Wings of Fate

14. Scarred Stories

    Kalian stood with Bellamy near the back of the group, listening as Commander Lev repeated orders that had arrived earlier that day. They were to continue onward to Selcouth tomorrow, regardless of the weather. Kalian believed traveling would be miserable, especially if the light drizzle they were currently experiencing shifted into another thunderstorm.

    "After we've set up our camp," the Commander continued, "we've been instructed to clear the area of any Faeries, Scindoes, or Witches we might find. Apparently, there have been many Faerie caravans traveling to Selcouth."

    "Well, it is a port city," Kalian muttered to himself. "Anyone wishing to escape persecution would try to flee to another country."

    "You should be careful what you say." Bellamy's voice was quiet and carried a hint of warning. "Commander Lev has been asking around about you. She claims your behavior is suspicious.

    Kalian stiffened. Icy magic surged through his veins as he hastily ensured his glamour was still in place. He tucked his wings close to his back, drawing a steadying breath. "Who has she spoken to?"

    "Me, Delilah, Malachi, Lir, and a few others I think. Just the people who have interacted with you the most."

    "And?"

    He was already drafting numerous escape plans, in case his position had been compromised. Perhaps he could find another Ironblade unit to infiltrate. He wouldn't give up on his King and Queen's assignment just because one unit was getting antsy about him.

    "I think you should tell her more about your past. That might explain some of your behavior and ease her suspicions."

    Kalian swallowed his nervous sigh. "That's easier said than done."

    "I know, but if her suspicions grow..." Bellamy frowned, facing Kalian fully. "Best case scenario, she'll kick you out of the unit. Worst case, you'll wind up dead."

    "I don't fear death." Kalian returned his focus to the Commander, even though Bellamy continued to watch him. Just failing the living.

    "Think about it at least. It would help your chances at being chosen as Second. She'll be more likely to trust you if you show that you trust her."

    "How do you know that?"

    Bellamy shrugged. "It's how women are. They like to be treated as equals. They like to be shown that they're trusted and respected. Commander Lev might be feared, but as for respect..."

    "How do you know so many secrets about women?" Kalian chuckled.

    "Benefits of having an older sister." Bellamy closed his eyes, his features pinched with sorrow.

    "I'll think about it," Kalian promised. A smile reached Bellamy's lips and lingered there.

    Ten more minutes passed before Commander Lev finished speaking. The drizzle had turned into a heavy sprinkle. It wouldn't be long before the storm fully arrived. Kalian set off after Bellamy towards their tent, then paused as someone cleared their throat behind him. He faced Commander Lev.

    "I'd like to speak with you," she said.

    Wariness crept over him, but Kalian nodded. He couldn't very well refuse. He trailed the Commander to her tent, ignoring the curious stares that followed them. A crackling fire was already glowing in the center of the tent when they arrived. Kalian started as a log cracked, splitting right down the middle. Commander Lev knit her brows.

    Kalian sat on a small wooden stool, keeping a good distance between himself and the fire. The Commander tilted her head, curls tumbling over her shoulders. "Why are you afraid of fire?" Kalian didn't answer. "Does it have to do with your back?"