Chapter III
Thom was woken by someone pounding mercilessly on his door. Dimly, he remembered that the midnight call was sounded a few hours back - half-blind with sleep, he lit a candle and moved towards the door.
Damn it, he yawned, unlocking it. Damn it, damn it, damn - Jonathan?
The Prince returned his astonished look with a frown.
Father wants to see you, was all he said before walking off. Muttering about unwelcome-midnight summons, Thom hastily threw on some breeches, a shirt, and a thick surcoat before running after his knight-master.
What's going on? he demanded. Jon said nothing and continued to walk towards the Royal Apartments.
Finally, the two youths stopped by the door which Thom recognized as the entrance to the King's private library. Jon pushed it open and entered the cozy room, Thom stumbling after him.
King Roald and Queen Lianne were seated before a merry fire. Duke Gareth of Naxen was seated near the windows. Duke Roger was pacing, his face unreadable. Everyone looked up when the Prince and his squire entered.
Jonathan greeted. Here's Thom of Trebond.
Thom approached the King. He bowed, but could not help glancing questionably at his rulers.
Rise Thom, and take a seat, said King Roald, his clear voice strained. Puzzled, Thom obeyed.
No doubt you are wondering why I have summoned you at this hour, Roald continued.
Yes, Majesty.
It cannot wait until the morning. I have some unpleasant news.
Thom sat a bit straighter, but gasped when Queen Lianne said softly,
Thom, your sister was ambushed a day's ride away from the City of the Gods.
Thom stared at his queen, disbelief written all over his face. He didn't know that his skin had become a dangerous shade of white, or that his purple eyes shone with emotion.
Jon's hand on his shoulder reminded him where he was. Ambushed? Is...is she...
We have no way of knowing, Duke Gareth replied quietly. All the scouts found were the carriage and three of four horses. Everyone else was missing - but five kilometers east, they spotted Lady Alanna's escort.
And my sister?
No one knows.
Thom risked a glance at Alanna's betrothed. Roger was now leaning against a wall, arms crossed, head thrust down so that his chin touched his chest.
We have just organized a search for your sister, Duke Gareth continued. But there are a few things we need to know. Firstly, she has the Gift?
Yes, your grace, Thom replied quietly. Lot's of it.
Roger inhaled sharply.
She gets it from both the Tasride and Trebond lines, Thom explained. It's just as big as mine, but I don't remember what it's for.
That answers my second question, Duke Gareth sighed. So we can only look for a powerful Gift.
Thom ducked his head. The color of its essence is violet, like mine.
King Roald shook his head. Squire Thom, I'm sorry about your sister. I can't promise anything - she may or may not turn up. But you have my word that we'll get her back - that goes for you too, Roger.
The Duke grunted.
Meanwhile, you should get back to bed. Tomorrow is going to be a long day.
Taking the hidden dismissal, Thom bowed and returned to his room, his heart thumping against his chest.
What have you gotten yourself into now?
That's all for now peeps. Ummm...like? No? Reviews are welcome! Oh, and if you want to know when this story is edited/continued, you can put this story on your favourite stories list (or on Author Alerts if you can use it) so you can find it without spending an eternity looking for it. Just a suggestion. *yawn* Bye!
Giovanna ^_~
