The Rebelero Brothers' Curse

Nine

"Dale open up! I need you now!" There was a loud obnoxious banging at the front door.  I jolted out of my sleep and I was up within seconds, already dressing myself.

I looked down sadly at Dale, who was somehow still sleeping. His light hair was ruffled and covered his face a little, which gave him the appearance of a boy. He was on his stomach snoring softly with his muscular back exposed to me. His handsome face was relaxed for once.  I really did not want to see that peace leave him,  but he had to get up.

"Dale wake up. We have to go," I said as I gently placed my hand on his lower back. 

He stirred and opened his eyes with a smile for me. Coincidently the banging started right then again and his expression flattened as he sat up alert. He quickly stood and started pulling on his shirt. Normally I would not mind the heat of his skin or the sight of his naked body. I had never been tempted to give myself away to him. I would wait until I was ready and sure love was there. He understood. Dale wasn't a bad man and he really did love me. Not to mention he would do anything to protect me. A sad smile perched itself upon my lips as all of the night's events came rushing back to me.

I had left the meeting to beg Dale to accept this assignment. He was not so happy to see me after what happened at the tavern, but after much arguing, he agreed. Under one condition of course. He would only help if I turned away all feelings I had for Luke and if I denied his pursuits. My heart broke to say yes, but I had to. I actually cared for Luke which is exactly why I did it. If I had Dale on board it would be easier to protect him.

Dale was not so sure he should believe me, but I convinced him saying that I could deny the connection with Luke. We both knew that was nearly impossible but I did not lie to Dale. I could and would avoid our connection for as long as I could. I would keep my word and try.

I let Dale get dressed and went to answer the door. James was there anxiously waiting. He was surprised to see me, but immediately began speaking. 

"I'm glad to find you. It's about Lucian. Where is Dale?"

"I'm right here," he says joining me at the door. "What's wrong James?"

"I was alerted by our overseer that Lucian was out and about at this hour. He is no longer within the overseers' boundaries because he's disappeared down that path heading to the Liadka garden. "

"What? Oh no, this can't be good,"  I said with a bad feeling sitting heavily in stomach.  

"Wait, he goes there all the time.  What's the problem now? "

"The problem is that he is completely alone without anyone's watchful eye. He is nearing that age and crazy things are going to start happening. As his Guardian I have to make sure he is okay and as his warrior you are to leap into action when I say it's necessary. Do you understand that Dale?" I said a little more than harshly. The hurt look in his eyes made me feel bad, but now was no time for apologies. I pushed past James and began marching toward the garden.

"Obey Warriors. Let's go!" 

My voice came out ruder than I intended, but I had a really bad feeling. James and Dale were now behind me, and kept in step fairly well. Dale lived a street behind the markets so we reached the courtyard without delay.

I quickly spotted Alec. Our overseer shook his head and pointed in the direction of the garden. Luke was still back there. I walked faster with worry.

"When we see him, wait for my signal to apprehend any attackers or even approach Lucian. With any luck all we will have to do is-" I doubled over in pain. There was a burning sensation across my back and it felt like I had gotten the wind knocked out of me.