Page 14 of Binding Fate

“I appreciate your hard-work and effort. In fact, I am grateful to all of you,” Alzerion proclaimed while looking around at the whole group.

“Why don’t we make our way back?” Quairken placed an arm behind Alzerion and ushered him. “Would you like me to hold Aironell for a bit?”

“Thank you, but I think I’ll keep carrying her. She is sleeping and I don’t want her to wake until I get her home.”

Quairken nodded and then he led the army back to the palace. As they walked, Quairken kept glancing, sideways, checking on Alzerion. His gaze was like a ghost. It was like he was there but not, like there was a vacancy.

“Alzerion, are you alright?” He had to know. He felt like he would burst from the sounds of the boots hitting stones.

“Of course.”

Quairken scrutinized Alzerion as they continued the trek back to the palace. He did not believe Alzerion.

With eyes furrowed, Quairken asked, “Are you sure?”

“Quairken, I appreciate your concern; but I don’t want to talk about it. It was quite a trying day.”

Quairken cocked his head back a bit, then bit at his cheek. He took a breath and said, “Of course. I-I hope you realize that the king and queen have been so worried. You may not owe me an explanation but you sure owe them one.” He hoped he didn’t sound too hurt, but Alzerion’s comment stung a bit.

“Thank you for the warning.” Alzerion kicked the last pebbles before they headed onto the dirt path ahead of them. “I’m just not in the mood for an interrogation. I know how that must sound.”

“Well, if it helps, I won’t do that to you. I mean technically, you’re my superior,” he replied with a little laugh as he clapped Alzerion on the back.

“That is true. Weird but true,” laughed Alzerion.

“I know things don’t always make sense, but I trust the king’s judgment. What’s more, I trust you.” Alzerion stopped and stared.

“What’s the matter?”

“Thank you. It means a lot to know I have such strong allies.”

“I will always have your back. Let’s keep moving. The sooner we get you guys back the happier the king and queen will be. Plus, I know I’m beat so I know the rest of the men would love to get some rest.”

They continued up the dirt paths. When they reached the palace, the Royal Army headed to their quarters. Quairken looked at Alzerion, patted his shoulder, and strolled into the palace toward his room with Isabella.

Alzerion walked through the big front doors with Aironell. He followed West Wing corridor and approached the king and queen’s bed chamber. Then he adjusted Aironell in his arms, knocked on the door, and waited.

“Enter,” came King Francisco’s deep, commanding voice.

Alzerion ambled into the room and then stood before their bed. He stood like a statue next to a circular table maybe two feet from their bed.

“Alzerion…Aironell you’re safe!” The Queen shrieked.

She stood up in her floor-length emerald green silk and lace nightgown and bolted toward them. She took Aironell, hugged and kissed her, and then hugged Alzerion. The king, in turn, embraced his daughter.

“I’m pleased that you two are alright, but my wife and I were very worried,” he said with narrowed eyes and a deep tone.

“I could only imagine. I’m very sorry,” Alzerion apologized. He watched as they couldn’t take their eyes off of Aironell. “I know you both must be very angry, but I assure you that my goal wasn’t to worry you.”

“Alzerion,” the king sighed. “It has been a long day, and yes we are upset, but we should all get some rest.” Alzerion watched as the king smiled at Aironell and rubbed her back.

“Tomorrow,” the king continued as he shifted his gaze back to Alzerion. “Tomorrow you can tell us what happened and where you were.”

“I think that is a great idea,” the queen chimed in as she looked up for the first time since they entered the room.

“Very well,” Alzerion said as he moved a bit closer. “I’ll put Aironell to bed. Then tomorrow we will both be clean and well rested.”

The queen was a bit hesitant, but then she kissed Aironell on the forehead and handed her to Alzerion. “Please gostraightto her room.”

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