My choices spun in my head into a frenzied web of confusion. It was an impasse with no compromise. If I stayed in Ixia, my family as well as I would be prosecuted. Sitia would not be too kind towards the clan of a traitor. All the same, if I were to return to Sitia, Ixians would be more than hostile towards magic. It would be the end to compromise between the two countries.
Commander Ambrose entered my thoughts in a jolt. I wouldn't be safe here either. The commander would easily trade me off for the sake of his country. Then where would I be?
"I wouldn't exactly be safe here would I?" I asked Valek.
Valek smiled sadly, "No. Few trust you here and it would be dangerous for anyone close to you."
He caressed my face softly and murmured, "You should go now."
I nodded and swung my legs over the edge of the bed. Darting to my room, I packed only the necessities.
The commander surveyed us with cold eyes.
"Yelena, you do realize what I will have to do after you leave?"
"I do, sir."
"The second you exit this castle you will be a criminal. An execution order will be placed and the border will be secured."
The border would be closed. Nothing could get in and nothing could get out. The thought of never seeing Valek, Ari, Janco, and my other Ixian friends again brought me dangerously close to tears.
"You are dismissed." The commander announced.
"Yes sir."
In the hall, Valek and I kissed passionately. "We may never meet again." I said hoarsely.
Valek whispered in my ear, "I'll find a way."
Janco and Ari approached us.
"Are you leaving, Yelena?" Janco asked.
"Yes."
Ari and Janco embraced me in a bear hug. "Take care of yourself." Ari told me.
I nodded to the three of them and walked away.
Kiki greeted me as I neared the stable. I briskly adjusted her saddle and my belongings.
Lavender lady sad?
I sighed. Yes, Lavender Lady sad.
I mounted her and rode out the gate.
We traveled until dark before I set up camp. Kiki grazed at the grass as I huddled next to the fire. Shadows of loneliness stared at me through the flames. Already I yearned for Valek's touch and the warmth and smiles of Ari and Janco. I bowed my head and let the tears flow before breaking into sobs. Eventually, I laid my head down and closed my eyes.
First update in months. So sorry. Once again I have proven myself to be a hypocrite. Not updating. Shame on me. AP exams had me swamped. Then came finals... uoy... it never ends. And this is also a shorty short short chapter. Only 401 words. I'm disappointed with myself. But I will update within 24 hours.
