(A/N). Hi guys! As always, allow me to begin by saying thanks for the continued support.
Okay then, let's continue!
''What?'' Christopher looked to Maleficent. ''So that's it? There's no way around this?''
''Around the sea? Of course not,'' Maleficent replied.
''Around the problem?'' Chris clarified as to what he meant.
''I don't see a way.''
Chris shook his head, unable to accept that. ''So, you're telling me that I've come all this way for nothing?''
''I'm sorry, Christopher.''
''Why didn't you tell me sooner!?''
''He does have a point.'' Syrena chimed in.
''She only made the decision a couple of days ago,'' Diaval spoke up.
''What?'' Christopher looked really confused upon hearing this.. ''Why on Earth would you-''
''Quiet!'' Maleficent exclaimed... ''Allow me to explain.''
''Okay, fair enough,'' Christopher agreed to listen. ''Go ahead.''
''Very well.'' Maleficent waited a few seconds in order to compose herself before speaking... ''Originally, when we started out on this quest, I intended for you to journey with us all the way to Mount Oberon... However, now things have changed.''
''What things?''
''The time limit,'' Maleficent replied. ''Now that I know we only have one and a half weeks to reach Mount Oberon, I don't have the time to-''
''How could I have crossed the sea in the first place!?'' Chris cut her off. ''I can't fly!''
Maleficent sighed. ''There's a port not far from here. You could have made your way across it within two days. Unfortunately, I can no longer give you sufficient time.''
''You don't need to,'' Christopher stated. ''I can sail across it myself.''
''There would be no point.''
''She's right, Christopher.'' Diaval agreed.
''Why?''
''Because by the time you reach the other side we'll be long gone.'' Maleficent explained. ''We can't wait for you.. And trust me, you'll have no chance of finding your way to Mount Oberon all alone.''
Christopher let out a sigh (knowing that Maleficent was right)... ''So, what do you suggest I do now?''
''Remain here with Syrena.. We'll return for you once Aurora is safe.''
''What if you don't come back?'' Chris regretted saying these words the moment he uttered them... ''I'm sorry.''
''No, you're right. There's a risk... There's always a risk.''
''She's worth it,'' Diaval spoke with a look of determination in his eye.
''I know that,'' Chris said in a low voice...
''Christopher.'' Maleficent uttered his name. ''If anything does happen to us, and we do not return, then it's best that you stay here in Devondale.''
Christopher gave a nod of his head.
''When are you leaving?'' Syrena asked.
''At dawn,'' Maleficent responded. ''We'll escort you and Christopher to Devondale first.''
''Thank you.''
''Come on, Chris.'' Diaval encouraged Christopher to cheer up.
Syrena reached out her hand and ran it up and down Christopher's arm. ''You're welcome to stay with me.''
Christopher looked to Syrena. 'Maybe this won't be so bad after all,' he thought... ''Thank you, Syrena.''
''You're most welcome,'' Syrena replied with a slight smile.
''Come on.'' Maleficent started to make her way towards the path that led to Devondale.
Diaval gave Christopher a small (but encouraging) smile, before walking after Maleficent.
Christopher and Syrena exchanged looks before following after Maleficent and Diaval.
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Meanwhile, several miles behind Maleficent and co, Vernon and his men were preparing to move out.
''Carter!'' Vernon declared, as he approached the young man from behind.
''Yes, sir?''
''Inform the rest of the men that we're moving out.''
''Alright, sir.'' Carter seemed slightly puzzled at this, but nevertheless hurried off to tell the men...
Vernon watched Carter trot off before turning towards his Lieutenant... ''Gerald.''
''Yes, sir?''
''Carter seems to be acting a little, well...strange.''
''Strange?''
''Yes. He's acting even more quiet than usual.''
''Well, you did threaten to have him killed today, sir.'' Gerald reminded his Captain.
''So?'' Vernon seemed puzzled as to why this would have an effect on Carter. ''I don't treat him any worse than I do the rest of the men... If anything, I'm giving him an easy time.. I gave him a second chance when he probably didn't deserve one, given the fact that he can't even follow a simple command such as, kill that man.''
''An extremely old and timid man.''
''What difference does that make?''
Gerald thought it best not to say any more...
''Oh, well. Hopefully next time Carter will fair better.''
''And if he doesn't?''
''Then you'll have to kill him,'' Vernon replied... ''I refuse to let memories of the past influence me anymore.'' Vernon referred to his deceased sister, and the relationship he'd had with her (which was being ever so slightly mirrored by Carter and his brother).
''I understand, sir.''
Vernon gave a nod of his head before turning away.
''Sir.''
''What is it?'' Vernon asked (not bothering to turn back around).
''Well, I was just wondering-''
''Wondering what?''
''Wondering why are we departing? It's nearly dark.''
''Because Devondale can't be more than a few hours ride from here,'' Vernon replied.
''But what about Syrena?''
''What about her?'' Vernon glanced over his shoulder. ''If when we arrive at Devondale she's done our job for us then brilliant. But if not, and Christopher and his friends are still alive, then we're going to have to do it for ourselves.''
''You mean that you're going to issue a full out attack?''
''Of sorts,'' Vernon responded... ''Now, get your horse ready.''
''Yes, sir.'' Gerald turned to fetch his horse.
''Gerald!''
''Yes, Captain?'' He looked back to Vernon.
''Don't worry so much.'' He turned back around. ''They think that they're safe in Devondale. They think it makes it harder for us to kill them, but in reality...it makes it so much easier.''
''Easier?'' Gerald echoed.
''Yes. They're hemmed in.''
''Perhaps. But that was also the case in Ravenclaw, and we didn't succeed there.''
''Ah, but that's because in Ravenclaw I bought Christopher's bluff. But not this time!.. Not this time... This time they will all die.'' Vernon grinned before whispering... ''Even Syrena.''
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''What did you call it again?'' Syrena asked Christopher to remind her.
''A television,'' Christopher replied (he'd been trying to explain a little more to her about films).
''Television?. It sounds so...fantastic.''
''Well, to you, yeah, but not to me.. There's nothing more ordinary than television for me.''
''Tell me how it works again.''
Christopher sighed.. Knowing that explaining in a logical manner was getting him nowhere, Chris decided to opt for a more magical version. ''Well, basically, using modern magic-''
''Magic?''
''Well, we don't exactly call it magic, or consider it to be magic. But in a way, that's what it is.''
''So, what do you people call it?'' Syrena asked.
''Technology.''
''Technology? Hmm?.. Go on.''
''Well, through technology we can capture a person's actions, their words, the things they do.''
''Capture them?''
''Yes. Using this special box called a camera. It records these peoples actions and stores them up, you see? Then, using a television, we get to see the past.''
''Incredible.'' Diaval stopped and turned to face Christopher.
''Diaval, I didn't even know you were listening.'' Chris flashed a smile.
''Well, I wasn't interested at first. But you make it all sound so...wonderful, really.''
''It is.''
''Come on!'' Maleficent declared. ''Keep up!''
The three of them promptly resumed walking...
''Please continue, Christopher.'' Syrena urged him to explain further.
''Yeah, I want to know more about these films, too,'' Diaval said.
''Well, actually, films themselves aren't real events.''
''They're not?''
''No. I mean, sometimes they're based on true events, sure. But they all use actors.''
''So, television is a way for people to see an actor performing in the past?'' Diaval said.
''Basically, yes,'' Chris replied.
''Fascinating,'' Syrena spoke with a look of awe on her face. ''Don't you find it fascinating, Maleficent?''
''Not particularly,'' Maleficent replied (secretly finding it very interesting). She walked around the corner before suddenly stopping. ''Here we are.''
''Are we there?'' Chris looked to Syrena.
''Yes.'' Syrena pretended that she knew this place well.
The three of them came to a stop behind Maleficent, as they gazed to the town before them.
''Well, this place looks nice,'' Chris remarked.
The town of Devondale lay before their eyes.. It was a clean looking, well built town, far different to the village of Ravenclaw. It was also considerably larger than Ravenclaw, and lacking in over the top security. Whereas Ravenclaw had a giant fence around it, Devondale only had a small wall running alongside it.
''So, what happens now?'' Chris looked to Maleficent... ''I take it you won't be venturing in there with us?''
''No.'' Maleficent confirmed it. ''I very much doubt that this place would be any different to the other human towns when it comes to accepting fae creatures like myself.''
''Is she right about that?'' Diaval asked Syrena.
''Well, we are...ignorant when it comes to fairies,'' Syrena replied.
''As I thought.'' Maleficent deliberately skipped past Diaval and instead approached Christopher. ''Now, these are my instructions.''
''I hate it when you tell me what to do,'' Chris spoke with a frown on his face.
''Shh.'' Maleficent shushed him. ''Now listen.''
Christopher rolled his eyes.
''Eyes back into the forward position, thank you!''
''Just say what you have to say already!''
''I'm trying to!'' Maleficent's voice grew louder in tone.
''Go on, then.''
Maleficent took a deep breath before speaking... ''I want you and Diaval (her eyes shifted to Diaval for the briefest of moments) to escort Syrena back to her home.. Now, I want you, Christopher, to remain there with her. Understood?''
Christopher gave a nod.
''Diaval shall return to the woods we passed through just a few moments ago. I'll be waiting for him there.''
''Okay.'' Chris confirmed that he understood her wishes...
Diaval sighed while looking away (annoyed that Maleficent was still ignoring him).
''Come on.'' Syrena gave Chris a tap on his arm. ''I'm eager to see my house.''
''Yeah, sure.'' Chris started to follow after her when Maleficent uttered his name
''Christopher.''
''Yes, Maleficent?''
A moment of silence passed before Maleficent spoke ... ''This could be the last time we ever see one another, Christopher.. As you rightly pointed out, we may not return from this venture.''
Christopher looked to the ground (still regretting saying that).
''I just want you to know that-'' Maleficent paused for a moment in order to get the wording just right... ''You've helped me to see that not all men are-'' Maleficent stopped, feeling uncomfortable at expressing these thoughts. ''I want you to know that if-''
''Maleficent,'' Chris spoke her name. ''It's alright... I think I understand what you're trying to say.''
''You're a good man, Christopher... I'm sure you'll go on to do many remarkable things.''
''Thank you, Maleficent.'' Chris gave her a small smile. ''It's been a privilege to travel beside you.'' He turned to Diaval. ''Both of you.''
''Good luck, Christopher... I hope Drake and his men never discover your whereabouts.'' Maleficent turned around and slowly began to walk away.
''Maleficent!'' Chris shouted after her, prompting the fairy to glance back... ''Good luck.''
Maleficent smiled slightly at his words, as she watched Christopher, Diaval and Syrena turn around before heading off towards the town.
''Syrena!'' Maleficent called out.
The three of them turned back around to face the fairy.
''Take care of him!''
Syrena put her hand on Christopher's shoulder before replying. ''I will!'' She spoke those two little words with a great deal of sincerity in her voice.
Maleficent turned back around and walked a few steps, before spreading out her wings and flying up into the sky...
Diaval watched her fly until she was completely out of sight... He looked completely crushed.
''Diaval?'' Syrena noticed the look of despair on his face.
Diaval didn't say anything in reply. He just stood still in total silence.
Christopher drew close to his friend... ''I think you should go after her.''
''What?'' Diaval looked puzzled. ''You said I should give it time.''
''I know, but...I think I finally understand now.''
''Understand what?''
Syrena stepped away from the two of them (feeling that she was intruding on their conversation).
''Your relationship with Maleficent,'' Chris responded.
''I don't understand.''
''Look, your whole relationship is based on verbal communication.'' Chris explained. ''For so many years it was just the two of you alone... The more time that passes without communication may severely damage your relationship.''
''I see.'' Diaval gave a slow nod of his head. ''But, I don't know what to say.''
''Let your heart do the talking...''
''Alright... I'll do it.''
''Great.'' Christopher smiled. ''We'll wait here for you to return.''
''Okay.'' Diaval flashed his trademark lopsided grin.
''Ciao.''
''Ciao?'' Diaval looked confused.
''It means bye.'' Christopher explained.
''Oh.'' Diaval gave a nod of understanding. He then proceeded to transform himself into a raven, before flying after Maleficent...
''I take it he's going to speak with Maleficent?'' Syrena said as she approached Christopher.
''That's right.''
''He really does love her, doesn't he. Anyone can see that.''
''Really?'' Chris turned towards Syrena.
''Oh, yes. I can tell when a man's smitten with a woman.''
''You can?'' Christopher flashed a smile.
''Indeed.'' Syrena returned his smile...
''You know, the thought of staying behind is becoming more appealing by the minute.''
Syrena giggled at his words (having a good idea what he meant by that)... Her smile soon disappeared, however, as she remembered the unpleasant task ahead.. Finding one specific house in a town of Devondale's size was going to be very difficult, even with the directions Vernon had provided her with.. Christopher and Diaval were expecting her to know this place like the back of her hand... What if they discovered the truth? What would Christopher say? How would he react? It would be terrible... 'Oh, what fun this is going to be,' she thought to herself whilst letting out a despondent sigh.
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Meanwhile, Maleficent was also feeling despondent. She'd returned to the woods in order to seek safety and solitude, but she couldn't hide from herself... Her and Diaval's relationship had always been a complicated one, ever since the day she'd rescued him from the farmer and granted him human form... He'd always been a good friend to her, she knew that.. And she knew that he cared for her. Putting up with the way she'd mistreated him for so long... He could have flown away at any time, but he never did... Yes, he was technically in her servitude for many, many years, but there was nothing ever actually stopping him from simply flying away... For well over a decade she'd wondered why he stayed. Thinking it may have been a desire to remain in human form, or maybe it was simply the fact that he wanted to honour his agreement to stay with her?.. In actuality, it was neither of those two things... It was because he cared for her.. She had been too blind to see this. Also blind to the fact that she cared for him... It was only through Aurora that she realised just how much she cared for Diaval... But love? That was something she'd never imagined blossoming between them... Yet, that was the case. She could no longer deny it to herself... And now, if she wasn't careful, she was about to lose one of the best things that had ever happened to her... While Maleficent had always credited Aurora with saving her from darkness and misery, she'd never stopped to think that if it hadn't of been for Diaval...she most likely never would have found the strength to cope for that long... It's the little things, she could see that now... If not for him, Aurora may still have being sleeping right now... At that moment, right on cue, she felt Diaval's presence behind her.
''How long do we continue not talking?''
''Diaval,'' Maleficent spoke his name in a whisper... She steeled herself before asking. ''What do you want?''
''I have to speak with you... We can't go on like this.''
''I agree.'' Maleficent concurred as she turned around to face him.
''Y-you do?''
''Yes... Now, what is it that you wish to say?''
''Well, I-'' Diaval hesitated for a moment, before remembering what Christopher had told him...
'Let your heart do the talking.'
''Diaval?'' Maleficent wondered why Diaval had suddenly stopped.
''Maleficent, I know that you don't wish me to speak, but I have to say this.''
''Alright.'' Maleficent fidgeted through nervousness.
''Firstly...I'm sorry about what happened last night. I should have stopped.. I got swept up in the moment, and I'd like to apologise for it.''
Maleficent gave a small nod of her head, appreciating his sincere apology.
Diaval had expected a tirade of abuse by this point, so was pleasantly surprised that she was willing to hear him out... ''Secondly, I would understand if you no longer wanted me around.. I can't promise that I wouldn't try and find Mount Oberon on my own, because I probably would. Such is the strength of the love I hold for Aurora.. But, I won't stay with you if you don't want me to... Despite the fact that it would break my heart to be away from you, we can go our separate ways if that is what you so desire.''
Maleficent began to slowly walk towards Diaval.
Diaval took a step backwards (frightened that Maleficent was going to attack him again), before finding the courage to stand his ground. ''I will not lie and say it will be easy because it won't be... A day without you is like a day without the sun in the sky.''
Maleficent stopped directly in front of Diaval.
''Thirdly, and finally...I love you.''
Those three words took Maleficent's breath away, as she actually found herself believing him.
''I should have said that much sooner... I've felt this way for so long now.. So, so long.''
''I'm glad you didn't tell me before now.''
Diaval's head fell slightly, as he looked to the ground, unable to meet her gaze...
''Because until now...I would have been unable to say those words back to you.''
Diaval lifted his head back up with a look on his face of both puzzlement and hope mixed together.
''You see, I've finally realised, Diaval...that I love you.'' She smiled softly.
Diaval let out a small laugh, unable to believe what had just happened.
The two of them leaned forward simultaneously and kissed... Unlike the lust crazed kisses of yesterday, this was more tender and full of pure love...
''I'm sorry for what I did to you yesterday.'' Maleficent caressed his face. ''I should never have attacked you.''
''If anyone should apologise it's me.. I was far too pushy and forceful.''
''Do we forgive each other?''
''Of course.'' Diaval wrapped his arms around her..''I'm just so...elated.'' He couldn't stop himself from smiling.
''As am I, Diaval.''
Diaval pulled away so he could look Maleficent in the eye. ''We will rescue Aurora.. And then, we can be a proper family.''
Maleficent smiled at his words.
''I love you, Maleficent.''
''I love you too, Diaval...'' Maleficent took a deep breath in order to steady her nerves before speaking his name once again. ''Diaval.''
''What is it, my love?''
''Well-'' she hesitated... ''I just want to let you know that if you want to I'll-''
''What?''
''You know?'' Maleficent flashed a suggestive smile. ''If you want to, then I will.''
''Now?''
''Right now.'' Maleficent confirmed. ''Don't worry, I won't panic.. Not this time.''
Diaval fell silent...
''Well?''
Diaval smiled slightly before replying. ''No.''
''No?'' Maleficent didn't expect that response.
''No. Not now.. Not like this.'' He trailed his fingers across her face.. ''Besides, I'm in no hurry.''
Maleficent leaned forward and give him a peck on the lips... ''Thank you.''
''No, Mistress. Thank you.''
''Still calling me Mistress?'' Maleficent smiled.
''I'm sorry. I can't help it,'' Diaval spoke with a chuckle.. ''I'll try and call you nothing but Maleficent from now on.''
''Diaval, I'm only teasing. You can call me whatever you want, it doesn't matter to me.''
''You sure?''
''Yes,'' Maleficent replied. ''In fact, I'd be a little sad if I never heard you call me mistress again.''
''Really?''
''Mm. After all, it's merely a pet name now.''
''That's right.'' Diaval leaned in and gave her a quick kiss... ''Oh, you taste so good.''
''You too.'' Maleficent started to slowly envelope him with her large wings...
''As much as I hate to say this...I better go.''
''Ah.'' Maleficent seemed disappointed at this.
''It's just, they'll be wondering what's happened to me.''
''Alright, Diaval.'' Maleficent smiled. ''I'll see you in the morning.'' She took a step back.
''I'll stay if you want.''
''No. You go back... I'll see you tomorrow, my darling.''
Diaval let out a breathless sigh (oh, how he loved to hear her call him that). ''Bye, my love.'' Diaval started to walk backwards, his eyes fixed on Maleficent... ''You sure you don't want to come to Devondale with me?''
''No, Diaval. That's a bad idea.''
''We can be discreet. Try and remain unseen.'' Diaval tried to persuade her to reconsider (not wanting to be away from her for even one second).
''No. I'll be much happier and safer here,'' Maleficent replied. ''But it's kind of you to offer... Now, go on. They'll be worrying about you.'' Maleficent couldn't stop herself from smiling, feeling deliriously happy about how things had turned out.
''Alright, alright.'' Diaval stopped walking, as he prepared to turn himself back into a raven... ''I'm gonna miss you.''
''I'm going to miss you too,'' Maleficent responded. ''I'll be counting the hours until you return.''
''Love you!'' (oh, how wonderful it was to say that. No longer needing to hide his love).
''I Love you!'' she responded. ''Farewell!''
''Ciao!''
''Ciao?'' Maleficent seemed puzzled.
''It's a word Christopher taught me.'' Diaval explained. ''Apparently, it means the same as bye.''
''Oh, I see.. Well, in that case...ciao.''
Diaval gave her a quick wave as he transformed himself back into a raven, before heading off in the direction of Devondale.
Maleficent smiled as she watched him fly through the trees, pleased that she could now finally admit to herself that she was in love with him... Perhaps she'd been hasty in declaring that true love (in the romantic sense) did not exist.. If this wasn't true love then what was?.. He wasn't just her friend, he was her companion, her defender, her mate, her confidant, her familiar...her Diaval.
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''I wonder what's taking him so long,'' Syrena spoke up (speaking in regards to Diaval).
''I don't know,'' Chris replied. ''I only hope Maleficent didn't-'' He stopped mid sentence.
''What?''
''Well, according to Diaval, she got a little angry last night and...lashed out.''
''What?.''
''She lashed out.'' Chris repeated.
''Oh.'' Syrena seemed a little shocked by this.. ''Poor Diaval.''
''Yeah.. I only hope they didn't get into another argument.''
Just then, Syrena spotted Diaval flying towards them. ''There he is.'' She pointed towards the approaching Diaval.
Christopher watched as Diaval landed to ground before transforming himself back into human form. ''I'll just go and find out what happened,'' Christopher said.
''Alright. I'll wait here,'' Syrena replied.
Christopher approached Diaval (who had a big smile on his face)... ''Well, how did it go?''
''Very well,'' Diaval spoke with a slight laugh. ''Much better than I thought...''
''Well, come on. What happened?''
''I'll, er...I'll tell you about it later.''
''Okay.'' Chris gave a nod of his head. ''Just tell me one thing.. Have you two made up?''
''Oh, yes. Kissed and made up...''
Christopher smiled. ''I'm happy for you, Diaval.. Now come on. Let's go.'' Chris turned back around and walked over towards Syrena..
''Well?'' Syrena wondered what had transpired between Maleficent and Diaval.
''Everything's fine now,'' Christopher replied in a quiet voice.
''Good.''
''Right then!'' Diaval spoke in a cheery tone as he walked towards them. ''Let's go and have a look at your house,'' he said to Syrena.
''Good idea.'' Chris agreed. ''You lead the way, Syrena.''
Syrena gave a small smile before walking towards the town, Christopher and Diaval following close behind...
Within minutes they were upon the entrance to Devondale. On reaching the town gate, Syrena gulped. This was it. This was make or break... If she was unable to convince Christopher and Diaval that this place was home to her, she'd be finished.
''Is something the matter?'' Chris asked.
''No,'' Syrena replied. ''Everything's fine.''
Suddenly, a voice cried out.
''Who goes there!?''
The three of them looked straight ahead to see a middle aged man holding a lantern, approaching towards them from the other side of the gate.
''Hello there!'' Christopher exclaimed. ''Lovely night, isn't it?''
''Indeed.'' The man agreed. ''Now, what can I do for you?''
''Well, how about opening the gate for starters,'' Syrena said in a rather anxious tone of voice.
''Oh, of course.'' The man proceeded to unlock the gate.. ''I'm sorry about that. It's just...we've had a lot of unsavoury characters entering the town as of late.''
''Really?''
''Yes. And especially at night time.'' The man opened the gate. ''Come on in.''
''Thank you,'' Diaval said as he stepped through the gate, followed by Christopher and Syrena.
''So, are you folks headed for a specific place?'' The man wondered. ''If you're not, we have a selection of accommodating Inns.''
''No, thank you, that won't be necessary,'' Christopher replied. ''This lady owns a house here in this town.''
''Is that right, miss?'' the man looked to Syrena.
Syrena gave a nod of her head.
''Shouldn't you know that already?'' Diaval spoke up. ''What with you being the gatekeeper an all.''
''Well, to be honest, I've never seen her before in my life,'' the man said. ''I'm sure of that.''
Syrena swallowed hard, as she suddenly began to panic.
''Really? That is odd.'' Diaval looked to Syrena in puzzlement.
''Well, I am new here.'' The man suddenly revealed.
''Oh, well that explains it,'' Christopher said.
Syrena sighed with relief.
''Whereabouts in Devondale do you live, miss?'' the man wondered.
''Er...at the center of town.'' (this was all Syrena knew in regards to the house that Vernon had supplied her with).
''I see.. Well, I won't keep you any longer.'' The man closed the gate. ''It was very nice to meet you all.''
''Likewise.'' Christopher shook the gatekeeper's hand before walking away.
''Thank you,'' Diaval said before following after Christopher...
''Thanks.'' Syrena gave the man a small wave before walking after her two male companions.
''Bye,'' the man replied while securing the gate...
Syrena pulled out the piece of paper the directions were written on and sighed... This was going to be very tricky.
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''What are you looking at?'' Chris inquired.
''Er...nothing.'' Syrena pulled the piece of paper close to her chest. ''It's just something I found.''
''Oh.''
Christopher, Diaval and Syrena had been walking through the town for almost twenty minutes now.. It was a very pleasant and clean place, unlike the village of Ravenclaw.. The hour was late, and thus many people were tucked up in their homes. However, the few individuals they had run across had been very nice and polite, happy to see new faces in their town... Luckily for Syrena, Christopher and Diaval hadn't picked up on the fact that no one seemed to recognise her.
''It's this way!'' Syrena suddenly declared, before walking over a bridge that ran across a small river.
Christopher and Diaval followed after Syrena, remarking on the fine architecture of the town.
''That must be the town hall.'' Christopher pointed towards the tallest building in the center of town.
''Is it?'' Diaval looked to Syrena.
''Uh-huh,'' was all she said in reply, concentrating intently on the instructions written down on the paper...
''Look over there.'' Diaval pointed at a building not too far from the town hall. It was brightly lit with many people standing around outside of it.
''That must be one of the Inns the man at the gate spoke of,'' Christopher remarked.
''Mm.. Well, it certainly seems much nicer than The Naked Lady.'' Diaval's memories of that run down place were most unpleasant.
''Very true.'' Chris agreed.
''Come along.'' Syrena beckoned them to follow after her, as she headed down a nearby street.
''Coming!'' Christopher was just about to trail after her when a voice spoke up from behind him and Diaval.
''Well, fancy seeing you two here!''
Christopher and Diaval turned around to face a blond haired man standing behind them...
''Er...do we know you?'' Diaval broke the building silence.
''Ah, you do not remember me.''
Another moment of silence passed before Christopher finally remembered where he'd seen him before. ''Oh, of course! The man who was leaving the village of Ravenclaw when we first arrived.''
''That's right!'' The young man confirmed.
''Oh, I'm so sorry.'' Diaval apologised. ''I've never been too good with faces.''
''Oh, please, no apology is necessary.'' The man shook both their hands... ''So, how have you been keeping?''
''Oh, well, you know.'' Diaval shrugged his shoulders.
''Yeah, just about surviving,'' Chris spoke with a smile.
The man laughed (unaware of the fact that Christopher wasn't actually joking).
''So, uh...this is your hometown?''
''Yes,'' the man replied. ''This is my home... So, are you two still headed for Mount Oberon?''
''Yes, we are,'' Chris responded. ''Well, actually, he's going alone now. I'll be staying here.''
''Really? Well, we'll have to go for a drink sometime.. That's where I'm headed now, actually.''
''Oh, you're going to the Inn now?'' Diaval said.
''Yes.'' The man nodded. ''You're both welcome to tag along if you wish?''
''We'd love to,'' Chris replied. ''But, I'm afraid we'll have to decline.''
''Oh, what a pity.''
''Isn't it just.. You see, we have to escort our female friend back to her house.''
Just then, Syrena came back from around the corner.
''Are you two coming or not?'' She stopped in her tracks upon seeing the unknown man talking to Christopher and Diaval... ''Oh. Hello.''
''Hello.'' The young man walked towards Syrena. ''This is the lady you spoke of?''
Christopher gave a slow nod of his head.
He offered his hand to Syrena. ''Who is this fetching woman?''
''This is Syrena.'' Diaval revealed. ''And Syrena, this is-'' Diaval stopped, suddenly realising that he didn't know the man's name.
''George.'' He bent down and kissed Syrena on her hand.
''Oh my.'' Syrena blushed slightly.
''Syrena lives here,'' Diaval said.
''Is that so?'' George replied.. ''I'm sure I've never seen you before.''
Syrena fidgeted slightly. ''Oh, well...you've probably forgotten.''
''I never forget faces, Syrena,'' George responded. ''Especially not one as beautiful as yours.''
''Okay. Well, we've got to be running along now.'' Christopher stepped between them (feeling ever so slightly jealous).
''Oh, yes, of course.'' George took a few steps back... ''Well, it's being lovely seeing you two chaps again. Might I have your names, before you depart?''
''Diaval.'' Chris pointed towards Diaval. ''Christopher.'' He tapped his chest.. ''Bye now!'' Christopher walked off, practically dragging Syrena with him.
''Oh dear.'' George looked upset. ''I didn't offend him in some way, did I?''
''Oh no.'' Diaval smiled. ''He's just feeling tired.. It's been a long day.''
''Yes, indeed.. I'd, er...better toddle off to the Inn.''
''Alright then.. Well, goodbye, George.''
''Goodbye, Diaval.'' George smiled before walking off in the direction of the Inn, while Diaval quickly hurried after Christopher and Syrena...
''Christopher, would you please let go of my arm?'' Syrena spoke with a frown on her face.
''Oh, yes.'' Chris released her. ''I'm sorry. It's just that it's, er...getting late.''
''Why did you drag me away like that? It seemed so uncharacteristically rude of you.''
''Well, I'm just anxious to see your house, that's all.''
''Are you sure that's the reason?'' Syrena stopped walking (forcing Christopher to do the same).
''Of course!''
''Really?'' She smiled playfully... ''I thought you seemed rather jealous.''
''Jealous?'' Chris gave a light chuckle before his expression changed into that of a serious one... ''Well, maybe just a little bit.''
Syrena giggled. ''Christopher, there's no need to be jealous... I only have eyes for one man.''
''Really?.. Who's that, then?''
Just as Syrena was about to answer, Diaval appeared behind them.
''Thanks for leaving me, Chris.'' Diaval stopped beside them, slightly out of breath.
''Oh, sorry about that.''
''Ah, forget it,'' Diaval replied. ''Let's just get to the house already.''
''Good idea.'' Chris agreed.. ''So, which way now, Syrena?'' Chris looked towards the various streets and alleyways that were around them.
''Er, it's...this way!'' Syrena turned towards a small alleyway. ''No, that isn't right.'' She turned in the opposite direction. ''That way!''
''You're sure?'' Christopher frowned.
''Positive... Almost positive.'' She surreptitiously glanced at the paper. ''I think.''
''Syrena, I don't mean to sound...well, rude. But, I find it very strange that you don't know your way around the place where-''
''Of course I know the way.'' Syrena cut Christopher off. ''I was merely trying to remember where the shortcut was.''
''Shortcut?''
''Yes. One of these roads leads directly to my street.. It seems rather silly to walk the long way around.''
''Oh, I see.''
''Well, come on.'' Diaval started walking again. ''It's getting late.''
''Yes, of course.'' Syrena headed down the nearby road, Christopher and Diaval following close behind...
After walking for just over a minute or so, it became apparent that this road was only leading towards a dead end.
''There's no way out down here.'' Diaval stopped and pointed to the houses in front of them.
''Perhaps we should find someone and ask for directions.. Although, we shouldn't really have to.'' Chris smiled while glancing towards Syrena.
''Oh, this is ridiculous!'' Syrena exclaimed. ''I know the way to my own house.''
''Are you sure about that?'' Diaval gestured to the houses blocking their way for a second time.
''Of course!'' Syrena responded in a fiery tone. ''This isn't my fault... These houses must have been built quite recently. They wasn't here before.''
''Oh, well.'' Chris shrugged his shoulders. ''No harm done.. Let's just go straight to your house without a shortcut, eh?''
''Alright.'' Syrena let out a deep breath in order to steady her nerves. One more mistake and that would be it. Another error like that and it would be practically confirmed that she was lying, Syrena knew that... ''Let's go.'' She promptly headed back up the road.
Christopher and Diaval exchanged tuts before following after the flame haired woman.
.
.
.
.
Eventually, after fifteen more minutes of walking, they finally arrived on the right street.
''Here we are!'' Syrena beamed.
''You're absolutely, without doubt, sure about that?'' Christopher asked.
''Yes.''
''For certain?''
''Indeed.''
''One-hundred percent?''
Syrena shot him a glare.
''Too much?''
She gave a nod.
''Okay, I'll stop now.'' Chris smiled before turning around to face Diaval. ''This is the right street.''
''Thank goodness for that,'' Diaval replied. ''My feet are killing me.''
''Well, not to worry, we should be there in a few seconds.''
''This is it.'' Syrena stopped in front of a row of medium sized houses.
''Which one is it?'' Diaval asked.
Syrena peeked at the paper. ''The third one along.'' She began to walk towards it.
''Syrena,'' Chris spoke her name.
''What?''
''Why do you keep looking at that paper you supposedly found?''
''Well, I-''
''Don't try and deny it.'' He cut her off. ''What's written on it?''
Syrena sighed... ''If you must know it tells me the location of my spare key.''
''Spare key?''
''Yes. The key that unlocks the front door of my house.''
''I know what you mean. I just wondered what happened to the other key?''
''I lost it when those two men robbed me,'' Syrena replied (thinking fast).
''Oh, yes, of course... So, why do you need the paper?''
''Can't you remember where you put the key?'' Diaval interjected.
''Yes and no,'' Syrena responded. ''It's underneath one of the tiles on the roof of my house. I'm just not sure which one...'' Syrena suddenly stopped walking. ''This is the house. My house.'' She corrected herself.
''Oh, it's lovely.'' Chris smiled as he walked up the two wooden steps that led to the porch. ''Now, which side of the house is the tile that conceals the key on?''
''Er...that's the thing!'' Syrena looked at the paper. ''I can't remember.''
''What does it say?''
''Second tile from the corner,'' she replied. ''I'm just not sure which corner.''
''Okay. I'll take a look at this side.'' Diaval headed towards the left hand side of the house. ''Chris, you check the other side.''
''Alright.'' Christopher headed over to the right hand side.
''I'm awfully sorry about this.'' Syrena apologised. ''I just can't recall which side I put the key on.''
''Oh, it's fine.'' Chris pulled himself onto the top of the porch and began to check underneath the nearby tiles.
''I've always had a bad memory. That's why I made this note in the first place.'' Syrena cringed at this flimsy excuse as to why she couldn't remember.
''It's not at this side,'' Diaval said before climbing back down. ''Have you got it yet, Chris?''
''Hang on just a second.'' Christopher pushed himself further up in order to move more tiles out of the way. ''Are you sure it was the second tile?''
''Yes.''
''Oh, I'm getting fed up with this.'' Diaval folded his arms. ''If he doesn't find that key in the next minute or two I'm turning myself back into a rhino and breaking the damn door down.''
''Thankfully, that won't be necessary.'' Christopher climbed back down with the key in his right hand.
''You've got it!'' Syrena smiled. ''Where was it?''
''Oh, it had slipped between two tiles,'' Chris replied as he handed Syrena the key. ''Here you go.''
''Thanks.'' Syrena took the key out of Christopher's hand.
Christopher and Diaval stood back while Syrena unlocked the front door.
''After you.'' Syrena opened the door for them.
''Thank you.'' Diaval stepped inside the house.
''Thanks.'' Christopher promptly did the same... ''Boy, it sure is dark in here.''
''If only Maleficent was here to brighten the place up a bit,'' Diaval stated.
''Indeed.''
Syrena stepped inside and closed the door behind her.
''Ow!'' Diaval cried out in pain.
''What is it?'' Syrena looked towards him.
''I stood on something sharp.''
Syrena bent down and felt a nail protruding from the floor. ''I'm so sorry about that.''
''Oh, I'll be alright,'' Diaval replied. ''Although it hasn't done my poor feet any favours.'' Diaval seated himself on the arm of a large chair.
''Whoa!'' Christopher toppled over a box in the middle of the floor.
''Christopher?'' Syrena spoke his name in a concerned tone of voice.. ''Are you alright?''
''I don't know,'' he replied. ''I'll let you know in a second.'' He slowly stood up... ''Yep. Still in one piece.''
''Thank goodness for that.''
''Why is this place so cluttered, Syrena?'' Diaval asked.
''Yeah, this place is littered with all sorts of...things.'' (Christopher refrained from saying the word crap).
''You always struck me as the clean and tidy type,'' Diaval remarked.
''I can only apologise,'' Syrena said. ''I didn't realise that I'd left this place in such poor condition.''
''Do you have any candles?'' Chris inquired as he rummaged around in the corner of the room. ''Maybe a lantern, or something?''
''I think so,'' Syrena responded. ''I'll go check in the kitchen.'' Syrena walked towards a nearby door.
''The kitchen's next to me.'' Chris pointed towards it.
''Oh, silly me.'' Syrena smiled nervously as she walked over towards Chris. ''I couldn't tell, what with it being so dark in here.''
''Mm. Yeah.''
Diaval couldn't help but roll his eyes a little.
''Back in a moment!'' Syrena stepped into the kitchen and closed the door behind her before letting out a deep breath... This was a nightmare.. Sooner or later Christopher and Diaval were going to catch on to the fact that this house was completely alien to her. After all, it wouldn't take a genius to see that something wasn't right here... Not only that, but whoever it was out of Vernon's company that owned this place was a complete and total slob. And this, of course, was reflecting very badly on her. This wasn't the impression she wanted to make on Christopher... Oh, how she wished she could go back in time and stop herself from ever mentioning Devondale to Christopher. If only she had mentioned some other, far away town. Unfortunately, that wasn't possible.. She had to play the hand she'd dealt to herself... Concentrating on the matter at hand, Syrena began to fumble around in search of illumination.
Back in the living room, Christopher bumped into an ornament that was on the floor. ''Damn it,'' he cursed under his breath. ''Oh, what I'd give now for a little electricity.''
''Electricity?'' Diaval echoed him. ''You've mentioned that before, haven't you?''
''I don't remember,'' Chris replied. ''I probably have, as it's such a major component in the world I come from.''
''Really?''
''Yeah.. In fact, I can't imagine us being able to cope without it in the 21st century.'' Christopher headed over towards the door that Syrena had mistaken as an entrance to the kitchen.
''Christopher.''
''What?''
Diaval got up and walked over towards the fair haired man (not wanting Syrena to overhear him). ''Don't you think Syrena's acting a little...well-''
''Strange.'' Chris finished the sentence for him.
''Exactly.''
''Yep.'' Chris agreed. ''She's been edgy ever since we entered this town... Something's going on here. And I'm gonna find out what.'' Christopher opened the door.
''What's in there?'' Diaval squinted in an attempt to see inside the dark room.
''I'm not sure.'' Christopher stepped inside. ''I think it's a study, but I can't be su- AHHHHHH!'' He tumbled backwards and fell to the floor.
''What happened!?'' Diaval knelt down to check on him. ''Are you okay?''
Chris nodded his head. ''God, this place is a complete tip!'' Christopher kicked the toppled bookcase that he'd stumbled into.
''Come on.'' Diaval hoisted Christopher to his feet.
''Thanks, pal.'' Chris looked around for any sign of Syrena. ''I wonder what's taking her so long?''
''I don't know.. Let's go find out.'' Diaval was just about to head over towards the kitchen door when it was suddenly flung open...
''Syrena?'' Christopher looked puzzled, as he watched Syrena slowly step out of the kitchen with a very frightened look on her face. The light of a lantern burning bright behind her... ''What is it?''
''Run,'' Syrena whispered.
''What?''
''Run!''
Just then, a shadowy figure jumped out from behind Syrena and pressed the tip of an arrow against her throat. ''Don't even think about it!'' a male voice exclaimed. ''Either of you two move an inch and she's dead!...''
''Oh, boy.''
(A/N). And so, there we have it! The end of yet another chapter... Please don't forget to review and let me know what you think.
Thanks for reading.
Until next time, see you later.