Later that day, we arrive to the outskirts of Torville, and quickly, we fall back into our same routine as in Kilkwood and Olnfield. Arabelle and Kesuk head into town to seek more allies, and the rest of us remain behind to practice self-defense. I am physically and mentally able to handle the knife better during each practice session with Kesuk, and now feel fairly sufficient wielding it. Asteria's magical abilities become greater and more controlled as she practices. I wait in anxious anticipation for my mother and sister to appear, but strangely all remains calm. If anything, my hope for the future grows. I begin to feel that we may actually stand a chance at making this coup a success.
My relationship with Asteria, however, is stagnant. Though no longer angry with each other, awkwardness still lingers. We have not mentioned the evening we shared together since that cold night, but I can tell it has altered our relationship. Our touches are becoming more frequent, and I find it even harder to distance myself from her than before. Asteria does not call me out for acting more affectionate, nor does she push, but it is clear we exist somewhere in between a regular friendship and a love affair.
One afternoon, I spar with Asteria after her magic training, and I see now the effects that it has on her energy. It is becoming harder to beat her, and today, it feels like she has the force of ten men as we practice together. She has much more control over her magic now, knowing precisely how to use it to increase her physical abilities and not feel drained. I duck and dodge, but even then, Asteria still manages to get a few punches in.
Out of breath, I pause our match and hold my hands to my knees.
"You're getting strong," I say.
"I see now why my father wanted Stephan and I to use magic so much," Asteria says, flexing her fingers. She holds out her hand to help me stand. "Why don't we go back? Kesuk and Arabelle should be returning soon."
I nod, reluctantly letting go of her hand once I stand upright. As we walk in the silence, I wonder if now would be a good time to let her know I've had to tell Kesuk and Vasa of our love affair. It has been weighing over me for days, but I've been too nervous to admit it to her, worrying she'll be angered with me for telling. Thankfully, Vasa and Kesuk have maintained their silence, though I am increasingly annoyed by their teasing glances when we are together, and I have been subjected to more lectures than ever about how I cannot let my personal feelings for the princess affect our plans.
"Something wrong?" Asteria asks, noticing my silence.
I want to tell her then, but fear grasps hold of me. I shake my head. "I still worry about my mother and sister."
"I think if they had pursued us, they would've found you by now," Asteria says. "But I understand. If they came here, would you have the strength to fight them?"
Her questions makes my blood run cold. "I hope so," I reply, "but I fear them, too." I hug my arms to my body, beginning to wonder if my mother's manipulation tactics would still work after all this time. Fleeing Landiani was a coward's way out. I could not stand confronting her when we lived together.
"You are stronger now than you were back then," Asteria says. "And you are not alone either."
I manage a weak smile. "True. Thank you."
We arrive back to camp just as Arabelle and Kesuk are returning from Torville. As is tradition at this point, we gather around them, awaiting a status update.
"Our numbers are continuing to grow gradually," Kesuk says. "Although not as fast as we had hoped."
My heart sinks. I was happy to see us gaining numbers steadily in Olnfield, but our run-in with my family caused us to flee prematurely. I hope no one resents me for moving our efforts southward, where word has not spread as much about the coup.
"Tell them what you heard, though," Arabelle murmurs to Kesuk.
Kesuk appears nervous, but he nods. "From the few allies we have made in Torville, one of them explained to me that there is going to be a rebel gathering tonight in the cellar of a popular bar. This ally in particular recommended the princess be in attendance."
"Absolutely not," Alba interjects. "Our job is to keep the princess safe."
"Let him continue, Alba," Asteria says, clearly intrigued.
"Our numbers have not been growing as much as we've liked. Though we can send messages to our current allies and ask them to spread the word, I fear the only way to truly rally the crowds and gain numbers is for you to come forward and make your stance known, Asteria. I know you've stopped conversing with Magewell, but you are not confirmed to be on either side of this cause. I think if you came tonight, not only would we be able to gain the support of many citizens of Torville, but probably those throughout the empire, too. Would you be willing to speak tonight?"
"Yes," Asteria says without a moment's hesitation.
"I think this is too dangerous," I argue. "How do we know these rebels won't attack Asteria? Or what if this is some set-up by local soldiers to capture us and the princess?"
"I cannot guarantee that isn't true," Kesuk says. "However, I think the benefits outweigh the disadvantages."
"I want to go, Fetia," Asteria says. "Kesuk is right that eventually I do need to make my stance public."
"If word gets out, you will become an enemy to Magnuvia," Alba warns.
"I was prepared for that once I joined Fetia's cause," Asteria says.
"Then...I'm coming with you tonight," I say.
Vasa's eyes narrow. "Fetia, are you mad? Your wanted poster must be all over every town. It's more likely you will be arrested and killed than the princess."
"I'm not letting her go alone," I argue. Silently, I think of my promise to protect Asteria.
"Are you sure?" Kesuk asks. "Our efforts need to be protecting the princess. If you think coming along will impede tonight's goalâ"
"I will keep hidden," I say, "but I want to be there. Asteria needs as many of us there as possible in case something happens."
Kesuk nods. "Very well. Then let's discuss a plan for the evening."
We spend the next several minutes in conversation, deciding that Kesuk, Arabelle, Asteria, and her guards will be in attendance. Meanwhile, I will attempt to hide in the shadows and not draw any attention to myself. Alba and Vasa will remain on the outskirts of town with our supplies, ready to aid or flee if something happens. My stomach is twisted in knots thinking of how much could go wrong tonight, but I know inwardly that this will be our best chance for garnering the support we need.
I wait with the others until nightfall, then don dark cloathing and a hooded cloak. Vasa gives me a tight hug as I leave.
"Stay safe," he murmurs. "And whatever happens, remember that you matter just as much as the princess."
I nod. "Thank you. Take care, too. We'll be back this evening in good shape, I'm sure of it."
Vasa nods, although uncertainy lingers in my words and his gaze.
"Are you ready?" Asteria asks as I meet her near the edge of camp.
I nod and feel for the knife on my belt. "Yes."
"Let's head off, then," Kesuk says. As we trudge through the forest, he rehearses the plan once more to me. "The bartender requests Arabelle and I enter through the front and provide him a passcode. There is an entrance to the cellar behind the bar where I will fetch the princess and Fetia from. In the meantime, I need you four to not draw too much attention." Kesuk glances at me, the princess, and her guards.
"I think having Magnuvian guards nearby will lessen suspicion while we wait," I say.
"Still, keep hidden as best you can," Kesuk warns.
As the forest starts to give way to Torville, I am given a proper glimpse at the Flumensian town. It is much smaller than the city of Fehrbridge, but the architecture is the same. Brick buildings and cobblestone streets line the rolling hills of Flumensia's countryside. Flickering lampposts stretch into the distance, bringing just enough light to navigate the streets but dim enough for us to move slyly.
"Follow me to the bar. Then, I'll tell you where to go," Kesuk says.
I nod and keep my space from Kesuk and Arabelle, standing nearer to Asteria's guards. The streets are fairly empty, with an automobile only passing every few minutes. Though not as cold as the evening we first arrived to the area, it is clear everyone would rather remain warm inside on a winter night like tonight.
We walk a few more blocks, then Kesuk comes to abrupt halt. I glance up, seeing Magnuvian soldiers situated at a street corner ahead. Kesuk quickly motions us into a nearby alley.
"I think Arabelle and I will take it from here. Go down this alley, and make a left to the back of a gray building. There will be a set of raised wooden doors on the ground, which will lead you to the cellar. It will be locked, but I will come and unlock it," Kesuk says. "I hate that we have to part here, but we can't risk those soldiers seeing you."
I nod. "Understood. Stay safe, and we'll see you soon."
Kesuk and Arabelle leave us then. Though fear begins to invade my body now that Kesuk is gone, I know I must lead the princess to safety. I heed Kesuk's instructions. It is hard to make out the color of the buildings in the darkness, but I head down the alley towards the next street opening and make a left. In the distance, I see the gray building he mentions. If the color were not enough for me to confirm it's the bar, the sound of drunken chatter inside certainly does.
I lead us down the alley behind the building and find the cellar doors Kesuk describes. Asteria sighs in relief at the sight of them, and for the next few minutes, we linger. My heart quickens each additional minute that Kesuk does not appear. At one point, I hear the sound of soldiers laughing and chatting as they leave the bar. I press up flat against the wall, hissing to Asteria to do the same. The soldiers spot Asteria's guards as they pass, but in the darkness, they can't tell the different between a royal guard and a soldier. Asteria's guards and the soldiers give a brief wave of acknowledgment before the soldiers continue on. I catch my breath once more.
"Kesuk is taking his time," I grumble annoyingly.
As if on cue, the doors beside us begin to shake. I tell Asteria to get behind me, but as they open, it is only Kesuk down below, motioning us forward. I move through first while Asteria and her guards follow behind.
The staircase downward is steep and difficult to navigate. Asteria grasps the back of my cloak to steady herself, until eventually, we come to the bottom of a long passageway. Light floods through the hallway, leading to the bar's cellar. I can hear low rambling in the distance, and as we near the entrance, Kesuk tells us to halt. I glance past his shoulders, seeing the set-up of the gathering. Crates have been pushed to the side, and tables line the cellar floor instead. A slew of rebels opposed to Magnuvia's rule sit and drink as another rebel speaks.
"Wait here. I will call the princess when it is time," Kesuk whispers before stepping out of the hallway and into the cellar.
In the corner, I spot Arabelle at a table, sipping on a drink. My gaze locks on her. I am still not convinced she won't try to escape at any given moment.
"Ah, and there he is," the man speaking says as Kesuk re-emerges.
I press against the wall, doing my best to keep hidden as I take in the scene. Kesuk greets the other rebels kindly and introduces himself.
"Hello. I have had the pleasure of meeting a few of you already, but I will reintroduce myself. My name is Kesuk. I come from Kilaun in Kilneu. I have been working with several allies across the Empire who intend to put an end to Magnuvia's reign over us," he says. Cheers echo as he speaks. I begin to worry a soldier on the street will hear the applause, but with the bar chatter so loud above us, I realize now why the establishment is an excellent place for scheming.
"I am sure you may be skeptical as to why this plan has a better chance of success than others you may have heard of or partaken in. I have brought a special guest here who is willing to explain better than myself. May I introduce Asteria, Princess of Magnuvia!"
The crowd falls silent, and Asteria cautiously steps forward, her guards following behind her. As she comes into view, a chorus of both cheers and boos resounds across the area. I grasp onto my knife as a precaution, but those that are displeased by the princess only seem to scowl rather than attempt to attack her. I expect Asteria to flinch at their harsh words, but she stands calmly and proudly, and I find my admiration for her growing.
"Thank you," Asteria murmurs to Kesuk before turning to the crowd. "I know that my appearance may be a shock to many of you, and I understand it upsets several of you as well. I do not blame you for it. My country has caused great harm to your own, as well as the other nations we have colonized. I see the wrong in our actions, and I want to right it. Perhaps many of you have heard rumors of my affilitation with a group of rebels, but here is your verbal confirmation on my stance now. I do not agree with colonization. I do not agree with my brother's regime. The crown once rightfully belonged to me, and once I reclaim it, I will immediately free our neighboring countries from Magnuvia's rule. Our plan is this â once we receive enough support from allies across the empire, we are going to march on Magewell and stage a coup de taut. Those who cannot be there with us on that day will stage their own simultaneous rebellions across the empire. We believe this will be the best way to guarantee the coup's success."
I wince in preparation for the crowd's response, but mainly cheers of support echo through the crowd. As I glance around, I see questioning looks on some people's faces. Eventually, a man in the audience speaks up.
"How can we trust you?!" he calls out. "Who's to say you fall back on your promises once you wear the crown?"
"What if this is only a ploy?" another woman asks. "We want to be removed from Magnuvian politics, not involved in them."
"I wish there was something I could provide as proof of my promises," Asteria says. "Unfortunately, all I can ask is for your trust. I too have been wronged by the regime. My father exiled me away for many years. I have had my crown stripped from me, and in that time, I've seen the wrongs of my brother's rule. It isn't fair or sustainable for Magnuvia to continue ruling through colonization, and I want to use my power for justice."
More claps resound, and a slight smile forms on my lips.
"What about the state of your country after the coup?" someone calls. "If you won't be stealing magic from us, where will you be gathering it from?"
"My country will suffer an immeasurable loss of productivity," Asteria says. "I'm aware and prepared for that. The scorn my Magnuvian residents will have is a problem for me to deal with alone, not those of you who have suffered enough already. Once I am queen, I will withdraw soldiers from your countries immediately and allow you to replenish the magic stocks we have been unfairly taking advantage of for decades. In the meantime, I intend to naturally replenish Magnuvia's magic stock by replanting our forests again. It will take many years to return the forests to what they once were, but we can no longer rely on stealing the magic of the countries around us."
"Are we sure this isn't just a scheme for the princess to get revenge on us after the king's death?" someone else shouts.
Asteria takes a deep breath. "I cannot say I am happy about my father's murder. He was a poor ruler, but I still mourned his death. My hope is with this coup, we can convince King Stephan to step down, rather than take his life. I promise you that despite the crimes committed against my family, I do not seek equal retribution in return. I do not want the evils of my father and brother's regime to live on, which is why I ask for your support now. Please, consider joining our cause."
Kesuk speaks up now. "I believe allying with Asteria is our best method to free us from colonization. She has told me and our other allies of how advantageous Magnuvian weapons and soldiers are. Smaller rebellions will easily be quashed, but an event of this magnitude may leave us with a chance. I think we should take it."
Cheers of support shout through the air. I keep my gaze fixated on the crowd, happy to find more people beginning to nod in agreement.
Out of the corner of my eye, I see movement near the steps that lead up to the bar. Two figures, clearly female, ascend up the stairs, and as one turns her head, I freeze with recognition. I quickly rush down the hallway and back up the steps we came from. It is risky leaving the princess on her own, but I have to hope that her guards and Kesuk will protect her if something happens.
I quickly open the cellar doors I entered from and find myself back in the alley behind the bar. I only make it a few paces before the two women in question run down the same alley and halt near me.
"What are you doing here?" I growl.
"Hello, Fetia. Why am I not surprised to see you here?" comes a chilling, sadistic tone. I can make out my mother's cruel smile even in the nighttime. She wears the same cloak I saw her in only a few days ago, when we fled from Olnfield. Beside her, Kiana seems less excited to see me. Disappoint reflects in her eyes. She had hoped our paths would not cross. Inching closer, I see under the lamplight that her eyes finally reflect the same flames of revenge as my mother.
"You saw me in Olnfield," I realize. "You pursued us here."
"Not immediately," my mother says. "But it was obvious your next target was going to be Torville. I have to say, it is impressive you have the princess on your side now. I only wish you had shown such dedication when you were in Esterpool."
My fingers tremble, and I reach for the knife at my belt. My mother chuckles as I hold it out to her in fear.
"I see you still have not managed to use that knife," she says. It scares me how quickly she recognizes it. "How easy it would be to take that from you and kill the princess right now since you could not finish the job all those months ago."
"I will not allow you to harm the princess," I growl. "She is on our side now. Besides, she wants the same as you two."
My mother's laughter echoes through the air. "She does not want her brother to die nor herself. That is where we differ. You are a foolish girl, Fetia. Now, why don't you put that knife away so that we can have a conversation? It has been a long time since we have been in the same space."
I gently slip the knife back into my belt but keep a grasp on its handle, not trusting my mother's words.
"So where have you two been all this time?" I ask. "Olnfield?"
"We had no choice but to relocate after you fled Landiani," my mother says. "I expected you'd be caught and would easily give up our location to a soldier. Remember Serene, that ally in Olnfield we were in contact with? She graciously took us in, and we've been conducting operations from there ever since. However, I'm surprised you even made it past the Landiani border."
"I have allies now," I say. "People who believe in me - the princess included."
"As do we," Kiana says. She holds out her left hand, and it is then I notice the sparkling ring attached to her ring finger.
"What?" I ask, dumbfounded.
"Serene got us into contact with Christopher," Kiana explains, and I easily recall how he was the half-Landiani royal advisor that my mother was hoping she could use to access the castle. "I've become 'engaged' to him so that he may feed us information more reasily. Once we are wed, we'll receive access to the castle and finish the job you neglected the first time."
My blood runs cold at these words. I had always hoped this alliance would never go through, but now my mother and sister have as a good of a chance at accessing Magewell Castle as ever.
"However, it was difficult to learn what was going on because the princess has been absent from Magewell as of late," my mother says. "It was Kiana's fiancé who fed us the information that the princess had taken off to Flumensia and hadn't returned. Kiana suspected that you had something to do with it. Then, the rumors began spreading around Olnfield of a coup de taut, led by a group of rebels. I didn't have to wonder long who would be the leader of such a plan."
I seethe at their words, wondering how stupid I could be to think that we stood a chance at outsmarting my mother and sister. However, my lips suddenly curl into a smile with realization.
"And is there a reason you're telling me all this? Should this not be kept a secret? Don't you think I have an advantage against you now?" I ask.
My mother leans close to me. Her hot breath against my ear sends shivers down her spine. "I do not think it will matter much longer."
I stare up at her in fear. "What do you mean?" I ask.
"It's quite a blessing what you've done. You've made our work easier, Fetia. The soldiers will deal with Asteria's death now that she has sworn off allegiance to her brother."
"What did you do?" I ask quietly.
My mother says nothing.
"The soldiers. Are they coming?" I realize.
"In a few minutes," Kiana murmurs. Her word of warning takes her by surprise, and I can tell by my mother's glare she was not supposed to share that fact.
I let out a scream of anguish and reach for my knife again. "I won't hesitate to fight," I snarl.
"Neither will we," Kiana says, as they both hold out knives of their own. I think of her chilling warning back when I left Landiani, about how she and Mama would not hesitate to take me down if I stood in their way. However, I no longer care.
"I won't let you harm Asteria," I say. "I will continue to choose her, again and again."
"Then you are a fool," my mother hisses. "She will be the cause of your own demise."
"I'd rather die with her, then," I say.
It is then that I see my mother's eyes light up in scary realization. She lowers her knife slowly and stares at me concernedly. "Fetia, don't tell me you have feelings for the princess..."
There is no time to answer because suddenly, soldiers begin parading down the street. I break apart from my mother and sister, thankful we are not noticed in their march. I glance down at the cellar, knowing that soldiers will appear soon.
My mother notices my hesitation. "The clock is ticking. What will you decide, I wonder? Kill us? Or protect the princess?" "
I long to engage with my mother and sister then, but time is precious, and I know that they will want to protect their own skin.
"Mark my words, I won't let you succeed," I hiss before breaking away from them and heading back down the stairs that lead to the cellar. I worry that they will pursue, but glancing back at my mother and sister, they merely flee into the night.