The Rogue Prince: Prologue
It was dark that night. Thunder rolled across the land as the Goddess rained fire down upon the earth. The storms raged onward outside the castle but inside the strong walls, all was deathly silent.
Lord Larigh stood at the foot of the Queen’s bed, leaning nervously against the mattress. Lord Draven held Airis’ hand softly as she grew paler by the passing hour. Sir Brenlen paced the quiet chambers, frustrated by his inability to help.
At last, Eron appeared in the door. He silently made his way over to her bed. He was watched with frayed emotions as he checked Airis over.
“There’s nothing I can do.” Eron sighed bitterly.
“What do you mean nothing?” Draven hollered hysterically.
“The shock to her body was too extensive. She is going to die.” Eron made his way over to the twins as they slept away peacefully. The storm continued to rage on outside as Brenlen snagged Larigh and took him into the hall.
“It wasn’t supposed to be this way.” Brenlen hissed.
“Something isn’t right that’s for sure. The balance was upset by the death of Kael.” Larigh replied just as frustrated.
“It should have been obvious that the word of the ancients was broken when the girl was born. If we are to restore the balance, she has to go.”
“Harsh words Brenlen.” Larigh growled.
“Just might be harsh, but it’s the truth and you know it. Without Airis here to protect us, these children are in real danger.”
“I know.” Larigh sighed in defeat.
“I’ll take Aravis to King Mallec in Praeve and watch over her there. You take young master Keenai to Alazair with Lord Drake. No one here is to know, other than Lord-Regent Draven, where we have gone. We will keep in contact through him.”
“So it shall be done my friend, but do not think I approve one moment of this.”
“Consider it well-noted.” Brenlen replied as he made his way back into Airis’ chambers.
Larigh stood in silent reflection as the hours passed. Airis had not stirred once as the time passed. They all watched, helpless, as the once strong woman who had saved them all, faded away before their eyes.
As the first rays of sunlight filtered in from the balcony, Airis drew her final breath. With the passing of the storm she too faded away into the sun.
Larigh took Keenai away that evening. They headed quickly through the forest and into the mountain pass. Drake met them at the door with open arms for the child. Larigh turned to look back at the mountain one last time, as he offered up a silent prayer for the safety of the last of the Chaosti heirs.
Mallec stared absently across the room as Brenlen carried the child to him. It had been many seasons since the two of them had seen each other. Although Mallec had traces of grey in his hair now, he marveled that his old friend had not aged a day.
Brenlen wasted no time placing Aravis in Mallec’s arms. He looked at the child with a mixture of wonder and curiosity. Brenlen bowed slightly, and then began to explain.
“Airis is gone. She passed bringing Aravis and her brother, Keenai, into this world. In order to protect them, we felt it necessary to remove them. Will you raise her as your own?” Brenlen asked.
“I owe Airis my life and my Kingdom. I will raise Aravis. My life for hers, now and forever.” Mallec said as he shed a tear.
Satisfied with his reply, Brenlen took a deep breath and followed Mallec up the stairs. He said a silent prayer for the Chaosti heirs as Aravis was laid to sleep.
The uncertain future frayed the nerves of the long-term guardians of the Chaosti house. As the sun set on another day, Brenlen and Larigh settled into their positions, uneasily reassuring themselves that it would be alright some day.
