Godric was startled at the sound of knocking on the door as he barely got enough rest the night before. Deep in his mind, he thought there was a gaping void that he couldn't describe, which made him feel uneasy, stopping him from getting sleep. He briefly looked outside the window and noticed that it was already late in the morning. The door swung open as Michael entered the room, strapped in his sleek, custom-made white armor worn only by the Seven, while the impressive great sword, Fortitude, was slung onto his back. His being here only meant that the time had finally arrived. "Get dressed," Michael said. "Sir Byronard and the others are waiting for you at the gates." The royal guard silently left the room, leaving Godric to his lonesome. Two days go by so fast, he thought, and only now did the feeling of anxiety creep into his body.

  "Looks like you barely slept, Uhrihim." A voice said to him. He glanced to the corner, where Ziyad emerged from the shadows. "You again," Godric said. "How long have you been watching me?" The young man asked him as he got up from the bed. "Long enough to know that you're nervous." The young man looked at his hand and noticed it was trembling. "But that's a good thing." Ziyad continued. "And how is that a good thing?" Godric asked. "Because it means that you're not stupid. Most people your age find themselves embracing danger head-on or venture off to distant lands, only to end up dying. Do you know what they all had in common?" The boy shook his head. "Overconfidence. At least you're smart enough to embrace the idea that you'll most likely die. But, fear not, for I have sworn to my brother to watch over you alongside him. With the two of us, we have a fighting chance of accomplishing your monstrous task." Ziyad said as he scanned the bookshelf, looking for something to read.

  Godric donned his armor and strapped Death's Lament onto his back as Ziyad flipped a few pages of a book that interested him. Since he appeared in the Capital, Godric could feel the foreigner's eyes watching his every move. "Tell me, Ziyad. Whatever happened with you and Xhiamas? It seems as though he turns into a completely different person altogether whenever you're around." Ziyad's gaze was focused solely on the book, in an attempt to avoid conversation. "It is a long story. Let's say we had different opinions on certain matters, and my brother eventually grew tired of it all and left the family." Godric had almost forgotten that Ziyad was a member of the three major clans, which meant that Xhiamas had royalty in his blood, but he hid it incredibly well. "In mannerisms and beliefs, you are both strikingly opposites as well. I thought you both grew up in the same home?" He asked Ziyad, who closed the book.

  The question piqued the man's interest. "Ahh...yes. That is a trait I found laughable as well. Because he is the eldest child, he was trained and raised to become the next head of the Dhilal al-Qadar. You see, he wields greatness; a power unique to our family and can only be bestowed to a member once every hundred years. Traditionally, anyone can fight for the right to become a leader but after inheriting such a valued gift, his ascension to leadership was set in stone and went uncontested among our kinsmen. There's more to the story, but we can save it for another day. Now, shall we go?" His words hinted toward Xhiamas' ability of foresight. Godric wanted to know more but obliged the foreigner's request as he and Ziyad left the room, closing the door.

  The two found themselves at one of the gates of the Capital, where Wyatt and the rest were waiting for Godric. Alongside them, were at least three dozen members of the royal guard on horseback, all geared in armor, tailor-made for the unforgiving conditions in the snowy climates of the North. Wyatt and Cassian too, were given new armor which suited them perfectly. Ziyad retreated to a far corner, giving Godric space to speak with the others. "Now that's fancy armor right there," Godric said to Wyatt and Cassian as they greeted each other. "It suits you both. Try not to die while you two are up there, eh?" Wyatt and Cassian laughed at the statement. "Look at us three. Months ago we were farm hands, smithies, nurses. We were exiles, scattered like leaves toward the unknown world, and here we stand now, redeemed." Wyatt said. "If Hawk were here, we'd be unstoppable." The mood turned somewhat bittersweet, but Cassian immediately cheered him up. "Now don't go and sour the moment, Wyatt. I'm sure he's out there, somewhere. Besides, he has a talent for finding things, remember? I'm sure he'll wash up in Stagvalley or the Capital." Wyatt responded with a weak grin.

  A man on a horse rode to where they stood. It was Uriel, who was the commanding officer for the expedition. "Khandem says that the weather is picking up soon, so we have a few more minutes before we ride off. If you have any more words left to tell each other, now would be the best time." Uriel said as he headed to back to the caravan that housed their needed supplies for the travel, barking commands at his brothers-at-arms. "Well...I guess this is goodbye for now. May the Divines bless your journey and guide you safely back home, Godric." Wyatt said. "Same to you, old friend. Watch over him for me, Cassian, will you?" Godric jested. "Are you joking? Hawk and I were barely able to stop him one time. This man is a beast, I tell you." Cassian replied to Godric's amusement. "Of course he is. The Blackwood blood runs strong in his veins. May the Divines guide you all home." Godric said. After a brief exchange of hugs, Wyatt and Cassian joined the cavalry, seamlessly blending into the ranks as Godric waved them farewell, eager to see them again.

  Uriel looked to the gatekeeper up above the city walls and with a wave of his hand, then signaled that the gates be opened. Loud horns blared over the city, alerting the citizens and the others of the departure. Once they had fully opened, the troops departed immediately, escorting the dwarven emissary back to the dwarven capital. It did not take long before the silver figures became merely white dots in the distance, disappearing.

  "You made it just in time to see them off." Godric turned to see Byronard being flanked by Michael. "Ah, Sir Byronard. Yes, we managed to put a few words in before saying goodbye. I have Michael to thank for that." Michael looked at Godric but seemed troubled. "You're welcome. But Godric, I can see it in your eyes that you barely got enough sleep these past few days. It'd be best to take small breaks to gather your strength and wits. We still have a long road ahead of us." He said. "I know, I'm trying to--wait, what do you mean by us?" Godric asked.

  Byronard sighed. "Despite my protests, Michael here has persistently requested to join your journey to Azane," Byronard revealed to Godric. "I initially wanted him stationed here, being in charge of the defenses and look for any brewing threats, but he raised a good point during one of our talks. You see, your unique form of magic, along with Ziyad and Xhiamas putting in good word for you would generally be enough to set things in motion when you begin. Well as it so happens, members of the Seven are highly respected far and wide, not just because of their status, but also because of their capabilities. With Azane being a continent where strength reigns over all, I'd say being accompanied by the leader of the Seven would make a bold statement, and make your case even more compelling." Byronard explained.

  "That's reassuring," Godric said, relieved at the news. "Knowing you're joining us puts my mind at ease. But what about the Capital defenses?" He asked, to which Michael replied with a grin. "Oh, that? Not to worry. Sir Byronard, Gabby, and Jophiel are still here. Any sane enemy wouldn't dare lay siege on the Capital. Not with their presence." Michael said proudly, showcasing trust in his companions.

  "Godric," someone called out to the young man. The party turned and saw the approaching elven king Ithilien, flanked by Faelar and the sibling members of the Seven, Chamuel and Azrael. They carried rations, seemingly enough to make the trip back to Mistveil Forest. "Gentlemen, my lady, may I have a word with him in private?" The others exchanged glances but gave the two the space they needed.

  "What is it, your Majesty?" Godric asked. "I know of the task bestowed upon you, and I wish you well on your journey. But, that is not what I primarily came here for. In truth, I wanted to ask a favor." Ithilien said as he looked over his shoulder. Godric could see that the king was not his usual self. He still had a shroud of mystery, but the young man noticed something was amiss. "Is something wrong, your Majesty?" He asked, caught off guard by the king's demeanor. "I do not know. Something has been troubling me these past few days. I cannot explain what it is, so now I find myself here, because I know you are the only one I trust for this particular task." Ithilien replied. "Watch over Anarór? for me. Something ill is brewing and I fear the worst is coming soon. My senses are suddenly dulling, for reasons I know not why. Because of that, I fear my time is nearing its end, and I now entrust her safety in your hands." Godric was horrified upon hearing the revelation, and broke into a nervous laugh. "S-surely, you jest, King Ithilien." But alas, he gazed into the monarch's eyes and saw that he spoke true.

  The young man took a step back to take in everything. "By the Divines, you're serious." Godric anxiously said. "Your Majesty, I'm not even sure I'll return alive from this expedition. What about Faelar? The Seven? Do they know?" He continued, but Ithilien placed his hand on the young man's shoulder, which calmed him down. "Worry not, child. I have seen many figures in my lifetime, but no one can take up this mantle but you. You have great potential in you. Stay true to your moral compass--listen to your heart, and keep your wits about you. In time, this land will experience a drastic change, with you at the helm of it all. And no, I have not spoken a word to Faelar nor the members of the Seven. The last thing they need to know would be that my powers are waning. I must not give them any worry nor burden, so I confide this secret to you alone." Ithilien's words lifted Godric's spirits, which the young man was grateful for. He thanked the king for his words and bid his Majesty well wishes, albeit concerned for his safety.

  "Oh, and Godric," Ithilien called out before the young man was out of speaking distance. "I know of what happened between you and my daughter." Upon hearing the words, the mortal's expression changed and his cheeks flustered. "Uhh--yes...about that, my king..." Godric stuttered but Ithilien responded with a cheeky laugh. "Worry not. I have no qualms about that whatsoever. You breathed new life into her--I can never thank you enough for that." He smiled as Godric wiped a sweat from his brow. "Oh...well, thank you, your Majesty. I'm honored." He replied as he breathed a sigh of relief. "Time is of the essence. Off you go now, child. May the old gods bless your journey and bring you home." Ithilien said as he called out to Faelar and the two members of the Seven. They said their final goodbyes as the two groups parted ways.

  The sound of galloping horses was immediately heard from the distance as the sounds of their powerful hooves connected with the stone steps of the streets. They turned and saw Xhiamas, ready and waiting with a group of fine-breeds for travel, each one strapped with a ration of supplies enough for a fortnight's travel. "Seems he's itching to go already. A sense of urgency--as expected of an Arrow." Michael said. "No... he's eager to get this over as quickly as possible. The sooner we're done, the faster he can get as far away from me and his past as possible." Ziyad responded with an exhausted tone. Godric looked at him, intrigued by the statement. A part of him wanted to ask, but given the animosity brewing between the two brothers, he decided to let it be.

  Xhiamas approached them on horseback and gave out a few instructions on which one would be for them, all while completely ignoring his brother, leaving him to his lonesome. "As expected." Ziyad said as he got up on his horse.

  Byronard called the group over give his final instructions before they would depart. "I presume all of you are all ready?" He asked the four individuals, who simply looked at him with determined expressions. "Good. I've already sent word to Lady Emilie of House Blackstone that you'll be headed off to the port of Vandralis. By the time you arrive, a ship with her most trusted men will be waiting for you. No one knows of this expedition except the lords and ladies, the monarchs, the Seven, me, and the four of you--this should guarantee a smooth travel while you're in Primera."

  He said as he then shifted to a more serious tone. "The fate of Primera is in your hands now. All we can do now here is prepare and wait for your return." Byronard turned to Xhiamas and Ziyad. "I know the two of you don't see eye to eye on things, but put this sibling rivalry on hold for now. There are more important things in the world than trivial disagreements. You of all people, should understand this the most, Arrow." Xhiamas looked down as he bit his lip. Godric felt bad for him, but he agreed that the regent was right on this matter.

  "Understood." Xhiamas replied as he looked at his brother, who nodded in response. "Off you go now, and may the Divines bless your journey." Byronard wished them farewell as they slowly left the city grounds before high noon, ready and eager.

  ***

  The travel was slow at first, but as the minutes and hours went by, all of them were now racing past the King's Road as they headed east towards the Evergleam Coast. They covered good ground as the four brushed past the trees and towns with breakneck speed as if it were their last days on earth. The company stopped every night when the sun had set to let the horses and themselves get enough rest and eat their fill; with each one given hours to take watch while the others slept; it was not a necessary action, but they all agreed on it, in the event that danger might arise from any time. A night passed by where Godric had finally noticed that whenever Ziyad would take the watch, Xhiamas would also be awake, observing him from a distance while watching for any other threats as well. The young man, given all the time he had now spent with them, could still never understand the situation between the two. Did an incident happen? Betrayal? A promise that was not kept? Such thoughts plagued his mind as he attempted to go back to sleep.

  You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.

  ***

  It was the dawn of the twelfth day of their journey. The company rode up on a hill, and could now see the port of Vandralis in the near distance in all its splendor. The coastal city, also being the ancient seat of House Blackstone, was a sight to behold. From its charcoal-colored watchtowers to the stone buildings and the onyx-colored stones that surrounded the castle; with its walls being greeted by the crashing of the waves. "Behold, the port of Vandralis," Michael said as they made their way to the city. The forest had now disappeared, and what greeted them was a well-paved road found near the coast, which provided a breathtaking view of the Evergleam Ocean, its waters shimmering with an unearthly beauty. Godric was at a loss for words. The young man was focused on the task at hand, that he had forgotten to take in the reality that this was the first time he was staring at the open waters.

  "It's so...beautiful." He said. "It just...stretches on for leagues on end." Xhiamas came up next to him and patted him on the shoulder. "And we are barely looking at even a quarter of it, my friend." Godric's expression seemed to have brightened up his morning. "I remember the first time I saw the ocean in my youth. I had the same look on your face as well. It is a remarkable place, indeed. But be warned: one should always keep his guard up, even in the face of beauty." The company now found themselves at the gates, as a flag of House Blackstone waved proudly high above a watchtower. People were going in and out of the gates, with a good number of them being foreigners. A man spotted them from above and shouted at someone below him. Minutes had passed before half a dozen soldiers clad in ink-black light armor greeted them.

  "Sir Michael! On behalf of the Nyxguard, it is truly an honor for you to grace us with your presence." One of them said, presumably the leader of the group. "Corwin! Nice to see you again. How's the family business?" Michael replied, giving off the idea that they were acquainted. "We're doing fine. The business has been going steady; the Smith be praised." Corwin said. Michael and the rest got off their horses who then were handled by the other soldiers. "Gentlemen, meet Corwin Steelmantle; Captain of the Nyxguard, and the heir to Steelwave Shipworks; the primary company responsible for creating Primera's naval fleet. A pleasure to see you again, lad. Is the Lady Blackstone...?" Michael asked.

  "Yes, she's waiting for you at the port. We finished constructing your vessel a few days ago but weren't expecting you would arrive ahead of schedule. You might be here for a day or so before we can get the crew and ship ready for departure." Corwin said. "Follow me, I'll escort you." They followed the soldier into the city as they passed through its busy streets. "So, Azane, eh? What business would a member of the Seven have in the Continent of Sand?" Corwin asked Michael. "A simple diplomacy mission. I'll leave it at that." Michael replied, to which he gave Godric a wink. "Bah, you're lying. If a member of the Seven themselves has to do a diplomacy mission, it shouldn't be as simple as it sounds." Corwin replied as they now were before the port. "Here we are. Lady Blackstone should be on that one over there." He then pointed to a medium-sized vessel, good enough for a dozen people to pilot. "I have other duties to attend to. I wish you all the best of luck." Corwin left the company to themselves as they headed toward their ship. As they drew closer and closer, they agreed that it was masterfully crafted as the hull was sleek and smooth to the touch, with the bow boasting an elegant design.

  Godric touched the ship and noticed that it was carved from Stormsong wood; said to be effective in warding off evil spirits and bad luck as the stories go. As they boarded the vessel a few shipwrights greeted them, along with what they presumed to be the workers whom Lady Blackstone tasked for the construction, but the lady herself was nowhere to be found.

  Out of nowhere, Godric, Xhiamas, and Ziyad found themselves unable to move, as if they were bound by some invisible force. "Blessed dunes! What is this sorcery?!" Ziyad shouted as he struggled to move. "Hey, what's going on?!" Godric shouted as he too, attempted to move with all his might. Michael was unaffected whatsoever, moved forward, and placed his hands on his hips, exasperated as he sighed.

  "This is not funny, Emilie. Stop it." He said. Soon after, the struggle stopped and the three were released from their confinements as they crashed onto the wooden deck. "Ow, that hurt! What was that anyway?" Godric asked, confused and irritated at the same time.

  "My apologies, gentlemen. I only wanted to blow off some steam," a female voice replied as the sounds of a percussion instrument rang out. "There I was, playing my lute away when suddenly, a messenger arrived saying that we should create a vessel worthy of travel to the Continent of Sand. It came from Sir Byronard himself. I couldn't say no, but I would be lying if I said I was not annoyed." Afterward, a lady in ebony-hued clothing stepped out of the captain's quarters. She had jet-black eyes and short brown hair paired with a slim frame. It was none other than Lady Emilie Blackstone, ruler of Vandralis. "Hello, dear cousin. I didn't get the chance to see you at the council. How long has it been? A decade?" She asked Michael.

  "A decade and two years to be exact," Michael replied. "Hello, Emilie. Good to see your string magic has improved." The three were at a loss for words. "I'm sorry, but did you say string magic?" Godric asked Michael, to check if he had heard that correctly. "Yes. While I can manipulate and control metal, Lady Emilie can manipulate and control strings. Of course, a simple string alone can easily be broken through, but with the proper coating it can be a deadly weapon, especially under her hands." Emilie smiled as she revealed a pouch that contained a somewhat endless amount of strings. "Nyxsteel strings. The thin properties of the string itself make them near transparent, but the nyxsteel coating is nearly as durable as grimthorne ore, and as sharp as obsidian." She explained. "I could have killed you three if I wanted to, you know," Emilie recalled the strings that were now visible back into the pouch.

  "This woman is...out of her mind, to say the least." Ziyad whispered to his brother as he nudged him on the shoulder. "That would be another thing that we can agree on." Xhiamas was quick to respond.

  Godric feigned a cough. "I see. Lady Blackstone, how long would it take before we're ready to depart?" He asked. "You'll depart as soon as the dawn breaks, tomorrow. I was only here to ensure that the ship was ready to go, and it is. I'm giving the crew the night off to prepare." She replied as she headed toward the steps and onto the dock. "We have quarters in the castle for you, but you're free to go wherever you please." The lady had already made considerable distance and was heading toward the castle while flanked by two soldiers.

  "Well then...I'm off to the local inn and get something to drink. I'll most likely end up sleeping there as well. Who wants to join in? Drinks are on me." Michael said to the rousing replies of the workers. "I'll stay here on the ship and most likely doze off early. I haven't slept in a proper bed the entire trip." Godric said to Ziyad's agreement. "You and I had the same idea, Uhrihim. I will be down in the quarters." Ziyad said as he went down to the crew's sleeping quarters. "Xhiamas?" Godric asked the Arrow, who was silent the entire time. "I will be fine, Godric. You go on ahead and rest." He headed to the bow and sat down, seemingly gazing at the distance. The young man respected his decision and went to find Ziyad, already asleep. Godric found a place to lay his head and soon drifted off.

  ***

  The following morning, Godric woke up to huddled noises and hurried steps on the deck. He rose from his bed and went up to find Xhiamas, Ziyad, and Michael assembled and conversing with Lady Emilie. "Oh, looks like you're finally awake," Emilie said to Godric's embarrassment. "Sorry about that. I've been having trouble sleeping lately--last night was a miracle in disguise." He replied as he stretched out underneath the morning sun while the smell of ocean air filled his lungs.

  "No worries. You woke up at the perfect time." Emilie said as a group of men boarded the ship. Most of them looked battle-hardened, bearing scars that were seemingly caused by weapons and beasts alike. "Gentlemen! Allow me to introduce to you the Nyxsteel Dragoons, the best seafaring soldiers, and the pride of the Royal Navy. Each hails from a brotherhood of houses loyal to the Blackstone family and has served Vandralis for countless generations." Emilie said proudly as she looked toward her men. "I leave them to you. I hope you'll do Vandralis proud, Dragoons. Born of Black, Bound to Sea." She said as she thumped her hand on her chest. The soldiers responded with a united front as they mirrored their liege lady. "Born of Black, Bound to Sea!" Lady Emilie then turned to the group. "You'll be in good hands, I assure you of that," she pulled out a pouch, similar in fashion to the one she had on her the day before. "Here, I prepared something for you--if ever you find yourself in trouble." Emilie gave the group the pouch, and Godric pulled out a string doll fashioned from silk that shimmered and shifted between silver and deep blue colors.

  "It is beautiful, milady. Thank you." He could feel that something was different from the gift as he inspected it, but he could not discern what it was, exactly. All he knew was that it had a sense of familiarity and mystery, all at the same time.

  Michael seemed charmed at the gift as if he recalled something from his youth. "Aethermoth silk? You've outdone yourself, Emilie." The lady responded with a dismissive huff. "At least thank me for the effort, cousin. Anyways, I'll take my leave now. I have other pressing matters to attend to. Best of luck to you, gentlemen." The lady of House Blackstone left the ship immediately, leaving Godric and company alone with the Dragoons.

  "Right then...let's get acquainted with one another, shall we?" Michael said. Not long after, the ship finally was in motion, creaking as the wind filled her sails with guiding winds. Orders were barked from the Dragoons' captain. As the anchor was lifted, Godric could feel the tide of the vast ocean tug eagerly at the vessel, as if it were calling her out to receive her loving embrace, awaiting their arrival. Moments later, they had already gone past the coast, as the port of Vandralis was now nearly out of sight.

  A Dragoon approached Michael and Godric, who were both admiring the sight. "If we keep at this speed, Azane will be a two-month trip, just in time for the Wakingtide season." He said. "Thank you, captain. I'm no expert at seafaring, so I leave our group's fate in your hands." The captain shook Michael's hand as an act of trust before leaving the two to themselves.

  "An amazing view, isn't it?" Michael asked Godric, who sat awestruck at the helm. "Truth be told, I haven't been to Azane myself, so I'm in the same boat as you are." The ship rocked in a harmonious motion as Godric remained in silence.

  "Michael, do you think we'll make it out of this alive?" Godric finally asked, breaking the silence. The royal guard replied with a hum. "Our chances are slim, but it's better than nothing." He said as he observed the young man's expression. "I was never a religious person, but whenever I found myself in trouble, fearing for the worst, I always thought about the things that mattered the most to me. In some way or another, the Divines always seem to be on my side--and I'd end up barely alive. It has been a long time since I've resorted to this odd practice, so I'll pass it on to you. Who knows? Maybe you'll be favored by the Divines even better than I." Michael left the young man alone to ponder on his words.

  Godric looked back to the coast, and the city had already disappeared. As he soaked in the scent of brine while the wind bristled against his hair, the faces of every person who mattered most to him flooded his mind. The ocean stretched for leagues beyond his comprehension, and the possibilities were endless. But by now, he no longer feared such things. With the smell of danger and destiny over the horizon, Godric and company sailed toward the unknown--ready and waiting.