't just because she was the wife of one of her mothers Deathstalkers, long before she spoke vows to Adam she had taken on duties at the Manor and she thrived on it too. Adam was just a nice surprise that happened along the way. How long had it really been since she was at the Hall long enough to wreak some havoc on her siblings? Over half a year. How strangely sad she thought. They all lived on the same lands but rarely saw each other. Hopping off Aidan she stuck a hand out to him offering in silence to help him up off the floor.
Why are you wantin' the wallflower to see the healers huh? Tell me you aren't gonna be a baby daddy Aidan Connor Shadow! The world can only handle one of you!
Lex teased her brother in a way she hadn't done in quite some time and it felt good to be able to play with her brother without fear looming over anyones heads. She just wished Kryssy and Bennett were there, but her twin and her baby brother had their own lives to live and with Bennett being Crown Prince Lex knew he spent most of his days taking care of Pallias problems along side their father, learning more and more each day. Lexi was proud of both her brother and the roles they played in the kingdom, and what they did during the Time of the Souls still blew her mind.
So tell me what you have planned for the day Aidan, see I was thinking if you weren't too busy maybe we could snatch up Kryssy and Benny and maybe just maybe have us a snowball fight or two?

[Sarabella]

Well that's going to make my job a little easier now isn't it?
Sarabella was so stunned by the news brought by the messenger that she didn't see the look that was passed from her godmother to Jackson. It wasn't that Sarabella didn't understand the true meaning behind the so called wild animal attacks on Franklin and his hunting party, far from it, she understood all too well, she was just a little taken aback by the lengths to which Jackson had gone to for her and for Nala.
Jackson...
Sarabella whispered his name and her hand tightened around his. She remembered where she was and that she was surrounded by people.
Excuse us for a moment please...
Having said that she practically ran out of the room pulling Jackson with her until they were in Kaynes study. Sarabella closed the door then threw herself in his arms burying her face into the side of his neck until she was able to reign in the torrent of emotions that were going to make her cry like a hysterical little girl. Tears were shed but they fell silently, streaking her cheeks when she finally looked at him.
Don't you ever do anything like that again without telling me the whole of it do you understand me? You could have been killed and I at least deserve fair warning dammit!
She hugged his neck tightly at the same time she planted teary kisses on his cheek and lips.
This will all be over so fast Jackson, Hallia will fall under Kaynes and it will all be over... she'll see to that, no one can persuade people like she can... are you sure you are ready for this, I mean it's going to happen fast Jackson, you really want a ready made family?

[Jackson Shadow]

Of course I want a ready made family as long as it is you and Nala we are talking about. I did not want to worry you as I know you would have. That worry could have made a mess of things too. Yes I know this will make things go faster than they have in fact I should have done it a lot sooner. Was going to take out just Franklin but then they were speaking about harming you and Nala, I will not let that happen.

He smiled and kissed her wiping her tears and grinning at her.

I love you Sarabella and I protect those that I love. I do not need any paper to tell me you and Nala are my family and mine to protect. But with this moving so quick are you ready to move back to Pallia and live just a simple life. I have my duties there that I will need to do also.

He held her and smiled and kissed her again.

You know I am a bit hungry though missed my meals earlier to take care of this so what do you say we go back and take care of getting some food?

He knew at least the threats would stop he made sure that anyone he could associate with the trouble for Nala and Sara were eliminated.

[Losa]

Braxton had come back with Nala in tow and Losa had to smile he winked at his wife.
Remember to play nice my Queen.

He was teasing because of the fit that Nala flew into back when she said about eating girls who run through the Hall screaming. He just had to grin and he got given the note by Nala and smiled.

It will be taken care of Nala. Braxton she is going to need some winter clothes to wear make sure she goes and gets a heavier jacket before you let her play in the snow. For the little quest Jackson has put in for, I will tell you who to go talk to.

He put down the name and where in Pallia they could be found.

He will have the chickens for the coop that is already made. Nala I did hear you are going to be needing to study up on caring for chickens. Kiara and I found this book for you about chickens and their care.

He handed her the book and smiled he looked back at his queen after the guests left.

I hope that Jackson knows what he is getting into with that one she can wrap anyone around her finger.

[Aidan Shadow]

I have a couple of things to oversee and I need to make a quick run to Firyon promised Cori I would come by but was not going to stay long there. Not a very busy day lined up but I do have to get to Firyon before it gets too late.

He laughed and dumped his sister on the floor.

No I am not becoming a baby's daddy as far as I know but you never know. It is bound to happen some day. Though I would think Kryssy or Benny would have news first.

He shook his head with a grin, he may not be a baby's Daddy but he knew what his plans were for that night. He patted his sister's head.

You be a good little sister and run along and see what the others are up to. Maybe we can fit in one when I get back from Firyon. Nessa just has not been seeming to be feeling well lately is it wrong for me to be concerned about her? Plus you know she won't come seek me out until after she sees a healer and that will give me time to get done what I need to get done.

[Janessa]

Might as well get this over with Janessa said to herself walking through the door of the building belonging to Riley and Tegan Lockheart, it was the same building where Juniper and Brody had their practice when they served as healers and physicians for the Elite, it was where even Jerrica Kensington had practiced for a short time after she finished her training and passed the necessary tests. Tegan wasn't in but Riley was, it didn't matter which one of them looked her over, she just wanted to be done with it so she could go back to the Hall, tell Aidan she was fine just a little under the weather or some such thing and get to bed.
Morning Riley, sorry for making you work so early but Aidan said I had to see a healer and you know Aidan, he makes damn sure his word is law. He's worried because I haven't really been eating lately, just haven't been that hungry. You know how busy it's been around here, by the time I have two seconds to breathe I'm more into catching sleep than food. So let's get on with then yeah?
She hopped up on the table while he checked her over, asked her a few questions, the normal routine. She was there for maybe an hour when he told her he'd be back in a few minutes. So she waited for him looking around the room noticing how comfortable they made the room for their patients. When he came back in she was pulling on her boots and looked at him with a raised brow the winked.
So? What's the verdict? Am I gonna live to see another day?

[Kiara Jade]

Hello your majesties!
Nala skipped up to Kiara and Losa and knelt down in front of them, Kiara could see the little girl looking at her through her fallen hair and she winked at the little girl who held the note out for Losa to read. As soon as Losa started talking Kiara made a motion to the girl to get up off the floor and Kiara assumed that was a signal to Nala to start talking.
Jacksons really going to get Sarabell chickens? Oh mercy me she is going to be so surprised I bet she cries!
The excitement was clear on her face until she was handed the book that Losa gave her. She heard what he said and her face went into a scowl, then into a forced smile.
I have to take care of Sarabells chickens? Hells bells...
Kiara raised a brow and Nalas face paled.
Oh I am sorry your Majesty I didn't mean... I'll be happy to take care of chickens...
She backed up into Braxton who was trying not to laugh and when they were on their way leaving Kiara and Losa alone Jade burst into laughter.
That little girl is a true hellion, you all better watch your asses with that one, soon she'll have you all sitting down for teas and dress up parties... I can't quite picture you in a dress though... it will be interesting to see to say the least.
The humor fell from her face however, it was morning and that meant it was time for Losa to start his day with Bennett, and they still had a few matters to discuss.
Playtime needs to be put on hold for the time being though love. You should know that Katie Joy has dealt with those responsible for what happened, all four of them are dead now. Stryder sent word that he and Cyranda made it to Ithilien and I have granted Phoebe, Stone, and Dominic the time off they requested to join them. We'll be a little short handed a far as the council goes but I think Krys, Lex and Adam will be able to fill in nicely don't you? Zuri Kensington arrived sometime last night too though I can't say exactly when I just know she's here because Brayden has suddenly started smiling again. Then there is this business with Hallia and Princess Sarab...
Kiara stopped talking. There wasn't much in the world that could shake her into silence but what she saw coming through the doors of the council room that she and Losa ended up in, it was like someone had stolen her voice....

[Iliana Shadow]

I'll be fine James, do not worry so my love...
Iliana whispered to the man standing beside her outside the council room doors nestled in the Hall of Shadows. Time had yet to heal all wounds but there was something more important than her traumas that had brought Iliana to Pallia with James at her side the entire time offering his support in every way possible. He loved her enough to argue with her about her decision to return to Pallia for the brief period of time they would be in the realm, he was concerned for her mental state which Iliana believed was only natural given the events that had occurred at the Hall. She told him she would be fine, even if she did not believe her own words she would force herself to be fine. Not man nor beast was ever going to have the power over Iliana that Alistar Runtsor had once had and in death he would find no victory by her crumbling. She was born of Shadow and Ethrorrian blood, and born into her through that blood was the will to survive. Admittedly it was horribly difficult to breathe when they first arrived at the Hall. Ghosts followed her from room to room as did the whispers and stares that were to be expected as they made their way to the floor above where the council room was. Ghosts that could no longer hurt her because she would not allow it.
This must be done if for no other reason than for Emalina, for my mother and believe it or not for Firyon. My mother needs to find her own peace with what happened... and how can she begin to find that peace if I cannot begin to truly heal? This is a necessary measure that needs to be taken to bring my family as a whole back together. I need this in order to be whole.
Iliana leaned over placing a warm kiss on his cheek then opened the council room doors, the hem of her robes rustling with each step taken into the room. The shock she saw on her Aunt and Uncles faces she believed mirrored her own, the air in the room became thick, awkward and almost unbreathable but she forced herself to remain calm while she went on one knee before the King and Queen of Pallia. Seeing her Uncle again brought back horrifying memories but she could not let those memories take hold of her, and she reminded herself over and over that his body had only been a vessel housing evil against his will.
They say time heals all... I used to believe this once... but no more do I have faith in those words. Time can heal all but it can also fester into a poison that can destroy the very heart of any living being. Our family, as a whole is a living being and time has done little to repair some of the damage that has been done to our family. Nothing will change or be made right if we cower and hide from the reality of what we have all suffered through. The threat to this family did not die with Alistar Runtsor no matter what my father or anyone else might believe because we are all scattered across creation... broken and if we stay that way... he wins...
Iliana lifted her head and looked at her Uncle, it was one of the hardest things she ever did but she had dug deep to find the strength to face him with fires blazing in her now amber eyes.
No one has that much power over us... and I for one am not ready to hand him such a victory so easily even in death....