Consequence

Overexerted, Chastain dropped her face to her hands and wept.

The woman dropped down next to Chastain, lifting her chin. “Come, little one. Let’s find you a chamber and get you warm. Are you a Dread seeking the sanctuary of the Hideout?”

Chastain shook her head.

Margaret put an arm around Chastain’s shoulders and began turning her.

As if a wild redhead child appearing at their gate was the most natural thing in the world.

Chastain lifted her gaze to the rising sun. It warmed her face within the beautiful garden.

Chavias knew that look. Her soul is calm now. Peaceful.

“I-I-” Chastain stuttered to explain why she was there.

The older woman hushed the stuttering words. “No need, Love. Some things go without being said…” She smiled softly. “My name’s Margaret.”

Chastain lifted sorrow-filled eyes and a hesitant smile turned her lips.

Margaret offered her hand.

Taking it hesitantly, Chastain’s hand wrapped hers.

“What is it Dear? It’s only a hand.”

“No one but my sisters have offered me one afore.”

The woman clucked. “Then it’s high time.”

Chastain sobbed.

“You cry, Love.” Margaret encouraged. “It seems you could use a good one.”

Margaret’s hand was soft and comforting as she led Chastain up a barren staircase. “These rooms are slight and cold. But I’m afraid there all we have.”

Chavias haunted the steps behind them. Wanting to tell the girl goodbye. It meant alot she trusted me enough to sacrifice everyone and everything she knew to believe in me.

“They’re far warmer than what I’ve known.”

“They are?” Margaret asked softly. Expression worried.

The girl’s sad eyes fell.

Margaret regretted the question she’d asked. “Shall we see if we can find you a warming block?”

Chastain’s voice was choked. “Thank you. Thank you so much!”

The other woman materialized in the doorway. Offering a calm smile. “My name is Agatha Dear.”

Working together, they fetched her a block from the fireplace on the lower level.

Chastain collapsed onto the soft cot. Hearing the crunch of rushes under her.

Upon returning, Margaret sat on the edge of the cot and tenderly caressed Chastain’s curling locks while the other woman carefully tucked the covered block under the blankets.

Chastain pressed her feet to them and wrapped her arms around her body. Only moments later she surrendered to blissful sleep.

A smile danced about both women’s lips as they exited the chamber. “She came.”

“And you said she wouldn’t.” Mags said.

“There are still rare occasions when I’m wrong.”

“Do you think he sent her here?”

Acharius. Far from. Chavias smiled at their backs.

“I don’t think so.” Agatha shook her head. “If he didn’t, what will he think of her being here?”

“He won’t want her to know about all of it. About him.”

“Then we shan’t tell her.”

“Agreed.” Mags nodded decisively.

Wise decision. Chavias turned back to look down at the little girl.

“Goodnight and goodbye sweet one.” He brushed knuckles over her cheek. “Sleep well and be safe.”

“Thank you.” She murmured sleepily. “Chavias...”

Stone Peak, Black Mountains, Battling Border

“How could you let this happen?” Radix pointed a gnarled finger at her.

“Me?” Udora asked, petrified.

“I thought your spells kept them from leaving?” He murmured thoughtfully. Beginning to pace the caverns.

“Someone showed them how to get passed my magic. They couldn’t have done it without help! Who could do that?”

“You!” He spat.

“Why would I save the children?” She squawked. “You know I hate them. I’ve thrived every moment in knowing the last of the little watchers would soon die.” She gestured wildly. “I was near to breaking that littlest one as you asked. The one with visions.”

“Why was it not done already?”

“You said it was best to crush their spirits first before you consumed their souls…”

He growled in his throat recalling the words. “Dread Wench! You failed me!” He continued his rant. “I should burn you alive.”

“No, My Lord!” She threw herself at his feet. “Please do not. I’d do anything. You’re the one who loves me. I’d do anything you asked of me! I’d never betray you.”

“I have heard that from women before.”

“But none such as me.” She pleaded. “What would you have of me?” She quickly unbuttoned her dress, tugging the sleeves down to expose herself to his roving eyes.

“I-I…You know I’m yours!” She proclaimed. Tossing her head back to expose her neck.

A neck Radix was sorely tempted to slit just now. “Fool woman! You’ll be punished for their loss. Today has cost me greatly.”

She nodded emphatically. “I understand.”

“Okine.” He shouted.

Making Udora’s eyes dart nervously. “No.” She shook her head fervently. Clutching the edges of her dress in an effort to cover herself. “Not that.” She wailed.

“Okine!” He shouted again. Summoning the giant who lumbered into the cavern. Thick hammer in hand. He wore only a strip of leather to cover himself. And a strap over his torso that he could sling his hammer through when the want arose. His skin was pale green, and he was wound all over with thick muscle from his years as a blacksmith before becoming Cimmerii. He was massive.

“Take her, Okine.” Radix almost pitied her, had he been capable, before giving a dismissing wave. “Take her Okine. You may have her.”

“No!” She cried. Reaching out for Radix as Okine, cackling, circled a crushing arm around her waist and ribs. Lifting her from the floor. “Please!” She cried.

Radix looked over his shoulder dispassionately. “We shall see if there is enough of you left to forgive when he is done.”