A few weeks passed. The warriors had grown accustom to life in the Black Forest. It had actually been quite uneventful for the past few days. Luke and Peter had gotten off their crutches, but that was about it. The back of the tent had emptied because of the expert medical skills of Catrina and Jonothan. Each meal they would come together, eat, drink and just have fun with the company. They felt almost at home there amongst each other, minus the complete lack of more than one hour of sunlight. They had learned the time of the black forest, when to sleep and when to be awake. They learned when the best time for hunting was and the best time to shut down the camp to patrol. They found where the best fire wood was and quickly learned the difference between cooking and lighting woods. It was in this uneventful period that Catrina had read Markus’s log and then decided to leave the camp to seek out this Samuel person her father had told her to go talk to. She had a meeting with Fredric, Jonothan, Dienif and the goones.

“Fredric, I’m leaving and that is that.” Catrina said angrily.

“You can’t just leave we don’t have a good nurse. Besides it was you who wanted to come to war in the first place. You can’t just pack up after you fought so hard.” Fredric said.

“When the war is over, we will take you to Efas. Okay?” Dienif asked.

“You already promised a world tour, sir.” Will pointed out.

“I believe you can manage quite nicely without me.” Catrina said.

“Catrina, it isn’t safe for you to be wandering around on errands at a time like this. Daborenya isn’t just looking at Elesta; they probably have troops in Hirach and Efas. You may be stronger than what we want to admit, but you aren’t that skilled. There is no way you would survive.” Jonothan said.

“Then send an escort with me.” Catrina said.

“We can’t spare anyone. There isn’t anyone who we would want to send away even at that.” Dienif said.

“I can think of one Fredric wouldn’t mind getting rid of.” Phil laughed.

“Who would that be?” Fredric asked.

“Luke of Othneil.” Phil smiled.

“I wouldn’t mind ridding the camp of him, but I won’t send him alone with Catrina. Othneilians can’t be trusted you know.” Fredric said.

“I’m perfectly trustworthy!” Luke yelled at them.

“Except for the fact that you are eavesdropping on a secret meeting you weren’t invited to.” Dienif said.

“I wouldn’t have him accompany me if my life depended on it.” Catrina said.

“Why? Afraid that I might save you?” Luke asked.

“Highly doubtful. I don’t think you could keep up with me.” Catrina sneered.

“Please, I could dance circles around you.” Luke scoffed.

“Fine, if you think you are up to it, I will allow you to accompany me to my house and then we shall see where we will go from there.” Catrina said.

“Wait, I haven’t even given you permission to leave yet.” Fredric butted in.

“Come on, Fredric. I am even willing to put up with Luke. That should show you how dedicated I am to my purpose.” Catrina wined.

“Okay, you may leave at the end of the week.” Fredric said.

“Thank you.” Catrina smiled and went back to her room to get her things together. Fredric went outside and announced their decision to the rest of the men.

“‘Willing to put up with me?’” Luke asked quoting her excuse. “I’m not sure if I should take that as an insult or just politics” he added.

“Take it how you want. I get to go don’t I?” Catrina asked. “And I still have to go with you.”

“Fair enough.” Luke agreed and sat down on Catrina’s bed. Fredric came back into Catrina’s room and was surprised to see Luke back there.

“What are you doing back here?” Fredric asked angrily.

“Keeping Catrina company.” Luke said.

“You will do plenty of that later. I need to talk with my sister.” Fredric said.

“You’re blaming me for this aren’t you?” Luke asked.

“No, but I am blaming you for volunteering.” Fredric said.

“Come on, Fredric, he just wants to help.” Catrina argued.

“I still think you could help more if you stayed here.” Fredric pointed out.

“Well I’ve already made up my mind. You can’t stop me.” Catrina said.

“Fine.” Fredric sighed. “Well, it is almost midnight. We should all probably get to sleep.”

“You’re right.” Luke said. He and Fredric left and went back to the front of the tent where almost everyone was asleep. It wasn’t more than an hour when everyone in the tent was out. About another hour Catrina woke up to the sound of the canvas of the tent ripping right above her head. As she looked up she saw a gag coming at her. Before she could scream she was gagged and drug trough the rip out into the clearing. She was thrown onto the ground and someone had their foot on her stomach so she couldn’t move.

“Evening, princess!” She heard a voice say cheerily as her hands were tied together. When her eyes came into focus, she recognized the man as the on who had taken her weapons a few weeks earlier. She tried to say something but the gag was too tight. “I heard you were leaving and you know that really made me sad.” He laughed as he pulled out a sword. “You know why? Because I was sent here to kill you and that would have been extremely difficult if you were gone.” He bent down really close to Catrina’s face. “But it will be really hard for you to go anywhere after I kill you.” He whispered. He stood back up, pulled the sword back and thrust it towards her face. Before the sword reached her, Catrina hit the guy’s foot off of her stomach knocking the guy off balance long enough that she could move and the sword stab into the ground. The guy hit the ground and laid there for a second. Catrina tried to stand up and run off. But the guy rolled over and grabbed her foot making her fall back to the ground.

He took a knife from his boot and cut deep into her calf. Catrina screamed, but the gag muffled it so that no one could hear her. Catrina rolled towards the guy and kicked him across the face. The guy rolled across the ground. Catrina tried to pull herself to the sword that was still stuck in the ground but before she reached it the guy came running at her and kicked her in the stomach. He grabbed the sword and stabbed it through the back of her shirt, pinning her to the ground.

“I seriously doubt that you will get out of this one, princess.” The guy laughed pulling Catrina’s head up by her hair. Catrina hit him in the stomach with her hands trying to make him fall, but it only resulted in him ripping a chunk of her hair out. He then kicked her a few more times in the chest and face. He took the sword out and threw it on the ground in front of her. “Get up, princess. It’s time for you to fight back.” Catrina struggled to take the sword in her hands while the guy laughed at her. She swung the sword but the guy stepped on the blade with one foot and when the blade hit the ground he kicked Catrina’s arm with his other foot. Catrina’s arm snapped but she held onto the sword. However, the guys foot stayed on the blade and the other foot kicked her some more. Catrina was forced to let go of the sword so that she could protect her face. The guy stopped kicking her long enough for Catrina to get the gag out of her mouth, but also long enough for him to grab the sword and stab it through her shoulder and into the ground. Catrina screamed and struggled to get the sword out but she was stuck.

“Scream again.” The guy ordered as he pulled out Catrina’s gun.

“Shoot me.” She said kicking him between the legs but the guy caught her foot. The guy laughed as Catrina tried to get her foot loose.

“I want to remember the look you had when you were killed.” The guy said.

“Catrina!” Fredric yelled as he ran out into the clearing.

“Come any closer, and I’ll kill her.” The guy warned.

“He’s going to kill me anyways.” Catrina said.

“True.” He smiled as he cocked the gun and pulled the trigger. Right before the gun shot, an arrow came from somewhere and hit the guy’s hand, making it drop just enough to shoot Catrina’s hip instead of chest. The guy yelled in pain as two more arrows came from another place and into his head. He fell back onto the ground, dead. Catrina started crying in pain as she writhed on the ground.

“Catrina!” Fredric yelled as he ran to her. He noticed the sword was pinning her against the ground and looked at the hole the bullet had made through her hip. “Luke, get Jonothan!” he yelled.

“Fredric, I’m sorry!” Catrina cried.

“Hey, it’s okay.” He smiled. “We’ll get you fixed up real fast. Just let me get this out.” He said pointing to the sword. He barely touched the sword before Catrina screamed.

“Fredric, don’t touch that.” Jonothan yelled as he ran out of the tent. He came and sat down beside Catrina and Fredric and looked at her wounds. “Okay, Kid, I’m going to need you to sit up so that I can get the sword out of the ground.”

“What!” Catrina yelled. “Just take it out of me!”

“Kid, it’s going through your shoulder blade. If you ever want to use your arm again we’ll have to get it out of the ground first so that we don’t risk shattering the bone.” Jonothan said very calmly. “So I’m going to put my arms under you and when I count to three Fredric will slowly pull the sword while you lift up. Okay?”

“Fine.” Catrina said trying to calm herself.

“Okay, one two three.” Catrina slowly sat up while Fredric pulled the sword and Jonothan helped Catrina. They got her sitting up, which was very painful considering she had been shot through the hip. “Okay, Kid.” He smiled. “Now I’m going to take the sword out. Fredric, hold her shoulder and if you fell it cracking tell me. Kid, when I start pulling, I want you to lean back.”

“Yes, sir.” Catrina winced as Fredric grabbed her shoulder.

“Okay, I’m pulling.” Jonothan said. Slowly the blade was removed from her shoulder and Jonothan wrapped a bandage around it. Luke came out with the bucket of water and more bandages.

“I’m sorry, Catrina. I said I would protect you.” Luke sighed.

“It’s not your fault.” Catrina said.

“What else did he do?” Jonothan asked.

“My arm is broken. And he kicked me in the face and chest a few times.” Catrina said.

“Well, your nose is broken no doubt. And probably your jaw. Can I feel to make sure your ribs aren’t broken?” Jonothan asked.

“You mean to feel how many are broken?” Catrina asked.

“Yeah.” Jonothan said.

“Go for it. I think there are two on this side.” Catrina said pointing to her left side. Jonothan felt both sides, she had five broken all together; three on her right side and two on her left.

“Now, I’ll have to get your cuts and gashes sewn up.” Jonothan said. Catrina had cuts on her face and arms, from where she was kicked or she hit a rock on the ground that were easy to sew up. Next Jonothan sewed her shoulder and then it was to her leg. Unfortunately the gash in her calf and shot in her hip were both on her right leg. But she couldn’t lie on her side because the sword had gone through her left shoulder. So, she had to put her leg up on Fredric’s shoulder while Jonothan sewed the gash. When he finished with that he had to do her hip.

“How exactly are you going to do that?” Luke asked.

“I’m not taking off my pants.” Catrina said.

“Can you roll them down?” Jonothan asked.

“Sure.” Catrina said. She had to have Fredric hold her while she rolled them down far enough so that Jonothan could get to the wound.

“Wait, what is that?” Luke asked.

“What?” Catrina asked as Jonothan started sewing.

“You have a tattoo?” Luke asked.

“Elestian tradition. It’s my life sign.” Catrina said.

“What’s a life sign?” Luke asked.

“When you turn sixteen you are sent into the wilderness on a quest for sixteen days where you meditate and come to know yourself better. Usually in this time there is a specific animal that keeps appearing to you whether in life or in meditation. But at the end of these sixteen days you see the priest and he is given a vision of the mark you are to receive, and it is usually the animal that you saw during your quest. When you are given the mark it becomes a part of you, a part of your soul. No one has ever had the same mark.” Fredric explained.

“What is yours?” Luke asked Catrina.

“A butterfly.” Catrina answered.

“What does that mean?” Luke asked.

“Free spirited, life, adventure.” Fredric listed.

“Suits me.” Catrina smiled.

“Is your mark the wolf, Jonothan?” Luke asked.

“Loyalty, fighter, bad enemy, good friend.” Jonothan listed what his meant.

“Amazing.” Luke smiled. “May I actually see yours, Catrina?” He asked.

“No!” Fredric answered.

“It’s not going to harm me.” Catrina said. She rolled her pants down a little more so that Luke could see her mark, but Jonothan saw something else.

“Oh my god.” He sighed.

“What?” Fredric asked.

“You’ve had surgery.” Jonothan said.

“What?” Catrina asked.

“I’ve seen enough of these marks to know that you got surgery from my father.” Jonothan said pointing to a long scar on Catrina’s stomach with a small ‘J’ tattooed next to it.

“Yes.” Catrina said.

“May I ask what?” Jonothan asked. Catrina sighed as Fredric shrugged his shoulders.

“Tumor.” Catrina said.

“Ouch.” Jonothan said.

“One of three. The other two are up here.” Catrina said pointing to her head.

“How do you get three tumors, two of which were in your brain?” Luke asked. Catrina laughed as Fredric gave her a look.

“I knew this would haunt me forever.” Catrina laughed.

“Is that what gave you the limp?” Luke asked.

“What gave me the limp also gave me the tumor.” Catrina said.

“I don’t understand.” Luke said.

“Well now you have to tell them.” Fredric sighed.

“What?” Jonothan asked.

“We are the storm chasers.” Catrina said.

“No way. The storm chasers are more famous than Luke.” Jonothan said.

“What are storm chasers?” Luke asked.

“A band of adventurers that ride through the entire spring with the storms. Elestian lightning storms are notorious but on top of that they have faced packs of wild wolves, highway men, the council and even fires. But no one knew who they were, just the stories.” Jonothan explained.

“There are four of us. We started riding when I was three.” Catrina started. “We hit a very bad storm and as I was riding a bolt of lightning came down and hit me. That was the first brain tumor. The next time I was hit was when we went back the next year. I was afraid to pass where I was hit but Fredric dared me so I went and was hit again. The third time my horse was hit, but the whole bottom half of my body felt it and I got the tumor in my stomach; I was five. Fourth time I got hit was three years after that when Tritni was stuck so I went to help her and got hit. I got the second brain tumor after that. The last time I went chasing was when I was ten. Lightning hit the ground in front of my horse. It reared and fell back on me. Gave me the limp.”

“So you’ve had three tumors, and been struck by lightning five times and you’re still alive?” Luke asked.

“Like I said, I’ve been through hell.” Catrina said.

“You now hold a deeper respect than any person ever could. I would never make it through that.” Luke said.

“I believe you could have.” Catrina said.

“Is that why you aren’t afraid of anything?” Jonothan asked.

“Afraid?” Catrina laughed. “I’ve lived through your worst nightmares and then things you couldn’t even dream. What you find terrifying is child’s play for me. But I have terrors that I pray you never have to know.”

“So do I.” Jonothan said. “You’re a lot stronger than you look.”

“Thank you.” Catrina smiled. Jonothan and Luke left Fredric and Catrina alone. “Fredric, I’m sorry.” Catrina sighed.

“For what?” Fredric asked.

“If I hadn’t said I wanted to leave, this wouldn’t have happened. He said he was sent to kill me.” Catrina said.

“It would have happened at some time. But now you have more reason to leave. I’ll tell Luke and you can leave tomorrow. Besides, we are running low on supplies, so Jonothan can go with you to Forestown.” Fredric said.

“Thank you, Fredric.” Catrina smiled.

“Come on,” Fredric smiled and helped Catrina to her feet. “Let’s get you to bed; you have a long day ahead of you.” Catrina slowly made it back to her room with Fredric’s assistance. Fredric watched her for the rest of the night. The next morning, Fredric told Luke and Jonothan that they will leave as soon as they are all ready. The rest of the men were told about what had happened the night before and they hung the body of Catrina’s attacker for target practice. When Catrina awoke she could barely move. She couldn’t use crutches because of the wound on her shoulder and her broken arm. But she couldn’t walk by herself, so Luke had to carry her. She was sat down in her group so that they could eat before they left.

“Wow, Princess. I’m really gonna miss you.” Malichi said.

“Us two.” Linus and Rory said.

“We all will. You will always be our leader, but more you are our friend.” Evan said.

“How will we survive without you?” Thomas sighed.

“I will miss you all. But when you win this war, I shall have a party in your honor.” Catrina smiled. Fredric came up with a plate for Catrina.

“May I have a moment, alone?” He asked the men.

“Sure.” Will said. He stood up and the rest of the group followed him.

“Are you sure you want to leave?” Fredric asked. “Do you really want to leave your men?”

“Why don’t you want me to leave, Fredric?” Catrina asked.

“Because, I don’t know what fate has for me. But I do know that I sure as hell can’t face it alone.” Fredric said a little nervously.

“Fate has smiled upon you, Brother.” Catrina touched his shoulder.

“The way it smiled at our father? Mocking him as death came?” Fredric asked bitterly. Catrina took out her knife and cut her hand.

“Give me your hand then.” Catrina said. Fredric looked at Catrina’s hand and cut his. But he hesitated to offer his hand to her.

“You do know if you take my hand our lives will be bound? Your fate will be mine, and mine yours?” Fredric asked. Catrina smiled and took Fredric’s hand in hers.

“Whatever fate has in store for us, we shall face it together.” She said squeezing his hand. Fredric smiled and squeezed her hand back.

“Know that in your darkest hour I will be with you, baby sister.” Fredric said.

“And I with you, big brother.” Catrina said.

“Oh,” Fredric said excitedly as he reached into his pocket and put something into Catrina’s hand. “This is for you.” Catrina opened her hand to see Markus’ ring.

“Fredric, I can’t,” She started as she tried to give it back but Fredric closed her hand around the ring.

“Take it as a gift. As a remembrance of our pact.” Fredric said.

“Then take this.” She said taking a small chain from her neck. Fredric looked at the small gold chain with a charm of a seal from Ekafey.

“You swore to keep this.” Fredric said taking the necklace from her.

“Then you better take care of it so that you can return it to me when you come home.” Catrina smiled.

“I shall miss you.” Fredric said hugging her.

“Promise to write me.” Catrina said.

“Every day.” Fredric smiled. Catrina hugged him.

“Catrina, we must leave.” Jonothan said.

“So this is good bye?” Fredric asked.

“For now.” Catrina said.

“Well, then I wish you luck.” Fredric smiled as he helped Catrina up.

“And to you also, I wish the best of luck.” Catrina said.

“I don’t need luck, I’ve got you.” Fredric said.

“Ready?” Luke asked coming up to help Catrina.

“Yes.” Catrina said.

“Then we are off.” Jonothan said. They left as the men watched them disappear into the forest. It wasn’t long before they couldn’t see any light.

“It is so dark in here, what if we are going the wrong way?” Luke asked.

“Don’t be too optimistic, Luke.” Jonothan sighed.

“Set me down, I’m tired.” Catrina said.

“Catrina, we can’t stop.” Luke said.

“Well we can stop long enough to light s torch if that would make you feel better.” Jonothan said to Luke.

“Yes.” Luke said as he helped Catrina sit down. “If you would like, I could actually carry you.” Luke told Catrina.

“There is no sense in tiring you out as well.” Jonothan said. “We will go for a few more hours and make camp. If we keep a good pace it will put us about three miles from the border.” Jonothan said.

“Why don’t we just go into Elesta instead of staying in the forest?” Catrina asked.

“It will be night by the time we reach the border. If we aren’t attacked by highwaymen, the patrol at Forestown will certainly kill us.” Jonothan said.

“Fair enough.” Catrina said. Luke nodded in agreement.

“Let’s keep going.” Jonothan said. He gave Luke the torch and helped Catrina. They took shifts for the next five hours of walking. Because of Catrina’s disability, they were unable to walk at the pace Jonothan was hoping. But after the five hours, they could see the edge of the forest and the borders of Elesta. They decided to make camp there and they slept through the night. When they woke up, they could see the light from Elesta.

“Come on, we have to get there before the sun sets.” Catrina said trying to get up on her own.

“Catrina, you will hurt yourself.” Jonothan said stopping her and then helping her up the right way. “We have plenty of time. It will only take an hour to make it there.” He added.

“An hour with you walking or an hour with me walking?” Catrina asked. Jonothan thought for a second.

“Would you like for me to carry you?” Jonothan asked.

“If it will get us in Elesta faster, I would do practically anything.” Catrina said.

“If it gets us out of this forest faster, I would do anything.” Luke said.

“Come on then.” Jonothan said picking Catrina up. He was a lot stronger than Catrina had expected and they actually made it into Elesta in less than an hour. Jonothan set Catrina down when they reached the highway.

“I never though I would see Elesta again.” Catrina smiled as she lay out in the sun. Luke laughed and sat down next to her.

“I never thought I would be so happy to see Elesta again.” Luke said. Jonothan handed them both a water pouch.

“It looks to be before midday. If we are lucky, we can catch a cart to the city. Gypsies and traders travel this road around this time.” Jonothan said looking down the highway. He was right. After a few hours a gypsy cart came by.

“Hullo!” The driver called noticing the three lying in the grass beside the path. Jonothan sat up and looked at the man and his company.

“Good afternoon, sir.” Jonothan smiled as he stood up. “We are trying to get back to Forestown, for you see my friend here,” He pointed to Catrina, “She has been badly wounded.”

“The poor child. Put her on the cart and we will give you a ride to the city.” The driver said. Luke and Jonothan did as they were told. On the ride, the gypsies used their potions and magic to nurse her wounds. When they reached the city, the gypsies stopped in the square and let Jonothan, Luke and Catrina off. As they were walking towards the hospital there was a shout from behind them.

“Jonothan!” A boy yelled. “Jonothan!” Jonothan stopped and almost dropped Catrina when he turned to face the voice. It was Corbin running as fast as he could towards them followed by Corah and Marie.

“Corbin!” He said as he put Catrina down. He knelt down with his arms opened and Corbin ran into them. Corbin wrapped his arms around Jonothan’s neck.

“You’re back!” Corbin exclaimed happily.

“Jonothan! I missed you!” Corah said as she ran up behind Corbin and into Jonothan’s arms. Jonothan picked them both up, giving them a giant bear hug. When he set them down, they noticed Luke.

“Luke!” They both exclaimed and ran to him. As the twins greeted Luke and were introduced to Catrina, Marie had come up to Jonothan.

“You aren’t staying, are you?” Marie asked sadly.

“Not for long.” Jonothan sighed. “But remember what I promised you.” He added. Marie sighed and then smiled.

“I’m just glad to have you back for however long or short.” She said kissing him on the cheek.

“Jonothan, we have to get her to the hospital.” Luke said as Catrina started feeling faint.

“Who is she?” Marie asked.

“She is the hero of the war.” Jonothan said.

“Jonothan, I don’t feel so well.” Catrina said.

“Come on, kid.” Jonothan said picking her up.

“Can we come with you?” Corah and Corbin asked.

“If Marie wants to.” Jonothan said.

“Of course.” Marie smiled. They walked to the hospital where Jonothan found some medicine for Catrina to help her sleep.

“We will come back in the morning for you. You are safe here.” Jonothan told Catrina. She nodded and was asleep before they left.

“Don’t you think someone should be here, you know in case she wakes up?” Luke asked. Jonothan smiled.

“Are you volunteering?” Jonothan asked.

“Well I figured on your first night back you would want to spend it with your family.” Luke smiled. “And Marie.” He whispered with a laugh.

“You are a good friend, Luke of Othneil.” Jonothan smiled. “Let’s go.” He said bending down so Corah could get on his back. He grabbed Corbin’s hand and left. Marie stayed behind for a few minutes to make sure Luke had everything he needed.

“Are you in love with her?” Marie asked handing Luke a change of clothes.

“Her?” Luke pointed at Catrina. “No.” he laughed.

“What is her name?” Marie asked.

“Jonothan is not in love with her if that is what you are worried about.” Luke said. Marie gave Luke a look.

“I’m not and you didn’t answer my question.” Marie said.

“She will tell you her name if she thinks you must know.” Luke said. “You shouldn’t have to know a person’s name in order to care about their well being.”

“True. Well, I must be going.” Marie smiled. She bowed her head and left Luke alone in the hospital. Luke watched Catrina for most of the night, trying not to fall asleep. However, after a few hours of fighting sleep, he lost. After another hour or two Catrina woke up.

“Luke?” She asked weakly. Luke halfway woke up.

“Yeah?” He asked sleepily.

“What are you doing here?” She asked.

“I stayed here incase you needed anything.” He said.

“Oh.” She yawned.

“Are you okay? Any pain or anything?” Luke asked.

“A little, but I’m fine.” Catrina said.

“You know,” Luke smiled, “I still owe you a kiss from when I snapped my leg.” Catrina laughed weakly.

“I think I’m fine right now.” Catrina smiled.

“Okay.” Luke laughed. They were silent for a few minutes.

“Do want to sleep in the bed with me?” Catrina asked.

“What?” Luke asked.

“Come on.” Catrina said grabbing Luke’s arm.

“I don’t think,” Luke tried to argue.

“I’m not going to hurt you.” Catrina smiled.

“Fine.” Luke said and lay down next to her. Catrina held on to his arm and went to sleep. Luke, no matter how hard he tried, eventually ended up asleep. The next morning Jonothan came in to check on Catrina.

“Morning, kid.” Jonothan smiled as he woke up Catrina.

“Hullo.” Catrina sighed sleepily.

“And to you, Luke. Corah and Corbin were hoping you would take them to the lake today.” He laughed.

“Sure.” Luke said as he woke up. When he realized he was lying next to Catrina he quickly got up and went to the sink at the end of the large room. Jonothan followed him.

“Sleep well, Luke?” Jonothan asked.

“Nothing happened. You?” Luke asked as he splashed water on his face.

“Wonderfully.” Jonothan smiled.

“I take it that you had enjoyable company.” Luke said referring to Marie.

“Some would say you had enjoyable company, but it all depends on what you do to make the company so enjoyable.” Jonothan pointed out.

“I don’t know whether to take that as an insult or as you rubbing in the fact that you had sex with a beautiful girl last night.” Luke said. Jonothan laughed.

“Take it as you want. The fact is that you stayed with one of the most beautiful girls I have ever seen and nothing happened. You either have great self discipline or nothing going for you.” Jonothan laughed.

“I have everything going for me, thank you.” Luke said. Jonothan looked at him in disbelief. “She just hasn’t noticed it yet.”

“That sounds about right.” Jonothan smiled.

“You said the twins wanted to go to the lake?” Luke asked trying to change the subject.

“Yeah, they’re at the inn.” Jonothan said.

“Well, then I guess I’m off to the inn and then to the lake.” Luke said. He left the hospital as Jonothan came back to Catrina.

“I must kill you to just lie there.” He sighed.

“Do you have a better solution?” Catrina asked.

“Maybe.” Jonothan said he tossed Markus’ cane onto the bed.

“Where did you get this?” Catrina asked.

“Fredric gave it to me to give to you. You’re going to have a hell of a limp now. Might as well put this poor cane to good use.” Jonothan said.

“I won’t have a limp.” Catrina said angrily.

“Fine.” Jonothan sighed as he reached out for the cane.

“But since I can’t walk, I might as well use it.” Catrina quickly changed her mind and grabbed the cane.

“Where do you want to go?” Jonothan asked.

“I’d like to see your family. Before the twins go to the lake.” Catrina said.

“Then we have to hurry. They will want to leave as soon as Luke gets there.” Jonothan said helping Catrina out of bed. It was difficult to walk on the cane but she managed to get there just as the twins were leaving.

“Oh, Catrina.” Corah smiled as she was running out the door.

“Good morning, Corah.” Catrina smiled.

“Catrina, do you want to come to the lake with us?” Corbin asked.

“Sorry, sweetheart, but I can’t.” Catrina said sadly.

“Then will you meet mama?” Corbin asked. “I can introduce you.” He smiled.

“Okay.” Catrina smiled. Corbin grabbed her hand and walked her into the inn. Sylvia was in the bar picking up dishes while Marie washed the tables.

“Mama, I have someone I want you to meet.” Corbin said excitedly. Sylvia turned to see who it was and almost dropped the pile of dishes she was holding.

“Dear me,” She smiled. “I hadn’t expected to see you again, Catrina.”

“Sylvia?” Catrina asked.

“My dear.” Sylvia smiled as she sat the dishes down and hugged Catrina.

“You know her, mother?” Jonothan asked.

“I was her nurse while she was here.” Sylvia said. “You have grown. Look at you now, a beautiful young lady.” Sylvia smiled.

“She is beautiful, isn’t she mama?” Corbin asked.

“Jonothan told me he had brought home a girl that was injured in the war. I never expected you to be a nurse.” Sylvia said.

“I wasn’t a nurse.” Catrina said.

“Then what did you do?” Corah asked.

“I fought.” Catrina answered.

“I should have guessed. I told your father that Ekafey was no place to raise a young lady. Especially with that Morgan, he is a bad influence on you.” Sylvia scolded.

“Morgan is harmless. It was TAD that taught me to fight.” Catrina said.

“You know TAD?” Corbin asked wide eyed.

“Who is TAD?” Luke asked.

“TAD is the best sword fighter ever!” Corbin said excitedly as he grabbed a spoon from one of the tables and started fighting with it. “He’s my hero. I always wanted to meet him.”

“Well, I will introduce you the next time he is in town.” Catrina smiled.

“Really?” Corbin smiled.

“I thought I was your hero, Corbin.” Jonothan said.

“You’re my brother; you have to be my hero. And then Luke and TAD are my other heroes.” Corbin said.

“Yeah, well Catrina is my hero.” Corah said.

“Oh, I’m not too much of a hero, Corah.” Catrina said.

“You fought in a war. Isn’t that what heroes do?” Corah asked.

“Heroes are the men that are still in the war.” Catrina said. “I’m probably an influence your mother wouldn’t want you to have.”

“You aren’t a bad influence, dear.” Sylvia smiled. “Well, I thought you were going to take Luke to the lake.” She said to the twins and then picked up the pile of dishes and left.

“Oh, right!” Corah said. “Come on, Corbin.”

“Well I thought I would stay here with Catrina, and show her around.” Corbin said. Corah sighed.

“I’ll come with you and Luke.” Jonothan said.

“Okay.” Corah smiled.

“Do you want to come, Marie?” Luke asked.

“Oh, no thank you. I have chores to do around here. Besides, I thought I would keep Catrina company so she doesn’t have to spend the whole day with Corbin.” Marie smiled.

“You can go with them, Marie. I won’t mind.” Catrina smiled.

“I really should stay here.” Mare sighed.

“Okay.” Corah said a little disappointed.

“Maybe later today I’ll come.” Marie smiled noticing Corah’s sadness. Corah smiled and then ran off, followed by Jonothan and Luke.

“What do you want to do?” Corbin asked.

“Marie, what is fun to do around here?” Catrina asked.

“Nothing much that you can do with your leg and all.” Marie said.

“You could tell me about the war.” Corbin said. “When I’m big enough, I want to join the army.”

“Hopefully the war will be over before you are old enough.” Marie said.

“War is not a fun place to be.” Catrina said. “It is very frightening. Did Jonothan tell you about how we got lost and ended up in Daborenya?”

“No!” Corbin said with awe. “I can’t believe my own brother went to Daborenya. I’d never want to go there.”

“It was terrifying. It was so dark there. But of course the forest was darker.” Catrina said. “But the goblins were even worse.”

“Goblins?” Corbin asked. “You have to fight goblins in the war?”

“Loads of them.” Catrina nodded.

“Maybe I don’t want to go to war.” Corbin gulped.

“It’s not as exciting as the stories say.” Catrina said.

“Did you kill any of the goblins?” Marie asked.

“In war you do what you have to do.” Catrina said.

“Did you use any of the moves that TAD taught you?” Corbin asked pretending to sword fight.

“No, I used a bow more.” Catrina said.

“Who taught you to shoot?” Marie asked.

“I did. I would go hunting with my brother when I was younger.” Catrina answered.

“Is your brother as good of a fighter as Luke or TAD?” Corbin asked.

“Fredric?” Catrina laughed. “He has skills in other areas than fighting.”

“Fredric? As in the prince?” Marie asked.

“The king, now.” Catrina answered.

“My lady, I had no idea who you were.” Marie said.

“Please, just call me Catrina. I don’t want to draw attention to myself.” Catrina said. Marie nodded as Corbin’s eyes widened.

“You’re the princess?” Corbin whispered.

“Yes.” Catrina whispered back.

“I thought princesses are supposed to stay in tall towers so that hansom young princes could rescue them.” Corbin said.

“But we don’t have any towers in Elesta.” Catrina said. Corbin had an idea.

“You want to play ‘rescue the princess’ with me?” Corbin asked.

“How do you play that?” Catrina asked.

“Well, you find someplace for a tower and then I try to rescue you from the guards. And then we escape into the forest where we live happily ever after.” Corbin explained.

“But what will Marie do?” Catrina asked.

“She can be a princess too.” Corbin said.

“But what about the guards?” Marie asked.

“We can have a double role.” Catrina said.

“Okay!” Corbin said. “How about you have these chairs be your tower. And I’ll come fight the guards and then rescue the princesses.”

“What do we use for swords?” Catrina asked.

“We could use,” Corbin said as he looked around the bar. The legs from that stool that was broken.” He pointed to a stool that was lying on one of the tables that’s legs had broken off.

“Okay, get those and prepare to fight.” Catrina said. Corbin got the legs and handed one to Marie and Catrina. “Do either of you know how to fight?”

“No.” Marie said.

“Not well.” Corbin said.

“Okay, then we shall have a lesson.” Catrina smiled.

“Corbin, what are you doing with those stool legs?” The bar tender asked as he came out of the kitchen with a barrel of ale.

“Sword fighting.” Corbin said.

“You know that you aren’t allowed to fight in the bar.” The tender said.

“We’ll go outside, sir.” Marie said shoving Corbin towards the front door. When they got outside, Catrina prepared them.

“The first thing to learn is how to block a blow. Corbin, I’m gonna swing at you and I want you to use your sword to block mine.” Catrina said. She swung slowly and Corbin blocked it. “Again.” Catrina said. Again, she swung and Corbin blocked. She swung a few more times and Corbin blocked them all. “Good.” She smiled.

“Can I try to hit you now and you block?” Corbin asked.

“Corbin, she has a broken arm and her shoulder is hurt.” Marie said.

“Plus a bum leg. But I can do it.” Catrina said. “Try to hit me as hard as you can.” Corbin looked at her for a second and then swung as hard as he could. Catrina blocked his blow, disarmed him and tripped him in one motion.

“How did you do that?” Corbin asked getting up and dusting his pants off.

“I’ll show you later. But right no you have to rescue the princesses. So, you need to prepare to fight me and Marie.” Catrina said. She jabbed at Corbin and he blocked the blow.

“That’s kind of what they do in fencing.” Corbin said.

“Yes, TAD taught me that.” Catrina said.

“Wow!” Corbin said excitedly. “Let’s go.” He smiled. Marie and Catrina were quickly killed as the guards and then rescued as the princesses. Corbin took them to the orchard that was near the inn. And they sat down under one of the trees.

“Now what?” Catrina asked.

“I guess we live happily ever after.” Corbin said.

“But you have to give the princesses a kiss.” Marie said. Corbin’s face scrunched up and Marie laughed.

“The prince always whisks the princess away on his horse and they ride off into the sunset. And everyone knows they kiss at the end of the story.” Catrina laughed. Corbin thought for a second.

“I can’t kiss Marie, Jonothan will get jealous.” He whispered to Catrina, but Marie heard him.

“Fine, then I shall kiss you.” Marie laughed and kissed Corbin on the top of his head. “And I won’t tell Jonothan.”

“Good.” Corbin said.

“I don’t think Jonothan would be jealous.” Catrina said.

“Uh-huh. Jonothan always tells me that when I’m bigger I’ll get all the girls.” Corbin said. Catrina and Marie laughed.

“But you’re not old enough yet.” Catrina smiled.

“But when I am, I’ll rescue a beautiful princess for real and marry her because I’ll be more hansom than the prince.” Corbin said.

“I don’t know; I know a lot of hansom princes.” Catrina said.

“Was I a good prince?” Corbin asked.

“I don’t know, you haven’t kisses your other princess yet.” Marie pointed out.

“Will Luke get mad?” Corbin whispered.

“I don’t think so.” Catrina whispered back as Marie tried not to laugh.

“Okay.” Corbin said and kissed Catrina on the cheek.

“You will make a great rescuer when you get older.” Catrina smiled.

“Maybe instead of going to war, I’ll go on great adventures like TAD and then fight monsters and rescue pretty girls like Luke.” Corbin said.

“Maybe. But you’ll have to get a lot bigger.” Marie said.

“Corbin!” Sylvia called from the inn.

“Oh, that’s mama. I should go see what she wants.” Corbin said as he got up and ran back home.

“I think Corbin has a crush on you.” Marie smiled as she helped Catrina up.

“He thinks I’m interesting because I’m a girl and know how to fight.” Catrina said. “He might think that it’s a crush, but it really isn’t.”

“He was sure willing to kiss you.” Marie pointed out.

“He can’t kiss you if you’re going to marry Jonothan.” Catrina said. Marie looked at her a little shocked. “You’re all he would talk about in the war.”

“He promised he would marry me when the war was over.” Marie said.

“He wants to marry you now.” Catrina smiled.

“But no one knows, so you can’t tell Sylvia or Corah and Corbin.” Marie said.

“My lips are sealed.” Catrina said.

“Thank you.” Marie said. “So,” She said changing the subject. “I’m sure you’re tired, I should take you back to the inn so you can rest.”

“I’m fine.” Catrina said. “Actually I was thinking of looking around town. You can go to the lake if you want.”

“Are you sure you don’t want me to stay with you?” Marie asked.

“I’m sure Jonothan is missing you.” Catrina said. “Go on.”

“Thank you, Catrina.” Marie smiled and ran off. Catrina went into the main square where she met the gypsies that had saved her the day before.

“Ah, mi Lady!” The driver called out to her. “So lovely to see you alive.”

“Thank you sir.” Catrina smiled.

“Perhaps you would stay for the show?” He asked.

“What is it about?” Catrina asked.

“The Grand adventures of Morgan the Pirate.” He announced. The people in the square all focused their attention on the gypsy stage.

“I’m already very familiar with his tale.” Catrina said.

“Have you heard the one of the sea serpent?” He asked.

“The girl was the one who killed it.” Catrina answered.

“Was she?” The man asked as a crowd gathered around the stage. “Perhaps you should tell us this tale if you are so familiar with it.” He motioned for her to get onto the stage. Catrina was helped onto the stage by two of the men in the gypsy group.

“Well. Morgan and his men had been on the sea for days. The first mate and his brother had been named watch for the night.” Catrina started as the gypsy group set the stage. A pirate ship had been place out on the stage and two men stood on it.

“What time is it, brother?” The first gypsy asked.

“I can not tell, the moon is hidden and there is no light to read my watch.” The second said.

“The night was dark indeed. But an eerie feeling hung over the ship like a fog.” Catrina narrated. “The men below deck couldn’t sleep. Actually two of the pirates are women, but only one of them was on this particular voyage.” She said as a beautiful girl appeared on the boat.

“My lady, why are you awake?” The first asked.

“I could not sleep; I had a feeling that danger was looming in the water by my cabin.” The girl answered.

“It is not safe for you to be out here at this time.” The second said.

“Suddenly a giant wave hit the boat.” Catrina said as a bucket of water was thrown over the back of the boat and onto the audience. “And it knocked our poor heroin off of the boat and into the dark waters.” Another bucket was thrown and when the audience looked up, the girl was gone.

“My Lady!” The men yelled as they looked over the edge of the boat.

“They looked deep into the water and could see the girl and a sea serpent.” Catrina said. There was a flash in the middle of the stage and the girl appeared covered in long ribbons that gave the appearance of sea weed. The girl started dancing to reenact a fight. “Not only was the serpent there, but also the creatures of the deep.” Catrina said. There were a few more flashes on the stage and five more girls appeared dressed as sea creatures. They all danced around the main girl and had a brilliant battle. When the main girl had killed the creatures she stood there as flashes went off every where on the stage and the two men on the boat watched. “Suddenly there was a great flash and the serpent ate the girl.” Catrina said. The whole front of the stage shot up in flames and a giant fabric serpent shot up into the air. The audience screamed.

“My Lady!” The two men yelled as the serpent disappeared behind the flames. When the flames died the stage was covered with a long serpent and made to look like it was under water.

“Down, down the serpent dove with the girl in its belly.” Catrina said. The serpent did a beautiful dance to show it was swimming and then it stopped and started jerking around like it had been caught. The serpent backed off of the stage until only its head was on the stage. The stage now looked like a boat’s deck and the two men along with the rest of the crew came out dressed in black. “The men mourned the loss of the girl.”

“Gone forever in the belly of a serpent.” The Captain cried.

“Suddenly the serpent came to life and tried to attack the pirates.” Catrina said as the serpent’s head was lifted high above the stage. The audience screamed and was very frightened. “The men thought that they would die.”

“Who will save us?” one of the men asked.

“Surely this is the end.” Another man said. As the head dropped towards the pirates a blade came through its neck and chopped off its head from the inside and the girl jumped out as the head fell onto the deck.

“No today, friends.” The girl announced. The audience cheered.

“And that is the tale of Morgan and his pirates and the sea serpent.” The driver announced. The gypsies took their bows and then Catrina was applauded. “You should be in show business.” The driver told Catrina as the audience left.

“I am more interested in the adventures.” Catrina smiled.

“You knew that story as good as any port dweller of Ekafey.” The driver said.

“I am known around the port. I have heard that story many times.” Catrina smiled.

“You are a regular to Ekafey?” The driver asked.

“Every summer since I was born.” Catrina said.

“Then you should come watch us the next time you are at the port. We are there every week for two days and then in the Royal City one day.”

“Perhaps you should come find me when you are in the Royal City. My grandfather doesn’t think I should go down to the port very often.” Catrina said.

“Mi lady, Catrina. No wonder you knew that story so well.” He smiled.

“You know me?” Catrina asked.

“Never had the pleasure of making your acquaintance, but I do know your grandfather. He has hired us to perform at many of his banquets and balls.” He answered. Catrina smiled.

“I remember now.” Catrina nodded.

“It was an honor working with you, mi lady.” He smiled and handed her a gold coin. “For your wonderful retelling.”

“Thank you.” Catrina smiled. She put her cloak on and her hood up and left. She decided to rest in the market square and watch the people. Out of the corner of her eye she noticed a small girl dressed in rags as she passed through the crowd. She watched in interest as the girl would stop in the square, pick her target and then gently run into them and take their money out of their pocket and the people wouldn’t even notice her. Catrina kept watching as she took a diamond bracelet from a woman’s wrist.

“Excuse me, ma’am.” The girl said following the woman.

“Yes?” The woman asked.

“I think you dropped this back there.” The girl said. The woman looked at the bracelet and then at the girl with gleeful astonishment.

“Why thank you, miss. It takes a very honest person to return something as valuable as this.” The woman smiled and took the bracelet from the girl. She reached into her purse and pulled out a few silver coins. “This is for being so kind and honest.” The woman smiled.

“Thank you ma’am.” The girl smiled and ran to the side of the market out of the crowd. Catrina watched as the girl chose her next target. This time she chose an apple cart. The girl had a bag of laundry on her back. She opened the bag and carried it in front of her and started walking quickly through the market towards the cart. Catrina watched as the girl tripped into the cart. The apples and her laundry went everywhere.

“Hey!” the cart owner yelled as he noticed the apples on the ground.

“Oh, I am so sorry. Let me help you get those.” The girl said. She helped put some of the apples on the cart and when the man wasn’t looking she would scoop some in her bag with her laundry. When the apples were put back in the cart the girl got up and started to walk away.

“I’ll be taking all of my apples back, little lady.” The man said.

“I ain’t got no apples, sir.” The girl said hatefully.

“Perhaps you would let me look in ya bag then.” He asked grabbing for the bag. But the girl moved it out of his reach and opened it showing him some of the laundry in it.

“It’s just laundry. I’m taking it to be cleaned.” The girl said. The man glared at her and tried to grab for the bag again. But Catrina had made it over to the girl and hit the man’s hand with her cane. The man quickly pulled back his hand and rubbed it.

“There you are.” Catrina said to the girl. “I told you to take those clothes to the launder why are you dallying by talking to the cart man?” She asked sternly. The girl caught on to what Catrina was doing.

“But,” She tried to whine.

“Don’t even try to argue.” Catrina said.

“’Scuse me ma’am, you know this girl?” The man asked.

“Yes sir. She is my sister, sir.” Catrina answered.

“Well your sister was stealing my apples.” He said angrily.

“How dare you accuse her, sir!” Catrina exclaimed. “I am thoroughly outraged that you would even think of making an accusation such as theft towards my sweet, innocent little sister!” She said. As she was yelling the crowd in the square started looking at her.

“Please don’t make a scene, ma’am. I only meant,” He started.

“You only meant that you though she had stolen from your cart. Why would you ever come to a conclusion such as that? Is it because she is in rags? Dressing in rags means you’re poor right? And when you’re poor you are a thief? So maybe we can’t afford to dress her properly, but that by no means makes her capable of robbery!” Catrina said as the man shrunk. Catrina looked in the crowd and found the woman the girl had taken the bracelet from. “Excuse me, ma’am. This man says my sister has stolen from his cart. Would you think a child as darling as her could even be considered a thief?”

“This young lady?” The woman asked with a laugh. “Heavens no. She returned my diamond bracelet to me not five minutes ago. Why would she steal an apple and return a diamond bracelet?”

“See? And you thought she would steal from you?” Catrina asked. “Your apples probably aren’t even worth stealing!”

“I’m sorry, ma’am. Please don’t make this into a big deal.” The man said timidly. “How can I make this better.”

“I’m not sure there is anything you can do. I am still so disgusted.” Catrina said. The man thought for a second.

“Here, have a dozen apples, no charge.” He said handing the girl some apples. “And here, three silver coins.” He handed them to Catrina.

“Well, that might do. But perhaps you should think better the next time you accuse someone of stealing.” She said to the man. “Now let’s go.” She said to the girl. Catrina started walking and the girl followed. They walked for a while in silence.

“My name is Lilly.” The girl said.

“That’s nice.” Catrina said not really caring.

“What is your name?” Lilly asked.

“Does it matter?” Catrina asked.

“I guess not.” Lilly sighed. They kept walking for a few minutes in silence again until Catrina stopped.

“Why are you following me?” Catrina asked.

“To make sure you don’t tell the guards.” Lilly answered.

“Well I’m not, so you can leave.” Catrina said.

“Why did you help me?” Lilly asked.

“Why does it matter?” Catrina asked walking again.

“Well you’re being very rude for someone who just kept an eighteen year old from being arrested.” Lilly answered.

“Because I felt bad for you.” Catrina answered. “You have rags that barely fit you, you’re just skin and bone, and I know you’re an orphan.”

“I don’t need pity from a stuck up like you.” Lilly said. Catrina stopped and whirled around to look at Lilly.

“Fine, you want me to turn around and tell the guy that I saw you stealing from his cart? Or the woman that you took the bracelet from her wrist before you returned it? Who owns the pocket books you were carrying in your pocket? What about the pearls and the diamond ring?” Catrina asked angrily.

“What are you talking about?” Lilly asked innocently. Catrina pulled out the pocket books, the pearls, the ring and the two silver coins the woman had given Lilly and threw them on the ground. “How did you,” Lilly started.

“Pick-pocketing is the most common form of thievery. And here I am getting a ‘don’t pity me’ lecture form a kid who can’t even jack an apple cart without getting caught.” Catrina said angrily. “So I’m sorry for trying to help you, Lilly.” She turned and started walking again.

“Wait.” Lilly said running after Catrina. “Please, I do need your help.”

“What do you want from me?” Catrina asked.

“I don’t have a home, or a job. I was wondering if you could be my mistress.” Lilly said. Catrina laughed.

“And have you stealing from me? I don’t think so.” She laughed.

“I promise I won’t steal. All I want is a bed, some clothes that fit and a warm meal every once and a while.” Lilly said.

“I can’t be your mistress.” Catrina said. “But my friend owns an inn and if you want, I can see if they will let you work there.”

“Are you going to tell them about me stealing?” Lilly asked.

“I will. But I will also tell them that you promised not to and I find you to be a girl of your word.” Catrina said.

“I guess I can try it.” Lilly said.

“But if you cross me on this, I will have you arrested so fast.” Catrina threatened.

“You’re just as bad as me, I don’t think they will believe you.” Lilly said.

“Yeah, but I’m also the princess. They’ll have to believe me.” Catrina said.

“You aren’t the princess.” Lilly said. “You’re conning me now.”

“How much do you want to bet?” Catrina asked.

“Prove it.” Lilly said. Catrina showed her Markus’ ring.

“This was my father’s. When he died it was my brothers. But I left and Fredric gave it to me.” Catrina said. “No one can take this ring.”

“You are the princess.” Lilly said.

“Catrina.” Catrina said. She started walking again and Lilly followed.

“How did a princess learn to be a pick-pocket?” Lilly asked.

“I know more than just pick-pocketing.” Catrina smiled. “I’m the best conman in the world.” Lilly walked ahead of Catrina for a few minutes because Catrina was having trouble on her cane.

“So, where is this inn?” Lilly asked.

“We’re almost there.” Catrina said as she bit into an apple. Lilly turned around to see her eating.

“Where did you get the apple?” Lilly asked.

“From you.” Catrina answered.

“But they are in the bottom of my bag.” Lilly asked.

“I know.” Catrina smiled and handed Lilly an apple. Lilly looked at the apple and laughed.

“You are good.” She said as she bit into the apple.

“I know.” Catrina smiled.

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