Chapter 12
Bonescraper was the fastest way to get to Glinda's mother but the trip back could not be taken with the dragon. The troops loyal to the Uplands needed to come with her. Until everything could be resolved, no one was safe. Glinda suggested that once with her mother they enchant the horses and Bonescraper promised to make sure that they were in the clear until they crossed the border into the Vinkus. Once the group had made it safely out of Gillikin, Elphaba intended to ride to the capitol on the back of the dragon.
Glinda had been nervous about that plan but the green woman reassured her that while civil war may be on the table for Gillikin, there was no way they would try to take on a dragon and her. They knew full well that would lead to the Vinkus marching on them and ending them.
"Be careful Mom," Zara gave her mother a hug. They were saying goodbye at the bottom of the Palace steps. Everyone had gathered to wish them luck. They'd be reaching Glinda's mother, Larena, before nightfall, and hoping that the dark would offer them cover along with Bonescraper's help.
"I will sweetie," Elphaba hugged her back.
"Are you sure I shouldn't come with you?" Semir asked as he hugged her.
"My brave boy, keep an eye on things here. I need you to make sure everyone plays nice while I'm gone," his mother kissed his forehead.
"I'm coming with you," Fiyero had his trusty rifle slung on his back.
"Yero…" she tried to argue.
"I'm not taking "no" for an answer. Two royals are always better than one," he said.
"Just another reason why I love you but please tell me you packed the barf bags," she smirked, knowing flying was not Fiyero's favorite thing to do. He gave her a look before they headed to a waiting Bonescraper. Highmuster watched as his granddaughter gave her parents what seemed like a very uncomfortable hug. Why Glinda and Balfour had brought the kids to the Vinkus was now becoming a little clearer. There was trouble at home and it had to do with Izzy.
As they were heading into the palace, Highmuster took Izzy's hand in his and gave it a squeeze before whispering,
"What's wrong little one?" She turned her head and he could see the storm behind her eyes.
"You can tell me," he said, keeping his tone low. Derya was behind them watching the exchange and she left her brother's side to stand next to Izzy. Highmuster gave the teenager a look. The response was to take Izzy's free hand in her own.
"We'll talk," Derya told him.
"I only want to help. I know what I just saw was not the relationship my daughter and her daughter have," he said.
"Why don't you head to the study and I'll send up some tea?" Ayla figured that the girls needed to be able to explain.
"That is a great idea Grandma, I think I'll join them," Semir said.
"A good idea, me too," Bartholomew spoke up.
"Count me in," former Lieutenant Ash's voice made everyone turn around. That's when they noticed a man they did not recognize next to him. He was about as tall as the Lieutenant and had salt and pepper hair. He was dressed to impress, which wasn't entirely surprising since he was meeting royalty.
"Everyone, I'd like you to meet, Arthur. He's been trying to get me to enjoy my retirement but I must admit he's always been better in the garden than I am," Ash smiled.
"Your highnesses," Arthur bowed.
"Very good to meet you Arthur. Please do join us for tea," Tahir smiled.
To Be Continued…