The Break of Dawn: Tales from Fadreama: Book 3

TALES FROM

FADREAMA

Candice N. Coonan

Book 3

The Break of Dawn

Book Illustrations

Rhonda Trider

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© Copyright 2005, 2012 Candace N. Coonan.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the written prior permission of the author.

isbn: 978-1-4669-3567-9 (sc)

isbn: 978-1-4669-3566-2 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number:

Trafford rev. 05/14/2012

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Contents

Part One The Plotting

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Part two The South

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Part Three The North

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Chapter 34

Chapter 35

Chapter 36

Chapter 37

Chapter 38

Chapter 39

Part Four The Return

Chapter 40

Chapter 41

Chapter 42

Chapter 43

For my parents and brothers,

and for my ‘everything.’

Find your happiness and don’t let it go.

Preface

I can’t believe we’ve arrived at Book 3 already! Let me first say I’m very excited about things at this point. It’s really a big step in the tale so far, because we will see a separate path branch out. From this point on, the story starts to take a very complicated curve and diverges from the more or less ‘happy’ endings we have come to expect. Maybe it’s me or maybe it’s the essence of Fadreama itself, but suddenly the tale has become deeper on several different levels. Often I myself, hesitated as to whether or not I wanted to delve that deep. And this is only the tip of the iceberg. As you will see in the book following this one, things only continue to tangle themselves more. Book 3 is but a taste of the bigger picture and the very complex tapestry of relationships that is about to either develop or slowly reveal its woven threads. Perhaps none of this babble makes much sense right now, but I truly hope it will make itself clear in time. And of course, I truly hope everyone will enjoy the tale and bond with the new characters.

My preface would not be complete without thanking the people who have made these crazy ideas of mine possible. As always, Mom, Dad, Terrence and Derek, thank you for everything, especially for just plain putting up with me. Thank you again Tracy Duckett for your marvelous editing job and for explaining yourself so well. It is truly appreciated so much. And a huge thank you to Rhonda Trider for your amazing artwork! The cover and illustrations display your great ability to capture the essence of what I try to describe. Thank you to all the readers for your fantastic support and wonderful emails! I could not continue without your support! And finally, Shu-chan, anata wa watashi no subete desu. Watashi wa itumo anata no koto-wo omotte imasu. Anata wa watashi ni totte tokubetsu na hito desu. Watashi wa anatano koto wo zutto aisite imasu. Thank you everyone and please enjoy!

Candace N. Coonan

August 30, 2005

The Break of Dawn

Each day that is born,

Brings with it new light.

Fresh power, fresh life,

To oppose the dark night.

Yet though the sky’s pink,

And there’s dew on the grass,

Another generation has come to pass.

With the birth of the day,

Comes the birth of the night,

Two opposing forces, equal in might.

The new and the old,

The seen and unseen,

All must unite to outlast the black dream.

A spell of darkness,

The shadow weaver’s delight,

Will soon take hold, dissolving all will to fight.

Yet high in the sky, sings a sweet golden song,

It’s steady, it’s clear,

It’s the break of Dawn.

Part One

The Plotting

CHAPTER 1

New Light

It all started with a tremendous explosion—an explosion that should have been the end. Yet as always, evil is not so easily destroyed, if it can be completely destroyed at all. Queen Alice, along with her friends, had focused a great deal of energy at the demon, Ralston Radburn, or rather, his new incarnation, Cardew of the Black Fort. This magic, turned the demon into black glass and the glass exploded with a shatter, flying in all directions from the Cloud Shrine. The broken pieces of the transformed figure of Ralston, were showered over an unsuspecting Fadreama—little pieces of evil, filled with the malice of Ralston, but the power of Cardew. At the time, no one was concerned.

The Fragments of Cardew…

You are hallucinating, Your Grace. There is nothing broken in here. Focus on breathing. It won’t be long now.

Scattered across the land… The darkness in people’s hearts.

***

A shrill scream pierced the early morning air sharply, but rather than bringing terror, this cry brought joy to all who heard it. The scream lengthened into a trembling wail, as the source of the tremendous noise was handed to an exhausted, but ecstatic, Queen Alice.

She’s a beautiful girl, Lady Lena told her cousin Alice with a smile.

And very strong too, Alice’s other cousin, Lady Jada added.

Wordlessly, Alice carefully cradled the small bundle wrapped in embroidered blankets and softly soothed the baby. As the crying died away, Alice glanced over at her husband, King Alexander, who was standing awkwardly off in a corner of the chamber.

You can come hold her, you know, Alice joked softly, beckoning Alex over. She needs to meet her father.

The King stepped forward with shaking knees and trembling fairy wings. His face was the same colour as the snow, which was gently falling outside. Nervously, Alex brushed back his golden hair and wiped the palms of his hands on his red robe. Lady Lena and Jada hid their giggles, as the King fought to compose himself. In the short time since these ladies had joined the court, never had they seen their king in such a state.

Come on now, Alex, Alice urged. Come and see our daughter.

Alex’s approach did not speed up and Alice had to inwardly laugh at her husband. He is so strong and brave, yet at this moment, he has been reduced to nothing more than a quivering child. At last Alex reached Alice’s bedside and grabbed her hand quickly. Slowly and cautiously, he peeked at the child in his wife’s arms, and as he did, his expression melted into pure joy.

She’s lovely, Alex breathed, as he stroked the child’s soft cheek.

You’ll make a fine father. Alice smiled and handed the bundle to Alex. Uncertain at first, Alex stared with wide eyes at the baby. Don’t worry, Alice reassured him, just support her head.

This is unbelievable, Alex murmured. Of all the training I’ve done in my life, nothing has prepared me for this. Then, after a pause, he continued, She has your hair.

So she does, Alice agreed, touching the soft, deep brown fluff on the infant’s head. But she has your eyes.

How can you tell? Her eyes aren’t even open yet and their true colour won’t show for at least a full moon cycle.

Don’t get technical, Alice laughed. Mothers just know these things. You just wait, she’ll have sparkling blue eyes to go with her glittering rainbow fairy wings.

Alex’s expression turned serious for a moment. She will be able to hide her wings…as they are hidden now. She has half-fairy blood. You are half-fairy by marriage, Alice and so you can hide your wings… She will look to you for understanding in this, Alex stated solemnly. Sometimes, I’d like to hide my wings, but I can’t.

Alex remembered, all too well, the strange reception he’d received from the Algernonians when he had married their precious queen. I am different from the people I help rule. The suspicion I was regarded with at first was a painful blow, just as it was for Alice when she went to Alexandria. People have difficulty accepting those who are not exactly like themselves. They only see differences, not similarities.

Be proud of who you are, Alice replied, her own painful memories of Alexandria flooding back. We unite two worlds, Alex and our daughter is living proof of that. For too long has Algernon been at odds with Alexandria. History seems to forget that we were once one, Alice sighed. By marrying you, Alex, I became half-fairy and received wings, but that doesn’t stop the whispers I get in your home realm. Still, we have to accept ourselves, before anyone else will.

Alex looked pensive as he rocked his daughter. Do you think it will be hard for the baby—being half and half, I mean? She is not one and she is not the other. She is the only one of her kind.

Perhaps it will be a challenge, Alice admitted, but let’s not worry about that now. Today is a joyous day. Let sorrow be forgotten for a time. Besides, Harmony and Andre’s child is half and half too. So soon after their marriage, Harmony had a son. Perhaps she and Andre learned to like each other after all. Alice had harboured deep doubts about the union of Andre and Harmony from the start.

Alex nodded in agreement, shaking all doubts from his mind. Have you thought of a name yet? I must admit, I am at a loss. Where I come from, royal girls’ names almost always end up being Alexandria and I don’t want that for our child. Which would be why Andrea changed her name.

Alice smiled mysteriously. Yes, as a matter of fact, I have thought of a name and I just know you’re going to love it. It suits her perfectly. I thought of it the night he proposed…

Well? Alex inquired eagerly.

Alice beckoned him closer. I don’t want anyone else to hear until we present her to the Kingdom. Alice cast a look at the ladies, Lena and Jada, who were straining their ears to hear the conversation. Leaning forward, Alice whispered something in Alex’s fairy sculpted ear.

A great smile spread across the King’s face and he looked exuberant. A wonderful choice! All of the serving ladies, in addition to Alice’s cousins, looked disappointed they hadn’t heard, but said nothing. Alex placed the baby back into his wife’s arms and kissed them both. Now rest, my Alice. I shall go and spread the news of our daughter’s birth and make preparations for a grand celebration, the likes of which this Kingdom hasn’t seen in an age! Then, with a flourish of colour and sparkle, Alex exited the room and Alice wearily began to feed the young Princess.

***

Three days later, horns blew across Algernon and Alexandria heralding an enormously important announcement. Bright banners fluttered high in the wind and the sun shone merrily. The light snowfall a few days earlier had completely disappeared and nature itself appeared to be rejoicing. The heir to the throne had been born! The King and Queen had united two realms, forever!

So it was, on an unusually fair day in the autumn month of the Samhain festival, that Queen Alice, holding the newborn Princess and King Alexander stood upon a high balcony, overlooking Devona City. Standing anxiously behind the royal couple were various relatives and close friends who had come to share in the celebration of the Princess’s birth, which was to be combined with the Samhain festival. Ironically, Samhain was a time for mourning the fading light and preparing for the darkness of winter. Yet here was the Kingdom, celebrating new light—something usually reserved for the spring.

From the fast growing farming community of Verity came Prince Oliver—who had opted not to revert back to his birth name, Edric—his wife, Princess Carrie and their ten month old son, Prince Ian. All the way from Pegasus Falls in the fairy realm, Alexandria, came Prince Andre, who was Alex’s younger brother. With him came his wife, Princess Harmony, Alice’s former lady-in-waiting. Harmony had brought along the couple’s ten month old, Prince Evan, who had been born, strangely enough, on the same day as Ian—on the Sabbat known as Yule. Everyone had shared a laugh at how similar the boys’ names were, in addition to their birthdays.

Even Queen Alexandria, herself, had deigned to be in Algernon for the birth of her precious son’s heiress. In truth, the new princess stood to inherit two kingdoms. She was the first in line to the throne of Algernon and second, after Alex, in Alexandria. Queen Alexandria, herself, showed no signs of aging, despite her advanced years. Alexandria still stood as tall and intimidating as she did when Alice had first met her, almost two years ago.

Alex’s only sister, Andrea, was even in attendance, which was a great joy for the royal couple. Andrea was training to be a priestess in Lily’s Heart Temple, located in the Forgotten Forest of Algernon. Her training was quite intense and as a result, she was rarely able to visit those whom she loved. Still, she was here on this day, beaming with silent joy, though she was dressed less extravagantly than everyone else. Her training had taught her simplicity and she was quite happy with that.

Andre, Andrea’s twin brother, was perhaps the happiest of all to see his sister, as their communication had been sparse in the past few years. In spite of Andre’s perpetually unconcerned attitude, his love for his twin sister was genuine. Only Oliver shifted uncomfortably in Andrea’s presence, for at one time, they had been engaged and there was still a certain love between the two that time would never completely dissolve.

Aside from relatives, dear friends were also gathered on the balcony overlooking the city. Naturally, Nissim, the good wizard, was watching everything unfold with a sort of fatherly pride. Alice, after all, had been his charge in two lifetimes. It was good to see her happy. Perched on Nissim’s shoulder, was the irrepressible fairy, Sparks and her speedy messenger cousin, Dewdrop. Standing regally beside Nissim was Wisp, the worrisome Pegasus-Unicorn, who was wrapped in a shawl, lest she should catch a chill. Wisp was content in Algernon, for at last she felt safe from the shadow of her parents’ mysterious disappearance.

Brothers-in-law Captain Timothy Wyston and First Mate Samuel Barlow, had travelled all the way from Jadestone for the celebration. Wyston had aged substantially over the past couple of years and at last some grey had started to streak through Barlow’s hair. Because Wyston found his time waning, he wanted to be in Devona for the Princess’s birth. Wyston could see Alice settling into her duties and he knew visiting would not be a priority for her now. And he was, after all, 71 years old, so traveling would soon be impossible. Youth had fled from Wyston long ago, though he had tried to deny it. My adventures are over, he thought. Wyston’s trip through the realms two years ago, would be the last quest he deigned to undertake.

Even Barlow was growing older—he was already 61. He would agree that it was time for a new generation to have the adventures.

Two of Alice’s cousins, Lena and Jada, who were now her ladies-in-waiting, stood by dressed in their finest. Silently each one hoped to meet a good nobleman during the celebration, when the Kingdom’s best kept secrets would emerge.

Lord Lance, Lena’s twin brother, was also in attendance. He brought greetings from their father, Lord Julian, the Marquis de Felda and uncle, Lord John, Earl of Jadestone. Lance had escorted his mother, Lady Lara and aunt, Lady Jewel of Jadestone, to Devona, which had delighted Alice beyond all measure. She was ecstatic to finally meet her dear mother’s sisters and glean what information she could regarding the character of the late Queen Rose-Mary. It was Rose-Mary who had inadvertently and irreparably divided the two royal brothers, Alfred and Chauncey, driving the latter to madness and Ralston Radburn. But, Rose-Mary was gone now and the world was poorer for it.

A few puffs of unearthly white clouds hung low in the sky where the Cloud Realm inhabitants looked on. The King, Cloud Li himself, stood on the balcony with everyone else, although he stood off to the side with his beautiful wife, Queen Kiraku. The Cloud Realm people were noticeably different from their counterparts on the ground. Though once the realms had been one, they had now been separated too long to ever be united again, though they remained solid allies. The lives of the Cloud people were unnaturally long and Cloud Li himself was also a great wizard. He and Nissim were the only ones left of The Three—the greatest band of warrior wizards that ever existed. After Octavius’s death, Nissim and Cloud Li had each gone to where they were needed. Cloud Li had a great realm to govern and left Nissim to affairs on the ground. On this occasion, Cloud Li’s dragon, Lisung, was also in attendance, even though he frightened Wisp to the point of a swoon.

Though no one but Alice and Nissim noticed that, perched atop one of the great towers of Dalton Castle, was the lonely gatekeep, Charon—the rogue elf or Acjah. She had suffered greatly for loving a human and had been cast out of her society which, incidentally, was Nissim’s society too. This was a question that often pestered Alice: Just what was Nissim’s story? He had never fully explained this to her and only stated, You are dipping into a well that is not yet ready to be tasted. Thus, the subject had never been discussed. Alice imperceptivity nodded to Charon, who raised her blue staff, which almost seemed to tear holes in the air. This magical gesture of Charon’s caused several windows to be opened in the air, allowing people in the far reaches of the Kingdom and other realms—namely Alexandria—to see the royal family. Thousands of eyes eagerly awaited the announcement. It was to be more important than anyone realized.

Shall we begin? Alice asked Alex, who nodded quickly and held up his arms in an attempt to quiet the restless crowd.

Good people of Algernon and Alexandria! Alex cried loudly, though Nissim had used a small enchantment to project his voice. Queen Alice and I are here today to present you with the key to our future! A new chapter in the history of our two great Kingdoms has begun! Alice held the little baby up carefully for all to see.

Behold, Alice declared, Her Royal Highness, Princess Dawn! The tiny infant stirred slightly at the loud applause and roaring cheers which then erupted. Through the windows in the air, the people clapped and cried out with joy. It was such a tremendous noise, that Dawn soon began to wail and clench her tiny fists.

Oh my poor dear. Alice snuggled the child against her chest protectively. The noise is frightening her. We must go inside. Besides, I feel a draft out here. The autumn is well advanced.

Alex nodded and held up his arms again, only slightly silencing the crowd this time. Though this day marks Samhain, a time of returning darkness, let us still rejoice in the birth of our new light. Let the winter’s darkness come, I say, for we shall be too busy with merrymaking to notice! Another great cheer rose up and so, quickly, Alex turned and ushered everyone back into Dalton Castle. All the while, Princess Dawn continued to cry mercilessly, causing a great echo in the Hall.

Try rocking her, Harmony suggested to Alice. That’s all I ever have to do to my Evan and he never whimpers. She flipped her red hair and fluttered the fairy wings she had received from Andre—the wings she refused to make invisible, no matter whose presence she was in. Marriage and a child had not dampened Harmony’s defiance.

That won’t work, Carrie scoffed at Harmony. You need to sing to her Alice. That has always worked with Ian. Carrie stroked the downy hair of the child who gave a bright smile, reminiscent of his father.

Alice looked uncomfortable and indeed felt incapable as she held the now screaming Princess. Of all she had been through, the cries of her child tore her soul the most. "I am rocking her, Harmony and my singing would probably make her cry louder, Carrie. Not all of us are gifted with your lovely voice."

Maybe she’s not feeling well, Wisp offered. "It was awfully drafty outside."

No, Dawn is quite healthy, I assure you, Alice smirked. No baby who is ill could scream this loudly.

And for so long, Sparks giggled with Dewdrop.

You’re not helping, Alice sighed.

I’m very glad I don’t sleep in Alice’s room anymore, Sparks whispered to Dewdrop, who nodded emphatically.

You’d never get any sleep at all, the messenger fairy chuckled.

Then, quite suddenly, a side window burst open with a flourish and a gust of warm wind rushed in. Immediately, Dawn’s crying slowed down, until at last it stopped and she stared with blinking eyes as sparkles began to swirl through the air. It seemed as though the sparkles were attracted to Dawn and Dawn alone, for they landed only in her hair. When Alice tried to brush them off, she found they were quite stuck.

From a sparkling mass in the air, came a great light. This light moved with a will of its own, stopping only when it reached Dawn’s side. After a brief moment, the light toned down and the sparkles settled, revealing a delicate pixie who appeared to be much younger than even Sparks. This pixie—which was slightly different from a fairy—gave off a calming pink glow. She wore a tiny pink dress, which contrasted with her snowy white skin and dark hair, but matched her rosebud cheeks. She fluttered her pastel wings and alighted upon the chest of Dawn.

Immediately, Sparks was at Alice’s side. Who are you? she exclaimed, as Dewdrop cautiously joined her cousin.

The pink pixie smiled charmingly and then gazed lovingly at Dawn, who never gave so much as a whimper. My name is Glimmer, but most just call me Glims. I was sent here to be the young Princess’s guardian.

But who sent you? Alice inquired. I wasn’t aware that the fairy realm did such things.

Neither was I, Sparks replied suspiciously, her yellow glow growing more intense.

Dewdrop put a restraining hand on her cousin’s shoulder. Let her speak, Sparks.

Destiny sent me and she is not from the fairy realm, Glimmer replied simply.

That’s not a person, Andre suddenly spoke up, coming to Alex’s side. Alex himself was speechless, but quite willing to let the pixie speak her piece and then decide what to do.

Glimmer gave Andre a disdainful look. How do you know? She noted the wings on Andre’s back. You may be kin to the Fay, but you hold very human beliefs. Just because you haven’t met someone, that doesn’t mean they don’t exist.

That’s not what I meant, Andre stammered in embarrassment.

Clearing his throat, Alex at last broke his silence, "Well, you did stop little Dawn from crying. That’s worth something, don’t you think Alice?"

Alice nodded her head, for she felt no malice from the mysterious pink pixie—regardless of her origin. This Destiny stirs something inside of me. I feel we can trust her. Yes, Glimmer does seem to have a special connection with Dawn… What do you think, Nissim?

The old wizard had been watching the entire scene with an amused smile on his face. Now he stepped forward, along with Cloud Li and clicked his staff on the floor. The Lady Destiny is a very powerful, very mysterious woman who knows what she is doing. If she has deemed Glimmer fit to be Dawn’s guardian, then so be it. What say you, Cloud Li? It has been long since I have been able to seek your counsel.

Cloud Li smiled gently, his almond eyes aglitter. Glimmer is a good pixie and would make an excellent guardian for the young Princess who, if she is anything like her Mother, will attract trouble everywhere she goes. The union has my blessings.

As it has mine. Nissim bowed slightly.

It was then that Andrea spoke up. Alice, Lady Destiny is good. She lives up north in the forests, I have heard. There is no harm in accepting her courtesies.

Alice let out a slow breath and gave Alex a smile. Well, that settles it. Glimmer, you will be Princess Dawn’s guardian. Watch over her well, for she is our future.

Oh I will, Glimmer tinkled as she settled down amongst Dawn’s soft blankets and lowered her light.

The atmosphere in the Hall then began to relax and a jovial mood took over. Visiting and reminiscing of old times commenced, as Alex indicated for the mistrals to begin playing softly and for food to be brought in.

Carrie weaved her way through the people and over to Alice, with Ian in her arms. He clapped his tiny hands together with the music. Take a look at your cousin, Carrie whispered in Ian’s ear, as he stared at the bundle in Alice’s arms.

Ian smiled and babbled a tune. He seems more interested in the music, Alice laughed. You may have a bard on your hands and not a farmer.

Now it was Carrie’s turn to laugh. "Oh, Oliver would not be impressed by that! He so wants to make this farming thing work and Ian must be his protégé." With this said, she handed Ian off to a surprised Oliver, who had been conversing with Andre.

My Evan is walking already and he’s not even a year old, Harmony told Carrie smugly, suddenly entering into the conversation.

That is impressive, Carrie replied tensely. Perhaps Ian will talk first. Already he hums along to music.

You mean, ‘makes noise,’ Harmony replied, as Alice gracefully ducked out of the conversation.

Alice slipped over to a quiet corner of the Hall and stood looking out a tall window at the mighty Thea Mountains, which enclosed the city. Soon the winter would come and a blanket of thick, white snow would put everything on hold until the spring. Alice quite enjoyed the silence of the winter, spent in front of a crackling fire with Alex. I suppose those days are over…

At that moment, an arm tenderly slipped around her waist and Alice felt a nuzzle at her neck. Alex. Our sweet Dawn, Alice whispered and gazed lovingly at their daughter. You are our light and our future. There will be no more…only you. Only one chance for a peaceful future. On you, everything depends. I pray for your safety. I pray for your happiness. Evil has been banished, but it came back once before. I fear it may again.

Your spirit is heavy on a day when it should be light, Alex murmured. You put so much pressure on yourself, don’t do the same to Dawn. She will be alright. After a moment Alex asked haltingly, Do you…think someone would try to hurt her?

I…I don’t know, Alice murmured. Not for the sake of hurting her, but to hurt us—to hurt me. I am certain there are those who would rather not have me as Queen. And Cardew’s Fragments—he was shattered into many pieces that flew in all directions. What became of them, I wonder? I cannot help but fear… Ralston hated me with his entire being and he was a part of Cardew.

Now is not the time to be troubled by the past, Your Grace, came a familiar and gentle old voice.

Nissim had quietly approached the couple from behind. He sensed Alice’s fear and knew she required his counsel. Though Alice was grown, she would never outgrow his advice.

This is a very joyful time and I am happy but… Alice trailed off.

But you fear it being taken away, Nissim finished. Your instincts are far too sharp for your own peace of mind, Alice.

Alice twitched. "Then something is going to happen!" She looked terrified, as did Alex.

Nissim, you must do something! Alex declared, attempting to keep his voice low and controlled in the crowded Hall. If anyone touches my daughter, so help me, they shall feel the wrath of an Alexandrian warrior!

Be calm! Nissim suddenly laughed, holding up his hands. This is a happy time! All is well! Begin the merrymaking! The time to take a stand is not yet at hand, so be at peace until it is. With that, Nissim wandered away with Cloud Li and Kiraku.

Still, Alice could not release the tension in her limbs, nor slow her rapid breathing. Poor Alex could barely keep his wings from twitching and he held onto Alice tightly. All the while Dawn and Glimmer slept on blissfully unaware that anything was amiss.

I will find no peace, Alice sighed unsteadily. Not so long as Ralston may still exist—even if he is shattered. Cardew was a demon created when Ralston merged with my Uncle Chauncey. But when Cardew shattered, I only felt one soul break—Ralston’s. The shattering had one positive effect in that it freed my uncle’s soul. But Cardew’s power and Ralston’s malice were spread all over the lands…

We have overcome hardships before, Alex stated carefully. We must have faith that we can handle anything that comes our way…together.

But what if we are not together? What if something should happen— Alice began, only to be silenced by Alex.

We will always be together, Alice. This is at least our second lifetime with each other. It was meant to be and the powers that be are not that cruel. If you trust in nothing else, trust in us. I will always be there to protect you, Alice. There isn’t a force strong enough to stop me.

Alice nodded and lay her head against Alex’s chest, as the heavy snowflakes swirled outside the window. Winter was at their door already. Yet the party went on, long into the night, with the merrymakers blissfully unaware of the unseen eyes which watched them from over the mountains—biding their time.

CHAPTER 2

An Unnerving Meeting

A pair of sparkling blue eyes mischievously peeked around the gilded corner of a corridor, which led into the dining room of Dalton Castle. Glittering silver dinnerware was just being set out before Queen Alice, King Alexander and five ambassadors from surrounding kingdoms. The King and Queen each sat at an end of the long marble table, elaborately dressed in their most formal attire. After all, it was not often that meetings between Algernon, Bainbridge, Florian, Stanbury, Marden and Hildeguard were held. In fact, this was a very historic moment, or so Queen Alice hoped it would be.

Alice looked especially lovely with The Crown perched upon her head and the Sceptre of Stars in her hand. She intended on making the best impression possible at this gathering and Nissim had suggested full regalia. Alexander too looked equally fine, with his impressive fairy wings folded at his back in a shimmering array. So handsome, Alice thought. He is too impressive for his own good. Alice, herself, had opted to keep her wings hidden so that the union between the human and fairy realm could be emphasized.

So now, after a full day of touring and discussing ideas regarding trade, the group had just seated themselves for a relaxing meal before the grand ball planned later on.

I wonder what they’re talking about? Princess Dawn whispered, as she slumped down against the corridor wall.

Glimmer, the pixie, peeked out from beneath Dawn’s long brown hair, which was permanently sparkled from the fairy’s entrance almost 15 years earlier. You want to go find out what’s up? Glimmer tinkled with her own curiosity rising.

I wish I could, but Mother said this was a really important meeting and that I’d just get bored and fidget, Dawn muttered with a frustrated air. Absently she began to pull at a loose thread on the corridor’s elaborate carpet. It unravelled an entire section, leaving a heap of loose threads. Honestly! I’m not an immature child anymore! I should be treated like a lady!

Why don’t you do that thing you did last year during the Fairy Festival? Glimmer suggested, giggling at the memory.

Dawn covered her mouth to stifle a laugh. Oh yeah! When I crawled under the table and pinched everyone’s toes! That was so funny! No one knew what was going on! She hesitated. Do you really think I should do that again…at this meeting? She wondered if it was something a lady would do. Somehow, she doubted it.

Have I ever steered you wrong? Glimmer gave Dawn an innocent look and blinked her crystal eyes.

Do you really want an answer, Glims? Dawn smirked.

On second thought…no. Glimmer waved her hands in the air. "But it would be awfully funny to pinch some ambassador’s toes. They are all so fat and boring looking—except the huge blond guy, but he looks dangerous. Can you say, ‘pillage?’" She was referring to the massive Stanbury ambassador. Glimmer also noticed a single woman ambassador, but didn’t really think much of it. Uninteresting…

Hmmmm…. Dawn mused, as she peered around the corner again. "They do sort of look bored, especially Mother. I can’t see Father’s face, because his back is turned. Maybe I should liven things up… I would really just be helping them! Dawn thought for another moment and then, throwing ladyship to the wind, declared, Okay! I’ll do it!" She gave an excited laugh, but just as she was about to take a step forward, a hand grabbed her shoulder and gently drew her back into the corridor.

Greetings, Princess, came Nissim’s kindly voice.

Dawn smiled innocently at the wizard in his deep blue velvet cloak, which was tied with a golden rope. Nissim too, had dressed in his finest for this occasion.

Oh hello, Nissim! How are you today? I’m fine, thanks for asking! I’m honoured! It would be my pleasure! Please and thank you! Dawn finished completely out of breath, but still managed a curtsey.

Nissim chuckled deeply. You needn’t waste your breath on niceties for me, child. I’m just a wasted old man who doesn’t matter much anymore. There was a jovial twinkle in Nissim’s bright eyes.

Dawn looked horrified at Nissim’s words. "Oh no! That’s not true Nissim! You may be old, but you do so matter!"

Thank you child, you are very kind. Nissim patted Dawn’s head gently and repressed his laughter. Such innocence! A lovely child, though a bit immature. Yet, I think it would not take much to change that. He then arched a bushy grey eyebrow. You weren’t by any chance thinking of pinching toes, were you?

Of course not! Dawn shook her head violently and then looked downward. Well, maybe just a little pinch.

Glimmer flew out of Dawn’s hair and landed on her shoulder. But we weren’t going to hurt anyone!

Glimmer, I should have known this was one of your ideas, Nissim sighed. For a guardian, you certainly know how to get people in trouble— Abruptly Nissim cut off and stared off into the dining room, as though something had just caught his attention. His eyes narrowed and he drew in a sharp breath.

Is something wrong, Nissim? Dawn inquired, a worried look playing across her pretty features.

Nissim broke off his gaze and glanced back down at the wide-eyed Princess. I’m fine, young one. Then he smiled broadly. If you really want to go in there, I’ll take you, but no toe pinching, understand? You are a Princess of Algernon-Alexandria. I shall give her a chance to be treated like a lady. If Alice keeps treating Dawn like a little girl, then she will continue to act like one. That mistake could very well be the downfall of us all…

Dawn brightened immediately and clapped her hands. I promise! Oh Nissim, you’re the best!

Now, quickly run to your chamber and have the ladies bring out your most lovely dress, including your tiara, Nissim instructed. The Princess will be 15 in but a few short months—Alice’s age when she became queen. It is hard to believe that Alice was so young at the time. Such pressure she must have felt, yet somehow, she seemed older. Dawn’s upbringing has been quite different. She has been spoiled and pampered, as most princesses are. Perhaps I am partially to blame for her naivety. And, of course, the most significant point of all, she is not Alice.

In a flash, Dawn disappeared down the corridor and as soon as she was out of sight, Nissim turned his attention back to the sensation that had beckoned him earlier. There was definitely an air of evil about and it appeared to be emanating from this area. It was this sensation that had brought him forth from the gardens outside.

It must be coming from one of the ambassadors…but which one? Nissim peered around the corner, briefly noting that he was just as bad as Dawn. Of the five ambassadors, only one of them was a woman. The woman had seated herself as close to the King as possible, without appearing overly obvious. Nissim focused his attention upon the woman… Something about her is strikingly familiar. Do I know her or possibly one of her relatives?

The entire sensation was eerie and foreboding, which unnerved Nissim to no end. He had a vague idea that something revolutionary was about to happen, but as of yet, he had no clear picture. It would take time, meditation and careful observation to piece everything together and, even then, nothing would be certain. It never was. He suspected this would be just as hard to foresee as it was when Alice had first set off with her sisters to save Algernon. That had been a difficult time for him, as there had been many possible outcomes. Nissim gently massaged his temples. I’m getting too old for this. Where is the next generation of wizards? Arvad, my son, if only it hadn’t ended so tragically…The pain never really goes away, does it?

Presently, Princess Dawn returned, leaving two exhausted serving ladies breathless in her chamber. She had indeed dressed her best, with rosy cheeks to top it all off. Dawn had put on her deep purple gown, adorned with various gemstones in the hem, which shimmered along with her hair. A tiny diamond tiara, fashioned like The Crown, was nestled on her dark head, along with Glimmer, who sat behind the tiara, trying to look important.

Putting forth a practiced exterior of calm, Nissim smiled warmly and remarked, You were very swift indeed, Dawn and you look like a real lady, just like your mother. Ah, this is better. She looks like a young woman, not a rambunctious child.

Dawn beamed happily. It is a great compliment to be compared to Mother. She is so perfect… I want to be just like her! Dawn tossed her hair and grabbed Nissim’s hand. Come on! Let’s go! Yet Nissim held back and did not move.

Patience, Dawn. We must be in absolute control of our emotions. Take a few deep breaths and calm yourself, Nissim urged, as the sensation of evil suddenly increased ten-fold. He knew now for certain that something was afoot, but it would take some doing to find out exactly what. In the meantime, he must be cautious. One wrong move could betray them to the enemy.