To the lovely Sugu-baby , thank you so much for everything sweetie....
Author's Note: The media used in this chapter are sourced by Internet. I hold no right whatsoever of these pictures. Thank you...
This chapter can be a bit confusing at some point. But that's where I'm for help. Feel free to comment or message me if you're confused at any point.
***
"Everyone who achieves success in a great venture solves each problem as they came. They helped themselves and they were helped through powers known and unknown to them at the time they set out on their voyage. They keep going regardless of the obstacles they meet."
- W. Clement Stone
***
In the last chapter of Someone's Forever
[Chaotic Afternoon]
Niera's POV
I efficiently briefed him the unexpected meeting between Mr. I rule people and me, without revealing the minute flushing details of our 'uhm uhm' interaction and without stuttering.
Well done, Niera... back pats....
"So you were alone when this all happened?" He shrieked a little loudly, his eyes went wide at realization while the chair shook under his violent jerk. I mentally praised the poor chair which had to suffer Jerry's jerking panic attack.
Tube light...
"Nope, he was with me for some time than I was accompanied by Sir Gerard till this all solved." I explained before Jerry drops his precious eyes on floor in utter shock.
Now, I'm feeling very proud of my decision of filtering my encounter with Mr. Valentine, leaving the profound details of me finding intense sense of joy in his comforting arms while this whole building was shaking under an unknown dangerous emergency. Not to forget my stunning stunt of grasping his solid wrist in my impulsive actions.
I'm afraid these crucial exempted details will definitely send Jerry in deep shock.
No, no... he is a nice guy. He deserves to live. He has a little daughter to take care of. Don't ruin his life, Niera... keep your duffer mouth shut with your mind filtered. A sane part in somewhere of my petite brain wailed in Jerry's concern.
Shaking off this insane idea, I dragged my sole focus on the lavishing couch which was looking very tempting at the moments, what will it feel to keep my heavy aching head on its soft surface. How it would feel to ruffle my tired arms on its purple fluffy cover. How sweet will be the sleep which will take me to the land of peace?
How beautiful this creation is which we call couch. The person should get an Oscar who gave the idea to incorporate this lovely couch in this room. My room for now.....
I mentally made a note to thank whosoever gave me this room or rather this precious couch.
My dreams of sleeping on the blessed couch were broke by an intentional cough which was none other than from Jerry. I mentally sigh while dragging my tired eyes from the bliss to my dear friend.
Work now, rest later.....
"So, what Sir Gerard and you were discussing in the conference room?" he asked after a pause, his demeanor changed from relaxed to tense with slight frown lines marring his creased forehead. I frown at his query but without giving second thoughts, I answered this time without filter.
"So, he asked about the wound on the neck?" he asked again while widening his eyes.
I nodded, returning back to my paper work, formulating a rough plan for my investigation. My back is feeling relaxed now on the comfortable chair and tummy satisfied, I should try to work before Mr. Gorgeous Saviour's thought come to invade my sanity again.
"What did you said to him?" he asked again with tensed voice, which this time gained my attention and reclaiming my focus back on him.
"The truth, Jerry." I replied nonchalantly but my eyes fixed on his tensed face which switched to a serious version after I altered the words.
No way! This man isn't going back there... why he has to go there and bury himself under all accidents and calamities. God! Not again. This man.....
I inwardly huffed in annoyance, why can't this man understand that not all the problems are his responsibility and he isn't responsible for every wrong incident happens around him.
Why can't he just let it go....
Idea....
"Jerry, let it go... Let ittt goooo...." I tried to sing in light pitch but being an inartistic person, I'm a dumb in this field too. Which soon proved again with Jerry's baffled scrunched face. My ears heated with embarrassment on my futile attempt. Lowering my gaze, I tried hard to control my embarrassment giggle which tried to escape.
"I said the truth, it was a bug bite and I said the same, that's it." I concluded sheepishly, praying silently he pays attention to my words and not my previous attempt of stupidity.
"What was that?" he asked, much to my dismay. His face is defining a perfect example Shaggy from Scooby doo.
Gulping down the bile of insane humor, I tried to switch to a sensible demeanor.
"Jerry, it was my dumb attempt to make to remember that you shouldn't think much about past. It was an accident which happened to me on that night which was the result if my delinquency and that bug bite; come on! It was just a bug. It could happen to anyone. I agree the outcome seem drastic but Jerry, no one could control this. Don't take too much stress on yourself cause it won't change anything but will only increase this unwanted guilt on your conscience for a totally rubbish reasons." I rushed through the words, my attempt was just to make him realize, things aren't in our hand always, and sometime we should let them go with the burden of guilt from our past.
His expressions remain in tacked with an increment of slight furrow line between his brows.
"You're a nice person Jerry, one of most pure hearted person, I ever met in my life and I respect and adore you for your kind nature and this precious friendship but my dear stop blaming yourself for every wrong happening to me. Please, cause it'll only hurt you. Please don't burden me with your unnecessary overwhelming guilt. Your and Tiara's unconditional care and love are more than enough for me. Please." I said my heart out with utmost sincerity which I'm sure is clear in my voice and face.
He sat there starting back at me with a smile spread on his face but apart from that, his face revealed impassiveness.
I frowned in confusion before patting his hand with mine which soon made him to shake his hands away from me like I have some contagious cold.
"Thank you Niera." He said patting my palm softly, revealing a deep emotion in his genuine big brown glassy eyes. I took a sigh of relief while grinning, hoping my words could make an effect on him.
"Oh god! Not again, remember what I said a few days ago about friendship?" I asked with fake shock to while he scowl.
"There is no sorry and no thank you in friendship." I stated in a deep manly voice dramatically which instantly uplifted his mood making him chuckle at my etiquette.
It is necessary to freed ourselves away from the burden of past to live in present. Jerry is knowingly or unknowingly blaming himself for past. Maybe something in the past has to do with his behavior.
I'm glad, I could make him smile and I really wish this pure and kindhearted soul always stay happy and cherished in his life. Taking this thought in my mind, I went back to my work.
"Oh yes, you wanted to meet Grammy right." Jerry spoke breaking the thick layer of silence in the room; I stumbled over the chair with sudden jerk.
"Yes. Of course." I replied with the utmost amount of excitement, my exhausting body and perplexed mind could carry with a huge grin.
Jerry returned my grin with his smile, "You can meet her this weekend, if you're free." He announced, providing an increment in my excitement level.
"I would love to, if I'll be here." I mumbled. He mere nodded at my words while his face turned grim. I wonder why but shrugged that thought away while focusing my mind back to the work in front of me.
Once in a while my eyes drifted back toward the lavishing couch which was mutely inviting me but I cruelly denied its generous offer while my protesting back and heavy head were cursing me inwardly.
Jerry sat in front me, completely engrossed in his files. Or to be precise with the rough plan I prepared last night regarding this whole arrangement. I need to find that culprit and find him or her soon. This will be my freedom. Freedom from this:
Dreadful burden of my delinquency.
This rubbish of a deal.
This majestic mysterious place.
The omnipresent identity called A V.
And most importantly, my Gorgeous Saviour, Mr. Valentine.......
***
Sir GERARD's POV
There's a world of difference between truth and facts. Facts can obscure the truth.
Uncertainties and certainties have the same most exceptional similarity.
Uncertainties are part of the day on which you have no control on. But somehow this series of unexpected uncertain event has done something in the benefit of two astonished souls.
I'm perplexed with the recent events which have occurred around us during this small period of time. But what left me utterly flabbergasted is today's unexpected event. In the antiquity of time, we haven't experienced triggering of Alarm in Royal hall.
Keeping my dither at bay, I made my way back to the unexpected mystery awaiting at Majesty's floor when something important intercede my progressing steps. My mind locked itself with the sight of that eccentric wound on her neck. Giving to the thought of it being a bug bite, I shook my head instinctively, this was just a made up story to shut Niera's curiosity and worry away from it.
The wound wasn't ordinary. A bug bite can't be a cause for such severe wound, if felt so strange, so escalate and protrude.
My mind filled with different chaotic thoughts which were revolving around her obscure wound.
Anxiety started to crawl inside me but I dismissed it. The prime focus for now should be the cause which triggered the siren. From McCoy's source it was clear that the interruption were made on the top floor.
Giving in to the thought that no one is authorized to enter there, we made a certain assumption that this could be an outsider, who has an explicit knowledge of the entire floor and masters an uncanny ability to dodge not only our security system but also Banerjee's strong shield spell.
Indeed a strong super natural entity with unusual powers....
However, I refrain myself from creating an assumption before looking over to the vault and other crucial aspects.
Yet again, my mind drifted to the concern of my King, his state and condition when he is facing this all alone. It's his responsibility and throne has bound him to perform such crucial task which he has always hated.
He repels to be there alone; the haunting past always lurks around the place.
The ruined glimpses of the history are still buried alive round us in each brick of this tenacious in-frangible wall of honor.
Yet, I respect his decision to stay with Niera and console her. Leaving her alone in this bizarre wouldn't prove to be a right step at that time.
But now, I need to be with him as soon as possible.
"Revin, leave everything and stay with Niera, she is shaken up with the emergency siren. Don't leave until you're ordered otherwise." I mind linked Revin, Niera was overwhelmed when I saw her with Majesty in the conference room. She looked completely shaken up, alarmed with trembling limps but he calmed her securing her to his dear life, it was relief he was with her. It gave me a reason to smile through this bizarre, seeing him protecting her. I'm sure I'll have to face his wrath for this for which I'm prepared.
"Yes Sir, I'm on my way." He replied back through link. I was relieved about her for now but now I must head back to Majesty's floor. Taking this thought in mind, I made my way to Majesty's floor.
Since, Niera is safe on another floor; I opted to use my powers to reach there.
"Sir Gerard!" a loud shout from somewhere halted my further steps. Turning, I met with the bowing startled face of Brandon, who was for some reason panting. His palms were resting on his knees while he was struggling for breath. His frightened face and distraught form brought furrow lines on my forehead.
Turning completely, I gave him my complete attention. His panting was hard while he was juggling between forming words and providing sufficient amount of air to his tired lungs.
"Calm down Brandon." I said to his struggling form. He nodded instinctively at my words.
"Si-Sir Gerard, Prin-Princess-" His mere incoherent words were enough to shake up my remaining calmness. My resolves to stay calm broke down in that instance while Brandon struggled to complete his words.
"Princess-"
"What happened to her?" I could only alter; my mind was brimming with different negative thoughts corrupting my mental strength with concern and silent prayers for our Princess.
"Nothing, she is safe and sound." He grinned slightly with his soft pants.
I stayed rooted at my place, physically as well as mentally, completely baffled at his words.
After a moment of absolute bewilderment my stormy gaze met his gleaming eyes which manifested a proud spark in them.
Somewhat hollow!
"Brandon, have you lost yourself?!" I growled at him.
I silently thanked his lucky stars, as in the absence of Majesty. I couldn't even imagine what we would have witnessed in this short time between the completion of his sentence.
He must be already stressed with today's event. Brandon's words would only worsen his condition.
My stern gaze turned his proud eyes which turned into one of confusion. He scrunched his brows while tilting his head to side.
"Do you have the slightest idea what your incoherent babbling could have done to us. Thank your luck Majesty isn't here."
"I know. He isn't here." He replied with a new confidence in his voice. He stood straight regaining his composure. His hands wrapped strictly behind his back. His demeanor was attentive yet his eyes carried a frivolous hint.
His words brought a furrow line between my brows.
He isn't here?
"Care to explain, Brandon."
"Sir Gerard, Princess is in her Garden; Fergal is watching over her from distance and has assigned our warrior wolves in her protection. She is safe." He explained with an impassive professional tone. His eyes gazing straight with almost sincerity and seriousness in them. The early traces of playful humor are vanished replacing solemnity and probity.
"Majesty ordered me check on her and stay around her with protection till his next command. But once Fergal arrived there, he asked me to leave as he was ordered to stay with her. I was supposed to report here to you." He further gave an explanation. His explanation cleared a few of my query yet one part was missing completely.
"Where is Majesty?" I asked
"He isn't with you? That's strange. I thought he must be with you. Isn't he back?" he asked quizzically much to himself than me.
Where is he? For where did he left and when?
My distraught heart wanted to ask. But that wasn't what came out of my mouth. Instead, re-evaluating my answer, I asked, "Does she know about all this?"
"No Sir, she seems fine. I-I mean. I mean, she was looking normal, like always." He lowered his gaze, stealing his guilty stare from mine.
I could only nod at his words while a part of me was clouded with different emotions: worry, anxiety and most importantly stress.
"What exactly he said, Brandon?" I asked icily. I was walking over a thin line of patience and Brandon was unknowingly testing it with his uncanny idiocy.
Brandon visibly blanched at my cold words. Gulping, he answered, "He mind linked me, Sir. Commanding me to create a protection shield around her territory in Fergal's absence but once I reached there, she wasn't there so I checked around and found her in her garden. That's all. When I tried to mind link him, he blocked me out, in fact Fergal tried too but no reply from him." He answered with nervousness and sweat forming on his forehead.
I merely nodded.
Keeping my distraught thoughts behind the mask of my impassive face, I started to turn around, leaving for my destination. But once again, my steps were halted with Brandon's calling voice.
"Sir?" he called in a soft whisper. Sighing inwardly, I turned again to meet with a diffident wavering gaze from Brandon.
"Yes?" I gestured him to continue. Brandon approached me with timid unsure steps, his gaze not meeting mine. He stood there in front of me while fidgeting, passing his weight from on foot to another.
His demeanor was screaming his nervousness and diffidence.
"Si-Sir." He closed his eyes in exasperation, exhaling deeply, he stayed quiet for a moment collecting himself then continued, "Sir, I don't know whether I should say this or not. I guess I'm probably not the right person for this but-"
"Brandon, just spill out."
He cringed slightly before continuing, "I'm sorry Sir. But Serene have met Luna." He informed in a small voice, his gaze lowered whilst his voice wavering over his words.
It wasn't news for me as Niera has already told me about this matter and has given me another subject to brainstorm. But why Brandon is so afraid revealing their meet?
Might be because he is aware that Serene disrespected Majesty's command by meeting Niera.
The slight idea of realization smoothed the furrow lines from my face.
"I know about this Brandon." I stated nonchalantly, my eyes glanced toward my wrist. The time is running out for me.
His eyes widened at my revelation but soon he caught his expressions nodding instinctively.
"Is that al-"
"She is different after meeting Luna." Brandon cut me off in mid. His words robbed off my speech.
"What about her?"
"That I don't know but she isn't herself after meeting her. I-I tried to ask her but she shut me off completely." His meaning suddenly struck me hard.
The hidden meaning behind his diffidence and nervousness is now crystal clear to me. He wasn't worried to tell me Serene met Niera but he was worried about his Mate. There is something happened. Something between there interaction has happened.
But what? What has happened between the two?
I refrained myself from dropping into any presumption before personally meeting Serene and asking her. I once again gave a quick calculative stare toward Brandon. His breathing was shaking, clear signs of anxiousness. While his fists are clenching un-clenching steadily.
Clearly he doesn't know about this meet and their interaction. It'll be a futile attempt to put a harsh pressure on him.
"I wish to speak to her in two hours. Inform her to meet me-"
"I'm sorry Sir but she isn't in the state to meet anyone. S-she-" he halted his words with a shaky breath. The pain of his mate shutting him out is clear at his face. "She isn't responding to our bond. She has completely closed herself." Raw emotions flickered in his eyes at the mention of his mate.
I took a sharp intake of breath at Brandon's words. What could make a simple interaction to shake someone?
Then realization hit like an iron wall completely shaking my earlier assumptions.
It is about Niera! There is nothing simple with Niera. Nothing ordinary about her.....
Does it mean, the change has begun? Have They took the step?
"Where is Serene? I want to speak to her now!" I patiently waited for Brandon's reply but inside I was anything but.
He stole his gaze away from mine before answering, "Grammy's. She left last night without speaking, Veronica called to inform me that she is safe with Grammy and Grammy asked me to convey this to you as soon as I can. She mentioned this needs to be reach only to your ears only."
His words stunned me to the core; air was sucked out of my lungs in haste as I stood rooted at my place.
"I wanted to come earlier but Alpha Royce commanded me to protect the territory of Princess." He bowed in submission with the mention of Majesty and Princess.
I nodded at his excuse of the delay in conveying this message but I didn't heed any attention toward his incoherent babble. My mind was locked in deep thinking. So much has happened in one day.
"Brandon, I need to be somewhere right now. But this discussion between us, should stay between us." I sternly commanded him. All my desire to know this matter lost the importance within a moment.
"Serene, call Serene whenever she comes back." Saying this I turned.
"Won't you go to Grammy's to meet Se-" a raw wave of energy released from me and hit him hard shutting his mouth completely.
Stumbling, he caught the couch beside him to prevent from falling.
"My apologies, Sir. I di-" I heard his fading words while I teleport-ed to Majesty's floor using my powers. I was losing self control with each passing moment.
*~*~*
Once again I'm standing at the door steps of the foundation of your Kingdom.
The glory of past wasn't just ceased to our ancient castle.
But each brick of this building has also witness the change of time, the change of rule and the change of breeze.
Sighing, I refrained myself on dwelling over the dreadful glimpse of past and concentrated on the present. A part of me is still lost in the conversation happened with Brandon, sometime ago yet I forced myself to concentrate over the sight in front of me.
With determined steps, I made my way through the large tinted sapphire glass wall. Inside the eerie silence greeted me with a sullen icy layer of coldness. The huge Golden 'A V' is standing in the middle, as the center of dominance.
Strong, cold and dominating air surged through surrounding evidencing Majesty's presence here some time ago. My gaze sweeps around the entire hall which was cold and empty. With long strides, I went to the opposite corner from his large cabin.
Without giving much thought, I quickly strode toward the large mirror wall behind the exquisite enormous emblem 'A V'
The mirror is the reflection of our Identity, A V. The huge emblem's reflection is crystal clear in all its awestruck glory in the mirror. The power of supremacy and dominance were radiating through the symbol of strength and aura of eminence.
My eyes casted down and head bowed in total submission in front of the great glorious symbol.
Once in front of the mirror, I glance toward my own reflection in it.
Age is now visible at your face....
Placing my palm in front of me, I closed my eyes and let my powers to take over. In friction of moment, I felt a very familiar raw surge of pure energy revolving around. Opening my eyes, I saw my reflection again. But this time, a pair of deep red eye with purple iris was staring back to me through the mirror. My complexion was paler, almost porcelain. My real self was bared in front of our emblem.
Exhaling deeply, I pressed my right palm on the reflection of the filigree around. The mirror once reflecting my reflection, cracked with my touch. Shattering into tiny sharp pieces and granting me the passage to my destination.
The ancient vault of Royal...
Taking long strides, I made my way inside.
I marveled at the spell casted to keep the secrets hidden within a beguiling mysterious puzzle.
The large mahogany wall greeted me standing proud in service; I took a moment to stand and admire the graceful architecture which has the beguiling element to bewitch the beholder in its charm as well as deceit a nescient with its deceptive spell.
I marveled the artistic deception created by the Royal Guardians centuries ago which still held their enigmatic beauty.
I shook my head at the reminisce of Majestic's strict yet childish words of modifying the floor with change of time. The old aged building has witnessed the change during time.
The ancient reminisce of past blended with the modern culture of present to glorify the presence of hope. That's what it will be, that's what how I want it....
His exact words from past filled my mind with the hopeful glint of his eyes. I didn't said a word after that, his hopeful glint broke all my reasoning and arguments and I happily complied with his directions of renovating this ancient scrap of architecture in a well defined sophisticated vintage art.
I must agree, his idea didn't disappointed; in fact we all got a beautiful place which later became the guardian identity of our kingdom with the glorious shadow of past.
It was difficult for us yet he gave us strength while fighting his own insecurities.
Brushing off the thoughts, I entered the wide passage which light up in my presence, the dark gloaming spread around replaced by the illuminating light provided by the ceiling. The golden walls sparkling under the natural light from fire. The alluring pilasters bathed in gold are standing proud supporting the walls, sparkling like golden glitters.
Raising my head, my gaze captured the sight of exquisite chandelier on the ceiling. The master piece made of different crystals crafted and treasured in golden rods adorning the soft candles in it which were once used to lit up the passage. The sight is a living phenomenon of royalty.
The huge passage truly depicts the real sense of royalty which irks Majesty yet he couldn't change a single brick from it.
"What was the reason?" the eerie silence in the wide passage was pierced with a familiar inquisitive voice. Turning, I met with Theodore's observing dark brown eyes which were wandering around in pure excitement before bowing. He stopped at a few steps away from me, kept an appropriate distance from my surfacing powers.
I sigh inwardly at his curious hungry instinct to know everything happening around but I can't blame him, this part of the building is truly fascinating.
Old bricks holding deep secrets in their safe custody.
I shook my head at his loud query while shifting my gaze toward the old paintings lined up in a straight row adorning in the passage. Each one was exquisite than the other, the pure gold frames keeping them shielded from the outer climate saving the delicate reminisce from any harm.
"What?" He drew my attention back to him through his words. Glancing at the wide exquisite portrait one last time; I shifted my gaze at his face which held a deep furrow in it.
"I don't know, what was the reason Theodore." I announced verbally this time.
"What does it mean Sir Gerard, You don't know? You must be here with Alpha." He stated rather than asked, his voice exasperated with the lack of appropriate information which he needs.
"No, I wasn't here with him." I calmly replied to him, turning toward the next painting that caught my attention.
The portrait of a lady glancing at the deep ocean in front of her. Her back is facing us. Her face is hidden under the dark tendrils of her swaying hair. But one can judge the portrait and announce she is beautiful. A pure serene Beauty. Because the beauty is not the physical beauty but the real unblemished beauty is the artist who has created this precious piece of art.
Every painting here has a story to share, a tale which they need to tell yet unable.... Under the dust of time.....
"What?" I received his infuriated response. Theodore's voice dragged me out from the captivating spell of the portrait in front of me. Blinking, I restricted myself from staring at any painting through this passage.
"Yes, I was in the conference hall with Niera." I provided, sighing. Knowing very well Theodore won't stop his query until his demand won't satisfy.
As expected his eyes went wide at her mention, which soon turned impassive, keeping check on his expressions. His unwavering furrowed gaze silently asked me the reason.
Exhaling a deep sigh, I continued, "He ordered me stay with Niera until he could find the cause behind this. I was with her and once I drop her safely, I could only come here leaving Jerry to keep an eye over her." I gave him a brief explanation keeping my gaze on his face which seems to look lost in some trance.
"Majesty?" he probed.
"No. Alpha Royce." I answered providing him another reason to furrow.
"But why didn't he order someone else? He must have needed you here." His eyes carried a perplexed look with a visible hint of exasperation. Theodore is equally aware of Majesty's hate for this place and his eyes are showing me the mirror of his worry for our Majesty at the moment.
"Perhaps, he wasn't trusting anyone with her at that moment, Theodore. Niera was frightened at that moment."
He averted his eyes from mine to the painting to his side. "But he needed you more at that time." He murmured quietly.
Sadness sweep over my heart for a friction of a second before I repeated the same words that were an oasis to the desert of our lost hope, he did this for her... he is trying to break his guards... he is taking the steps.....
I knew very well, Theodore won't believe this; his heart is still not ready to accept her as his Queen. I gave a minute to this thought before refraining myself from diverting. "No, he doesn't need anyone, Theodore. Our King is strong." He merely nodded at my words with a glint of pride made an appearance in his eyes.
"So we don't know. But where is he, the other side?" I heard his query while I turned back to continue my walk toward the other end of passage.
I too want to know where he is and why he left.... Alone...
"No, he isn't the other side. Brandon informed he left once he opened the security blocks with siren. He has blocked the link so I have no news about him at the moment." I said without turning.
Behind me, I heard a rough sound which probably came from Theodore's throat. I can feel the burning desire in him to know the reason behind which bought him here knowing well enough that the end of this passage is prohibited for him to enter.
"He is impossible." He growled.
"He is Majesty." I retorted. He wasn't satisfied and my words weren't enough to provide him the equanimity he craves.
The firm rustlings of shoes heard behind me, indicating Theodore's confident strides from behind. I closed my eyes for a moment before taking a deep breath.
"Okay then. Let's get in." there was new rush of energy in his voice while his face was well schooled in impassiveness.
I knew my next words will despondent Theodore, yet the rules shouldn't be crossed. "I'm sorry Theodore but crossing the spell threshold without Majesty's presence will only worsen the situation. I would suggest you should wait for Majesty and cross the spell in his presence."
His face fall instantly, "Which would never happen." He murmured under his breath but very clear for a supernatural entity. He met my gaze earning a glare from me, apologetically he lowered his gaze.
"Have patience Theodore, everything will come on right time." I consoled.
"You're going inside?" he asked with a hopeful glint in his eyes.
Turning my gaze back to other side of the grand passage, I nodded silently. "Yes."
"I'll wait here." He announced dejected.
"No, I want you to go back and call Dexter. I wish to speak to him about something important. Will you do that for me?" I asked meeting his perplexed gaze.
"Of course." He nodded. Bowing, he left without giving a second glanced around, leaving me alone in the eerie silence.
Once again I was left alone in the company of nothing but the faint glimpses of past. Turning toward the other end of the Passage, I took a sharp breath, finding the courage and strength to cross the passage.
Without lurking my eyes over the enchanting walls and alluring paintings on them, I kept my gaze only on the other side and made my way.
With every step I took, the strong waves of energy started to rush past me. The layer of raw pure energy was getting stronger with the proximity of the Vault.
It's too far...
Once on the end of the tunnel, the energy was surfacing on its peak. Here ends one layer of protect over the vault and the beginning of another and much stronger layers initiates.
For a normal eye, there is nothing visible but yet again a normal eye can't stand here.
My stare meander over the clean shining floor below. My gaze constantly inspecting over the floor throughout the passage, trying to find any trace of intruder but met only with disappointment in return.
Mirrors, mirrors and mirrors. That's all was in this hall. From the high sky ceiling to the floor below the foot including the wall. Just Mirror.
It is another spell, the mirrors increase the intensity of shield casted over.
Sweeping my gaze around the crystal hall of mirror, I rigorously checked for any signs of intrusion but again found none. This entire hall is another piece of the maze. The maze of Mirrors......
Heightening my senses, I closed my eyes in concentration. I let my powers surge creating a shield around. A strong aura could only catch through the shield, a very familiar and strong aura. There was only one presence in this Mirror Hall some time back. Suddenly, the air was sucked out from my lungs in rush.
It was Majesty..... He himself was present here....
The recent revelation robbed off my speech leaving me in utter perplexity. I stood there in front of a mirror with flabbergasted face. Suddenly I was struck in middle of a bridge over a deep river with no possible ends to escape.
For a moment, I completely refuse to accept my own proclamation. I declared my own senses wrong, utter corrupt and faulty.
This can't be.... There must be something, someone else. He can't be... he won't...
While I was entirely riled up in dilemma of my own dense thoughts, a strong gust of energy rushed passed me, nearly shaking me in its intensity. The shield which I formed to defense myself in the presence of absolute energy was pierced, shattered in fragments.
*~*~*
The walls so familiar for years are now perceive a strange prison.
Today, the comfort of my own cabin seems to provide me an perturbing feeling. Standing in front of the royal Emblem, I let myself drown in the turmoil of my recent experience.
I'm completely lost. Giving our Emblem one last glance, I turned back toward my desk. The energy in me seems lost. Dragging myself to my Aaron chair, I let my body to sink into it while my mind was pleading for rest, which I was unable to provide. Closing my eyes, I leaned back collapsing. My mind drifted travelling far over the other side of the tunnel.
The darkness was lurking inside while we were searching in the light.....
The old delineate of the Royal Vault was resting in front of me in a file which I asked McCoy to present. Making absolutely no sense to me at the moment.
I eyed the file with no such interest. If we could see what the future will bring to us... only if we could....
A knock on the door pierced through my concentration.
"Come in." Sighing, I commanded to the person waiting outside.
"Si-Sir I-I -" came a quivering voice.
"Yes, Miss. Dovin." I asked placing the file back on desk and joining my palms. With quivering steps, she came inside and stood in front of desk, palpitating.
"I need to apologize for my-my behavior that day." She flounder, the guilt and fear were clear in her eyes. Lowering her gaze she sobbed silently while continuing, "I did-didn't meant a-any harm to her." She whispered softly.
I knew very well about what she was apologizing for but stayed silent to let her continue.
"I-I swear it was never my intention. But when sh-she-" she gave herself to sobbing. Her muffled cries were clear through her mouth covered with palm.
"Sit down Miss. Dovin." I softly said but she stood there sobbing, her body shaking with her cries.
"Miss. Dovin, sit down." I asked her again but again met with her muffled up cries.
"Mariyaa!" I called aloud; my mind was already chaotic with today's events.
"Mahriyah Sir, its Mahriyah." She corrected me through her hoarse voice. Even crying, this lady can't let anyone to mispronounce her name. I mentally sigh.
"Yes, Miss. Dovin, kindly take a seat and stop crying, if it isn't a big problem."
Nodding, she instantly jumped on the seat, fumbling on her heels while wiping her tears frequently with the back of her hand, simultaneously.
"Sorry Sir."
Nodding, I leaned back on my seat, leaving her to continue with her babbling.
"O-on that day, I didn't mean to harm her but when she disrespected Alpha, my wol-wolf couldn't take it and took over. I tried, I swear Sir. I didn't mean to attack her. Please forgive me." She finished in her wavering hoarse voice. Her face till now is completely flushed.
"Why are you apologizing to me?" I asked, providing my back moments of leisure.
She raised her quizzical flushed face to meet my gaze. It was clear; she didn't get the hidden meaning behind my words.
"It wasn't me whom you attack." I provided to her silent query.
"It was Miss. William to whom you should apologize."
My words made her jaws hit the floor; she sat there in utter shock with wide eyes.
"Miss. Dovin, I can understand the situation where your wolf, Tanima took that step but for once take a moment and think what your step would have done if Majesty hasn't interfered at that moment." I softly said, I knew very well she didn't mean any harm to Niera. I personally had taken a strict action against her, if I suspected that. But I knew what she did was her wolf's respect for Alpha.
A wolf can never hear their Alpha being insulted. Disrespecting their leader and king is insulting their family which is an unacceptable offence even done by a nescient human.
Miss. Dovin visibly blanched at my words, she gulped loudly. The strong wave of dread washed over me with repentance at mere thought while my soul pierced deep with grief for saying those words loud.
Her shoulders sagged while she lowered her gaze in guilt. I kept my face impassive while hiding my eyes from expressing my inner turmoil.
"Miss. Dovin, try to understand the girl is not from our world. For her, she was saying all this to an ordinary Entrepreneur who was trying to order her around." I tried to make her understand the well known fact.
She nodded at my words but seems completely lost in her on trail of thoughts.
"But Maje-Majesty, he must be very disappointed in me." She cried, silent tears were rolling down her face with soft whimpers from her wolf.
"No, he isn't." I stated the fact.
Alpha Royce was beyond furious at her behavior. Once, Niera is none other than his Mate and Alpha can't abide her in any danger and Miss. Dovin unknowingly triggered his possessive and protective part.
Secondly and most importantly, Niera is a human whose blood can bring a huge- my conscience wrenched at the thought. With every fiber in my soul, I thanked Goddess and divine spirits for saving the kingdom and our grace.
"But he was so fur-" she quietly confessed.
"You are breathing freely under this roof with no punishment waiting for you: is the proof he isn't furious at you nor disappointed in you." I couldn't help but replied icily giving her a disapproving glance.
She sat there absorbing my words while my eyes went to the wall clock. My attention went back to my King; his worry took over any mind leaving me tensed and anxious for him. My wavering gaze left the sight of distraught-ing clock and went back to Miss. Dovin who was looking composed by now.
"Thank you sir." She mumbled with a small smile while getting up.
"Miss. Dovin, I hope you know to whom you should apologize. Even if unintentional but still it was a mistake which should be rectified. Isn't it?" I asked her standing figure, my brow raised at her smiling face.
Her smile broadened at my words. Nodding enthusiastically, she replied, "Yes Sir, I'll apologize and make up to her. After all she is our guest." Her eyes sparkling with new found energy and hope.
The crying face got back her smile with a new brightening hope.
"Good day, Sir." Bowing, she left.
Once again the door closed leaving the same eerie silence with sullenness dominating in the massive room. My eyes and mind both refused to concentrate on anything else. Exhaling, I left the comfort of my chair to find the help of refreshing air. Straightening, my feet took me to the breathtaking view of nature providing a sense of belonging to his old soul.
Leaning, I let my eyes wander around the enthralling view of dark forest while my mind chose to stay in the worry of my Majesty. It's past afternoon, the sun is about to set and soon the dark sheet of murk will spread and cover us all in darkness. Yet there is no sign of him, no words from him. Sighing, I mind linked Theodore asking him about any news but my query only met with disappointment.
Where are you Majesty?
The soft sways of breeze touching my face like trying to solace me. I closed my eyes momentarily accepting the solace of nature, letting the burden on my shoulders to subside even for a brief fragment of the time.
My stiff muscles somehow found relief but it was just momentarily. Momentarily.....
Sighing, I opened my eyes. The soft breeze with the faint aroma of pristine nature surrounding with peace. But it was all vanishes once I raised my head to the high sky. My eyes widen with each muscles stiffed.
The limitless sky above us was proclaiming a anomalous view.
Without giving a second glance, I shifted my wide eyes from the sky to the wide spread wild forest below. Taking a deep breath, I took out my phone from pocket and dialed a number who should be involved.
The device worked efficiently under my fingertips, quick and attentively which this situation requires. Dialing the number, I placed the device on my ears listening to the ringing coming from it while again raising my eyes to the limitless blue sky and the clouds.
"Hello." I initiated once the call was picked, waiting for cold clipped voice in a very decent British accent.
"Sir Gerard, what an honor?" the familiar voice from the other side greeted me in a crisp business tone.
"Such a lovely day. Isn't it?"
"Indeed it was." He replied stressing over the word 'was'.
Not paying any heed to his sarcastic remark, I continued, "How are you, my honorable friend?"
"Fine till now, I'm not sure for the rest as your next words will determine." Came a crisp reply. I suddenly felt a strong urge to roll my eyes. The person with me on the line isn't an ordinary employee working under A V Inc. But the Royal Guardian of Kingdom. But sometimes his cold shoulder toward this place leaves me in great astonishment.
For a moment I closed my eyes to gather the remaining fragments of energy to continue this conversation.
"Well, that very thoughtful, I must say."
"Is it? Mmm..."
"Yes. Now if you allow me, I would like to tell you the reason behind my phone call. I hope I didn't disturb your mental peace."
"No. Sir Gerard. No. Please go ahead. I'm curious to know." He replied, I realized a hint of arrogant curiosity in his voice.
"I want You here." I stated simply. But this decision was anything but.
"May I have the luxury to ask why?"
"Certainly, you have."
"Then please enlighten me." I could imagination a wide smile plastered on his elegant features.
"The Security has been compromised." I altered after a moment of pause.
He was silent for a second before his reply, "Then I believe the person responsible behind the arrangements must be questioned and culprit should be punished, rather impaled in royal terms, if you ask for my advice."
"Well let me rephrase this, the security of the Vault in Fortress has been compromised."
A thick layer of silence dangled in the air between us. Moments passed without a single syllable altered in between. But somehow this wasn't comfortable, it was far from comfortable. It held desperation, anxiety, consternation against it which was increasing with each passing moment.
For a second, I wondered if the call has been disconnected but before I could remove the device from my ear to check the screen, my eyes heard a sharp intake of breath.
Yes, the call is still connected and the person on the other side has received my message and words have been conveyed in the right sense.
I waited for a reaction, any words, any query from him but met only with utter silence. Only an occasion rustling of paper on the desk made a simple attempt to remind me of his presence there.
"Oh, well then you should investigate this matter. It isn't something small." He persisted with equanimity laced in his voice.
"No, it isn't. That's why I called you."
"The security breach in Fortress can be monitored and fixed by you. It's simple as that. Why want my presence there?" he whispered in his deep voice. Agitation was clear to sense in his voice. I sigh internally.
Great! This should work.
Well, I tempted over the thought whether to open this on a simple device or not but decided otherwise. The fragile piece of information of utmost important of the kingdom shouldn't be disclosed on phone but it should be in private, in complete security.
"Trust me on this, my friend. It is important. Your presence is not wanted but needed here. I hope you can understand the depth of this matter."
"I'm sorry but I'm unable to find the depth in this matter. For god's sake, Sir Gerard I'm the Royal Guardian. This is not my Onus. This is your Job. Your responsibility." His tone left the criteria of what we call decency till his last words leaving at an agitated note.
"Where you're my friend, where you're right now?" I uttered as calmly as this situation was allowing me to.
"I believe at this hour of the day one should be in his office."
"Yes. One should and I suppose you too are. Where you are right now, if I may ask?"
"In my cabin." Bafflement was clear in his voice.
"Please grace your in-suit Balcony with your gracious presence."
"May I as-"
"Just do, you'll find the reason and the urgency behind my request." I asked him in a stern no nonsense tone.
The next few seconds passed with faint rustlings from the surrounding, then boots making their way to the balcony area, apparently.
"Yes, Sir Gerard. I'm here. Now please enlighten me why my presence is needed in the kingdom."
"Let your power surface."
"What?"
"Give yourself to them." I heard a sharp intake of breath.
"Yes."
"Now look at the sky."
A moment later.
"I'll be there by midnight." The call was cut. My eyes still fixed at the sky which was nearly proclaiming The Beginning....
***
February 8, 2017
I hope this LONG chapter has left you to brainstorm just like Sir Gerard and me.
Well then, I should leave you here to think, think and think till Sir Gerard finds an answer for us.
Till then, I hope you enjoyed this chapter.
Don't forget to Vote, Comment and Share.
Thank you...
Neelam