Key to the Kingdom

by ChloeBlack101

CHAPTER 12 IS FINALLY POSTED! Is Chloe really going to go through with leaving Nero, and Brady, forever? Will Philip win out? Have to read to find out! I know this is a dark fic, but please read and review. Enjoy!

2. Chapter

Chapter 1

Arciana smiled politely at the baker at his stand within the market place as she paid for her loaf of bread and placed it into the basket on her arm. She usually hated shopping, but today, although the market place of Rubino was fairly crowded as it always was, the mood around town seemed much lighter. Well, if that was possible, considering that the king, the once beloved and noble Shawn Brady, had all but abandoned his country. Over 3 years ago, 2 years before Arciana escaped her enslavement in Nero to the safety of Rubino, something mysterious and unknown to those of Rubino happened to King Shawn while visiting Nero. All anyone knew was that, 2 days after King Shawn's arrival, the boorish Kiriakis clan attacked Nero in the early dawn, taking them by surprise. Nero had emerged victorious with the death of King Victor of Mucche, but after the outburst, King Shawn was never the same. No one, except perhaps the King of Nero, knew why. King Shawn left Nero the day after the brawl, never to grace the kingdom of Nero with his presence again. But, he often left his kingdom as well, although not even the most trusted members of his council knew why. Even when he was present in his own domain, Shawn often left the running of the kingdom to the royal council men and advisors.

Arciana had heard of the change in the country of Rubino, long before she escaped Nero to seek refugee, but all she cared about was that slavery was and would forever be banned within the boundaries of Rubino. It had been 1 year since she escaped Nero, after her former owner died in the war between Nero and Mucche. His death could not have brought her more relief. She had been under his every command since the time she was but the mere age of 8; unlike many of the other slaves of Nero, Arciana had never been resold after the first auction she was put into. Her mistress was kind enough, never raising a hand against the young girl even once in the entire 13 years Arciana was held there. Lady Faye's two children were also kind enough, although her daughter Nicole was perhaps the most stuck up, bossy person Arciana had ever met. Brandon was perhaps the kindest, never asking anything of her although she was a slave, and he the son of a rich lord, but rather, fending for himself. But her master, Lord Paul, just the name sent chills down her spine. He'd abused her, in every way a person could ever be abused; physically, emotionally, mentally, sexually... it was all the same to him. Arciana was nothing but a worthless slave, put on this earth for his pleasure, and Lord Paul made sure she knew that. Arciana's slightly brighter mood wavered as she thought of her master, involuntarily shuttering. She shook the feeling of disgust off, going about her shopping. It was in the past now. Lord Paul was dead, and could never hurt her again.

Although things were far from normal in Rubino, Arciana had been surprisingly cheerful throughout most of the week. Finding work, especially for a woman who's education had come to an abrupt stop upon reaching the age of eight, in Rubino had been hard upon her arrival. But Arciana did eventually acquire a stable job as a seamstress for a tailor who owned his own private business. She found the job satisfying enough, although her true passion was music and the arts. The thing she hadn't found satisfying, were her living quarters. Even in the hellish 13 years at the Mendez estate, Arciana had at least a livable room to herself. Up until a week ago, she had lived in a tiny, often bug-ridden room over the tailor shop. But she had finally saved up enough money to move into a better part of the city. The cottage was not fancy by any means, but it had a living room, a small kitchen with a table suitable for her to eat on, and a small, but spacious bedroom. The location was also better as well. Although she wasn't right there above her workplace, Arciana was located more in the middle of the city, where she could easily access the tailor shop, the market place, and the public baths. Unfortunately, the location no longer held the same charm it had when Arciana had first arrived in Rubino.

Fairly recently, Rubino had been under a few attacks from the Mucchean peoples. It was rumored that they wished to completely take over Rubino, as an asset to be used in the on-going war with the Neroeans, before moving on to over-take Supervisore. King Jason had already taken the rumor in stride, preparing his army should the need to defend the country arise. But King Shawn was no where to be found. After the first attack many months before, the king left to travel to the distant lands, from which the Kiriakis clan came from, and the Rubinoeans often traded and bartered with, without word of when he would return. The attacks worried Arciana, although she wished not to let her good mood be spoiled by old fears. But the cause of her worry was just. Word had spread quickly about the last attack, a mere 4 days ago. Many Rubinoeans had been taken from their homes in the attack, and everyone knew what became of them. The particular band of thugs which had been attacking Rubino these past few weeks lived in Mucche, but had no loyalty to either side. They were slave traders, pure and simple, and didn't care which side came out victorious, as long as both sides were interested in purchasing slaves. Although originally, Nero had been passionately against the sale of human beings as slaves, after so many centuries of war, it had became necessary to legalize slavery within the Neroean boarders. The on-going war was funded heavily by rich Lords and citizens, most of which being the kinds of people who expected something in return. And that something was the right to buy and sell slaves if they so chose. Of course, only the selling of captured Muccheans and those brought over from the distant lands had been legalized, but then, those that bought from the infamous DiMera slavers did not care to abide by the rules. The King of Nero didn't need to know that the slaves that had been most recently sold in Nero had been obtained from the peaceful Rubino. The depressing thought that she could end up right back in Nero where she started made Arciana wish she had never come to Rubino; never been abducted from her rightful home in the first place actually. Arciana shook her head, leaning up against the wall of a now empty little shop that had just recently went out of business. No, she remembered her life before slavery, and she most certainly didn't want to return to that either...

FLASHBACK

"But, Papa..." the brown-haired eight year old girl started, attempting to reason with her father.

"But nothing," her father practically growled, eyes filled with absolute rage. Never in his entire heritage had there been such unruly, disgraceful children like his daughter and son. During a very important meeting with his council, his 8 year old children had burst into the war room, screaming like banshees as the little boy chased his twin sister with a wooden sword. "Do you two have any idea how much of a disgrace you are? Why, I've never been so embarrassed in all my life! To think, my children, who should be seen as having strong, willful upbringing, running around like two chickens with their heads cut off, screaming and laughing and disrupting my meeting, when you know damn well you are not allowed in this wing."

"Please, Papa, let me explain," the little girl pleaded, not being able to hide her fright. Her father's vicious tone always scared her senseless. The man was ruthless, with a very, very short temper.

"There is nothing to explain! Why, if I had pulled such a stunt, my father wouldn't hesitate to beat some common sense into me. The only reason I haven't taken a whip to you already is because you are a girl, and haven't the mind to know better. But you," the girls father sneered, turning to his son, who was very tempted to hide behind his sister for protection. "You. You are pitiful, a disgrace to our honored family name. I have half a mind to..."

"Now now, husband," his wife soothed. With anyone else, his wife couldn't have cared less what happened to them. But the woman was very protective of her children, especially her son, and was known to do anything and everything to see that they got their way. "You know the twins meant no harm. They are only children. Even we must allow children to be children, while they still have the opportunity. They will soon be grown, and taking on such heavy responsibilities. Let them be, husband. Both of them do wonderfully with their schooling, and our son has the makings of the finest warrior. Please, do not be too harsh with them. What would that accomplish, besides proving right every harsh thing that is said about our family." The little girl's mother pointed out. Her husband appeared to be on the brink of protesting, before he threw up his hands in defeat.

"I do not have time for this! I must prepare for the mornings attack. Wife, see to it that the children stay out of the restricted wings. In fact, get them out of the palace altogether! I do not want to see either of their faces again until after I return!" He stated, before leaving in a huff. His wife bent down on one knee, mindful of not getting her elaborate dress dirty, the sugary sweet look gone from her face. True, she would stop at nothing to see that her children got everything which they desired. But she also had a temper, and would not allow such blatant disruption to go unpunished.

"Foolish children. Don't you know better then to pull a stunt like that," their mother hissed. The young girl flinched, while the little boy finally gave in to any boyish bravado he might have possessed, hiding behind his twin and burying her face in her hair.

"Please, Momma, don't be mad at us! We were only playing," the little boy pleaded. "Don't punish us, Momma. We promise we'll be good, honest!"

"Don't you try pulling that with me, young man. You are the son of royalty. You are to act with dignity at all times. Honestly, I'm beginning to wonder why I protect you two so. Such disgraces!" Their mother hissed.

"Mother, please... don't say that. We didn't mean to disappoint you. We'll try better next time." The little girl promised quietly. Why her brother was their mother's favorite, she would never know. "My teacher gave me an 'A' on my sewing, Momma. I'm going to be a proper lady, just like you Momma." Their mother sighed in defeat, standing up.

"You two most certainly have the powers of manipulation down. I've grown weary of you two. Run along now and stay out of your father's sight. Play outside in the courtyard, or have your nanny take you for a walk for all I care. Just stay out of sight." Their mother ordered, before she too disappeared. The little girl turned around, giving her twin a frustrated, rather disgusted look.

"Alright, scardy cat, you can come out now," the little girl stated. The boy scowled, pushing his sister away from him.

"I am not a scardy cat!" he protested.

"You are so!" The little girl cried, pushing her brother back before turning on her heel and dashing out of the room. Her twin was hot on her trail, rushing throughout the halls of the elaborately decorated palace to catch his sister, screaming either obscenities or threats of harm once he caught her. The two children rushed passed half the council, disturbed two maids, and many others, finally running out of the palace and into the courtyard. The brown-haired girl squealed with both delight, and faked anger when her brother finally caught her by the waist, tackling her to the grass and causing her to tear her new dress. Of course, the young girl didn't notice as her brother began to tickle her as payback for being called names. "Stop! You bumbling ogre, get off me!" The little girl squirmed under her brother's relentless tickling, managing to grab onto his arms and flip him over. Before long, the two were wrestling on the ground, hardly a way for children of royalty to act. They paid no attention to where their brawl took them, nor did they notice that they were completely unsupervised, which would have greatly angered their parents. They had wrestled and chased each other nearly to the border of the woods surrounding the palace before the little girl finally got the upper hand, pinning her twin brother to the ground and beginning the same tickle-torture he'd bestowed on her.

"No, stop it! Stop it, you brat, stop that right now!" The little boy squealed, being much more ticklish then she was. Before either one of them could say another thing, the little girl felt a strong arm wrap around her tiny waist, pulling her abruptly off her brother. Similar looking arms grabbed her brothers shoulders, hoisting him up off the ground. Both children cried out for help, each struggling against their kidnappers. The little boy was thrown over the shoulder of the man who'd nabbed him, while the other man was having more trouble getting the girl under control.

"Philip!" the little girl screamed for help as the man who held her brother turned to run into the safety of the woods, his back to his partner which allowed Philip to see his sister.

"Chloe!" Philip yelled, reaching out to his sister in vain...

END FLASHBACK

Arciana closed her eyes as the painful memory washed over her. Her brother Philip had been fortunate enough to escape. But she had not. She had been carted off to Nero to be sold to the highest bidder, a pawn in the Black's revenge against the Kiriakis family for all their wrong-doings. But, no, she would not think of that. She had a new name now, a new life. Chloe Kiriakis no longer existed. Arciana Miller was who she was now, a simple seamstress with an ordinary life in Rubino, not the Princess of Mucche. Or rather, she would be Queen, ruling beside her twin brother, now that her father and mother were dead. But she wanted none of that. She would never trust a Neroean, outside of Faye and Brandon, again, but she would not become a tyrant either. Both families were ruthless as far as she was concerned, and she wanted nothing to do with either sides. Life as a simple seamstress in Rubino would suit her just fine. Arciana picked up her basket, beginning to continue on her way towards her last stop, the butcher's stand, until she heard a feminine scream.

"No, don't hurt me!" A woman cried. Many other cries followed, as the people unfortunate enough to be shopping in this part of the market place caught sight of the Mucchean men, dressed in their black armor. They had one mission: to kill no one, but to take live prisoners. Arciana dropped her basket, dashing into the empty store to hide as the Muccheans began to round up defenseless townspeople, throwing women and small children over their shoulders, and restraining the men, knocking a few out to obtain that goal. Unfortunately for Arciana, one of the Muccheans spotted her, grinning in satisfaction as he made his way through the crowd towards the abandoned shop. Even from a distance, he could see what a gorgeous body she had, and he had every attention of making sure she was one of the many they took back with them to sell to the Neroeans for the impending auction this very afternoon. The tall brute threw open the door, delighting in her scramble to hide from sight by dashing behind a counter. He strode confidently into the shop, reaching over the counter and pulling Arciana up by her hair. Arciana screamed, trashing her arms in an attempt to ward him off. Even throughout all the years of Lord Paul's constant abuse, Arciana had been unable to learn to truly defend herself, at least when she panicked. In another situation, she could have perhaps gotten away. But, knowing her pre-destined fate threw all sense of reason completely out of her brain. The Mucchean grinned evilly as he hoisted Arciana effortlessly up over his shoulder, delighting in her crazed kicking and screaming. Whomever was lucky enough to buy this one was sure in for a good time. Only one clear thought pounded through Arciana's head as she was carried out of the shop and thrown roughly into a large covered wagon with the other abducted citizens, the door slamming behind her: 'Dear God, please not again...'

Brady couldn't help but smile as his advisor, Harold, rambled on and on with today's to do list. Even though the situation was bleak-- council meeting notes, items to discuss at the next meeting, most everything somehow leading back to the situation with Mucche and the Kiriakis clan-- King Brady found Harold's constant goings on hilarious. The man shouldn't have been a member of the royal council. His advisor Harold was just too... not boring for such a thing. Perhaps that was the reason which King Brady had named Harold his advisor in the first place.

"You know, you're Majesty... the council... they have been quite concerned," Harold began slowly, finally ending his on and on chatter about all the pressing issues the council would need to discuss at the next meeting in the morning.

"What about?" King Brady questioned.

"Well... I know I should not mention it, your Majesty... but... well, the council is quite concerned because... you have not taken a wife," Harold stated hesitantly. Brady sighed, shaking his head. Here we go again. "I mean... what with this beastly war going on, you never know what may become of you. Not that I don't believe you are perfectly capable of handling your own in battle, your highness! You most certainly have proved yourself to be more then worthy, given your young age. I just... well, you do never know what to expect with those Kiriakis'. And the council, as well as many of the townspeople, are growing rather worried. You have not married so that you and your wife can bare an heir to the throne, and, well, if something should befall you... anyone could take over the throne. You have not named your rightful heir, and you have no other relatives to take the throne should you be hurt or killed in battle." Immediately, Harold cursed his fast tongue. "Oh, your Highness, I did not mean to..."

"It's quite alright Harold. I know you meant no harm. You are right. I have no relatives to take my place, and I have named no heir to the throne," Brady said, attempting to cover his pain. It had been 3 years, but Brady would forever mourn the loss of his younger sister, his sweet Isabella. "But Harold, you and the council must understand... that I do not wish to marry just because I am obligated to leave behind an heir to the throne. What is the point in my trying to save my people from this war if I can stoop so low as to marry without consideration of love, just to produce a child. Why, what would be the difference in that and my just naming a mistress? I will not marry for any reason but love, no matter what the council says. And I have yet to met anyone I could ever consider my soul mate."

"Oh, your Majesty, surely many of the young princesses you've met would make a fine wife!" Harold protested. He respected the king, and his wishes, but he agreed with the other members of the council. Nero needed strong leaders, and Brady was one of the strongest in Nero's history. But naming a more then adequate heir was very important. Brady considered his birth parents to be soul mates, but even they had married only because they had been betrothed at birth. Love had come, almost instantly, but they would have married whether they were in love or not, for the sake of their beloved homeland. Many were concerned when King John did not arrange for a wife for Brady. Even though John would have married his Isabella without the instance of his family, he also didn't believe in arranged marriages. A man should be allowed to choose his own wife. John could only thank God that the one chosen for him had been his true soul mate, no matter how short their time together had been. "You know, Arcadia is looking for an ally against their enemies in their own struggles. I know that outside of their neighboring country, Supervisore, no one else has had much to do with the small country. But they could prove to be helpful against the Muccheans. And it is no secret that King David wishes to marry off his daughter Princess Miriam to a strong ally. Perhaps you should look into it," Harold suggested. Brady chuckled, shaking his head. He had met King David and his daughter Miriam only once, and, although beautiful, Miriam was certainly not the kind of girl King Brady pictured himself spending the rest of his life beside.

"As good an ally Arcadia would make, I am afraid Princess Miriam is not my type. Besides, King Jason would not be too pleased with me if I were to move in on the girl he's been hoping to court for quite some time," Brady pointed out. Harold's brow creased in thought; he had forgotten of King Jason's desire to wed the lovely Princess Miriam Lockhart of Arcadia. Oh well, he would just have to try another Princess...

"Oh, and your Majesty, before I forget, I must inform you... Hawk was here asking for you this morning." Harold stated. Brady groaned, not making an attempt to hide hid displeasure. True, aside from King Jason, and King Shawn-- although the two had not spoken in over 3 years-- Lord Hawk, one of the wealthier of Nero, had grown up to be one of his best friends. But Lord Hawk could be so annoying. He was definitely not your ordinary member of the upper-class. He was by no means stuck up, and spent most of his time gambling or womanizing and drinking, or a combination of all three. Hawk often came to Brady, asking the King of Nero to accompany him into the city for one scheme or another, as if it was common place for a king to be walking around unguarded with his people when there was a seemingly never ending war going on between the Neroeans and the Muccheans.

Of course only Hawk and perhaps King Jason knew that Brady often went outside the palace in disguise as a commoner to be amongst his people whether he had an excuse or not. Though the motive behind such action was unknown even to Brady himself. Brady had long ago lost any passion for his people, or anyone. He wished to end their constant suffering, true enough. No man who thought of himself as honest and loyal could act otherwise. But Brady often felt a sense of guilt, as he occasionally fell prey to the belief that he only wanted to aid his people in order to help relieve some of his own suffering. Brady, had he not been plagued with the deaths of his beloved family, could have been one of the most kind-hearted, compassionate kings Nero had ever seen. He had been born with such a pure heart just as his sister Isabella had been. Brady still and probably always would long to be that innocent, loving child again. He wanted to provide for his people, for all the right reasons, instead of his own need to take away the worthless feeling left by the death of his loved ones. No matter what he tried to do, whether it be while he was fighting the Muccheans, making out treaties to provide sufficient help to his people while still being able to support the war, or going out in disguise to be among his people, Brady could never wash away that feeling of guilt. A feeling as though he were cursed and was somehow to blame for the loss of his family. But perhaps that guilty feeling left him with some hope. All the hardship he had endured had not left him heartless, or he would not feel such things, even if for slightly selfish reasons. He just didn't know what else he could do about that feeling; pretending for a few moments here and there to be an ordinary common man was the only relief that presented itself to Brady. King Brady's thoughts were interrupted by Hawk approaching. Hawk never cared for the royal guard, or having them announce his approaching the King. He was a lord, was he not? No king, certainly, but he was a personal friend of the King, and he hated the stuck up royal guard with a passion anyway.

"Speak of the devil," Brady murmured under his breathe. "Ah, Lord Hawk, how... good it is to see you."

"Drop the 'lord' stuff, will ya Brady? You know I hate titles," Hawk stated arrogantly. Harold was appalled. No one should speak in such a manner in front of the king!
"Why you... have you no respect for you're king!" Harold demanded. Brady smiled despite himself.

"Relax, Harold. Once you grow up with a guy, you learn to deal with the fact he's an arrogant, manner-less ass," Brady stated. Hawk pouted, pretending to be hurt.

"Now now, Kingie. Just because you have a higher title then mine doesn't mean you have free pass to be rude," Hawk huffed. Harold rolled his eyes, choosing to ignore the annoyance that was Lord Hawk. Harold could see why his parents had almost disowned the boy. "Anyway, so, Brady, is tonight a go, or what?"

"What? Am I forgetting something here?" Brady asked, confused. Hawk sighed; figured Brady would forget.

"A few days ago, I asked you if you would like to accompany me tonight, to the auction. You said you would see what you could do. So, what can you do, Brady?" Hawk asked impatiently.

"Hawk... you know I loathe those things. And I know damn well I won't end up just going to the auction with you. I'll end up coming with you to some tavern where I'll have to watch you get drunk and hit on every woman within a 100 yard radius," Brady complained.

"Oh what, like you hadn't planned to go out into the city soon with or without me as an excuse?" Hawk countered, knowing full well he had the King right where he wanted him. Brady did not wish anyone, not even Harold, to know of his tendency to join the common people of Nero, though he suspected Harold was likely well aware of his abnormal habit. Brady narrowed his eyes at Hawk, giving him a look that almost screamed 'You will so pay for that.'

"What?" Harold asked. Brady waved it of. "What did he mean by..."
"Nothing, Harold. Please, would you leave Lord Hawk and I alone. We have a few matters which must be discussed. And have you forgotten that I wish you to speak with Lord and Lady Deveraux? They wish to address some things to the council, and I would like you to see what those issues are," Brady stated. Hey, it was a distraction tactic, but it was true. King Brady was curious about what the eccentric Jack Deveraux had to bring up in the next council meeting. Harold was suspicious to say the least, but it was not his place to question the King.

"Yes, your Majesty. Right away," Harold said, giving Hawk a warning glance before departing to speak with Lord Deveraux. After Harold was well out of sight, Brady turned on Hawk, ushering him into one of the many rooms in the Neroean palace.

"You know, Lord Hawk, it is not wise to attempt to blackmail a King," Brady stated, warning in his firm tone. "You know full well that my leaving the palace to be among my people is no one's business but mine. The only reason you know is because I trust you with such information."

"Yeah yeah, I get your point. No need for the guilt trip. It succeeded in ditching Harold, so I'm happy," Hawk stated. Brady merely rolled his eyes at Hawk's foolish arrogance.

"Of course now I will have him asking me all sorts of questions. He did not hide his suspicions well," Brady said. "Now, what is all this business with me accompanying you tonight? You have never asked me to attend the auctions with you before. It was my understanding that you usually prefer to go alone."

"Ah yes, 'tis true. I usually do. But I ran into an old friend not long ago when I was visiting nearby Supervisore. I thought it would be wonderful to have him join me here in Nero. But the only way I could get him to agree to attend the auction with me was to promise that you would be there." Hawk said.

"And you presumed that I would automatically say yes when you know full well I have much more important things to accomplish then attend a slavers auction. You know how I feel about those bloody auctions. The only reason I have not banned slavery altogether is because the lords who so generously fund the on-going war would cut off all financial aid if I did," Brady stated wearily, turning away from Hawk to inspect the many paintings on the wall. The particular room really had no purpose, except as a place to talk quietly in the usually bustling palace without interruption. Still, many family portraits lined the fine wood walls, displaying paintings of generation after generation of Black men, woman, and children. Also among the many paintings were those of close family friends throughout the years. Brady paused in front of a portrait of his beloved sister Isabella, wrapped protectively in his arms. The sight of both their smiling faces in the portrait made his heart break for the millionth time.

"Oh, I know you well, King Brady. I knew when I told you who would be attending the auctions, you would not turn down the offer to accompany me," Hawk stated proudly.

"Did you now, Lord Hawk? Well, that was mighty presumptuous of you. Who, may I ask, is so important that I would immediately rush out to accompany you to some event you know I loathe?" Brady inquired. Hawk smirked knowingly.

"Why, none other then King Shawn of Rubino, your Majesty," Hawk replied. Brady turned on his heel to face his life-long friend, eyes showing his complete disbelief.

"Shawn is in Nero?" Brady asked quietly. It had been over 3 years since Shawn Brady had last been seen in Nero. It had been no secret that he wished to court the young Princess Isabella. Shawn had fallen almost immediately in love with Brady's younger sister when they were but children. And all knew that Princess Isabella felt just as passionately about the handsome King Shawn. They would have married that fall no doubt, a predication Brady himself had reached when Shawn had come to him, asking advice on courting Isabella. But sadly, that was never to be. Sweet Belle had fallen pray to the deadly point of Victor Kiriakis sword, leaving Brady all alone, and Shawn's heart shattered beyond repair. Brady had no doubt Shawn blamed him for Belle's murder. The fact that Shawn left the day after, never to contact anyone in Nero again, only proved that theory further. To think that Shawn would be in Nero after all these years, asking for him no less, was a completely unfathomable thought. Hawk nodded, a smug grin on his face.

"That is correct, Your Majesty. He gave me only a few details, but it is my understanding that King Shawn wishes to discuss some very urgent matters with you in perso,." Hawk replied. Brady merely nodded, turning back to the portrait of he and Isabella. "So, the only question that remains is, will you meet with us tonight, at the Blaney Tavern?" Moments passed before Brady answered.

"Yes, I will meet with you tonight. Go now, I will see you there an hour before sun down," Brady said, waving Hawk off. Hawk grinned, pleased with himself.

"As you wish, Your Majesty," Hawk stated sarcastically, bowing dramatically before exiting the room. Brady brought his hand up, gently touching the painting, caressing his sister's cheek. He could only imagine how disappointed his beloved sister would be in him for not trying harder to fix things with Shawn. Brady sighed heavily, dropping his hand to his side.

"What I wouldn't give, not to be the King," Brady murmured. He shook his head sadly, thinking of his precious Isabella as he too departed the spare room, vowing silently to both himself and his sister's memory that he would patch things up between he and Shawn, for Belle's sake...

Arciana shivered, pulling her legs up tighter to her chest. She'd been curled up in the darkest corner of the tiny wagon for over an hour now with the other Rubinoeans who'd been abducted from the marketplace. No words were spoken between the prisoners. None were needed. Even the small children who'd been taken knew what awaited them when they reached Mucche. The auction would not come until later tonight. Everyone knew that the slave traders would sell them all to their contacts in Nero, claiming they were imported from the distant lands, for a more then likely pre-set price. Then they would be ushered into another similar cart to be transported to Nero for auction the same night. Each would go their separate ways then, gone to the highest bidder. To the others, this experience was new and frightening. Children huddled close to their mothers, if they were lucky enough to have their mothers with them, crying and begging for reassurance that everything would be ok. The other children who'd been ripped from their mothers arms would find the nearest female to turn to, needing motherly reassurance from them even though they were not their real mothers. A small girl rested at Arciana's feet. But she went unnoticed. All the others were scared, and for good reason. But Arciana, she was the most terrified of all. For unlike the others, she knew first hand what slave life was like. Tears streamed down her now smudged, dirty face, but they too went unnoticed. Arciana merely stared ahead unseeing at the door which held her from freedom. No thoughts crossed her mind as the cart came to an abrupt stop. Those who were attentive enough could hear voices outside, discussing the terms and prices of the sale. Finally, after some debate, the doors to the 3 different carts holding the abducted Rubinoeans were flung open, revealing 3 armed Neroean guards at each door to drag the newly purchased slaves out of their dark holding quarters to the 3 similar wagons waiting for them.

"Up, slave," one demanded of Arciana. She did not move, even as the child at her feet scooted closer to her for protection, wrapping her little arms around the young woman. "Are you deaf? I said up!" He reached in, grabbing the now screaming child by the waist and pulled her out, handing her to one of his men behind him. He then grabbed Arciana, though she did not even flinch when he clamped onto her arm and began to pull her out of the cart. She was the last, so the door was slammed shut behind her as the Neroean guard dragged her to a new covered wagon, shoving her roughly inside and slamming the door shut behind her. An elderly woman who'd been abducted sensed the young woman's shock, pulling Arciana gently into the back corner. Arciana did not register her presence. She merely reclaimed her former position, her legs drawn up to her chest and her arms wrapped protectively around her legs, chin resting on her arms. Before long, the new driver set the cart into motion, leading the other 2 back through the mountain trail which lead home to Nero. Soon, they would all meet new owners...

Shawn paced nervously in front of the Blaney Tavern, dismissing Hawk's knowing smirk.

"Are you sure he said an hour before sun down?" Shawn asked for perhaps the millionth time. Being back in Nero again was more painful then expected. Each sight he saw reminded him of his precious Isabella. Even beggars on the streets brought thoughts of her to his mind, for he knew if she were alive, she would be doing everything in her power to find them a decent place to sleep and give them food. Isabella was the most involved princess he had ever known. She would have willingly given the clothes on her back and the meal she herself was set to eat to a nameless stranger should they ask for it. While Brady, and his father King John before him, handled matters of war, official treaties, and supplying their people with the things they needed for survival from afar, Isabella had been right there with her people, helping in any way the girl knew how. Shawn wanted nothing more then to retreat to the safety of his own kingdom, but that thought reminded him of the reason he was here to speak to Brady. His kingdom was no longer a safe haven.

"For the zillionth time Shawnie Boy, yes, he said an hour before sun down! You know how things go with you kings. Probably had to ditch Harold or one of those stuck up pricks he calls a council," Hawk replied.

"They would not appreciate such a comment, Lord Hawk," Brady stated, coming up unnoticed behind Hawk. Hawk turned, the cocky grin he usually sported still on his face.

"Ah I'm sure it'll give 'em a good laugh. Lord knows they need it. Actually, what those stuffy council members of yours need is a good roll in the hay. I could set them up with the finest ladies in the land," Hawk offered. Brady chuckled, shaking his head.

"I will let them know and get back to you on that one, Hawk," Brady replied. The slight grin faded when he noticed the somber King Shawn. "Shawn," Brady addressed hesitantly.

"Brady," Shawn returned. Neither knew what to say to the other. It had been 3 long years since they last spoke. What was there to say?

"I need a drink," Hawk muttered under his breath. "You two may continue not knowing what to say out here by yourselves. We have a little time before the auction begins. I'll be inside when you're ready." With that, Hawk disappeared into the rowdy tavern. Brady shifted nervously. A King was always expected to know exactly what to do in every situation. But then, Brady was no ordinary King, and neither was Shawn.

"Shawn, look, I..." Brady started, but Shawn waved him off.

"No, Brady, just stop. Let's not bring up the past. The past is just that, behind us. It is better left alone then agonized about," Shawn interrupted. Brady nodded in agreement.

"I agree, old friend. I just feared, after all these years, meeting with you again might seem a bit uncomfortable."

"We've been best friends since we were children, Brady. I don't see why things should be uncomfortable now, even... even after Isabella's death." Just saying Isabella and death in the same sentence nearly broke his heart in two. Brady sensed that pain, and knew all too well what his friend was going through. They each had loved Isabella very much. She was perhaps all either one of them had.

"Well, after you left so suddenly, I feared you would blame me for... Isabella's accident," Brady admitted.

"You what?" Shawn asked, seeming somewhat shocked. "You... you thought I blamed you?"

"You mean you didn't?" Brady inquired. Shawn shook his head.

"No. Never. You did the best you could, and you took vengeance on Isabella's killer, honoring her memory. I never blamed you," Shawn replied. Brady still looked unconvinced. So much for wishing to leave the past behind them.

"If you did not blame me, then why did you..."

"I blamed myself, Brady." Shawn replied, knowing the rest of the question before it was asked. "That's why I stayed away so long. I couldn't face you, not knowing that I should have done something, anything to keep Isabella from leaving the safety of the palace that day. It was not you I blamed for not protecting Isabella, but myself," Shawn finished quietly. Brady stepped forward, placing his hand reassuringly on his friend's shoulder.

"It seems we both have very deep regrets about that day, old friend. I think, after all these years, I've finally come to realize that it was not my fault, or yours, but that fate... has never been on our side. Isabella was a kind, gentle soul. But such heroism, seems to never come without a price. I believe from this day forth, we should put all blame aside. Isabella would not want us to suffer for her loss. I know that now. Perhaps I've always known. Let's not let her death bring us each one step closer to our own," Brady said sincerely. Shawn nodded, his eyes showing his deep gratitude for his friend's words. Things had never been easy for Brady, where as, before Belle's death, the king of the peaceful Rubino had never been faced with any real hardships. Mucche's goal was to over-take Nero, not Rubino, although it would not object to the idea of using Rubino to take its revenge on Nero. Even the death of his beloved parents, King Beaureguard and Queen Hope, had not been a real hardship. They had each died peacefully in their sleep, where as both Brady's parents had been killed-- his mother at the hands of a foolish Mucchean out for glory, and his father at the hands of Victor Kiriakis in battle. Isabella, his sister, too had died at the hands of Victor Kiriakis, but the king of Mucche had not even had the time to wipe his blade before he too finally tasted death.

"Thank you, my friend," was all Shawn needed to say. Nothing he could say would express his gratitude for his friend. Brady nodded, removing his hand from Shawn's shoulder.

"Now... Lord Hawk informs me that you wished to speak with me about urgent matters. Tell me, what is troubling you?" Brady asked, gesturing to Shawn that they should take a walk down the nearby alley to get away from the noise of the crowded tavern. Each were dressed in similar attire, abandoning the clothing of royalty for something that gave off the impression they were both nothing more then ordinary townspeople. Neither were dressed elaborately, although Brady's choice of clothing gave off a more sophisticated look then Shawn's. Shawn wore a dark purple, slightly ragged patched vest, left open in the front to reveal his broad chest. The vest was made up of different colored patches on the purple material, most with a circular pattern. He also wore simple black leather pants with a belt. To finish the outfit, Shawn wore a purple amulet around his neck, which had been given to him many years ago as a birthday gift from his precious Isabella. Brady, on the other hand, wore a white dress shirt, with arms that puffed out slightly, and tied together with white strings to leave a crisscross pattern at the neckline. Over the white dress shirt he wore a brown leather vest with a sash wrapped around his waist with varying blue shades of color and a brown belt. He finished off the outfit with a pair of simple brown leather pants. Shawn nodded as they began to walk down the alleyway to be away from the crowd.

"Yes. I have a favor to ask of you, I'm afraid," Shawn replied.

"Never hesitate to ask anything of me, Shawn. We are old friends. Despite the fact you are unwilling to join with me in the war against the Muccheans, you have always been there to support me in time of crisis. You know I am only to honored to repay the favor," Brady stated.

"Ah, but this favor... it is rather big. Life threatening, one would say," Shawn continued. Brady stopped, turning to face his friend.

"What is it, Shawn?" Brady asked, worriedly. Shawn sighed, running his fingers through his hair in frustration.

"My grieving has caused my country to suffer. For the past 3 years, I have left the running of my own country to my council and advisors. Most of the time I was not even there, leaving Rubino for long periods of time to escape to simplicity in the distant lands, or Supervisor and Arcadia. Even if I was there in Rubino, I rarely lifted a finger to assist my people. I brushed aside any important treaties, telling my advisors to attend to it. I was too deep in self pity and loathing to see that my country was deteriorating. Perhaps I did see. I just didn't care," Shawn explained, his hatred for himself very evident in his tone and in his eyes. "At first, my abandonment did not cause much harm to the people of Rubino. There was hardship, but never any outside threat. Until now. The Mucchean people have begun attacking my country, capturing innocent citizens to be taken to Mucche as slaves. I do not know which band has been attacking my countryside as of late, but most of the attacks are independent Mucchean slave traders. King Philip, although not directly responsible, is using these attacks to his advantage none the less. He has stated that if we even once fight back, war will be declared on Rubino. I have neglected my country long enough, Brady. I'm beating the Kiriakis family to it; I plan to declare war on Mucche upon my return to Rubino. These abductions and violations have got to stop, old friend. I have already talked with King Jason of Supervisore. He knows as well as I that if King Philip succeeds in taking over Rubino, Supervisore will be next on his list of conquests to use against you in the war. Jason has agreed to band our kingdoms together against the Muccheans. But our armies, even combined, are not nearly as vast and well trained as King Philip's. Until now, we have had no need for an army. Even when the countries were first founded, Mucche's war has always been solely against Nero. We need your help, Brady. Without you, and the Neroean Army, Rubino and Supervisore will surely fall into the hands of Mucche. Will you help us?" Shawn pleaded.

"Do you even have to ask, Shawn?" Brady questioned. "Of course, I will join my army with that of Rubino and Supervisore. I would never allow my enemy such an advantage over me. But more importantly, I would never abandon the kingdoms of my best and oldest friends when they are in danger. I will do everything in my power to help you and Jason, Shawn. Together, we will declare all-out war on Mucche, and finally end this senseless battle," Brady vowed. He held out his arm to Shawn, who immediately took it in the customary warriors handshake, clasping his upper arm.

"Thank you, my friend," Shawn said. They shook hands, sealing their agreement, before letting their arms fall back to their sides. "The war between the Neroeans and the Muccheans has gone on too long. This is long over due, my friend. The senseless bloodshed, shall finally cease," Brady nodded his head in agreement, about to say something when Hawk appeared at the entrance to the alleyway, a big-breasted, trampy looking red-head on his arm.

"There you two are! Come come, we don't want to miss the beginning of the auction! Audrey my dear, will you be here waiting for my when I return?" Hawk questioned the woman, who immediately nodded.

"Yes my lord, of course I will."

"Good. Off with you then," Hawk stated, sending the woman off with a slap to the ass. Brady and Shawn just shook their heads in disgust, walking up to Hawk. "Enough chit chat you two. It's time for slave buying." Hawk, who had downed a couple of mugs of ale in the time he was in the tavern, lopped his arms with his friends, walking in between the two kings. Brady and Shawn shared a knowing look, refraining from pointing out Hawk's obvious drunken state as all three began towards the court square, where all public slave auctions were held.

"You know, Lord Hawk, I do believe I have figured out the reason why you have all the sudden decided to have royalty accompany you to the auctions," Brady started.

"Do ya now? And just what conclusion have you come to?" Hawk questioned.

"That the only reason you asked us to come along is so you have someone rich with you if you should find a woman you want to buy and need some financial help." Brady answered.

"Ah yes, that must be it. Lord knows he couldn't get a woman without using either his title or money to get her," Shawn interjected. All 3 shared a laugh, though Hawk was laughing because he was too tipsy from the ale to comprehend the fact he was being insulted. The auction was just beginning as the 3 entered the court square, deciding to stand at the back of the very large group who'd turned out to attend the auction. Just as Hawk, Shawn, and Brady were arriving, the slave traders were preparing the slaves behind a curtain that had been set up just for the auction on a wooden stage used for public announcements and performances. Men, woman, and children weren't separated of course, even though the word 'preparing' was used to signify the slaves were being stripped and dressed into new clothing to make them appear as if they truly were from the distant lands.

"This one is perfect! Such rich complexion... and very ample body. Put her in the new import, the purple and gold one. She'll sell for a very pretty sum," gleamed the auctioneer as he studied Arciana. Unlike all the others around her, Arciana made no move to struggle. She merely stood there quietly as she was stripped of her simple blue dress and underwear, didn't even flinch as she was exposed to the world before the new, provocative, exotic garment was draped over her form. "Gather the men together. They will go first. Then the women and children," instructed the auctioneer. All were now dressed, most in ragged clothes that looked as if they were nothing more then feed sacks, although some of the women were dressed as exotically as Arciana. With many shouts of protest, all the captured men were ushered at the point of a sword to the left side of the curtain where they would await their individual sale. Meanwhile, a short little man with a papyrus scroll and ink quill studied them closely, making notes of how much each should be worth based on their physical strengths. The woman and children were ushered to the right side, yet another little man with a papyrus scroll and ink quill evaluating their value based on their looks. It was of course well known men were most usually sold into hard manual labor, where as women were house maids, whose only real purpose was to be pleasing in bed. The auctioneer stepped out from behind the curtain, signifying to the audience below him to cease all noise and be quiet.

"Ladies and gentlemen. May I take this opportunity to welcome you tonight. For many of you, it will be a night worth remembering. Though it be known my brother and I hold the finest auctions this side of the Neroean Mountains, I must say we have outdone ourselves. Tonight we will be offering you the finest slaves in all the kingdom! Strong young men, all the way from the distant lands to plow your crops, build your houses, transport your goods. Fine young children, small enough to dart around the tightest corners to accomplish any task. And let us not forget, the fairest beauties the distant lands have to offer. Their supple bodies and foreign ways are sure to sate your every desire. If their are any jealous wives here tonight, I bid you take your husband straight home this instant, if you do not wish to share him." Many chuckles were heard through out the crowd. Only Hawk was amused. Shawn and Brady found the auctioneer rather appalling. The red curtain was pulled back, and the first male slave was shoved on stage, bound in chains held by one of the guards. "May I present to you the first of many fine specimens tonight. This one shows a fighting strength that could for sure shame that of Hercules. Lets start the bidding at 75 gold pieces." The dark headed young man sold fairly quickly, as did most of the males the slavers had to offer. Hawk seemed enthusiastic, awaiting the exotic beauties promised. Shawn, who agreed with his ancestors that slavery was inhuman and immoral, was this close to strangling Hawk for even suggesting he come along to witness the auction. When Hawk had made a move to bid on the first blonde-haired female who was brought out, Shawn nearly ripped Hawk's hand off, telling him to not even think about it. Brady ignored both of them and his surroundings. He seemed to be focusing on the curtain, although he couldn't for the life of him tell why. It was if he was drawn to that curtain, or rather, something, or someone, behind it.

"Lord Hawk, please let us go now. The auction is near over, and I've already told you I forbid you to buy another human being in my presence. If you'd wished to honestly buy one of these girls here, then you should not have brought me along," Shawn stated firmly. Hawk waved his friend off.

"I'm not leaving until the auction is over. You may go if you wish," Hawk replied flatly. "Tell 'em, Brady old boy. We want to see the end of the auction, do we not? I have yet to see any woman who I've found truly unique."

"See if you can talk some sense into him and get him to let us out of this hell hole, Brady," Shawn pleaded. Brady had barely heard a word. He kept his mind focused on the red curtain. "Brady? Are you even listening?"
"What?" Brady asked, caught off guard. He shook his head, attempting to clear his mind. Kings trained to be ever alert and focused didn't completely lose themselves in such a manner, especially for something so unknown! "Oh, right. I hate to disappoint, Shawn, but... I want to stay to the end as well."

"What! You hate these things as much as I do!" Shawn protested. Hawk grinned, slapping Brady on the back.

"Knew you'd come around, Brady old boy," Hawk stated proudly.

"Oh do shut up, Hawk. I'm only staying because I'm drawn..." it was then he saw her. From behind the curtain, the same guard that accompanied all the other women brought Arciana out onto the stage to be presented before the buyers.

"Ah, we have truly saved the best for last. Gentlemen, may I present to you this rare beauty, brought to us from the farthest corners of the distant lands. She was raised in a village of strong Amazonian women, never before touched by the hands of man. A rare, untamed beauty indeed." The auctioneer explained, making up his story as he went along. He frankly didn't give a damn where the quiet raven-haired maiden came from, as long as she fetched him a large sum of money. "See how she holds herself with such dignity? She presents herself as royalty would, never struggling like her fellow maidens and country men. This beauty is far above that. Let us start the bidding at a mere 50 gold pieces." Immediately, Lord Wesley raised up a hand, signify he wished to bid on the raven-haired maiden. Lord Wesley rarely attended slave auctions, but when he did, he generally walked away with the most slaves in his possession. He owned a large farm, closer to the southern mountain borders. He would buy many men to plow the fields and harvest the crops. But he often bought females as well to tend to his pampered wife's every need. "We have a bidder for 50, but come come now. Surely such a fine lady such as this is worth more then a mere 50 gold pieces. Why, that price would be thought of as pocket changes once you got this fair maiden in your grasp. Come now, do I hear 55?" Another man across the way raised up his hand, calling the bid. Brady noticed none of this. From the moment she had been brought out, King Brady became completely mesmerized in her shimmering blue eyes. Her body was stunning, yes. But it was her eyes that held him so firmly. Though to any other on looker, they would appear shallow, hallow and unseeing with shock. But oh, not to Brady. The look in those eyes almost perfectly mirrored the emotions he saw too often in his own eyes. The shimmering blue pools were a window to her soul, and what he saw was amazing purity, scared by years of suffering and pain. Just like himself. Those eyes held such intriguing, mesmerizing mystery. A mystery Brady instantly knew he must solve. Both Hawk and Shawn caught the way their friend was looking at the slave currently up for bid. They shared a questioning look, wondering what could have possibly gotten into their usually level- headed companion. "Now I have 65, who will give me 70?"

"100," Brady suddenly broke out above the crowd.

"Ho ho, a man who knows what he wants, and intends to get it. I have 100. Who will give me 110?"

"Brady, what the hell do you think you're doing?" Shawn whispered harshly, obviously shocked. Brady ignored him, waving him off. He had to win her. No matter how wrong he believed the buying and selling of human life to be, he could not allow her to fall into any other's hands. Not without solving the mystery behind those haunting blue eyes.

"150," called Lord Wesley.

"200," Brady countered. For the first time, Arciana looked up slightly, looking out over the crowd. Memories of the first auction she had been part of flashed before her, bringing a surge of fear. How could this possibly be happening again? She knew better then to run. It was not the chains around her wrist that bound her, but fear of the guards whip. As a child, she had attempted to run, and had been beaten to the brink of death for such an attempt. A silent tear rolled down her delicate cheek, the large crowd before her blurring out of sight. Until her teary eyes met the gaze of a tall, blonde-haired man, standing beside 2 other men in the back. She'd long since blocked out all the bidding calls, but his voice had come in clearly. He was bidding on her. Arciana shuddered, the entire truth about being sold yet again hitting her. It was really happening. This was no nightmare. This, was hell.

"I have 200, who will give me 225?" Lord Wesley raised his hand, eyeing the new-comer out of the corner of his eye. If he thought Lord Craig Wesley could be beaten so easily, he was deathly wrong.

"500," Brady called firmly, weary of Lord Wesley's counter-bids. Ok, so there was one thing that could beat Craig Wesley, and that was money. No raven-haired maiden, no matter how stunningly beautiful, was worth 500 gold pieces. The auctioneer took a moment to recover; he knew she had been worth a great sum, but not that great of a sum!

"500. I have 500 gold pieces. Does anyone wish to go higher?" He didn't need to ask. He knew no one would. "Going once... going twice... congratulations, young man. She's all yours." Brady breathed a silent sigh of relief, catching Arciana's gaze. Their eyes locked, but Arciana refused to see the good, kind soul that lay underneath the deep pain in her new owners eyes. They were all the same. This one would be no different. "And that, ladies and gentlemen, concludes the auction. All those wishing to pick up their slaves may meet us around back at the carts. Bring full payment, and let us know if you will need them transported for you." The auctioneer instructed. The people started to file out, those that hadn't bid leaving for their homes, and those that had pushing forward to finish the deal and pay for their slaves. Brady made a move to follow, but Shawn caught his arm.

"What is the meaning of this, Brady? I was lead to believe you disagreed with slavery as firmly as I, even though you could not ban it because of the war. Have those morals changed?" Shawn questioned. Brady shook his head, pushing Shawn's hand off his shoulders.

"No, old friend, they have not," was all Brady would say before turning away to follow the others who had to claim their slaves. Shawn was about to follow, when Hawk stopped him. For the first time in his life, Hawk said something intelligent.

"No, Shawn. Don't. It's the girl. Whoever she is, she's caught Brady's attention. Leave him be," Hawk stated. Shawn turned without replying to watch his friend disappear behind the red curtain. Brady, unsure of what to do, stood back, allowing the other men who'd won slaves in the auction to finish their business and make arrangements for transportation. Finally, after Lord Wesley had left, the auctioneer stepped towards Brady, a bright, greedy grin on his face.

"Ah, there you are. Fine catch you have got yourself young man. She will serve you well no doubt, no matter the request," the auctioneer stated, an impish grin on his face. Brady had to refrain himself from allowing his true disgust to show as he unhooked the brown leather pouch on his belt, shoving it in the auctioneers hands.

"There's 500. Count it if you wish," Brady said, trying not to sneer at the disgusting little man.

"No no, I trust your judgment, stranger. You are new here, I believe. A clean slate. Such... generosity is appreciated here. Now, would you wish to arrange for the young maiden to be delivered somewhere for you?"

"No, I'll take her with me. No other arrangements needed." The auctioneer nodded, waving his hand to signal his brother to come forward, the chained Arciana in tow. She no longer seemed so shocked and lost, but she would not meet her new owners gaze, perhaps for fear she would begin to feel secure in those amazingly blue eyes. "Remove the shackles," Brady ordered.

"But sir..."
"I said... remove the shackles," Brady repeated firmly. The man shook his head, but signaled for his brother to comply.

"As you wish. Of course, if she runs, you will not receive a refund." Brady just rolled his eyes, awaiting impatiently for the auctioneers brother to free Arciana from her shackles. She thought of running, knowing that since the slavers had their money, they would not care what happened to her from here on. But when Brady offered his hand to her, all thought of running vanished.

"A lady should never have to be bound in shackles," Brady said softly, offering her his hand. Arciana finally met his gaze. She didn't feel as if he was her owner. It was clear he was giving her the opportunity to run if she so choose. One look in his eyes told her he would not chase her should she run. Hesitantly, Arciana reached out to take his offered hand, her mind screaming for her to not be so stupid. But her body would not comply. She had to suppress a gasp of surprise at the electric shock that radiated through her arm at his touch.

"Are you sure you do not want to take this with you, just in case? 500 gold pieces is a lot to loose on a runaway," the auctioneer stated, holding out a whip although he really couldn't care less. Arciana's eyes widened, and she ripped her hand from Brady's gentle grasp. Brady gave the man a warning look, waving it off.

"I'm sure," Brady said through gritted teeth. The man nodded, holding the coin bag tightly in his grubby little hands as he and his brother departed. Brady took a slow step forward, holding out his hand again. "Please, don't be frightened. I'm not going to hurt you," Brady assured gently. Arciana was not convinced, despite the sincerity she felt in Brady's gaze, backing away slightly. Brady sighed, turning his attention to the court square entrance. "You see, there? You can leave here now, run far away from here if you wish, and I won't stop you. I may have given that man 500 gold pieces to release you... but I could never, ever own you. Nor would I ever desire to. If you choose, you can leave now," Brady stated. Arciana eyed the entrance longingly, willing her feet to take her there. But they would not listen. Brady again held out his hand. "Or, you can come with me. It is your choice. Go, or stay with me." Arciana willed her arm to stop. But no, it would not listen either. Slowly, she reached up to take his hand again, this time accustomed to the shock wave of electricity his touch brought. Brady's larger hand closed around hers, and he smiled reassuringly at her. This part was over. Now, the hard part lay ahead of him; unlocking the mystery behind those enchanting eyes...