Arcanae [Book 1]

Chpt. 19 // A Wish amidst Moonlight

The cold settled in my bones as I ventured through the isle's easternmost region. I had long departed from Undinae's grounds, leaving her alone and vulnerable to Theos' rebukes. I was certain he would put her in her place regarding her inability to forgive Adelaide.

Then again, perhaps my perspective was skewered well in favour of Adelaide.

Mayhaps, she had done vile deeds in the past - ones that had been obscured from my knowledge.

I'd make sure to inquire, lest there had been time.

But no, I ought to hurry.

The objective at hand was both as rigid as it were clear: inform Adelaide that her banishment was lifted - and quickly bid everyone goodbye.

The longer I dwelled on the idea, the more sentimental I became.

Cold tears caressed my skin as dark clouds loomed overhead.

A bolt of lightning came crashing down on the horizon. Thundering roars echoed through the night as I proceeded onward. Though a sense of peace had returned to the island overnight, I barely recognised the state of its inhabitants; fear had moulded into a thick, oppressive dread. 

A drop of water fell from the sky.

More followed suit, yet I cared little.

I continued my silent march, sulking whilst deep in contemplation. 

I was uncertain how to tell Petyr, his siblings, and my parents of my sudden departure.

However I would put it, the message would never yield acceptance. 

With a heavy heart, I strolled down the muddy roads up until I spotted Cruor Waycastle upon the rolling hills ahead. I squinted, inspecting the keep for any light source seeping through the cracks and windows.

There was none.

The entire keep appeared basked in nocturnal shadow. 

I approached the gatehouse; the premises appeared vacant and unguarded.

At least, until Olga—ridden with dark bags below his restless eyes—appeared on the other side of the gate. His perception of reality had dulled as he rubbed the sleep away, taking a moment to stare at me before a low, "'Tis no hour to visit your friend, my lady," greeted me.

I let out a small chuckle, "Believe me, I'd not be here had I been able to wait til daybreak."

Olga merely nodded before signing to Geralt to lift the gate. 

The cogs and gears let out an astonishing shriek as they yielded to their command.

The shrill, sharp noise lingered for a wee bit, then nestled itself within my head; my ears continued to buzz as I reached out in an attempt to ease the momentary discomfort. 

Between a muffled yawn, Olga mumbled, "The lady has company. They're downstairs."

"Thank you, Olga."

He broke a nod before motioning me over to the stairs ahead.

I prepared myself to break the news of both my departure and Adelaide's banishment being revoked. Scurrying up the steps, I approached the double entry doors and pushed them wide open. 

A comforting warmth engulfed me, cascading out from a candle-lit hallway.

The place appeared in disarray; ornaments had fallen from their allocated places, muddy prints ran across the carpets, and a few leather strapped saddlebags lay scattered near the cliff-side stairs.