Burned to Ashes

Chapter Twenty-Five

The ship swayed back and forth on the blue ocean, the salt filled winds dusting my face gently. For what would only take slightly more than an hour seemed to drag on forever; the anticipation of seeing my homeland brewing inside me. It is almost as if you can hear the ship breathing; the soft creak of wood or the quiet mumble. I can't remember the last time I was aboard a boat. A lifetime ago perhaps. But I have always been calmed by the sea. Finally, I feel Mayah's grasp around my throat loosening.

'The young Rolf leads us, navigating through the lapping waters. I asked Ansel how he knew Rolf, the luck of it all seeming more than coincidental. He told me that he and Rolf used to work for Taran as apprentices a long time ago, before Ansel's thief nature was born. The man hardly paid them enough to live by, forcing them to be beggars on the streets of Sorscha. But all of that ended when Ansel devised a plan to steal from Taran and split the profit with Rolf. He took the blame, losing the apprenticeship and fleeing back to Mayhaven; the city that raised him. He told me Rolf owed him a favor. The sailor smiled once we all boarded the boat. "I know who you all are." He had said. "No need to wear the cloaks." With a great amount of hesitation we removed our hoods. The boy tried his best to seem unfazed by being in the presence of three royals. "That's better." He smiled. "Now let's get you to Kelden. I have to say Ansel, I had always expected something of this sort from you." This had instilled a laugh out of the group, and soon after we were moving. I just hope Rolf knows the risk he is taking.

Desmond and Emery sit on the deck, the assassin picking at the old wood with a dagger. Emery looks to him fondly. The night they spent together at the inn consisted of far more than sleep. Somehow, it feels right to see them this way. Desmond is a cold, brooding man; hiding emotions behind intimidation. Emery is fiery, and always speaks her mind; no matter how inappropriate of a situation. They fit together well. Desmond turns, meeting her light brown eyes. She sighs, resting her golden head on his shoulder. He smiles to himself quietly.

I grin turning my attention away from them and to the prince. He leans over the deck; looking out sickly over the ocean. Gently, I approach him; remembering the events of this morning clearly. I suppress the blush that rises up my neck. "Xavier." I say his name, getting his attention. He merely offers me a look, pushing his blond curls out of his eyes; sighing deeply. "Are you alright?" His skin was pale.

"Just fine." He states as I stand next to him. "I've never been fond of boats is all."

I will him to meet my eyes. He doesn't. "Are you going to be sick?"

"I already was." Xavier wipes his nose, sniffling.

"Is there anything I can do?" My voice rings with concern. I bare the princes necklace at my throat, trying I decide why. He doesn't wish to speak with me. He can hardly look at me.

"No, Kalea." Finally he shifts his eyes. "I am fine." He moves as if to walk off, but I stop him abruptly.

"I'm sorry," I swallow deeply. "For what you saw this morning. I-it wasn't planned. I don't know why I did it."

Ice blue eyes greet me with anger. "It's really none of my business." He deflects me well. "You don't owe me an explanation." The prince walks off, his leather boots pattering on the dock. I stand alone, pondering for a moment before deciding to follow after him. I can feel Allisters eyes bore into my back.

I follow him below the deck, the air thick and musty. I can hear the harsh waves colliding with the side of the ship. The noise almost deafening. Dusted barrels stood in the dark corners. For a moment I think I see a shadow cowering, hidden behind the barrels. I squint my eyes convinced that my mind is playing tricks on me. Once we are alone Xavier turns on me accusingly. "Why did you follow me?"