The Love of a Wielder (Book Two of The Wielders Trilogy)

Chapter Twenty-Nine

There were almost fifty soldiers assembled in neat rows in the drive when Alec went out with his father. Carstairs was at the front of the men. Alec tried not to look at him.

"Your commanding officer abducted the Princess and turned her over to the Trackers. He thought he was justified in his actions because Princess Maren is a Light Wielder."

Alec was slightly stunned to hear his father so casually out Maren, but he supposed at this point, it mattered very little. He did not think Colonel Flynn would keep the secret. He tried not to think about what might happen to her once they got her out of Kieran's hands.

"Captain Carstairs, do you agree with Colonel Flynn's actions?"

Alec had to look at Carstairs then. His face was steely, and Alec thought he knew what Carstairs would do.

"Yes, Your Grace," Carstairs said.

He glanced toward Alec, and Alec glared, disgusted and more heartbroken than he wanted to admit. He and Seb had cared about each other, but it didn't matter anymore. Anyone who would see Maren hang was dead to Alec. 

"Very well, Captain. Go and stand over there," his father said, gesturing to the other side of the drive.

Carstairs looked confused, but did it anyway.

"The rest of you, I am going to ask you a question and I expect your honesty. No one will be punished for their opinion, but I cannot have people I cannot trust with me. If you agree with Colonel Flynn, go and stand behind Carstairs," Alec's father ordered.

Alec tried not to hold his breath. He was worried none of them would stay. In the shuffle of men, he couldn't tell how many were staying behind, but a lot of them were going to stand with Carstairs.

Alec was shocked when the shuffle ended and fifteen men were still standing before them.

Alec's father approached the remaining men and gestured for them to break formation and come closer.

"I take it you lot, like me, are not bothered by the prospect of a Wielder Princess?" his father asked. He spoke more quietly than he had before, probably so the other men could not hear him well.

The men nodded.

"I would like to save the Princess, but I will not order you to come. If you come, I expect you to follow my every order and any orders from the Crown Prince. So, if anyone is not willing to volunteer for this mission or is not willing to swear to do whatever is necessary to save the princess, leave now," Alec's father said.

None of the men moved.

Alec's father nodded. "Thank you."

"Captain Carstairs, you and the men behind you are dismissed. Return to the fort. Now," his father ordered.

Carstairs looked like he wanted to protest, but did not. He looked at Alec, eyes pleading understanding, but Alec gave a slight shake of his head and continued to glare at the man who had been his friend, a lover, and very nearly something more. Alec would never forgive him.

After Carstairs shouted orders and the men went to some of the speeders, Alec's father turned to the men who stayed behind.

"Who's in charge amongst you?"

They all checked their insignia to see. They were mostly enlisted men, but there was one officer.

"I believe that's me, Your Grace. Lieutenant Jeffers."

"Congratulations, Lieutenant. I hereby grant you a field promotion to Captain," Alec's father said. "Organize everyone and figure out who we have and what equipment we need. I want to leave as soon as possible, but I need to send a telegram. Are any of you a communications specialist?"