Shadow Blades (The Cimmerian Cycle #2)

Chapter 9

Chapter 9

It only took Cormac a few questions directed at civilians to discover where Kiayani and the Princess were. The thought of seeing Kiaynai made him nervous, self-consciously patting down his clothes.

He found his way onto one of the main roads leading to the light house and quickly spotted the royal assembly. The two girls were riding side saddle, flanked on all sides by Kiayani's companions and other palace guards. It would be difficult to get close to the Princess but he figured if he could slip past the guards just long enough to talk to Kiayani everything would be alright.

Cormac was able push through the crowds and run ahead to the light house. He stood there awkwardly while he waited, leaning against the base of the lighthouse. It was just outside of the city walls on top of the cliff which overhung both the river and the ocean. The building was as tall as the highest towers of the palace and was made of the same blue-coloured stone.

He tried to work out how he would address Kiayani and the Princess. Cormac took out the letter from his pocket and examined the seal just for something to do. Lord Hidefield's crest was an outline of the island with two blades crossed over the top. The wax was smooth and cool under his fingers.

In many ways he was happy to be going undercover within the palace. He would be fed, have a comfortable place to sleep and he would not have to risk trying to sneak into the palace. But it also made him feel more exposed. There would be no more hiding in the shadows or climbing up buildings. The comforts he would receive would hopefully make up for it. Cormac still doubted his success, and was shocked at his acceptance of death but he was still going to try. Some part of him was not ready to give in just yet.

Cormac was so absorbed in thought he did not see the group approach. The guards all ignored him to his relief, eyes on the princess. The girls gathered up their skirts in their hands and ascended up into the light house. Kiayani's companions stayed at the bottom, chatting in low voices. He slid the letter back into his pocket and approached the boys, stalling as Cormac tried to remember their names.

The only one that came to mind was Leo, the youngest of the lot. His blonde hair was spiked up like Cormac had seen it last time. He was talking to the oldest of the boys, Mik. Cormac approached the pair, crossing his fingers behind his back. He didn't want to think about what would happen to him if he was recognised.

Cormac raised a hand, waving to catch Leo's eye. Leo frowned briefly before relaxing.

"Hey, it's Cormac isn't it?" He said.

Cormac nodded, "Leo."

"It's been a long time since we last saw you," Mik said.

"Well you lot have been hollered up in the palace, it's not surprising," Cormac relaxed back into his friendly state. It wouldn't be easy, but he had to act the same as when he first met them. A personality was just as well remembered as a face.

"What brings you out this way?" Leo said. Mik and Leo ignored Cormac's comment about the palace.

The letter rustled in his trouser pocket, "I'm working for Lord Hidefield," he glanced towards the island, "and he would like to formally extend his welcome to Lady Kiayani and invites her to visit the Island of Tears." Cormac hoped as he spoke that Lord Hidefield would be happy to play host to guests.

His story was accepted by the two boys without any questions.

Leo turned to face the island, "Why the Island of Tears?"

"What do you mean?"

Leo cleared his throat and began again, "Why is it called the Island of Tears?"