Elderflower, The Last Halfbreed

Chapter 28 Ivan

We traveled all day and all night. I could tell that Abraxas was growing tired but he never complained. The rain had drenched everything. The sky was still a hazy grey as we neared the mountain where Diathalon sat. I knew something was wrong. An itchy feeling began to course down my body.

We landed near the white walls. “Abraxas. Fly over the wall. There's plenty of room to land in the keep.”

“Very well.” Abraxas said. His wings strained as he flew himself up into the sky. I looked down in the city. It was quiet. No people ran through buildings. No laughter. Something was terribly wrong.

“Do you see it, Abraxas? The city, its quiet.”

“Yes. I sense a strange being in Diathalon. Not one I've seen in years. Ivan. Ivan, the king of the Sun Warriors.”

“The Sun Warriors?”

“Yes, Warriors of the Sun. Since childbirth, they were trained in the art of warfare and battle. Very hard to beat. Strong willed. Ivan is here.”

“Where are the people?”

“I'm guessing Ivan has helped desert the city. War is looming, Rose. Time will come. Ivan has realized that and has come.”

“I never sent word.”

“Jonathan, most likely.”

We landed by the keep and was instantly met with soldiers. Their faces were gruff looking, worn, tired. Suddenly their faces lit up. Happiness rolled through their faces. Instantly they kneeled and bowed their heads. Their right arm pressed against their chest. “Your majesty.” The murmured.

“Men, take me to Ivan. I know he's here. I wish to speak to him immediately.” I said. They nodded and one man took me to the throne room. No one sat in the throne. Jonathan stood next to it as a figure walked back and forth. His armor shone, gold. A golden helm glowed on his head in the shape of a wolf. Ivan.

I walked towards the throne. Jonathan looked up and smiled. Ivan turned around and immediately kneeled.

“No need, King Ivan. I've finally arrived. Tell me what's going on.” I was met with the gruff voice of Ivan.

“Yes. Our forces are soon arriving. 9,000 strong, my lady. We've been waiting for this day.”

“Saul?”

“Still no word on his position.”

“I'll help that out. He's in Alyania. Fighting the elves. I need at least 2,000 troops down there as soon as possible.”

“Rose. We can't. Before we get there it will be too late.”

“We can't give up hope. Not yet.”

“My lady, if I may interrupt.” Ivan said. “My men and I are ready at your command. We are the fastest group of men. Nothing can stop us. We are as fast as the Elves. Our horses are bred for far and fast travel.”

“Very well, King Ivan. It is settled. We are going to the elven city of Alyania. Get your men ready. We are heading out at sunset. Darkness is our best friend.” Ivan bowed and exited the keep. Jonathan stood angered.

“Rose, you've only just arrived! You can't leave again! Its hard running a city without their queen! You can't leave.” His hands reached up towards my shoulders. I gazed into his eyes. I knew his suffering was hard.

“My father's not dead.” Jonathan stopped.

“What? When? How?”

“Yesterday. He saved me. Tel is alive. He never died.”

“Rose. I'm happy for you. I'm glad he's alive. He will benefit your reign indefinitely. Arthur? Did he ever come back with you?”

“No. He betrayed us instead, leaking information to the enemy. All along he's been a spy. Then he fell in love with the enemy. He thought he stood a chance. Not anymore. I let him slip away from me.”

“Rose, it wasn't your fault. Don't blame yourself for that fact. He betrayed us by his own mind. You need to concentrate what is at hand. You look tired. Come and get some rest.”

“I can't. I have so much to do. How long until sunset?”

“Plenty of time to get some shut eye. Rose. You know you need it.”

“Of course.”