A New Day's Hell (Patreon)

Where do I even begin? This has been the absolute worst day of my life. And trust me, I've had some terrible days. My name is Avelina Mercurius, most people call me Lina for short. I'm told Avelina is too cumbersome to say in casual conversation. I am or was, a mage of the Librarium. I held the prestigious rank of Vicar within the guild; one of only sixteen mages in all the lands to hold the rank. With only three ranks above me within the Librarium's hierarchy; it was a position of power and respect. I had dreamed of one day becoming an Olcadan's Prefect, like my sister, and being put in charge of one of the Librarium's colleges or ‘olcadans’. A dream that was thoroughly dashed about a week ago when I awoke to the sounds of some fool slamming their fist repeatedly against the door of my cottage. I was startled, no one had ever knocked at my cottage door before. Another mage would have used an echosphere or a will o’ wisp to contact me, especially at that early hour. Even a young mage would have sent a songbird or pyrefly. Hell, even those damn freelancing rune blades would have sent a crow. There could only be one explanation for a disturbance like that. It had to be someone not affiliated with the Librarium.

The knocking was a sure sign that my day would begin with a visit from someone distinctly mundane. The awoken have more flare and subtilty in their actions. Mundane tend to be brutish and direct. If that had been the least of her shortcomings, I may not have been so short with the woman. However, upon opening my door and taking in the full absurdity of her, I thought immediately that I would hate the lioness. She was a tall buxom thing, with curly brown hair, amber eyes, and perfect white teeth. Her nose was wide and thin, and her muzzle short and cute. With her long eyelashes and powdered makeup, coloring her fur immaculately in order to accentuate her high cheekbones and wide lovely eyes; I could tell right away that this lioness was utterly concerned with her appearance. She was certainly 'high-born', perhaps even of noble blood. I'm not the biggest fan of the aristocracy, so I hid none of my displeasure as I opened the door and greeted her 'warmly'.

'What hell does this new day bring me?' I groaned. I meant it to sound biting and unwelcoming, but I could not keep myself from yawning as I did so. I must have looked cute in a way because her face brightened when she saw me. She bent over and cooed as she looked down at me. An expression I am not unfamiliar with. Someone of my slight build and small stature is often mistaken for a child. I am sure you understand how someone of my standing would be less than thrilled by such a thing.

I would like to say that I am not normally quite so hostile in the mornings, but that would be a lie. I am usually quite disagreeable no matter the circumstances. As a rule, I just don’t like many people. It’s only because they are painfully annoying and have a tendency to insult my sensibilities and waste my time. The latter being the more grievous offense. I was in a particularly foul mood that morning, though. I had spent quite a great deal of time the night before in meetings with the other mages about the ongoing ‘House War’ up the road in Draedus. Some fool nobles got it in their head to fight over this and that and it was getting particularly nasty. The Librarium had not gotten involved in any way up to that point, but the rumors of houses using powerful magical artifacts had everyone in an uproar. As always, my sister knew more about the situation than she cared to share. Her people kept a closer watch on our neighbors. We argued till the twilight hours over whether or not send someone to get the full scope of the crisis. After a grueling debate, sense finally won over madness and we decided to send someone. With that settled, I was ready to return home and sleep in... or so I thought. Obviously, this lioness had other plans.

With a placating smile and a tone that I insulted my maturity, the lioness cooed;

'Hello little girl, is your mommy home?' I almost choked on the indignity. Scowling, I tried again.

'I am Lina Mercurius, what the hell do you want?' this time I was heard clearly. The lady was taken aback, of course, surprised by my language and my statement. She was visibly at a loss for what to say, then settled on;

'But you're just a child,'. I felt the heat bubble up inside of me as my fur began to bristle and my tail twitched. This wasn't a new misconception, but it was one I've been tired of for many years. With a lot of effort, I calmly corrected her.

'I am not a child, I'm just short. Now, what is it you want?' The lioness looked unconvinced but continued. Reaching into her satchel she pulled out a scroll with what looked to be the King's seal on it. It was a raven, in a circle with four runes around them. I did not recognize the glyphs. As I took it, I realized it was not the seal of the great 'Raven King', for it did not have the crown's heraldry. Instead, it seemed to have a phrase written in the ancient tongue around the edge. It read; 'devo preter ?iuj mezuron', which roughly means; 'Duty beyond all measure.'

'What is this?' I asked. The lioness smiled again, a big toothy grin.

'I am Martia Berlioz, an emissary of the 'Order of the Raven Knights'. I have been tasked to deliver your official 'Letter of Commission', congratulations and welcome to the order.'

I am not often at a loss for words, but I was then. Was she serious? I did not tender a letter of application to her order and was certain a mistake had been made. I placed my hand on the seal, it was infused with mana. It was certainly official. It crumbled away when I pressed against it with my own quintessence and I unrolled it. Like magic, the blank parchment began to ignite with a soft, curious light, as words appeared. I read them quickly, searching for signs of error, but could find nothing. It was what she said it was. An official 'Letter of Commission,' It was signed by the order's Primus, some fellow by the name of Adolyn Valenrow. A name I would become increasingly more familiar with as the day went on. Accompanying Valenrow's name and seal was the royal seal of the Prince of Lioncourt, Vandell De Lioncourt and...

'Bitch!' I said aloud. The last name and seals on the document were my sister's, Prefect Luna Marie Mercurius. This was her handiwork. 'How dare she?', I thought. The goddamn arrogance of that woman. The hubris! She and my mother had been trying to make life decisions for me since I was young and now she was at it again. I was not going to stand for such an indignity and I meant to tell her so.

Furious, I threw the scroll back to pretty Ms. Emissary and said,

'Thank you but no, now go away.' I did not wait for her reply, I slammed the door and retreated into my house. Stomping off into my bedroom, I grumbled and cursed the whole time I made ready for my shower. Even the relaxing massage of the hot water trickling down over my hair and back did not calm me. Usually, it did. A shower was not something the common kinling ever had a chance to experience. My own shower was a marvelous construct that used mana stones infused with both fire and ice spells to regulate temperature. I hear those of wealth and means can afford showers that only require boiled water and tubes. I hear that it's quite a simple process if one has the materials and the know how to construct them, but like many luxuries, those secrets are kept tightly, so that the aristocracy can have something else to lord over the rest of us.

It's one of the reasons I find nobles distasteful, and why I had always wanted to be a Prefect. It had always been my dream to follow in my father's footsteps and expand the usage and understanding of magic and the flow of mana. To influence the way the arcane arts are viewed and understood by the layman. A commission to the 'Raven Knights' was a spit in the face of that ambition. Every mage knows of the 'Order'. Sure, there are many different, 'Orders' in the land. Groups of people both clandestine and official. But when a mage says the 'Order', we are referring to the Raven Knights, and hardly ever with any kindness. The order's 'duty beyond all measure' is a blanket order to defend the realm from the extraordinary and mystical. Things that simple minds and frightened hearts label as dangerous magic. The problem is that the Raven Knights consider most magic that isn't readily understandable to be dangerous. They have no interest in education or study. They don't wish to learn from magical artifacts, talismans or tomes. No, they only want to lock away what they do not understand and they are incredibly stubborn about it. The Librarium, an institution of education and study is naturally often at odds with their short-sighted practices. Often times they chastise and harass mages and rune blades out on a quest, bullying them out of their magical finds. To be forced to join that group of jackasses was an insult I was not going to take lying down.

Feeling no better after my shower, I quickly dried my hair with a concentrated wind spell and then compelled the tiny vale-apple tree to give me its fruit. It only takes a little bit of mana to jumpstart its growth process, causing large, luscious, pink fruit to form. I snatched one in hand and took a mighty bite as I searched for my clothes. I would take my coffee with cream and sugar when I got to the main campus. At that time, I was just concerned with not looking disheveled when I stormed into Luna's office. I finished my fruit and got dressed in record time and was out the door the second I fit my magus arcanum into it's satchel.

As I left I encountered the second surprise of my morning, as I slammed head first into Ms. Emissary, who was still standing in front of my door.

'What the hell!' I shouted at her, unable to think of anything better through an unpleasant throbbing in my head. She smiled apologetically and helped me up. I felt like some kind of elderian beast had grabbed me, as she lifted me clean into the air with one large paw. I tried not to yelp as she set me down and dusted me off, apologizing the whole time. I was not in the mood.

'Yes, yes. Sorry, sorry.' I chided dismissing her with the shake of my hand.

'Why are you still here?' I asked angrily, not bothering to turn and acknowledge her more respectfully. I didn't have time to deal with her at that moment. I had a message of my own to deliver and it was my fondest hope that my sister would find it as unpleasant as I found mine. I didn't have to look behind me to realize she was following. Her huge boots clopped on the pebbled path as she followed closely.

'I am to escort you back to the 'Raven's Nest' when your affairs are in order here.' she answered simply. I did not pause, only groaned.

'The 'Raven's Nest'?' I asked incredulously. I'm was sure she was the kind of person to nod at the back of someone's head, so I did not wait to hear her reply. I simply asked;

'And what and where is this 'Raven's Nest'?' She walked up beside me. Easy enough to do with that long stride of hers. She had to be at least six feet-four inches tall. A monster of a woman. I didn't bother to look up at her, I knew I'd get another oblivious, toothy, grin.

'In the capital, Bast. The nest is a fortress tower where the order resides.' I stopped then, turning to her and looking her in the eyes. I wanted her to know I was serious when I said;

'Well, that shit isn't going to happen.' She was surprised again. Her pretty little face unable to comprehend my refusal. Before she could ask me to clarify, I continued walking. I wasn't about to get sidetracked explaining myself to that fool. More than I had earlier, I was now determined to confront my sister. She was going to get an earful from me.

My giant, brunette, shadow followed me through the campus on up to the mages tower. I'd say she didn't say anything, but if she had, I wouldn't know. I wasn't listening. I was going over just what I was going to say to my sister when I saw her. I stormed into the tower's main entrance with anger in my eyes. The other mages stood clear but did not look surprised. They had been expecting me. Clever bitch knew I was coming. It didn't matter to me. If she knew I was coming, she was probably prepared for the worst. I hate to disappoint, so I made my way without acknowledging anyone. My angry march went unobstructed until I reached the stairs. Standing at the bottom with her pretty face, pink hair and those blue eyes, was another mage I knew well. A lioness named Soria Etoh. You'd say she was attractive in an obvious way. She's a few inches or so taller than me and a damn great deal more blessed as far as a figure. She's pretty, popular and possessed of a deep mana pool. The kind of perfect little thing I'd envy greatly if she wasn't so criminally stupid. Well, that's not fair. Soria isn't stupid, she's just not too bright. If she wasn't so innocent and sweet, I'd worry about what all that power could do in the hands of such a dimwit. She stood in my way with the only thing that would make me stop in hand, coffee.

'Hello Ms. Lina,' she greeted, smiling brightly. She's like a big kid, that girl. It's hard to stay angry in her presence, but I did my best. Soria is my sister's apprentice and assistant. It was decided that a close eye needed to be kept on the girl before she became a full mage. She is powerful but has trouble remembering her incantations and spells. She was horrible at her job because of this, but Luna didn't seem to mind. She made great coffee, though, so there was that. I took my coffee in one big gulp, ignoring the heat and discomfort. I was used to it being hot, so it wasn't a real issue. I just needed a cup to keep my mouth shut while I thought of what I wanted to say to the girl. I'm not the kind of woman to sugar coat anything for anyone, but Soria's like a big kid. Harsh words and angry tones make her cry. I wasn't about to deal with that right now. Controlling my tone I asked,

'My sister asked you to delay me?' Soria gave me that confused look and shook her head.

'No, I umm... wasn't expecting you.' she replied looking sheepishly at the cup in my hand. Soria wasn't a very good liar and didn't seem to be lying then, but I knew my sister didn't take her coffee that way. She drank it black with two sugars. This had a generous helping of cream, the way I like it.

'But the coffee?' I asked. Her eyes looked away, blushing and embarrassed.

'Umm... that coffee was for the Prefect's guest.' she replied. I was surprised then, my sister never saw anyone this early and I told Soria so. But she shook her head and insisted.

'A gentleman is up in the office with her. A handsome older man with ebony hair and blood red eyes. I think he's some kind of high wizard.' My eyes bulged then. The description catching me off guard. I could only think to myself,

'It couldn't be.' but wasn't so sure. I rushed up the stairs leaving Soria yelling after me. Thankfully, my buxom shadow did not follow.

As I reached my sister's office, I did not bother to knock. I entered the room in a huff and looked around frantically. My sister sat at her desk, looking so damn perfect and prestigious as always. However, across from her in one the large, lush, seats adjacent to her desk sat a tall, handsome, lion whom I knew very well. I am ashamed to admit that I nearly bounded across the room as I jumped into his lap. I tell you, I am no child. But I will always be my daddy's little girl. I wrapped my arms around him tightly and squealed with joy. My anger had been completely forgotten.

'Daddy!' I cried, unashamed of the word. My father held me in his arms, hugging his face to mine, the thickness of his beard scratching me.

'My little spitfire, how have you been.' He asked. I could only reply that I was fine. The next thirty minutes were lost in a sea of questions and answers. The typical conversations you expect from a father to his daughter after a long time apart. He asked if I was eating well and if I had been keeping up with my studies. If I had met a boy or made any new friends. I had met a boy and he did count as a friend. But I didn’t feel it necessary to tell him that.

I was so happy to see him I almost forgot that Luna was even there. When she coughed to get our attention, I was temporarily embarrassed that I had monopolized all dad's time. Then I remembered I was supposed to be angry with her.

'I've got a bone to pick with you!' I said, anger tempered in the presence of our father. Luna smiled, placing her hands up against her chin in that way of hers. She always looked so damn calm and in control. I envy her that. Hell, I envy a lot of things about my sister. She's smart, beautiful, talented and powerful. She is very, very powerful. Though our spirit wells are similar, and I'm told mine is a bit deeper; Luna's draw capacity is far higher than mine. So is her source retention. For the mundane, that means her bucket is bigger than mine.

I see you are confused. I don't blame you. The mundane often are. I'll try to explain as simply as I can. It's basic arcane theory you can find in any library across Theria. It's known that a living being is born of mana and that a person's individual essence or unique existence alters that mana within them. Many folks call that energy many things. Mages call it quintessence. Deft hand practitioners and monks call it 'Chi'. The wizards of old called it spirit energy or life force energy, though the former is hilariously inaccurate. It has nothing to do with the idea of someone's spirit. Though that is where we get the term spirit well. Either way, you have within you this energy that was born of mana and sustains your life. People like me and my sister have a very deep spirit well or mana pools. Think of like an actually well, you know, with water. But not quite full of water. The water represents our quintessence. Now the well isn't full, our wells are not built to be filled to the brim with water all the time; to continue the analogy. We can, however, increase the amount of energy in our well by drawing in mana from around us to strengthen our energy. The size of your well is more or less set at birth. That is why some people are naturally more powerful than others. However, the size of your well isn't the biggest determining factor on whose magic will be more powerful. That is decided by a person's draw capacity. Like the well in the example, if you want to use the water, you have to draw it out somehow. The simple slang we use for that is our bucket or mana bucket. Just like a well, you dip your bucket in to draw out an amount of water. The bigger your bucket, the more water you can get. You can have a shallow well and an enormous bucket. Though another mage may have more reserves of energy, you can have more energy to bring to bear on an opponent at one time. So as a matter of comparison, Luna and I may both have deep wells, but her bucket is a ten gallon, while mine is about six.

I guess I've always been jealous of Luna for that if I'm being honest. It isn't that she's been a bad sister or has lorded her advantages both magical and physical over me, it's just... you get tired of coming up short compared to someone so perfect. Luna is calm and I have a temper. She is well liked and I am not. Luna has the respect of her peers and most think I'm only here because of my name. The men all love her, she's got so many suitors you couldn't count them all with an abacus. There's a quiet dignity to her that I just don't have. Something of our father in her, more than the fact that she strongly favors him with her raven hair and red eyes. I just get tired of not measuring up. Constantly reminded that I'm not the best of the Mercurius sisters.

When Luna spoke, it was in that calm relaxing voice that she and my father had. She said;

'I know you must be upset, but it wasn't my call. The 'Circle' wanted this and I had to oblige.' When she said it, she shot my father a dirty look. He did not show offense, he just sighed.

'Daddy?' I asked not understanding her meaning. I knew of course that she was referring to the Circle of Twelve, the ruling council of the Librarium. Wizards, clerics, and sorcerers of immense power and prestige. They governed all the affairs of the Librarium. We are all subject to their whims, to a point. This kind of appointment and control was beyond their reach. To tell a mage what to do with the rest of their life. What oaths to take, what causes to champion. It's not their place or their way.

'The circle wants me to join the Raven Knights?' I asked my father. He nodded. I didn't have to look far to get answers on the circle’s thinking and intentions, one of the twelve sat just beneath my butt. I looked at my dad more closely. Noticing for the first time that he was uncomfortable and distracted. He was hiding something from me.

'What is this about, father?' I asked, realizing that my sisters look meant that she did not approve. She had gone along with this at his request.

My father ran his hand through my hair and pulled me close, kissing my forehead.

'We've wanted a mage sympathetic to the Librarium's goals within the ranks of the Raven Knights for some time. It has happened before, but never like this. Enchantress Alita Gorn has retired suddenly, called back to her families keep in Sauria. They are without a Prelate. Their young Primus reached out to the Librarium to request your sister replace Alita.' he said softly. I looked at my sister who was looking away now. Her face betraying her discontent and guilt.

'And why isn't she going?' I growled in question. My anger was building up from before. My father smiled disarmingly.

'Because the circle would not allow it. They have plans for your sister that are beyond my personal wishes. They mean for her to one day join the circle as a member of the twelve. They do not wish to lose her to the 'Order'.' He answered. I was hurt then, I could hardly hide my displeasure.

'But they can lose me, I'm not as important!' I huffed. My father held me close to him and whispered.

'No... the council chose Marillia, it was I that put forth your name and fought to have you sent instead.' I pushed away from my father then, standing up and balling my fist. I was angry now, proper angry.

'You! Why!' I screamed. Before he could reply, I started in on him.

'What, Luna's so precious that you couldn't bear to send her away, but I'm expendable. What I want, my dreams don't matter, cause I'm not your favorite!' I could hardly keep myself from crying as shouted at him.

'Avelina!' Luna reprimanded from behind. But I wasn't having it.

'Fuck you, Luna. I'm tired of being treated like a cast off because everyone thinks you're so fucking great!' I shouted. Luna was nettled but tried to keep that composure of hers.

'It's not like that, listen...' she started to speak but I drowned her out.

'No you listen. All our lives you've been there, like a giant weight hanging over my head. Everything I want, everything I work so hard for, they just give to you. Everyone thinks you so damn perfect and special. You just sit there lording it over everyone else, with everyone treating you like some damn magical, pixie, princess... I hate you!' I said the words before I could think better of it. I could hear my father shout my name in disapproval behind me, but the damage had been done.

I was in a haze of rage, but not so upset that I couldn't see the force of the blow I had landed on my sister. It was like someone punched her, she was certainly not calm anymore. Those three little words hurt her so deeply, I could see it on her face. She was at a loss for words and for a moment she just stood there, mouthing incoherently. It took her almost a minute to regain her composure and when she did, it wasn't that well. She sat down and folded her hands on her desk, fidgeting about with her thumbs. After a moment, she whispered;

'I see... I'm sorry. I never knew you felt that way.' I've never seen my sister cry, or be that shaken. I felt bad. I wanted to take it back, to tell her I didn't really mean it. I was just frustrated and I say stupid things when I'm like that. My father was quicker than I with the words, he walked past me, rubbing my shoulder as he did and then approached Luna.

'Your sister doesn't hate you, Luna. I've seen you girls grow up together. I know you love each other and I know how much you care about Lina. You practically raised her with how often your mom and I were off on assignment.' He started. Looking back at me he smiled softly.

'You know how it feels to be constantly compared to someone. I know how hard it was for you to the daughter of the 'High Wizard Corwin'. Lina's shadow just so happened to be a lot closer. Everyone compares the two of you and it's not always favorable to Lina. It's not fair, but it's the way people are. But you can't let other people drive a wedge between you two. We're a family of adepts, we've got enough people against us without being against ourselves.' He insisted. I agreed with him and so did my sister. We nodded but didn't look at one another.

The silence was uncomfortable. I didn't want to say anything. I feared I would make things worse. As always it was my sister who managed to gain her composure first. She took a deep breath and looked at me.

'I'm sorry Lina, I know what you go through. I try my best to keep from making you feel inadequate. I guess I've not been very good at it'. she muttered. I tried to hold back my tears. I knew that. Luna was always looking out for me. She was a great big sister. I just... I'm just so tired of not measuring up to her. Even then, after all the nasty things I'd thought and said to her. She was worried about me. She is a better person than me. A better sister, a better daughter, and a better mage. I thought, 'No wonder the circle wants her instead of me.' It was a bitter pill to swallow. I had almost lost it, ready to fall into tears of self-pity, but then my father spoke.

'It's important that one of you become the next prelate for the order.' He said softly. I looked at him and shook my head. I knew what he wanted, at least I thought I did.

'Raven Knight's swear oaths in the ancient tongue and are bound to them by magic. I cannot undermine or influence the order for the benefit of the Librarium, nor would I want to. If I take the 'Raven's Oath', I'm going to take it seriously. How does that help the circle?' I asked. My father shook his head.

'I do not expect anything less from my daughters. The circle does not expect an agent within the order, just someone sympathetic. We understand the necessity for what the Raven Knights do, but we believe that someone with your background would soften their heavy-handed approach, while still serving with distinction. You can represent our ideals without conflicting with your oaths.' he assured. I was unconvinced. Placing my hands on my hips I turned fully to him.

'Marillia or even that simpleton Soria could handle that. Why me?' I asked calmly. I must have asked the right question because he and my sister shared a look that was both guilty and conspiratorial. He then said, sheepishly;

'That's not the only reason I've pushed for the council to send you. When I requested Luna be chosen, I did so because of her familiarity with the Primus. When I was rebuffed, I requested you. I did not tell the circle why I wanted it to be one of my daughters.' As he spoke, that look that Luna had given him before resurfaced. It was a look of incredulity and disapproval. She knew something of his thinking and was not happy about it. She caught me staring and looked me in my eyes, her expression not changing.

'This isn't about the circle's wants or the future of magic in the world.' she groaned distastefully. Looking at dad she tattled;

'Dad's got a personal investment in this.' I looked to my father, but he simply looked away, embarrassed. My sister's groans became a low, guttural, growl as she stared daggers at him.

'If you won't tell her I will!' she warned. My father shrugged, signaling her to continue. She huffed in exasperation and stood from her chair.

'Our father wishes us to whore ourselves off to be some nobleman's wife!' snarled Luna, slamming her fists into her desk. She expended mana then, like a deft hand. No magic, no incantation, just the world around us reacting to her mood and energy. I felt the ripples of power as it pulsed through the room. I was shocked. It couldn't be. I looked at her and then to my father. He looked defiant as he stared back at her accusing eyes. I could only blurt out;

'What is she talking about?' My father folded his arms and nodded toward Luna.

'Your sister is exaggerating, but she's not entirely off base.' he said locking eyes with her. The two stared for a moment, then Luna looked away. Father's gaze was withering. She apologized for her outburst and sat down, still looking perturbed. For a moment, he stared at her. Obviously upset with her accusation. After a while, he relented, turning away and softening his expression.

'The Primus Corvinus, Adolyn Valenrow, is not only the leader of the order but also the eldest son of Duke Palence Valenrow of Evandale.' Father started. I was curious but did not question. I just waited for my father to continue. He did with a sigh, trying not to seem too authoritative as he spoke. I got the feeling that he was trying desperately not to sell me on his way of thinking, just let me know what it was.

'The young count is the most prized bachelor in the Kingdom of Lioncourt. He's got titles to spare. His family is well respected and renowned and for good reason. He himself is a true to life champion of the realm. He's the kind of man that I would want for one of my daughters. The kind of family that could open doors for ours.' he said trailing off. My look of disbelief must have stolen away his words. Because the confidence drained from his face as my breathing increased.

I had heard of Adolyn Valenrow, the so-called 'Crimson Raven'. Who hadn't? His order was a right pain in the ass for the entire Librarium. Sure I had heard that he was gallant and brave, a dashing knight like all the storybooks talk about. I had also heard that he was a shameless womanizer and flirt. The guy had more lovers than he had tall tales about him and I had heard dozens. Putting aside the idea that my father seemed to think I would seduce and marry a man just because he asked me to, I pointed out the obvious.

'You know the crimson raven doesn't marry right? I've heard he has literally hundreds of proposal requests from noblewomen and even royalty. Hell, even Princess Megan is on that list and he turned her down. What makes you think I'd be anything but another notch in the guy's belt.' I expected my father to give me some half-assed explanation of the nature of men, but it was my sister who spoke up.

'He's not really like that,' she blurted. Her response was unexpected and rather rushed. She knew something more of him I knew. They had met before on an adventure. He'd saved her and her rune blade, Kimber. She hadn't talked much about the incident with me or anyone else. But I imagine she had insight into the man that I didn't.

'Oh, you're saying the rumors are false?' I questioned. She looked away, obviously a little flustered.

'No, not false, just misrepresentative of the man. I've met him, he's not chomping at the bit to sleep with every girl he can or even every girl who throws themselves at him. He has been on campus a time or two and trust me, not many of the mages here hold his position in the order against him. Soria is head over heels for the guy. Even Kimber and Marillia are soft on him. But he's not the kind of man who enjoys sleeping around with random women. I know for a fact that he does want to marry, but for one reason or another he hasn't had anyone ‘he's’ actually proposed to accept it.' she said. She knew more than she was saying. It was obvious. My father looked at her suspiciously too. He apparently wasn't aware that my sister had had strong opinions of the man's character. Seeing the look on our face she added;

'We spent some time together, surviving the Meandering Woods. He was a perfect gentleman to Kimber and me, even after Kimber drunkenly tried to 'reward' him for his help. I think she's still sour that he turned her down.'

I looked to my father for his impression and he seemed satisfied. I, however, was not. Underneath her calm explanation was a kind of wistful tone. She thought very highly of the man. That was surprising given how critical she was of the order. Still, even if he wasn't just some horny noble, I didn't like the idea.

'And you think I should just go throw myself at this guy?' I questioned. My sister shook her head, smiling girlishly as she did. I hadn't seen her smile like that in a while. Maybe nothing happened between the two of them, but it seems like Kimber wasn't the only one who wanted something to.

'No, I'm just saying he's not a bad guy. I still don't think dad should be deciding who we marry, or rather what relationships we pursue.' she answered, again shooting father a dirty look. This look wasn't as biting as the ones before. The thought of the primus had obviously softened her mood. My dad didn't notice, but I did. Perhaps she had been the one to drunkenly try to thank the count. Maybe she was into the guy and wasn't happy that I would be asked to pursue him. I'd be lying if I said the idea that I would accomplish something my sister had failed wasn't an appealing one, but it was a moot point, I had already taken a lover. I wasn't about to have family dictate my love life.

'Anyone care that I already have a lover?' I pondered. My father and sister both turned to look at me. The shock on their faces was kind of insulting. My sister's face was of both excitement and disbelief. My father, just surprise.

'You've got a boyfriend?' my sister asked.

'Yes,' I replied. My dad walked closer and looked down at me with barely contained fatherly concern in his eyes.

'And you did not tell anyone of this?' he asked. I folded my arms and cocked my head to the side.

'I wasn't aware my love life was something I had to get your approval on.' I challenged. My father waved his hands in placation.

'No, it's just...' My sister cut in voicing the sentiment that my father couldn't place into words.

'I've just never thought it would happen. You haven't exactly been popular with the boys.' she stated. At first, I was annoyed, but I calmed. I knew what she meant and it had nothing to do with my looks or my figure.

'Yeah, I mean... remember Cadril?' he asked my sister. She nodded.

'He tried to kiss her and she compelled insects to fly in his nose and sting him.' she replied. I looked away. I remember poor Cadril, none of the boys would go near me for a year after that. I was only fourteen.

'What about that rune blade, Hester?' my sister asked. My dad pounded his hand in his fist in a sign of remembrance.

'Of course. She conjured a wraith to chase him around campus. His parents said he still won't go out alone in the dark.' He laughed. I didn't find it funny. Hester had tried to grope me, what little breast I had at seventeen. I thought it the appropriate response at the time, but no one else did. I didn't have very many boys ask after me after that. There were more things that had happened, it was the goddess' blessing that my father and sister didn't know about them.

'Who is this man, do I know him?' my father asked, his curiosity peaked. I looked to my sister and then away. I would have to come clean about my relationship and I hadn't been ready.

'Yes, he is the arcanist, Laurence McCants.' I answered. My sister and father looked at each other again. My father stifled a laugh, my sister looked like someone shoved a stick up her ass.

'What!?' I asked angrily. A little defensive about her response. She quickly tried to fix her face, but still looked a little more startled than she should be. Something there I couldn’t place at the time.

'Well, I had thought dad's request of you would be shot down outright because of your distaste for noblemen, but to hear you’re now dating one... that’s a shock.' she giggled. I scowled at her, but with no real malice.

'He's not like other nobles, it's why I like him.' I cried, obviously flushed. My father and sister laughed at me, their mirth genuine. My reaction was typical of a maiden who was taken with some young lad. But it was true, Laurence was different.

Laurence McCants is a civet, a handsome one. Though he's average height for his breed, about five-eight, he's also average build for his breed; which is very thin. Still, he has a lithe sort of strength to him and I love that cute face of his. With very little magical talent, he's not ever going to be a full mage. But his ability to divine the nature of arcane artifacts and create things like spell runes and talismans is first-rate. He is a talented and respected arcanist and I was growing to love him. We had met only a few months ago when it was my turn to assist the arcanists in their infusions. I helped him to enchant a few runes of elemental magic and a blade of incredible artistry. At first, I treated him like every other noble. I was really not too keen on the idea of spending so much time with him. But after a while, he showed his patience with me and kept trying to be my friend. I'll admit after a point I was just being snarky to him for the sake of appearances, but he persisted. He eventually asked me to join him for the festival of lights, an invitation that was common when a man intended to court a lady. I accepted, flattered that he would even bother. The night was magical and perfect. We made love on the empty promenade of the observation tower. It wasn't my first time... but it was the first time I felt truly alive while doing it. After that, we had become a couple. Not many people knew because I wasn't in the business of advertising my love life. I wasn't hiding either, it’s just not anyone’s damn business.

My father took a moment to process what I had said and then clapped.

'Well then, I guess I will inform the circle that Marillia will be going to Bast after all.' His smile was again warm and encouraging. He took me into his arms and lifted me up. I giggled like a child as he held me.

'Daddy, please.' I giggled. Those whiskers of his were really scratching my cheek.

'I would like to meet this fellow.' He proclaimed. My sister too wanted to have a talk with Laurence, but she didn’t seem too happy about it. There was something there in her eyes, reservations maybe? Oh well, I was happy to let them. I was sure they would like him as much as I did.

When we left the office, the other mages were busy about their daily tasks. Since the Prefect's office is warded against eavesdropping with a spell that disrupts the vibrations in the air, canceling out sounds, no one had heard our argument. Everyone seemed too busy to care anyway. It was like a fire had been lit under their asses. From what I could gather, the scout we’d sent to Draedus just hours before dawn had reported in via echosphere. His report was apparently worse than expected. Knowing Luna, I thought she’d want to address it right away, but she dismissed the report. Luna left instructions with Soria on what she wanted to be done about the matter and informed her that she would be out office for some time. Likewise, my father instructed his guards, a mage, and rune blade that he'd be out as well and he would not need their services. The rune blade, a younger jaguar of about twenty-four, did not seem to happy about this, but did not argue. My father inspired that kind of loyalty in people, especially women. My mother kept a watchful I over him. She was a jealous woman and my father was incredibly popular with the ladies. The jaguar wasn’t the first young female to crush on my father and she wouldn’t be the last. Sad for her my father had eyes only for my mother. She had him wrapped around her little finger and he was completely devoted to her. Sometimes to his own detriment. I still felt strongly that my mother had a hand in this business, though no one had mentioned her. My dad would not have, he was always protecting her. I hope to have someone care for me that much some day.

As I observed father, I was unaware of Luna as she came up at my side. She informed me that father and she had some business to attend before they could join me. I was certain it had to be catching Marillia before she began her teachings. The woman could be fickle about not interrupting her classes. For a moment, Luna tried to tell me something. Her eyes concerned and her words soft. She started and stopped a few times before giving up. Smiling, she just hugged me and said that they'd meet me at the arcanery in an hour. She looked almost sad when my father told me that he was excited to meet Laurence. Was she not? I was. I was incredibly excited for my father to meet Laurence, but, I was even more excited to inform the buxom lioness that she could take a hike. My shadow, however, did not leave me.

Despite informing her that I would not be the one accompanying her to Bast, she insisted on following me. Since neither my father nor sister had any power over the Raven Knight, I just had to deal with her quiet company. She most likely had been a bodyguard to someone in her time, because she walked in that same way seasoned bodyguards did. Close, but not intrusive. Sort of just a part of the scenery. Since I was going to get to see Laurence earlier than I had thought, I didn't mind her presence. I was too excited.

We walked the campus for a while until we reached the arcanery building. It always smells of sulfur and stone, and something else I can't identify. I entered the arcanery as I had my sister's office, without knocking. The arcanists hadn't really set up for the day, so I doubt anyone would mind. When I entered, there he was, standing at a nearby table with a large leather bag of trinkets, speaking to a well-dressed cheetah. The cheetah had long blond hair and wore rings and jewelry that obviously signified his status as a highborn noble. He was immediately put off by my presence. He reached into his satchel to grab something, but Laurence stopped him. I could not tell what he said to the cheetah, but the noble nodded his agreement, saying;

‘Later then,’. He looked at the bag of trinkets, which I could now tell were talismans and rune stones and sighed. He seemed to lament leaving without them. Without a word he turned and began to exit the building. He turned his nose up at me as he passed.

'My lady,' he said politely, but with a bit of condescension in his voice. I did not curtsy as he expected, or bow my head in respect. Instead, I showed him the door and smiled as he opened it. He had time to give me a sneer before he walked out. Like I had earlier, he ran into the Raven Knight, whose name I hadn't bothered to learn at that point. I didn't care, I closed the door behind him and locked it. I didn't want to be disturbed by either of those two.

I wasted no time running over to my lovely civet. I embraced him with a hug and a kiss, wrapping my arms tightly around him.

'You smell like sulfur,' I teased. He laughed as he always did.

'You smell very nice, my Vicar.' he replied, invoking my rank. I had told him many times that he didn’t have to address me so formally, but he always did so just to annoy. When we first met, I wouldn't tell him my name and forced him to address me by my title. He had never let me live it down. I kissed him again this time more passionately, into the kiss I asked.

'Are your fellows here? Do we have time?' He grinned, taking two handfuls of my ass. It wasn't a big handful, not much there to grab. But it always got my gears going. He kissed me deeply, his tongue gyrating around my own. I was breathless as we kissed, enjoying the moment. He replied in the negative. The arcanists would not arrive for some time. It was his turn to set up for the day’s work. We'd have the place to ourselves until my father and sister arrived. I was pleased. With Ms. Emissary outside and the impending interruption of my family, it was a risk to try to make love there in the arcanery. There were no spells to hide my cries of passion, but the risk was exhilarating. I could hardly keep my hands off of him.

I unbuttoned his shirt slowly, placing small kisses on his chest and down his abdomen. I fiddled with his belt and unclasped his pants. The pouches and tools about his waist caused his pants to fall to the ground with a thud. I helped him along by pulling down his underwear, bringing his beautiful, mocha, cock into view. It dangled there at half-mast, hardening gingerly before my eyes. I wanted to help it along. I reached out then, taking it into my hand gently and lifting the head to my muzzle. It smelled good. He had showered today, I could always tell. He paid special attention to this area when he bathed and it always smelled like the soap he used. I licked my tongue out, greeting the rising head of his cock. It puckered at me as he shivered.

'You sure we got time for this?' he asked down at me. I wasn't worried. My father and sister were not going to be early. Marillia Corbulo was the type of woman who was dedicated to her class and teachings. There's no way she would halt her instruction, even for the Prefect and a member of the Circle. They would have to wait the full hour before they could come. I'm was sure I would get to come before they came.

Down on my knees, it was easy to get the balance I’d need for my task. I placed one hand on his thigh and held his dick in the other, tenderly pumping it with my paw. I ran the pad of my thumb against the head of his cock every time I pulled back the flesh there. He was uncircumcised and it was fun to play with his fleshy bits. I tickled the sensitive skin with my touch. I could hear his breathing increase as I licked my tongue out and drew it carefully across the crown. Pressing down, I took it between my lips with my tongue and sucked hard before letting go. A small pop, echoed from my mouth as I did so. I giggled, he shivered. This was my favorite part. Playing with him. I always wanted to see how long it would take before he would whine for me to take the whole thing into my mouth. He always lasted quite some time, quivering in anticipation up above me. I would lick the flesh under the crown and then pull up the foreskin, running my tongue in circles around the glans. My free hand on his thigh kept his bucking from knocking me off balance. After a time, I started to hear the small whines that indicated he wanted badly for me to go deeper. He had been a good boy, so I did.

I licked my tongue out as I took him into my mouth. His cock pushed back to my throat and stopped before going much further. I didn't gag, I had been practicing that. Instead, I focused on not locking my jaw as I enveloped his dick and drew back. I let my tongue wave against the underside of his penis as I did so. The reaction was instantaneous, he exhaled loudly and his upper half pitched forward. He braced the table as I continued to suck him. I made sure to keep my tongue dancing as I did. Back and forth I ran my closed muzzle over his pecker and felt both pride and gratification to hear all the funny little noises he made while I did so. His cock was a lot like him, painfully average. But I loved it. I loved holding it, I loved playing with it... I loved sucking it. I loved the salty taste of his precum as he closed in on his climax. It all brought a certain satisfaction to me, leaving me feeling empowered and sexy. I felt desirable in a way that was lost to me during my everyday life. Here, with his cock under my control, I knew exactly what he wanted. Me.

Even at his six inches, I couldn't take the whole length of him into my mouth. I tried, of course, bracing my throat and pushing down. I'd cough and gag a bit every time I tried. He didn't mind, I think it turned him on. Whenever I gagged his cock would jump and he would thrust forward, trying to help his cock along. This time it was my turn to grab some ass. I did so, using his buttocks to leverage myself while I repeatedly bobbed my head back and forward. I made a rhythmic gagging nose as I did so, taking his cock to the back of my throat each time. I made sure to moan into his cock and let him know how tasty I found it. It drove me wild and made him weak in the knees. I knew he wasn't going to last long, his breathing became far heavier and his thrust started to become brutal. I hugged his waist as he bucked forward one last time, releasing his salty load directly down my throat. I was ready, it wasn't my first time. I gulped it down and used the motion to carefully milk his cock. Pulling back my head, I let go of his ass but not his dick. My lips and tongue still teasing him as I moved back. By the time I popped his cock out of my mouth, it was clean of cum and only slightly sticky with saliva. I licked out my tongue a bit savoring the sensation. He just cooed.

'You're amazing,' he told me. I replied that I knew, still caressing his dick in my hand. I stood up then, lifting my head to his. I kissed him again before propping myself up on his table, for which I need his help to do. My ass plopped down next to the leather bag and for a moment I took a look. It was filled with powerful rune stones and talismans. He had silver charms infused with protection spells and bracers crafted to augment one’s physical strength. I saw a sylphid ring and a zephyr bangle, both powerful talismans designed to grant or increase wind-based elemental magic. Before I could question it, he took the bag and cast it aside, kissing me firmly. It wasn't strange for him to have such objects, so I wasn't alarmed. But so many high-level artifacts in one place did send a jolt to the back of my brain. Whatever it was about it that bothered me, I couldn’t focus on. My lovely Laurence was undressing me and I wanted to feel his dick inside of me. Everything else seemed superfluous.

I spread my legs at the edge of the table as Laurence pulled down my panties and shorts. I always tell myself that I should wear skirts more often like my sister, but I always forget. It would certainly make these romantic interludes less complicated. Still, it was enough to just get them down and off, they hung easily from one ankle as he moved forward.

'Fuck me, baby.' I said, encouraging my man. Though he needed no encouragement. He pushed his prick into me easily as the wet folds of my pussy parted to welcome him in. I felt my claws extend as I gripped into the old wood of the table. His dick felt marvelous inside me.

'Yes, yes...' I dribbled as he began to pump. His cock was rigid and stiff, I could feel every inch. His hips moved with a dancer grace as he thrust forward rhythmically. I've fucked a few guys in my time and most often they were all about the brute strength. Each of them pounding into me like they were pounding clay. Laurence would gyrate his hips forward, tenderly. I could feel his cock push up and down into me. Not too softly, but certainly not hard. He had a certain finesse to his stroke that made me want to cry out. He hit all the spots. I would have called him daddy and told him to pound me like a naughty girl, but with my father on campus that seemed a bit Freudian. Instead, I reached up to wrap my hands around his neck and kiss him, he responded by lifting me from the table.

Being small has its rewards, especially when you're five-eight boyfriend is able to lift your five-one, petite, frame clean into the air. He held me suspended in his embrace, fucking me for all I was worth. I felt my head haze a bit as the pleasure took over. It was like a drug and I didn't care how loud I moaned or how I looked. I just cried out, mouth wide, panting heavily. His cock was able to go deeper in this position and it made my pussy wet to think about it. There I was, helpless in his arms, with him able to do whatever he wanted to me. Boy did I love when he did whatever he wanted to me and I knew just what he wanted. I was prepared to give it to him.

He walked me, gracelessly to the wall and propped my back against it. With my right hands against the wall, I gripped his neck and arched back a bit.

'Go on, do it! Fuck my little ass.' I coaxed. He smiled and called me a naughty little slut. It wasn't insulting, he only ever said it when we were intimate and I liked being his slut sometimes. I felt him as his cock withdrew casually from my pussy and pushed up right against my tail hole. I gritted my teeth a bit as he pressed forward. This, of course, was the reason I was always so keen on showers. I liked to keep myself clean, inside and out. Whenever I caught a chance to have my way with Laurence, I didn't want hygiene to be an issue.

His head pierced my hole and the shaft followed it up inside. I held him close as my body adjusted. It felt good to feel his girth filling my ass. I purred like a kitten when he pushed up inside as far as he could. I bounced then, slowly at first, trying to make sure I could keep my balance on his dick. He was strong for his size, but no weight lifter. Too much moving about and he might drop me. I put that thought out of my mind and gave myself over to the sensation that was creeping up my backside. I love having my ass fucked. I'm not ashamed to admit that. I mean, I wouldn't tell my father or sister... or anyone else, but that's not because I'm ashamed of it. It's just not anyone's damn business. I love being fucked in my ass by Laurence. He's always so enthusiastic about it. When I first requested he did so I found out that it was a dream of his to try. He'd never had a lover let him stick his dick there. I'd let him stick his dick anywhere. It turned me on to see that satisfied look on his face while he was plodding away.

I rode that cock for the better part of ten minutes, rising up and falling down. I felt the head of his dick push against my tender insides and it felt warm. When it was time for him to cum, I felt bad. I had cum maybe three times already and he had to hold for his second, but what a second wind it was. I could feel the gush of semen as it shot up in my ass like a geyser. A warmness took over my body and it just felt good to experience his sticky man milk coating my ass. I panted heavily as he let me go slightly and his penis fell away. I could feel his cream as it dripped out of my ass and down my leg. I was thoroughly satisfied. I looked into his eyes then and told him that I loved him. For the first time ever. He was surprised, but not upset. He kissed me and told me he loved me too. We stood there in each other's embrace for a time. How I wish that moment could have lasted forever. But of course, nothing in this life ever does.

Luckily for the two of us, there is a washroom with running water in the arcanery. Modern wonders you know. I cleaned up and casted an enchantment that would attract a few aroma flies, so named because of the pleasant smell they gave off. I didn't want dad or my sister smelling the sex in the air. As much as that kind of danger turned me on, I wasn't prepared to have that conversation with my father. I began to tidy the room, as I did every time I came to that building. Arcanists are so messy. As I moved things around I came back to the large leather bag with the artifacts in it. I took a look at a few of them, they were really familiar. I had helped infuse some of them. There had to be at least fifty artifacts inside. A high-class elemental rune would sell for five hundred kellings, easy. The necklace, about a thousand. There was a tiny fortune in artifacts in the bag. I had no idea what he was doing with them all. That certainly wasn't the way they were supposed to be delivered to the combine.

The Magus Librarium funds itself in several ways. We receive dues from graduates who take commissions with kingdoms and noble houses. We hire out mages, clerics and rune blades to assist adventurers and travelers on their dangerous quests. We also sell magical artifacts that we make at the arcanery. If you buy a runed blade or want your sword infused with an actual spell rune; you have to go to a combine magic store to purchase it. All the mystical artifacts and talismans that can be bought around Theria come from the Librarium. It takes a lot of money to fund these institutions without aid from any of the ruling governments. Since it was once the College of Magi, the Librarium has existed this way. Better able to dedicate to its own goals and ideals when there are no masters to serve. The lands the campuses occupy are considered sovereign soil and not a part of the kingdoms in which they reside. A piece of politics that has stood since the time the Druid’s formed the College of Magi. But without provincial support, the Librarium has to sustain itself somehow. Combine magic stores are the primary answer to that problem. Bound by edicts and laws governing what magical artifacts can be sold to the common man, as well as at what price, our institution thrives in a carefully balanced system that keeps everyone happy. With the arcanery being performed on campus contributing greatly to the survival of the Librarium, you better believe the rules and regulations on these creations are strict. So why was such an embarrassment of treasures just sitting there in a leather sack? I meant to ask my love of this but did not have a chance. By the time he’d emerged from the bathroom my sister and father had arrived.

The first meeting between my family and my lover went almost exactly as I expected at first. My father did not smile warmly. Every action, every grin, and every posture were deliberately intimidating. He grilled Laurence on his relationship with me, his intentions and long term goals. Laurence performed admirably, dismissing my father’s more invasive questions politely and being reasonably vague about other things. He looked to me several times before answering, but I couldn’t help him. This was something he would have to do on his own. When my father crossed the line, asking if he had ‘had his way’ with me yet, Laurence showed some of the fire that I loved him for.

‘Sir, that is not appropriate!’ he admonished. Even my sister was mortified by my father’s bluntness. I, however, knew my father just wanted to see how Laurence would react. He seemed satisfied with the way my civet handled himself. Dad’s respect wasn’t something you easily won. When dad had finished Luna started in. Her questions were, however, a lot less personal. In fact, they weren’t about my relationship with Laurence at all.

‘Arcanist McCants,’ she began, sounding formal and official.

‘I would like to ask you a few questions myself... of a more professional variety.’ she continued. Laurence looked uncomfortable and started to fidget. My sister did not fail to notice.

‘Are you aware of the local house war happening in Draedus?’ she asked. Laurence’s eyes shifted, but he answered in the affirmative. Of course, he was aware of it. It was a nasty business. The ripples were being felt all around the duchy. My sister seemed satisfied with this and went on.

‘Are you also aware that suddenly House Antares has become the dominate force in that conflict, having obliterated Keep Thornman?’ she queried. This was news to me and apparently to my father. I hadn’t heard that an entire Keep had been destroyed, but I didn’t pay attention to noble politics. A house war had never gone so far. My sister seemed to believe the same because her expression grew more serious.

‘The Governess has lost control of the situation and has requested the Duke send his men to occupy the city and calm hostility. It seems House Antares soldiers have been equipped with powerful magical artifacts. They’ve been using them to crush their rivals.’ she persisted. Laurence’s face did not betray anything. He had steeled up the moment my sister mentioned House Antares. My sister looked over to me then and I blanked my expression, least I give away my own suspicions. I didn’t know much about nobility and politics. I can’t stand the aristocracy, but I did know a little about the local cake eaters. One thing I knew for sure was that House Antares was primarily cheetahs. Luna looked to me and then back to Laurence. His expression was intense.

‘Do you know how House Antares got their artifacts?’ she asked bluntly. Laurence froze up, he was at a loss for what to say. I wanted to jump in. I wanted to defend him. But how could I?

Before Laurence could speak, the door opened wide and in stumbled the nobleman from before. He now looked unkempt and disheveled, as if he had been in a fight. His face had a knot on it that had swollen up to the size of a fist. Behind him, the Raven Knight entered with her sword on her shoulder. Looking no worse for wear. She didn’t seem happy. My father was surprised, but Luna was not.

‘Answer carefully now, arcanist.’ she ordered, her voice growing menacing. I had to speak up then.

‘Luna, stop this!’ I plead, trying my best to keep my cool. But I couldn’t. I was now more flustered than I had ever been. It seemed everything was what it looked like and it didn’t look good.

‘I know something of it,’ Laurence replied. I could barely contain my gasp. I didn’t expect him to comply so readily. I mean, I know he’s not the type to lie, but... still. I placed a hand on his shoulder and tried to comfort him.

‘Don’t say anything, Laurence. I’ll get you an advocate.’ I advised. He looked at me and I could see it in his eyes. He wasn’t about to take my advice.

‘I have been selling my work to House Antares,’ he admitted. My sister sighed as she nodded.

‘I thought as much, must have been hard for you.’ she said softly. The look in Laurence's eyes intensified.

‘Like you care...’ he snapped. My sister didn’t flinch and my father didn’t say a word. Though this was a matter that the circle would be most interested in, as it would have ramifications for the entire Librarium, he was content to let my sister do her job. She did it well I’ll admit. She didn’t show any emotion either way. He would get no special treatment because of his relationship with me.

‘I do care. I was the one who denied your request to leave your station. I kept you from joining your keep when you wanted to help prevent this war. I denied the private sell of arcane items to your House because it would be a show of favoritism. I thought the Lord of keep McCants could handle this without his youngest son. I wasn’t informed until yesterday that Keep McCants had been razed to the ground last month.’ Her words were apologetic, but she still sounded a bit matter of fact. I turned to look at Laurence, seeing the tears well up in his eyes broke my heart. He’d not mentioned any of this to me. But then again, he’d stopped talking about his family altogether about a month before. Now I knew why. He must’ve been dying inside; he never showed it to me. I never knew.

He gritted his teeth as his hands gripped the table.

‘My sister and mother were killed. My father had to flee to the family's castle in Dysis. Childhood friends and servants I’ve known my entire life died defending the keep.’ he snarled. My sister sighed;

‘And the Librarium is to blame?’ she asked. Laurence laughed, a mocking and indignant sound I’d never heard from him before.

‘Of course not, the Librarium acted as it should. I’m just one man. Why should my personal troubles matter? No, I’m not so arrogant as to blame you.’ He laughed bitterly. Looking at me with sorrow in his eyes he continued;

‘I blame myself. I had something to lose here... so I didn’t do what I should have and left of my own accord. I was selfish when my family needed me the most. I knew what I needed to do, your orders be damned. Had I been there I could have made a difference. Instead, I stayed and my family suffered.’ His words were mournful and even my father looked bent. Laurence was a noble man. Like all of us, he’d sworn to uphold his duties to the Librarium for the duration of his scholarship. I’m sure he felt that he was hiding behind that duty, rather than upholding it. Could I blame him? If my family were in trouble, no amount of bureaucracy would have kept me away. I reached over and held his hand tightly.

‘I’m sorry, I didn’t know.’ I whispered. He squeezed my hand and gave me a smile. He knew that. He just wanted to shield me from his sorrow. Turning toward my sister, Laurence sighed;

‘I will cooperate fully with your inquisition Prefect.’

It was silent for a time. Laurence and I just holding each other's hands as we wondered what would become of us. I could not bring myself to look at my father and sister. Had they both known of this earlier. Of course, my sister had. Her earlier reservations were now crystal clear. How long had she suspected him? What would she do now? The questions and implications had numbed my mind, my sister and father too I imagine. It’s why none of us had been prepared when it happened.

“Zephyr Volt!” I heard a shout in the ancient tongue. There was a flash and a woman’s cry. I barely had time to register what was going on before I saw the Raven Knight crash to the ground before the table. She too had been distracted by our plight and had taken her eyes off the Antares nobleman.

“Zephyr Volt!” he cried one more time, invoking the power held within the rune he carried. In a flash of lightning, Laurence was consumed in light. The smell of burnt clothes and seared flesh filled the room as Laurence shot back from his chair into the wall. The spell had been a powerful one. I could tell already he had been seriously injured, but I could do nothing for him at the time. With the air crackling, I knew another attack was imminent. Instantly I called upon the ‘Djinn’s Wind’, a shield spell. The burst of wind blew back my hair and deflected the next lightning bolt aimed at Laurence.

We had been lucky, my sister and I were without any talismans of protection. There had been no need for such defenses within the campus. Had our attacker targeted either of us first, we’d have been seriously injured. My father was alright, he wore his full regalia of talismans and rune protected robes. He’d have been singed, but no worse for wear. We all stood, defenses up and in shock at the sudden and vicious attack perpetrated by the cheetah. The Raven Knight had not been thorough it seemed. She’d subdued the cheetah but apparently hadn’t relieved him of everything dangerous on his person. A mistake I was sure she now regretted. The cheetah looked back at the three of us, desperation in his eyes. He held in his hand maybe two or three runes, I could not tell from where I stood what they were. I imagine they were as powerful as the lightning rune he had just used. I was certain it was one that I had infused myself. I was slightly insulted to have my work turned back against me.

‘I’m sorry, I can’t let your lover their spill his guts. I must protect my house.’ he stated simply. My sister was the first to respond.

‘You cannot protect your house from the crimes you’ve committed. They’ve broken at least a dozen of the King’s laws with this bloody business.’ Luna scoffed. The cheetah laughed, his disheveled hair falling over his golden eyes.

‘Indeed you are correct, but the aristocracy takes care of its own. There will be a penance to pay I’m sure. My head may even roll for this... but without specific names and evidence, it will go no further than that. If I die in this business, then I have served my house well and my family will be in favor to the main branch. There is honor in that. I’ll die with a smile.’ He said smugly. He knew he could not defeat even one of the mages before him, let alone all three. He was content to just murder poor Laurence. If Laurence could not name names, then the only narrative would be whatever House Antares wanted to it to be. The law was favorable to nobles and that bastard knew it.

As he dealt in snark, I dealt in spells. I drew upon my quintessence and opened my mind to the source. Whispering softly I uttered words in the ancient tongue, ‘Source of all knowledge, breadth of the dawn... deliver into my hands lightning!’ Unlike my wind barrier before, this was a spell that required full incantation. A good mage had a great variety of spells at her disposal. Some spells where the adept has an affinity with them, like Djinn’s Wind, can be conjured quickly by naming them in the ancient tongue. Just the invocation of their name connects the map of your conscious mind to the memory from the source. Other more powerful and less practiced spells such as ‘Ramuh’s Blade’, the one I was conjuring, took more time and a full incantation. I knew of a few mages, including my father, who could bring that spell to bare with just a name invocation... but I wasn’t quite there yet. Still, I’d gotten it off quick enough that the cheetah hadn’t noticed it until I came at him. He quickly called forth a shield rune, crying out,

‘Brantz Barrier!’ in the ancient tongue. But no rune spell was as mighty as the full force of a learned mage. I had drawn upon a considerable amount of mana to overcharge the attack. He hardly stood a chance. My conjured blade of lightning crashed through the air, crackling and sparking like a thunderstorm. It smashed into his defenses with a brilliant display of color, before what mana sustaining the barrier gave out. The blow struck him to the ground and his once beautiful vestments evaporated under the pressure. I could see through his skin as the blade passed through him, burning him inside and out and shocking his internal organs. His cry of pain was loud and feral. He hit the ground in a heap, shaking and convulsing.

I could hear my sister and father shouting for me to stop. I could hear them calling my name. They wanted that jackass alive. I didn’t care, I knew he wouldn’t talk. A guy like that isn’t going to give up his House so easily. And there are laws against using magic to coerce him. Even if we ignored those laws, the lenient courts of the lands would be merciful to him. I wouldn’t have had a problem with that if he hadn’t just tried to murder my Laurence. Poor Laurence, I could barely cut through my haze of rage to spare him a glance. He had taken that spell full on. Even with part of it dispersed by the natural field of energy that all adepts have built up around them, he still took the lion’s share of the attack. I wouldn’t let his would be killer get away with it.

I lifted my hand and called upon my quintessence for a finishing spell, but before I could deliver the coup de grace I was knocked head over heels. I tumbled to the ground hard, before rolling up to rest against the wall. My eyes darted back and forth trying to get a glimpse of my assailant. Much to my surprise, it had been the Raven Knight. She’d been shocked and temporarily paralyzed from the cheetah’s sneak attack, but seemed unharmed. Perhaps it was the armor she wore. I had heard that their order often wore enchanted equipment to augment their skills in battle.

‘We’ll need him alive to answer for his crimes!’ she growled. I made to argue, but she was soon flanked by my sister and father. The two did not look ready to debate the matter. I could only huff and turn my attention back to my beloved. I could still hear him across the room, breathing raggedly and coughing. My anger gave way to fear as I scrambled across the floor to be at his side, unable to hold back my tears.

He was hurt badly. His body had been burned in several places and the force of the impact had certainly crushed a few bones. His eyes found my own and he held my gaze.

‘Don’t speak,’ I ordered, noticing his desperate attempts. As before he didn’t listen to me. With great effort he mouthed,

‘I’m sorry, my Vicar.’ Sorry, sorry for what? He shouldn’t be sorry. He did what he had to do. Why was he apologizing to me? I turned and glared at my sister. I had said I hated her earlier and didn’t mean it. Right then, I could almost believe that I had. This good man had tried everything short of abandoning his post to help his family and my sister sat aside and watched as his world crumbled. Who was she to put the guild's reputation ahead of man's life and the lives of his family? That’s when it hit me... the truth. The painful and obvious truth. She was Prefect and this is what that meant. This was the kind of decision she had to make every day. Could I make those same decisions? Could I put the Librarium first? Looking down at Laurence, I knew the answer and it bothered me.

The rest of that day was a blur. The cheetah, now known to me as the Well Highborn Percival Antares was taken into custody by the Raven Knight. As a noble, he would have to be turned over to the City Watch, but the lioness assured me that the order would have him before long. Her name turned out to be Dame Melania Ashland. She hadn’t been a noble at all, nor was she born into the aristocracy. She had been an orphan from the ash lands in the northern province, not a nice place to grow up, I knew. I had actually got to know her a little as we sat together outside of the infirmary waiting to see what the clerics could do for my beloved. It was good to take my mind off of whether he would live or die, if only for a little while and the Dame’s story had been fascinating. In truth, it seems my resentment of nobility was common knowledge to the leadership within the order. Melania was sent to fetch me for several reasons, that being amongst them. She had been a beggar child whose pretty face had earned her coin up in the Ashland city of North Peak. She told tales of the hardships she endured and how she’d come to steal a Rune Blades’ titular weapon in order to sell and earn her the coin to leave south toward Assyria province's capital, Sherabad. She never made it. In the struggle to reclaim his runed blade, the freelancer discovered that Melania had the talent for drawing out the power of talismans. He took the Dame under his wing and enrolled her in the Librarium for training. She was no more a noble than was I and she had studied at this very same college. I felt a bit childish when I realized that to her, I was the noble. Child of a storied family of adepts and daughter to one of the high wizards of the council. She had dolled herself up to meet me and I had treated her badly. Worse, I find that she held the title of ‘Prefect’s Shield’. It was her duty to defend and assist whoever was the Prefect of the Raven Knight’s Mages and that’s why she had followed me around. She was eager to continue her duty.

I tried telling her that I would not be the Prefect and that I wished to stay with Laurence, no matter what happened; but she just smiled that same grin and shook her head. What she said next sealed my fate.

‘Laurence’s fate will be decided by the order.’ she informed. I was startled, to say the least, but it didn’t take long for me to wrap my head around why. Even without Dame Melania’s explanation. Laurence’s crimes were of the dangerous magical variety, he’d relinquished a number of powerful artifacts without a record to persons unknown. He would surely suffer a punishment. Expulsion and banishment from the Librarium. But what of the punishment of the crown? Crimes involving the dangerous misuse of magic always involved either the Cabal or the Raven Knights, and the order always ran roughshod in these matters. I wasn’t sure how the order would punish poor Laurence, but I’d imagine it would be severe. There was quite a great deal more damage and loss of life in that house war because of his actions. I teared up... what could I do, how could I save him. Then the sly Dame spoke. Her words, very carefully chosen.

‘We’ve already accepted your letter of commission, my Prefect. As Prefect you would be the chief liaison between the Librarium and the order... this matter would be under your jurisdiction.’

And there it was... the nail in my coffin. If Laurence survived, the only way to save him from a deserved fate would be to accept one that I did not deserve. I scowled at Melania, but my anger was not with her. She could have said nothing and let me go about my plan of passing the buck to Marillia. Instead, I would need to take on the role my father had set out for me. I had no illusions. Laurence and I could never be. To save him, I’d have to dishonor myself, my family and the order, before even stepping one foot in Bast. It was the worst day of my life. I lost my love, I lost my home, and I threw away the future I wanted. Not for myself, not for decency or what was right, but for the love of a man I could never have. Whom I would have to send away in order to save him.

The rest went as you would suppose. I asserted my title as Prefect and used it to gain jurisdiction over Laurence’s fate. My sister and father didn’t like that. I could still see that cold disapproval in her eyes when I had him remanded into my custody. Still, she and my father saw me off when Melania and I left for Bast. My sister let me part with a warning;

‘From here on out, all your choices have an impact. You can’t see them all at first.’ she said grimly. Then she hugged me tightly. So tight that I could feel her body tremble as she fought back tears. She looked to Laurence then; raising an eyebrow at the chains on his legs and feet. She knew they were just a token gesture. I’d probably have him unchained the second we were out of sight. She called to him; apologizing for his loss and hoping that the order would be... ‘merciful’. She gave me a knowing look as she said the last part. Laurence smiled weakly, nodding in response. My father’s goodbyes were a lot less dignified. He cried and blubbered, remarking on how much he’d miss me. He promised to come see me and handed me a bright new echosphere so I could stay in contact. Dad always did spoil me. I said my goodbyes and mounted the carriage alongside my buxom shadow, Melania. Prefect’s ‘shadow’ sounds much more fashionable than ‘shield’ anyway.

There wasn’t much fanfare at my leaving. None of my classmates or contemporaries bothered to see me off aside Soria, Marillia and my sisters Rune Blade; Kimber. As I said before, I was never too popular. Hell, my own rune blade had not shown up to see me off. I guess she wasn’t too happy with my decision. She’ll have to learn to get over it. I waved my goodbyes as the harper trotted off, pulling the carriage and me along with it. It was a somber, but beautiful trip toward the western province of Mahees, where Bast lies under the great mountain. It was the summer season and the land was beautiful. I rarely got to see it before, trapped under my studies as I was. I was happy to see it with Laurence by my side. At least for as long as I had him by my side. I tried desperately to fit as much time and love into my final hours with Laurence as I could. We could do very little. Though I cared not for the prying eyes of my shadow, Laurence was not yet ready for such strenuous activity. Still, we were lovers for a solid three weeks before a decision had to be made.

In a small town called Eoal, about ten miles outside of Bast, I made my first act as Prefect. With my quintessence, I branded my lover with a mark on his forehead, a fashionable mark that to unobserved would look quite fetching if you didn’t know what it was. Adepts who could see through eyes capable of perceiving mana, would see the mark as a glow on his forehead and know that he had been branded, 'excommunicado' from the Librarium. Powerful as I was, I was easily able to assert my own will upon his quintessence, suppressing it and bending it my whims. A subversive use of the art to be sure, but one not frowned upon in this particular instance. If my love ever began to try to create or manipulate arcanery again... the brand would ignite and cause him pain. I cried as I did so, but it had to be done. Anything less and they would not feel his punishment was sufficient. He kissed me then. Softly on my lips and told me he understood. He thanked me for my mercy and told me not to blame myself. His crimes surely would have lead to a life of imprisonment or worse. Still, forcing a life awoken to magic to forever sleep... it was hard. Harder still came next. Steeling myself, I took on that expression my sister favored so much as I told him the second part of his punishment. Laurence, my love, the man I wanted to be with more than I wanted anything... was to banished to Dysis and his father’s castle. He would no longer be allowed to travel freely or leave that city. I handed the decree to Melania, it had already been written. She was to take the carriage and him to his fate forevermore.

We parted then. I could not stand to stay and see him cry. I could not stand to cry anymore myself. With reluctance, my shadow took him away. She was loathed to leave me by myself, but I am Prefect and she must follow my orders. Besides, I doubted I could get into much mischief on the way. Walking away from the past and everything I’ve ever wanted, to become a part of something I never approved of, I journeyed. As I took my first steps toward the great capital city of our kingdom, I wondered... ‘What hell does this new day bring me?’