29

Dearest Raina,

He kissed you! How romantic! Well, I am certain you think so, although, as you know, I myself am not very romantic. But it sounded so sweet and I am sure your heart was pounding and your head was spinning. If I loved someone the very thought of the kiss would make my heart beat out the battle march.  And, oh Raina, he must love you! He must have meant something by that kiss. He does not sound like the kind of person that would lead someone on without any intention of it going somewhere. I am quite certain that he is just as deeply in love as you are. And I wish you all the happiness in the world. 

Alas, my lot is not so good nor so pleasurable. To begin with, Sol has started talking again and I am now learning the value of silence. Strange how you value something so much more when it is taken away from you. 

But I take it back, to begin with I will tell you about Gi. I have learned some pretty valuable things about Gi and the King that I think you should know. Gi's life has been chock full of magic and spells. In fact, his whole life has been one big spell. Or most of it. 

The night before Sol's passion for talking awoke, Gi and I sat around the campfire and he related to me all he could remember of his former life. He claims he told me these things for the sake of the rebellion, but I flatter myself in knowing that he thought me the right person to tell them to. At first he was a bit uncomfortable telling me things that have always been a secret in his mind but he has begun to open up more.

His life as a child is muddled and vague, but he remembers clearly the night he first met Y'ata. I thought it strange that he got involved with Y'ata before the King and told him so. He answered with a nod and asked me to listen through to the end. 

He grew up in the countryside. His parents are Lord and Lady Medonia. He shortened his name to Medo for privacy's sake. He is an only child but strangely enough he seems to think that he grew up with a close friend around his age. But none of the servants have children near his age and the rest of the countryside is barren of anyone worthy the companionship of the child of Lord Medonia. But without reason, he insists that he had a childhood companion. He also claims that Y'ata came to the estate not to see him but this friend. He remembers spying in on the conversation between his friend and Y'ata and being caught, thus catching the attention of Y'ata.  He remembers Y'ata's eyes and his tireless scrutiny throughout the three days spent with his family. He would roam the house in thoughtful silence and Gi felt his eyes always on him, he could almost see the wheels of thought turning behind those black eyes. And then nothing. Gi's memory stops there for quite sometime. His guess is that he went with Y'ata to the King and started his personal Warrior Training and whatever else he was to do. Only bits and pieces remain of those years but they all suggest spells and the work of Y'ata. Gi claims that he was with Y'ata more than he was with the King and any orders were given by Y'ata. Anything he does remember in detail is pointless and inconsequential. He remembers much of Warrior Training but nothing that varies from any other Warrior. And he does remember me. He remembers our training and the strained feeling. Although for the life of either of us, we cannot make out what caused the strain. To be sure, I mentioned some attraction to Gi but whatever was once there is gone now. I am not so certain my feelings were attraction. The idea of a spell seems to fit so well with the burning and my messed up feelings. I mean, I am not impartial to Gi even now, but it is not the same. 

  Anyway, he remembers our duel and then his memories fade. That was about the time he left Warrior Training. But where he went to, except to get you, I cannot guess. He didn't show up again until he came to the Tower. And then when he told the King of Benk's betrayal and escape. And that is when things clear up a bit. Although the way he told it seemed a bit foggy and frankly embarrassing on my part. He was in his usual trance-like and obedient state when he informed the King of the escapes. But when he saw me something cleared in his head and he felt the urgent need for his own escape. By the time the King left and he was taking us back to the cell, he was clear and planning. And you know the rest. I can't imagine what I did to cause the clearing of the spell but he claims it had everything to do with me. He couldn't or wouldn't explain further. 

Before this he spoke of some secret meetings and sudden missions he was sent on but I can't make out their importance. I wish I could though. Gi clearly stated that these secrets all had something to do with the one thing or person Y'ata feared. But neither of us can think of who or what that may be. I am a hopeless pessimist in thinking that there is nothing Y'ata fears. 

So although I am certain you have drawn many conclusions of your own, here is my analysis. Y'ata has somehow gained control of the King and the kingdom. In many ways it is a sad conclusion for me. It seemed much safer to work against the King but I am at a loss when fighting against a mage. The pieces fit nicely though, Y'ata has always been with or near the King when he was doing something nasty, he gained control over Gi (who is showing himself to be rather hard-headed) and some of the things the King does would be nearly impossible without the help of magic. Even keeping track of us. And yet he does it seamlessly. Although I seriously hope he has lost all trace of you, I have no such hope for myself. It would be fruitless. We are in an area far too populated and too distant from any wilderness to try to hide in. 

Villages surround us and frankly I don't know how we got here. Without Sol's guidance we got ourselves rather lost and ended up near every source of information post the King has. But we have been lucky and the scouting parties we came upon were small and far between leaving us almost perfectly well. 

As Sol pointed out to me when his "gift" of speaking returned, it is easier to get lost when you don't know where you're going. And by my lance I haven't the faintest idea where we're headed. Are we to look for Luc and company or are we to come to you in the rebellion? Heaven knows.

Sol's miraculous, endless talking began two days ago. We had just escaped unscathed from the largest scouting party we have yet encountered and Gi and I were using up the last bits of adrenaline by foolishly reenacting bits and pieces from the fight around the campfire.  As we sat down on the fallen logs in giggles and laughter from the falls and cuts we caused our opponents, we were struck silent by the scraping sound of Sol's voice, softly echoing around the campground. 

"Things have a terrible permanence when people die." In any other situation I would have laughed aloud at the absurd and rather obvious comment, but I held my silence and gazed at the still figure looking towards our recent battleground. 

We were so shocked that Sol had condescended to speak to us that we let the moment pass in silence. It was broken by the beginning of an endless lecture from Sol. Heaven help me if I know what he said. I have long stopped listening to what he rambles on about. It only gives me a headache. I just shook my head in bewilderment and stomped off to saddle up the horses. Gi listens respectfully to Sol's lectures but I don't know how he manages. Sometimes I almost think he really listens, but the thought is beyond belief. 

When asked why he had chosen to grace us with his wisdom again, Sol simply answered that it was time. 

By the sword, I don't understand that man, and by my lance I haven't the will or reason to try to. I let him be and only grudgingly admit that we have not been lost since. 

With Sol's new bucket of words comes a bucket of questions from Gi and me. Where are we to go? What is our next course of action. But he remains silent and urges us to find our own answer. So much for his talking again. He never says anything useful.

As to your life, I am so happy for you. For you and Ranger and most especially for you finally finding the Rebellion. Tell me more about it. What do you actually do there? What are the people like? I confess, I am awfully curious and questioning on all points concerning the Rebellion. As much as I have always wanted and planned to lead the Rebellion, I know much less about it than I should. I hear unsettling rumors about the destruction the Rebellion causes and I am afraid some of the people are rather hard set against them. But I want your opinion on them. Is it everything we hoped and dreamed the Rebellion would be? 

  I cannot deny that when you spoke of your friends in the Rebellion, it gave me a shooting pain in the heart. Raina, my friends are gone! Sure, I have Sol and Gi with me but they are the two people I don't exactly classify as my friends, for different reasons. I miss Kira and Terk and Abe and Benk. We went through so much together and now we have so much more to go through but we have to do it alone. And Kira, Terk, and Abe aren't here to go through anything. I keep wishing that there was some reason their deaths were faked and that I could find them but the answer is all too simple and horrid. They are dead and that is that. There is not much I can do to change it. But I do miss them and I envy you your new friends. 

By the way, I realize that I mentioned in my last letter that Gi and I were intent on keeping a watchful eye on Sol and were rather suspicious of his being in league with M'oren. But I have completely cleared him in my mind. His hurt at their betrayal is as deep as mine and I feel it almost wrong to place suspicion on him. That does not mean I won't be careful, but I won't be too suspicious. 

As for Luc, I can only hope. 

Yours,

'Taira

My Lance! Things happen quick!

So, in a nutshell, Zel is engaged to be married to King Gioto and her horrid mother is even now spending her time in luxury at the Palace. How can there be any doubt as to where their loyalties lie? And Luc's. 

I'talia and Benk are safe with us at last. They were traveling quite near us actually and were set upon by Y'ata and his men. But Y'ata wasn't intervening in the fighting and accidently let them escape. They are as well as can be expected and I am in earnest when I say I hope Luc is not so well. How can I be wrong now? He must be in league with Y'ata and he must have led Benk and I'talia straight to him. I only hope the pretending went too far and that he was killed in the process. And don't tell me to wait a minute, Raina! I can't be wrong this time! Benk said Y'ata was too easy on Luc and that he suspected him all along. I am just glad that Benk and I'talia are safe and we are all rid of Luc. So much for his treachery! 

28

Dearest Sister,

I hope all is well. When I read about Sol being quiet I couldn't believe it. I mean Mage's and Sage's are well known for their inability to stay quiet. I find it very difficult to see Sol so solemn. He must have seen something. I wonder what? My foresight has all been confusing. I have been so useless with it. I see faces of strangers doing simple things. But every one who could effect the future I feel something for. The only use my foresight is providing small hints in battle to warn me of what next blow my attacker will throw at me. The way of seeing things in the future still confuse me when I try to think too hard about it .

Sister I wonder if Gi is right? Could Zel and her mother be in leagues with Y'ata? If so then our trust has been very deeply betrayed. I hope sincerely that Luc isn't part of any of this. I can't see how he could. He's too good. I have met Luc personally and I still trust him. If he dares to betray us he shall deal with the wrath of a Mage.

You are probably wondering what's going on with Ranger and how we both are. When I last wrote to you I had followed the rebellion scouts all the way to the safe haven of the rebels. Sister so much has happened since then, yet so little. Once I knew where the location of the rebels was I had to decide how I to penetrate it. The rebels are located in a large valley. The only entrance is between two cliffs, smooth as glass, and so tall that the mountains in our home land are a little pathetic. The opening between the two cliffs is about thirty feet wide. It's closed off by a large gate. Off to the left of it there is a small pond.


I decided to walk back to the nearest village. There I traded some small trinkets that I had for a ragged dress, and shoes to match. I then put on a magical mask that would disguise my face and not let any magic waif off (so no one would know I could use magic). I waited until mid morning the next day and struggled out of the woods to the pond where I dropped to my knees and started crying. I cried for a while. But soon a man, a guard I think, walked up to me and asked me what was the matter. I told him this whole fabricated story that my parents had been killed by the king and that I was running from soldiers. The man told me I had reached the rebellion and that he could probably get me a job as a laundress. They had been needing some more help and I would be perfect. I agreed. I was in. It was easier than I thought it would be but what can you expect from a rebellion that is in need of more people. I was shocked on how nice the inside was. It was just like a small village, but no policemen, no taverns, and almost no stir of people. The guard who found me walked me clear across the whole town to a semi-large pond in the back that butted up to the mountain. By the pond stood a not very tall woman. She had a warrior build and she was very confident looking. The man walked over to her and explained the situation to her. She looked at me and smiled. She walked me inside a little house just off the pond and said that I looked awful and needed a change of cloths immediately. She's very blunt. Apparently she lives in that small house with her husband. They were married only a few weeks when they fled to the rebellion. She's very nice. She and I are about the same height but my frail frame looked rather funny in her clothing. She helped me adjust it and I did look a lot better. I can't tell you how strange it is to look in a mirror and see a face that isn't your own, though it should be. This is the second time I have worn a magical mask and you would think that I would have gotten used to it, but I haven't. All in all I got along very well with the laundry lady. Funny that I don't know her name yet and I've been working with her for the past few weeks. Well any ways we did laundry together and I slept in an Inn like place in the village. I searched for Ranger every where but I couldn't find him. Then I found out that the village was only a small portion of the rebellion. It contained the scouts and people who wouldn't live in caves, for that is where the rest of the rebellion was, in caves. These caves are bigger than any I've seen, or could possibly imagine. It took me a long time to be trusted enough to learn of these cave's. When I finally was aloud to visit it I couldn't believe my eyes.

The streets crowded with people shopping, and selling. People running every where. I walked along with the laundry lady as she showed me around. Then we stopped on a corner where several women were. The laundry lady explained to me that this was the best place to get information. The gossip women. We listened for a good hour before Rangers name was mentioned. Some women expressed how surprised they were that he wasn't in a prison cell in one of the lower levels. Others said that he was going to take over the rebellion and lead them to victory. But every one agreed on the fact that he was in cave with the more influential people in the rebellion. I was relived beyond measure. He was safe. But how strange it was that he was so . . . high up. I mean I thought he was their enemy. Well the laundry lady got me a job helping in a bread shop. I was glad for the new experience. And being able to stay in the cave, it would give me more of an opportunity to find Ranger.

A few days past with no sign of Ranger. I can't tell you how it drove me crazy. I don't know why though? I knew he was safe but I guess I wanted to be sure that he was. The laundry lady came by and offered to take me to the training camp. I wondered what that was like so I went with her. They are training their own army here. As I entered the training area I could tell that a group of men watching the trainees were all magic users. Their magic was flowing so freely that I almost gaged. It's so weird how before I wouldn't have noticed but now I can tell almost instantly if someone can use magic. I met the laundry lady's husband and if I didn't know any better I would say he looks just like Terk. But it couldn't be, could it? Well he was huge and looked very strong. Again no name. Name's are very classified information for everyone. I go by L'ana here. But I hate that name. It's so ugly, at least on me. I don't fit it at all. So any how I shook hands with the man who looked like Terk. Every one calls him Gorilla, so I do too. After I met him he named some of the warriors who were training, then introduced me to the swordsmanship master. He was so tall! I couldn't believe it. He's known as the Giant. They were all very nice to me but it made me long to hold my sword and fight again. Then came the big question. Did I know how to fight? I told them that the only thing I was good at was retreating. They all laughed at that. But I have to say it hurt my pride a little not being able to tell them that I actually was very good at fighting.

So after that day nothing more interesting happened for another couple of days. I had decided to take a walk out on the busy streets. As I was getting jostled from one side to another I bumped into a man. I looked up to apologize and you wont believe who it was. Ranger! I grabbed his arm and told him that I needed to talk to him. He gave me a questioning look. He couldn't recognize me! I pulled him into a side alley and he calmly asked how he could help me. I pulled off my magical mask and went into a complete melt down. I said, "How can you do this to me? I . . . didn't you know? I followed you! You . . . just . . . disappeared . . . then came back . . . and YOU didn't even come looking for me! You . . . you . . .!" During all my ramblings Ranger had moved closer to me and he put his hand under my chin then gently kissed me, stopping my flow of words. I couldn't believe it. We kissed for only a second and I'm sure it was just him expressing that he missed me but still I couldn't believe it. "I knew you would find me. So there was no need for me to find you. But I am so glad to see you again," he said. Then he gave me a hug. I was breathless and completely out of words. He took a step back holding my shoulders. "Are you alright?" he asked me. I nodded and he smiled. "Why don't you get your maids face back on and show me where your living. Then tomorrow, when you've recovered, I'll come and give you a tour of this town." I nodded and put my magic made face back on. I led the way to the bakery and walked inside. I waved him a small good bye and went up to my room. That's when I saw your letter on the desk, and started writing back to you. I still don't understand what's going on. My stomachs fluttering so much. This is so annoying. What do you think Ranger means by-- kissing me? It's probably just a sign of friendship, right? I mean were only friends. We just protect each other. Now I'm rambling on again. So I'll stop writing for now.

Raina

P.S. I've decided to send the letter now. I know I'll forget if I don't. Good luck. I hope you find I'talia. And be aware, cautious, and careful. Love you lots.

Ishraina

27

Dearest Raina,

My mind is spinning in circles and I still cannot believe the half of what I have learned. But first, forgive me for not writing sooner. Know that I was desperate to come to you or at the least encourage you but I have found little time for writing and even if I had had the time my thoughts were and still are so tangled that I am not certain I can put them on paper. I am proud of you for doing all you can to save Ranger and I have full confidence in your abilities. Just keep at it and something will work out. 

There, now I can relay to you the happenings of late and their rather dramatic effect on my state of mind. 

Sol has been awfully silent lately and I can't get more than two words out of him in a whole day. I almost believe he has given up trying to teach me anything and is now just content to watch me screw up my life. But whatever the case, I almost miss his chattering. We do make a lot more mistakes without his advice to guide us. If I were asked what lesson I should be learning right now I would have to admit that I am learning to value his wisdom. 

With Sol's silence, Gi and I have had many opportunities to converse and I have rather enjoyed it. But strangely enough to myself, I find no traces of my previous infatuation. Oh, and Raina, the burning is gone. I don't know why or how but he seems really normal now. Everything is normal now. It's almost like he's... different. When I mention our training and quarrels back in Warrior Training he goes silent and doesn't want to talk about it. But this is all speculation. Back to the story. 

 We were riding along on some not so legally taken horses from the stable of Y'ata.  Silence reigned and I let my thoughts roam. They didn't wander far before I let out a small cry of dismay. Sol and Gi looked back at me and as I wheeled my horse around they followed my lead. What had caused my cry was the remembrance of Zel. Zel was the original reason for our going to the Tower of Deth and yet we had been so engrossed in our escape that we had entirely forgotten her. I yelled this over my shoulder to Gi and Sol and Sol echoed my cry while Gi asked who this Zel was. Sol explained in a few words and we hurried our speed. We rushed along, fearful that Y'ata would remember what we had forgotten and beat us back to the Tower. 

Luck was with us and the Tower was empty. Completely empty. And to our utter astonishment, the only room resembling a prison was the one in which Sol and I had been kept. But we searched the Tower through and through eventually turning up with nothing more than rumbling stomachs and endless questions. 

As the sun dozed off behind the tree tops, we made camp a mile or so off from the Tower. There was more silence than usual as we pondered on the meaning of the empty Tower. It could be possible that Y'ata had taken her somewhere else, as a bargaining means, but I couldn't see why. He had accomplished his goal in getting me there and surely M'oren's daughter was not that important. 

Sol had gone to bed and Gi and I sat around the small fire, each engrossed in our thoughts. it was Gi that first spoke, as I sat in astonishment at what he revealed.

"I'taira," He spoke as if he were struggling with the words and I listened carefully. "I think I remember Zel." He closed his eyes and his forehead was scrunched as he struggled to remember. "There was an old woman and her daughter. They came to the King sometime last year. I think I was there. The woman mentioned that her daughter's name was Zel and that Y'ata had sent them. Y'ata sent people to the King often and the King always accepted them. I was dismissed but I remember hearing that Zel was to stay in the Palace at a given time." He trailed off mumbling a few more things. "I'm sorry, I don't seem to remember much." He smiled ruefully and ran his hands through his thick hair. 

I stared into the flames as I tried to piece together what Gi said. I didn't doubt Gi's honesty but I couldn't think of a possible reason for M'oren going to the Palace and at Y'ata's request or command no less. To tell you the truth, I don't know the path my thoughts led but the conclusion they came to was not a pleasant one. 

I quizzed Gi some more and he admitted to seeing Zel in the Palace just three weeks ago and M'oren at the Tower during one of the King's visits. 

As these thoughts fit into place my hands began to shake and Gi's concern rose for me. I really do not know how my emotions got the better of me but the tears began to run and Gi held me as the sobs shook my body. I had been fooled all along. Of course M'oren didn't find me on accident and didn't just happen to need the Top Warrior to save her daughter. It was a ruse all along. Her daughter was never kidnapped. And Luc must have been in on it all along. He made up the whole pity story about Emlyn to gain my trust! Maybe he didn't even have a sister. And then my thoughts turned to Sol. What about Sol! He was M'oren's brother and he had also turned up so opportunely! 

The betrayal hurt me and I continued to fit the pieces together. Luc didn't try hard enough to stop me from battling Y'ata. Benk must have known that M'oren was in cahoots with the King and Y'ata and he had been the good one trying to warn me! 

I really curse myself for not seeing these things sooner. It would have saved a whole lot of pain and trouble. 

And Luc! I have let myself trust him so fully! On my lance he is a good actor! He fooled you along with me. And now he must be gaining Benk and I'talia's trust while all the while leading them to Y'ata. How could I have been so blind Raina! 

I spilled my thoughts to Gi and understanding came to his eyes as he pieced the happenings together. He couldn't help but acquiesce. But he did protest as to Luc. He claims he has never seen a man with M'oren and Zel and he keeps reminding me that had Luc been in cahoots with the King, there would have been no better time to turn Benk and I'talia over than when they had been captured. There would have been no reason to escape. 

I am almost entirely certain that M'oren and Zel have been in league with Y'ata all along but I'm not sure about Luc. I would like to believe that he is totally ignorant of their schemes but it seems so improbable. 

I'm sorry. My mind is still spinning. I don't know what to do about Sol. He does not seem to be making any trouble now and I can't claim that I know for certain that he is not trying to help us. Gi and I have decided to keep our suspicion hidden and just keep him under tabs. I just hope that doesn't lead to our downfall. 

Oh Raina! Why does everyone seem to be against us!? I feel as if the entire world is bent on our destruction and we just keep running to stay alive. I want to stay and fight but I can't do it alone and I don't know who will be with me or who will turn and stab me in the heart. 

Be wary my dearest. I am glad you have Ranger with you. And I am glad I have Gi with me. It seems my truest friends are the ones that started out as my enemies. 

We continue to search for Benk and the Princess. We will deal with Luc when we find him. I can only hope that he has not led them astray and if he has he will have me to deal with. I will not stand for being on the defensive any longer. I am making a list of my enemies and I will hunt them down and stop them! I will not run any longer! I am sick and tired of being held up in prison. I am sick and tired of being betrayed. I am getting nowhere with the rebellion and Y'ata and the King are winning by keeping me away from the people. Raina, find out what the rebellion is up to and by my lance if they are doing anything worthwhile, join in! We must do something!

Oh, and a bit of happy news for your romantic mind. It seems Benk and the Princess I'talia have a bit of an understanding between themselves. I never would have thought it but Gi says they are quite close and he does not find it at all surprising that I'talia should betray her brother for Benk. Apparently I'talia is not too fond of Gioto. Maybe she can help us somehow.

 Your deeply betrayed sister,

I'taira

26

Dearest I'taira,

I'm the one who needs your forgiveness. I should never have said the things I had. I'm sorry. But look on the bright side. You've escaped! I knew you could do it. I just have a hard time believing that you really have escaped. When I received your letter I jumped up and started crying out for joy. Ranger looked at me like I was insane. But when I told him that the princess and Luc had gotten away Ranger leaped up and I'm sure he would have yelled for joy if I hadn't been there. But he did lift me up and we spun around a couple of times before we both realized how silly we must look. Sister I'm so happy, you did it! The only thing I'm a little sad about is that now Luc has some competition. Who will you choose? Gi or Luc. You can't have both. Strange how Gi would actually betray the King. When I told Ranger the details of your escape he got a confused look. But when I asked him about it he wouldn't say anything. I wonder why he cares so much for the princess, and why it would bother him that Gi helped you escape.

Well since you don't need rescuing any more Ranger decided that we should head to the rebellion. He never says what we'll do when we get there, just that I shouldn't use my foresight while near them. I do feel a little incapable with out it though. I only use my foresight at night. Its become more of a difficult thing to decipher. I do catch glimpses of you and all the other people with you. Sister what has Sol said about your escape? Did you pass a lesson from it?

Ranger has insisted that we take the long way to the rebellion capitol, thereby enabling us to visit some villages along the way. I don't know when Ranger ever gained the trust of the people, it just always seems to have been there. The people love and respect him more than they do the king. I just don't get it. He serves the every day hero's but that doesn't mean you have their respect. I asked Ranger where he learned the secret of the hero's the other day. He told me he learned it from a lady who taught it to him and her small daughter. When he asked her why only to the small child and himself she said, "Only those willing to know hero's can see them. Not every person is meant to understand the knowledge of the hero's. If every one did there would be no need for anything and we wouldn't exist. But its the few who understand that make this life tolerable." When I asked him more about the little girl he said her name was something like Emlyn. I told him about Luc's sister and he said it was most likely the same girl. But apparently Ranger knew the girl when she was only three, and only for a brief time. But I'm sure some day Emlyn will show up.

Ranger is so jealous. I can tell. Every time I pay particular attention to any one man in a village Ranger glares at them the whole time until we leave. I mention it because he just did it in the last town. I know I shouldn't be that mean to Ranger but its so funny. We both claim to only feel a brother, sisterly, love. But I think he feels a lot more than that. This talk is pure nonsense. In the last village there was a dance. I danced with mostly younger men but occasionally I'd dance with older, grandpapa age, men. Their so sweet. I have really enjoyed my time with Ranger. Every time I think of us separating I don't know what to do. We've been traveling together for so long.

Something just happened I'll write latter.

He's gone! He's gone, I don't know what to do. He's really gone! I couldn't do anything they just . . . just took him.

It's been a few hours now and I can think clearly again. Ranger was taken by the scouts of the rebellion. I followed them until they set up for camp. From what I can tell they were sent specifically to get Ranger. There's probably six magic users and ten warriors. Still too many for me to go in there and get Ranger. I've only ever fought one magician at a time. I haven't been able to use my powers at all. So they haven't detected me yet. What happened was we had paused to take a brake and I decided to write you. Ranger went to look around for a bit. After a while I heard the clash of swords. I ran to see what was happening but by the time I'd gotten there they already forced him to surrender and were tying his hands together. I ran back and wrote how he was gone. I then followed the scouts. I will admit to you I did cry a little. I mean I was alone.

I've been following them for two days now. Ranger keeps getting mocked by the scouts and I've wanted to go in there and stop them. But I need to keep hidden. I could never rescue him in the situation he's in. My best chance is to follow them to the rebellion. Then hopefully brake in undercover and spring him out of where ever he is. Then with all the confusion we'll be able to sneak out. I hope. Let's pray it'll work.

This is taking forever. I've been following them for several days now. Ranger saw me but seemed to get the idea of what I was doing. I still don't know why its taking so long to get there. They probably are trying to lose anyone who's following them. I'm so confused. I don't know why the rebellion took Ranger. I don't even know if I'm with the rebellion, and I don't like them because of what they've done to Ranger. But I also don't like the King. What do you believe?

Well the scouts are packing up camp again, and I want to be ready to follow them.
Love,

Raina

25

Dearest Raina,

 You must forgive me for being so terribly negative and hopeless. You told nothing but the truth in your last letter and I am only sorry that I did not see my plight clearly from the first. I see now that I positively put myself in the position of the victim and very wrongly expected my rescue to come from outside means, rather than from the resources I had so clearly been given. 

When I finally aroused in myself the energy and will to change my situation, things went smoothly and quickly. I told Sol of my ideas and after perfecting them in their little flaws, we had a neat and hopefully clean plan. 

We began by taking apart our already broken cots and setting them around the stone walls in various positions. We both took up a leg from our cot and after a gleeful glance at each other, set to making the most beautiful and advantageous noise known to man. 

I felt my body lighten and my mind lift as I jumped around the room, hitting the wood against the stone wall as I raised my voice in mindless screamings and songs. 

Sol sang possibly the most annoying and terrifying songs I have ever heard, but I loved every note of it. 

We went on for possibly three hours, never resting even as our voices grew hoarse and our legs mechanically moved us across the small room. But no matter how loud we screamed or how hard we hit the scraps of wood across the thick walls, we came no closer to our goal than if we were lying peacefully in bed. 

At last our arms sank to our sides and our voices rasped out the last notes of The Sailor and the Seal. We fell down on the cold stone floor and I felt the tears come to my weary eyes. 

But my soul was so energized by the exercise and high hopes that my tears came not out of despair, but desperation. 

Our faithful guards had failed to respond to our noise and we had no way of opening the door. But my mind wandered with fantasies of escape and I refused to give up. 

I dragged myself off the cold ground and pulled Sol up with me. He glanced at me in confusion, but readily accepted the fragment of wood I thrust at him. I motioned for him to remain silent and stand at the ready. 

My throat protested at the strain of yelling but I used what little strength I had to force it out of me. 

"Y'ata, I give up! I'm ready to talk! Just let me out of here!" Sol looked at me with a mix of sympathy and confusion. I dare say I sounded very convincing as I cannot own that that was not exactly what I wanted to say. 

There was silence for a few minutes, then we heard the creaking of the guardroom door and finally our prison door groaned inward and a few small wisps of fresh air came floating in. 

The first person to enter the door was not to be Y'ata and I angrily knocked the breath from his large frame. But luck was with us and Y'ata came next, unaware that his predecessor was snoring lightly as he lay prostrate on the floor. 

All my anger and frustration came crashing down on Y'ata's head and he was out cold before he had time to defend himself. I was not sorry that I was using unfair tactics and Sol and I rushed out of the room and through the many more comfortable rooms as we made our way to our freedom. The guards we bumped into soon had bumps on their large heads and were dozing in la-la-land. Things were going more smoothly than we had even dared to hope and we were in the front room before we came into any trouble at all. But this trouble more than made up for the lack of trouble along the way. 

King Gioto stood calmly in the doorway, surrounded with his personal guard. Sol and I stopped as quickly as our momentum would allow us and quicker when we were grasped by the strong and capable men of the King's guard. My eyes didn't leave those of the King's and we stood in a silent battle for a few moments. My breath was coming in great gasps and I began to feel the effects of my days of hunger and no exercise. 

The King was the first to break off the staring contest and I smiled in triumph as I saw his shoulders twitch, uncomfortable under my scrutiny. 

But my gaze was also broken off as I heard the voice of my old acquaintance. 

"Your Majesty," Gi came running up beside the King and grabbed him by the arm. He did not notice my presence and I was not impatience to attract his notice. "Your Majesty, they have escaped." These last words were said quietly and I barely caught them but I noticed the King's face flush as they were said and his arm came roughly out of Gi's grasp. 

"Escaped? They? What can you mean? We had only one prisoner." 

It was Gi's turn to flush and he did so beautifully. The group around the King had respectfully drawn back. "Sire, the Princess has also gone, along with the Spy." 

The King began to tremble and he wiped his brow. "Are you certain?"

"We have searched everywhere, your majesty. They are all gone." Gi again grabbed the King's arm as he swayed to and fro. But the King quickly righted himself and jerked Gi into a small adjoining room. 

When they came out a few minutes later, they were more composed and the King again turned his attention to me. 

"Warrior I'taira. I'm afraid I have some more pressing matters than your little escapades at the moment but I'm sure you won't mind if I return for you in the morning. Gi will kindly escort you to your room." He swept grandly out of the room leaving half of his men and the now sober Gi.

My eyes swept the face of that man once so handsome in my eyes and I took in every little fault of his features. 

But I had not time to ponder his perfection. We were headed towards the direction of our "room" and I was determined to at the least delay our arrival there. 

Sol saw my frantic glances around the rooms we were passing through and merely nodded his head. But that was all the support I needed. 

As we went through the guards room, I jerked myself out of my captor's hands and flew towards the nearest sword. By the time I had hold of my sword, Gi possessed one also. We were facing each other and my eyes narrowed in consternation. He was the last person I wanted to fight after weeks in gaol. 

But I was in for the biggest surprise of my life. As I thrust forward at my supposed opponent, I lunged into empty air. Gi had turned and thrust out at a different opponent - one of the guards. 

Thus commenced the battle, Sol, Gi, and me against a group of ten well trained Warriors. But it was surprisingly quick and decided and almost before you could say Big Bandits Have Baggy Blue Bandanas, we were outside in the fresh air. 

I looked at Gi in amazement and he laughed at the stunned look on my face. Sol patted us both on the back and we started off in search of Luc, the Princess I'talia and the spy Benk. 

As we went along, Gi told us his story. 

The King had caught Luc and the princess on a lucky chance a few days back and had held Luc prisoner, planning on executing him for the capture of the Princess. Gi said he did not know the full details of the escape but he believes that the Princess and Benk aided Luc in his escape and went along of their own free will. 

 As to Gi himself, he would not give us all the particulars, only saying that he has long been distressed by the acts of the King and looking for a way out.  He has confessed to some bit of admiration for myself and did not find himself disgraced in any manner by joining with me. 

 I cannot tell you much else. I suppose the King will know soon enough who has betrayed him, but for now we are safe. Y'ata was still out cold as we made our second escape and I can only hope that the bump on his head is big enough to keep him in the Tower for some while. 

For the moment I do not know what I wish to accomplish in the long run of the rebellion. All I know right now is survival and I'm afraid it will be that way for some time. 

But I wish you well and safe. And I cannot help but constantly pray for my friends Luc and Benk and even the Princess. May we all be safe from people such as Y'ata and the King. 

I continue to be wary of Gi even after all he has done for us. That is the price you pay for staying safe. But no matter who is loyal to, I will always be grateful to him.

   

  Yours always,

       I'taira

24

Dear I'taira,

Are you alright? I haven't heard from you in so long. I hope you are doing well. The thought of you being . . . . No I won't even think it. Please be safe. The contents of this letter is of a sad nature.

Ranger and I have traveled very little in the past few days. Y'ata keeps stopping us in our tracks. In reality we haven't been able to get very far at all. But when we were fleeing we chanced upon a small fort with soldiers. From Rangers snooping around we were able to find out that . . . I wish I wasn't the one to tell you. Luc and I'talia are in that prison. When Ranger told me I jumped up to go to their rescue. Even Ranger, who is usually very calm about things like this, already had a plan for braking in. And then Y'ata showed up and we had to flee. Sister I have to get to you. It's been several weeks sense we were at that fort. I hope they escaped, though I highly doubt it. But Ranger is determined to make it back to that fort.

Sister, every time we come in contact with Y'ata he starts telling me the tortures you have to endure. Sister I can't help but yell at him while I start crying. If you are being . . . I hate to say it, being tortured then I am to blame. I should have gone to your immediate rescue. Sister please write me and tell me if he really is hurting you. Then I will fight with all my strength, even with my life. I will give it if it meant keeping you safe. Ranger becomes more distressed every day. He told me I shouldn't write you. Said that it would just confirm my worst fears. But please tell me I need to know how you are doing.

I must bid you farewell. We'll probably be under attack soon, so good bye. But really quickly, why do you think Ranger is so desperate to get back to that fort?

With all my love, hoping this letter finds you in good health,

Ishraina

23

Dear I'taira,

What is wrong with you! Snap out of this trance of fearfulness. Wake up to who you really are! The I'taira I knew would not give up. That's what you've done. You've given up on everything. You need to find hope. A hope that you can cling onto. Do you not remember our days as children? When I would be the one in danger and you would find a way to save me. No matter what enchantments, what odds. I believed in you, and still do. I know you can get out of there if you try. Luc could be in danger and needs your help. If you have no hope in anything at least try to hold on to Luc. Sister, please, you have lost all sense of purpose. HOPE! Believe in it. Sister I was always the fearful one. But I found the secret. Hope can ease fear, make it more possible to survive. Sister awaken from this awful trance and seek for the hope that will give you strength. Strength to escape, unless you can't find it. You, the best Warrior at Warrior Training, unable to find a simple thing. I never thought a Warrior could be brought so low.

I'm sorry, that's too harsh. I'm so tired of hearing you complain and not do anything. Sister please try. I was wondering though, why was Gi there? He should have no reason to visit the Tower of Deth. That's strange.

I have hardly anything to say as of right now. Ranger and I are still traveling village to village. I noticed something queer today. Ranger has never asked why Y'ata was after me. I suppose he assumed it was just because Y'ata wanted an apprentice. But sister I'm wanted for so much more than that. I wonder if Ranger will ever ask me about it? We are on the road right now. I took this opportunity to write you during our rest stop. We're about to move on, I'll update you later to night.

Night fall;

Sister, I have had the most glorious evening of my life. It was so . . . odd. We continued on our way for a few hours. When we were ready to set up camp, and we both lowered our guard, men sprung up from all around two grabbed Ranger and two grabbed me. I struggled against the men but Ranger stood there calmly. Ranger looked forward to a man who lazily leaned against a tree. The man after sometime stood up and lazily walked over to Ranger. This man was strong of build and very large. He was rugged but not good looking at all. This man stared at Ranger and laughed. "Funny how you try every thing to give us the slip but we always track ya down in the end. This time we should have your agreement right?" the man said. Ranger half smiled and said, "Ti, why do you never stop? You know that I can't, because of things I've done. Let us go. You can't gain anything by keeping us in your custody." "Us? That's right. The little girl who's been traveling with you for a time," Ti said. He looked at me a sly smirk sliding up his face. "Aren't you a pretty one. Where did Ranger find you?" I looked away. I hated men like Ti. Even if he was just kidding.

Ti again turned to Ranger. "I suppose we could leave you here. Maybe a bit more ragged than normal. But I know you'll come for ya little friend," Ti said running his hand down my cheek. I shuddered. Ranger shook his head sadly. "She's dangerous. I wouldn't wish that curse upon you," Ranger said. Ti and his men laughed. Ranger looked at me and said, "Raina don't do it. Please don't do it." I watched his eyes. They were telling me the exact opposite then what he was saying. I closed my eyes and heated my skin. The men holding me let go in a howl as their hands burned red. In a flash of movement I had all the men thrown to the ground. I was surprised how little thought it took to do such a large action. Not to mention time it should of taken me to cast the spell. I looked at Ranger who was still standing, he smiled at me and signaled that we should move on before the men woke up.

At last we settled into a camping spot. Ranger built the fire while I went and looked for herbs that would taste good in a soup. After we both ate dinner we sat across from each other looking at the fire. After a few minutes Ranger broke the silence. "So why does Y'ata want you? Besides the fact that you are a Mage," he said. I sat quietly, he was actually asking the question I thought he would never ask. I cleared my throat and started with how you were at Warrior Training then ran away and how I ran from the army. Then me becoming your spy, and all the events that led up to the kidnap of princess I'talia. Strange how I hadn't thought of her for such a long time. When I had mentioned that fact Ranger stopped me and said in a shocked voice, "You actually kidnapped the princess?" I nodded. "Get some rest we'll be leaving early," he said then he stood and went to start his look out.


I closed my eye's. Oh what a scene to come before my eyes! Sister why haven't you told me how bad things really are? No its not your fault. Why was I so blind? I saw you. After I had been seeing my visions without comprehending I opened up for full understanding. I can't believe it. Forgive me, forgive me. I feel so . . . I'm sorry. How could I have been so heartless. I'm coming for you. I don't care what pain I suffer. It will all be penitence for the things I have forced you to endure. I could have ended it. I should have come and rescued you from the very beginning.

Yours in pitiful sorrow,


Raina

We have taken a rest stop so I will write you one last time before I send this letter. After I had woken from the knowledge of you in danger I went to Ranger and told him I would be leaving immediately for the Tower of Deth. He gave a sly smile. "I'm coming with you. But we have to find the Princess. I don't care how much you say you trust this Luc. I want to be sure that we have her and that she's safe. Well hurry and help me pack up camp. We need to get started if we want to get to your sister in time," he said.

I looked at Ranger and I was so grateful that he understood me and what I had to do. Then with out really knowing what I was doing I ran to Ranger and gave him a hug and a kiss on the cheek. I immediately turned to pack up camp to avoid an awkward moment. Though I chanced a glance back and he was giving me a quizzical look. Sister I know this is not the time, but I do like Ranger as a person. He's a good friend. Be comforted that we are on our way to rescue you. And find Luc and the princess.

The more I've thought about it the more I wonder why Ranger wants to find I'talia? And those men who wanted his allegiance? This is becoming very confusing.

Love,
Raina.

22

Dear Raina,

Luc's not here. I need him. I'm well. Scared. No torture yet. Nothing but the dronings of Sol and the darkness inescapably trapped inside these four walls. 

 I think Y'ata's gone. Gi's here. He scares me. Everything scares me. I'm not supposed to be scared, Raina! He tries to get me to talk. I don't. He doesn't hurt me though. 

 Yours,

    I'taira

Later:

Luc's still not here. I want him here. Gi's gone now.  He was going to let me escape. He said he would come get me last night. He never came. The guards said he left yesterday. 

 I need Luc. Where is he? 

~I'taira

Later:

I need Luc! I need him to tell me everything is going to be okay. I need his smile! I need him! 

~'Tair

21

Dear sister,

Don't you dare die on me again, I'll personally kill you if you do. You scared me so bad. I can't go through emotional trauma like that right now! Please hold in there. If not for me, for Luc. I know he likes you. He talked very . . . fondly of you when he was here. And I did give him permission to fall in love with you. And don't you dare wish to be any different than who you are. But please don't you die on me. I cried in your letter as you were dying and I cried right in front of Ranger. Do you have any idea how embarrassing that was? Its over now right? Just don't you ever scare me like that again. Please, please, regain a hold on life. I need you more than you will ever know. Don't give in to boredom it will all be alright.

Say hello to Sol for me. Now that you are feeling better you should listen to Sol. He knows the way out (possibly), and if you listen to him he might help you escape (maybe). But please listen to him. Sister I am very worried about you. Y'ata must be planing something with you. You must get out of there, you must! I was so mad when Y'ata held you in the air! He was either infusing you with strength to survive until your health picked up or he was searching your memories. Memories about me. Tell me what exactly made you afraid when he was staring at you? I need to know to be sure of what he was doing. And what thoughts were you talking about? I'm confused and I wish to know. And as to your question about him wanting me so much I have no idea. There is an old story that I've heard around the camp fires in these small villages. The story goes something like this:

A young but old Mage will arise strong and confused, calm but nervous, sure but unsure, the Mage will overthrow the evil Mages of the time and help bring peace. Look for this Mage close to the one who will bring true peace or deliverance. Remember, part friend, part enemy, part beautiful, part fearful. Look for the day when the Mage will bring balance and help bring peace, though the one with true diliverence will be shuned from almost all.

I think it's rather false and just a wish. But maybe Y'ata fears I'm that Mage who will bring down the evil Mages. I think its funny.

Well to speak on lighter things and to keep my mind from wondering I'll tell you of what Ranger and I have been up to. Hm--where to start. Last week after I sent you the letter Ranger and I continued on our way towards another town. I guess Ranger has been traveling from town to town for years. Sometimes he'll teach me more swordsmanship. He's been using a sword for fifteen years or more. He's so good. Any how, each town we visit villages the girls flutter at his passing and frown at mine. Funny how it also works in reverse. The young men smile when I pass and give dirty looks to Ranger as he passes. We tease each other about it all the time. We have so much fun together. We talk like we've known each other for years, and I love it. I don't think I've enjoyed someones company as much as his since . . . yours. I haven't been able to find out why Y'ata is after Ranger every time I bring it up he switches topics. I wish I knew why but I'm content to leave that subject alone for the present. I never knew that it could be so much fun to work.

In the last village we went to I was helping an old lady. She was so funny. I don't know why every one insists on making the connection that Ranger isn't married and neither am I, or at least the older people comment on it. This old lady asked me if I was married and I said no. Then she asked if I was engaged. And again I said no. This old lady was feeling very inquisitive and asked if I've ever had an offer of marriage. I was about to say no when I realized that day on the farm when Aunt told me and when I had to talk to Carcon. So I said yes. The old lady then turned me around and looked in my eyes and said,"Good thing you said no. Ranger is a good man." She then didn't talk to me again. I don't get it. Good I said no but then why put in that "Ranger is a good man"? I still don't get it. Well I have fallen in love. But with whom you'll never guess. It's the people. I thought it would be impossible to care for so many people, but I do. And I have Ranger to blame for it. Though I hate to admit it, he was right. It is important to care about the people. I've seen so many refugees from all the rebellions going around that I can't help but wonder that there's a better way to make things right. Rather than tearing apart the normal people. There has to be!

Until we meet anew,
Raina

P.S. I'm sure Luc's fine. He's probably just taking it nice and slow with the princess. I'm sorry this letter isn't very long. I've been busy. Well good luck. And don't ever die on me again! I hope this finds you in good health. I miss you.

20

Dear Raina,

Greetings from the land of Gaol! Haven't heard a thing from Luc. Maybe I'm dead. I really don't know. I've been here years. Thousands of years!
About five hundred years ago, I sat on my little cot, thinking and eating the scraps that had been thrown into me that morning, when my thoughts were broken by the sound of an approaching visitor. My heart was beating loudly and I was so excited to finally see someone! Imagine my dismay when I found that my new gaol partner was to be Sol. At first I was only sad because I thought that must mean that something had happened to Luc but when I learned that he was safe and that Sol had let himself be caught, I was in for another nasty feeling. Annoyance.
Sol has been attempting to teach me more lessons. The occasional times I do listen, he doesn't make any sense. He says he needs to teach me but all he really does is ramble on.
But I get so lonely that I don't always mind his presence.
Raina, I'm dying. I don't say this out of some melodramatic fantasy. I can feel my body wasting away. The water we get is little and the food even less. I see Sol's glances and I know that he knows it too.
I've had a lot of time to think. I'm not afraid to leave this world. Only you. And Luc. And Benk. My friends. I only wish I could convey to you how much you mean to me. Don't ever forget me.
I don't wish to be melancholy. Perhaps in dying I can foil the King's plans. Perhaps this is the best good I can do for our cause. I will not be used against my people. It's better this way.
I will always love you. You are my greatest friend and my dearest sister.


Yours Always,
I'taira




Later:

Y' a t a i s b a c k . S o l w i l l w r i t e f o r m e.

Y'ata returned yesterday evening. Sol was rambling on. (I was not rambling. I was quoting Tessennon.) I am afraid I have been drained of much of my strength and I lay on the small cot, hardly moving. We were startled out of our nonsensical thoughts of escape (Mine were not nonsensical) by the opening of the prison door.
The wind rushed in and I was certain I had finally died. The light was so bright and the air began to circulate and I actually smiled. My smile vanished the moment I recognized the figure in the door. I struggled to sit up, refusing to give the impression of a broken carcass to this devil of a mage.
Before I had the time or strength to lift myself, Y'ata rushed to me and seized my arms in his hands and lifted me in the air with inhuman strength. He didn't say anything but just stared at me with the look of a madman. As suddenly as he had lifted me, he dropped me back onto the fragile cot causing it to break, which in any other situation would have been highly humorous.
He quickly left and we have not seen him since. I can still feel his hands on my arms and his eyes scanning my face and I still tremble with the thoughts. I'm afraid.

Forgive me. I'm doing much better. We have been sent in good food and clean water and I feel as if I have had a grand feast. I don't know what Y'ata has in store for us but it must be something entirely evil if it has got him to do anything slightly good in preparation for it.
Sol has been lecturing me again on courage. He thinks it's good that I'm afraid, saying I must now overcome that. I think Y'ata has already unconsciuosly subjected me to the worst torture: Sol.
Well, that is a bit melodramtic. I cannot deny that I am slightly glad he is here. I am not so lonely and some of his ramblings are actually soothing and do wonders at putting me to sleep.
So, what the life you lead sister! I used to think it would be grand to be in gaol, prisoner of the King, ah what the adventure! But it is quite the contrary and it is those who do not get caught that have all the adventures.
I cannot think why Y'ata is so bent on getting you. I am certain you are very skilled but why should he waste so much time on you? I don't get him. And did you ever figure out why he was specifically after Ranger? He sounds like a nice guy, but I don't get him either. I don't get much right now. The further I get entagled in these political matters the more my mind spins. I came into this knowing exactly what I was going to do and how everything would work out. But everything has become so tangled and I don't know what I'm supposed to do. I wish I could think clearly! Mayhap I've been drugged. I don't know. I don't know anything right now.
I wish Luc would come. I always thought I would be the one to save myself but I just want someone to rescue me! I never thought I'd be the damsel in distress, but by my bow I want my prince to come!
My mind wanders. I love your letters and I pray for your safety.

Yours in gaol,
'Tair

P.S.
Do you really think Luc could ever love me? Agh! I don't want to sound like a schoolgirl. I admit, I like Luc but he is so good. I don't think I will ever deserve someone half as good as him. If I were only more like you! Maybe then he would love. But I'm not. I'm only me.

P.S.

I'm scared for Luc. What do you think could have happened to him? Where is he?

19

'Tair,

What will I ever do with you? Now I know why you always had to stay home. You needed me to get you out of trouble. Sister how could you let your pride get in the way? Do you not know what this is going to do to me? Not to mention they might torture you and I can't handle the thought of that. I'll think of some way to get you out of there.

I surprise even my self sometimes. I just had a brilliant beyond brilliant idea. I can't believe I thought about it when I wasn't even really trying to. I put a spell on this letter so only you can read it. So here's my idea, I . . . I shouldn't even be thinking about this. Alright, I'll kidnap Princess I'talia. It'll be so easy. How could the King not realize the opportunity he just placed in my hands? I have been practicing with Master Sotur'i again and I have learned so many spells that it seems that Master Sotur'i was holding back. I tried to duel Sotur'i the other day and he beat me so badly it was shocking. But from that I have improved greatly, so I should be able to take any one on in a fight. I can't believe I'm going to do this. I . . . this is insane. This is something that you would come up with-not me. I will have to leave everything behind but you can't expect me to do nothing. I know you would storm the tower if it meant saving me. Sister I won't leave you to rot. I hope I am justified in my decision. I will write later telling you of my success.

Later:

Sister, I'm in a forest I can't say where but just know that I am well and so is I'talia. Though she is a little discomforted. I mean who wouldn't. I'm sure you've heard of her capture by now but I thought I'd give you the true version. I had told my contacts I was leaving and probably wouldn't return so I got final messages, none of which were very helpful. Early the next morning I packed up some of my belongings and sent them to the place I was going to head for after I had the Princess. I then took off my disguise, I can not tell you how nice it felt to look in the mirror and just see me. I had thought I'd lost my self. I've been called R'ay for the past while and I have to say I prefer being called Raina. I put on my Mages cloak and pulled up the hood. I snuck out of the inn I had been staying in and sat in the town main square waiting for the sun to rise and with it the people. I sat in the square for several hours. I had figured out that the Princess took a tour of the town every second day of the second week. It happened to be that day.

I sat in contemplation, I watched as the baker warmed his breads and as the beggars came out of their ally ways and sat themselves in the place that would offer them the best advantage of getting money. The young market slaves came early so as to have the ingredients for their masters breakfast. The worker builders carrying their heavy hammers and ax's and other building equipment headed towards the new section of the city. Strangely no one paid me any attention. Some people even bumped into me as the day wore on.

Around two in the afternoon I'talia showed up. Today she was with Gi, Benk, and Master Sotur'i. I had of course suspected all of them to be there. I had seen it before from my foresight. I soon was able to spot the guards and saw my opportunity. I'talia had stopped to talk to a young women of obvious high standing, the rest of the group waited. They had passed me by and I was now fairly close to Master Sotur'i. I wasn't using any magic so he couldn't sense me. In a sudden burst of power I lunged into the air and before Sotur'i could do anything I knocked him out with the hilt of my dagger. I now crouched where Sotur'i had stood. Every one spun around staring. I heightened my strength, and from that increased my speed, and ran forward grabbing I'talia and bringing her to stand away from every one else. I put my dagger to her neck and told no one to move or else she dies immediately. The guards who had half way drawn their swords stopped. Silence enveloped the square. Then Gi straightened up and said to me, "Mage Raina, I presume? If your anything like your sister I'taira then I highly doubt that you would actually kill the Princess." His men started forward. "You miss judge me Gi," I said. And with that I pushed the dagger harder into I'talia's neck causing a spot of blood to appear on my dagger. The men stopped. I turned to Benk and said, "She says she's sorry. She's very sorry Benk." Benk looked confused but I know it was just to fool the others, I could see in his eyes that he understood. While I said this Gi must have signaled to I'talia to pull my hood down because as soon as I turned to Gi my hood had been yanked off. Obviously it was so that people could identify what I really looked like. I couldn't do anything about this but pull the Princess closer and press the dagger harder. She gasped giving the first sign of fear. I could see surprise in the eyes of those around. I don't think it is much of a surprise that we look so much a like except for our hair but it seems everyone else does. I felt like I had enough socializing so I shot a small piece of paper through the air which landed at Benks feet. "Benk come alone with what I ask, and follow the directions from the place outlined in the note. If you don't you'll find her," I nodded to I'talia, "dead in the place I've indicated. Or at least you'll find whats left of her." With that I said a spell that sent the both of us through the air. We landed a little distance out of town where I promptly knocked out I'talia. I then traveled with her into the Mysterious Magical Forest, which is forbidden and we are probably a two days journey into the forest. Well that's the story. I hope you approve. But it was done and was had to be done. But I did have the best intentions in mind.

Love,

Raina.

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I knew it! I knew it, I knew it! Well that's taking a little too much credit upon myself. After all I saw in the future that he would come and he came! Luc, he's here. So the princess and I were sitting down, she in denial, me in triumph. When the rock she was sitting on moved. She jumped up and screamed. Running as far from the camp as my spell would let her go. I watched the rock roll and walked over to where it came from. I looked down and there was a young man. I had expected Sol to accompany him but it was just Luc and Weed. I helped Luc out of the hole and Weed jumped up and went to sniffing and slithering around camp. He is so beautiful, Weed is I mean. No description could ever prepare someone to meet a creature like Weed. I welcomed Luc into camp and told him I had been waiting for him. I made dinner while he sat and rested and the princess started to edge back in closer.

After dinner was ready we all sat down to a-- fine meal. Luc seemed exhausted from his trip and the princess refused to eat. I have to tell you what I did. I didn't really mean to be that rude but the princess was being such a prat that I think she deserved it. I walked over to her with her dinner and offered it to her. "I think you poisoned it," I'talia said. "Why would I want to poison you when I can trade you for something?"I said. But she stuck her nose in the air and refused to eat. "Have it your way, I serve meals only at certain times and I guess you don't want it," I said. And with that I flipped over her plate and threw it on the ground. She looked hungrily at the spoiled food. Luc smiled. He always does doesn't he.

Later that night when the princess was asleep I decided to talk with Luc and see what had really happened. He told me how you ran off and how they were forced to hide to keep from being captured. Apparently Sol is not yet satisfied with what you have learned and decided to stay. Luc would get serious at some small brief parts but for the most he was smiling. Always smiling. I think he would make a perfect match for you. He is after all your complete opposite. You have to decide between Gi and Luc, I personally like Luc better. He might not be quite as gorgeous as Gi is, but he makes up for it by his charismatic personality. I like him and I'm happy for you both. You could teach him how to fight and he could teach you some humility. I give you my permission to like him. You can also like Gi, if you have to. Well good night.

Later:

You won't believe what happened! I'll have to start at the beginning. I was in a Mage's sleep which means my body's resting but my mind stays awake and alert. I sat up in a start. The future I saw too frightening to believe. Y'ata was coming. He was coming for me. He didn't care if it killed I'talia. He wanted me. An apprentice who had over powered her Master, who had fled from a army, and kidnapped a princess with no consequence to herself. I had accidentally woken up Weed who looked at me strangely. I crawled over to Luc and lightly shook his shoulder. He opened his eyes and sat up and, again, smiled. "Luc I need you to take I'talia to a safe place where you can watch over her and trade her for my sister. I'll try to catch up but . . . Y'ata is coming. He's coming for me. I'll leave immediately. But you two should leave as soon as possible," I said. Luc nodded and went around packing up camp. I walked over to I'talia knelt down and started to bind her hands with rope that I had. She woke up and looked at me tiredly. "Princess your leaving camp, with Luc. He'll take good care of you," I said pulling her to her feet. She looked between Luc and me. Luc smiled at her, having finished cleaning up camp and moved the rock standing next to the opening in the ground. Luc took her by the elbow and lowered her in after Weed. "Good luck Luc, and here are the direction for the trading. I might not be able to be there on time so I'll need you to do it. Or not to do it, I'm not sure that it will work ." "Good luck your self," Luc said giving me another smile. Then I couldn't help it so I said, "Luc just to let you know you have my permission to fall in love with my sister." I think that would be the first time I have ever seen a man blush so red. I had the smile that time. And you can't be mad at me because your in prison and need to be thinking positively.

I stood there for a moment then fled for my life. I have never ran so fast. I ran for all I was worth. If I had used magic it would have been far too easy for Y'ata to track me. So I ran. I had my Mage's cloak about me to keep me in the shadows. I ran into a clearing with a small spring and needed to stop for a drink. I was so tired. While I was in the middle of drinking a man sprinted from the opposite side of the clearing very much out of breath. We both looked at each other both breathing heavily when a Mage appeared out from behind the man. He ran to where I stood and we looked at each other and the Mage just laughed. It was so insane sounding that I could feel my hairs prickle at the sound. The man in an out of breath voice said quietly to me, "I'm s-sorry . . . I brought Y'ata here. I was . . . was running and . . . and I'm sorry I found you." I had controlled my breathing by now. "He's after you? I thought he was after me," I said. The man looked up at me again the Y'ata broke lauged. "I was looking for the both of you," Y'ata said. "Raina, Raina, thought you could run from me did you?" Y'ata paused to laugh again. "Ranger meet my new apprentice Raina." The man's eyes locked with mine, his full of accusatory. I felt awful under that look so I said to Y'ata, "I will die before I become your apprentice."

An ugly smirk curled the ends of Y'ata's lips. "You don't have to die, I could just kill your sister." "You wouldn't dare!" I yelled at him. By now the man whom Y'ata called Ranger had control of his breath and leaned close to me and whispered, "You take right, I'll take left." He paused then yelled, "Go!" I ran at Y'ata throwing spell after spell in his direction. I whipped out my sword and swung it at Y'ata's figure, but my blade bit into wood. I had hit a tree as did Ranger. Y'ata was in the air looking furious. "You both dare to try and stand against me?" he said. I opened up my mind to the future and I saw the spell Y'ata was going to throw at me so I said the counter the mere second before he cast the actual spell. He glared at me and said, "We must extinguish our foresight or else we won't have half a decent fight." I could feel his withdraw of power. I pulled my sword lose from the tree and I turned off my foresight. I slunck slowly over to Ranger and whispered, "You distract with the sword." Ranger nodded and ran forward. I protected Ranger from any spells that Y'ata was throwing at him and now they were in combat. Ranger is such a good fighter. Anyways it was an amazing fight. I threw spells at Y'ata and finally with the two of us working together Y'ata had to with draw. He screamed back at us viciously, "I'll be back, and not alone." He then disappeared in a flash of light. I became suddenly weak and my legs wobbled dangerously beneath me. Ranger ran to my side, "Come on we need to keep moving."

And so we did. We probably walked two or three miles before I collapsed and passed out. I guess the spells that I warded off from Ranger were extremely strong and had zapped me of my strength. That usually doesn't happen unless you the spells that you are blocking are too strong for your magic. So I was out and when I finally came to it was dark and Ranger was sitting next to a small fire. "How long have I been asleep?" I asked him. "About two days." He said. "Two days. That long?"I asked. He nodded. "Are feeling alright?" he said. "I feel fine right now." "Good. Are you ready for some food?" he asked. I smiled and said, "Yes please." It was then that I noticed that I still had my hood on. I had put a spell on it so that it couldn't be removed. So Ranger had no idea what I looked like. He handed me a plate of some sort of meat and a mush thing to the side of it. I thankfully excepted it and removed the part of my hood that hid my mouth. I bowed my head so that he couldn't see my face. Between bites I surveyed him. We'd been so busy during our fight against Y'ata that I hadn't even seen what he looked like. He has dark, longish (but not too long), sandy blond hair, with a small curl to it. Bright blue eyes that are so clear that you can almost see every feeling he feels through them. He's strong in build with a strong prominent jaw line and a perfect smile. I'm sure that no person could look as perfect as he does.

Back into the story, he watched me in silence for a minute then said, "I tried to take your hood off so you could breath but it wouldn't come off so I left it. Is it made out of material that easy to breath out of?" I nodded. "Why do you wear it?" Ranger asked. "It's part of being a Mage." "Ah, I forgot you were a Mage. Why else would Y'ata want you as an apprentice?" he said. I went back to eating. "Well we should probably introduce ourselves properly since we'll be traveling with each other for a while,"Ranger said. "What? Why would we travel together?" I asked. "Well Y'ata is planning to come back and we do make a very good team." I couldn't believe it, he wanted safety of a Mage. "I suppose that will be alright," I said a little uncertain. "My name is . . . Raina." I had thought of not telling him my name but then he had heard Y'ata say it. "Nice to meet you Raina. People call me Ranger." He said inclining his head in a small sort of bow. I was done eating so I pulled the cloth back around my mouth. "Do you also wear that hood because your disfigured?" Ranger asked. I laughed, I couldn't believe how straight forward he was. "No of course not. But since were getting more personal, why do the people call you Ranger?" He looked thoughtful for a moment then said, "You'll find out tomorrow. But for now you should get some rest. I'll take the first watch." He walked away into the woods. I lay back down and opened my mind to be flooded with the future. I let my body relax once again. For some reason I trusted Ranger. After I had taken my shift and he'd gotten some rest, the sun rose.

We traveled a short distance to the top of a hill where there was a view such as I have never seen. Burnt buildings, black crops, lone crisp trees. How can one prepare ones self for a sight so deadening? We stood in silence for several minutes. Ranger turned away and headed further up along the ridge to the less burnt area and motioned me to follow. When we came to the top of the ridge it sloped down into a little green valley spotted with houses. "These are the people the fires didn't kill." Ranger said. "I spend all my time caring for the forests and ancient life. Sometimes working with robbers and then other times helping the people who survive the rampage of the rebels." "Wait that fire back there was started by the rebels?" I asked, shocked that we, who fought for a good cause, could do such a thing. "All will be revealed in time. For now I hope you will help me serve the every day hero's." He said heading toward the little village. He stopped and turned around. "Raina, " he said. "Your going to have to take your hood off or people will suspect you as an evil magician." I frowned I could see the trickery in his eyes. Very clever. But then again people would think that wouldn't they? So I unwrapped my hood and stuffed it into the back of the pack Ranger had helped me to make. My hair obscured my face so he couldn't see it. I swung around looking him straight in the eyes. He gave no reaction like so many other people usually do. But I could see in his eyes that he was surprised how pretty I was. I smiled causing him to smile with me. He lead the way down to the village and that's were our journey started.

When we went inside the village Ranger was immediately surrounded by little boys the eldest probably twelve. They all called his names each one telling him how they were the best at swords since he left. I looked around while he was busy with the little boy's and saw young girls emerging from every house. I could tell that they had just ran a brush through their hair trying to look as good as they could for Ranger. I smiled. They walked to each other and started to whisper excitedly until their gazes fell upon me. I could feel the hate from each one of those girls, the envy. It felt awful I was about to shrink away when one of the older women who had gotten through the swarm of boys asked Ranger who I was. Ranger grabbed my arm softly and said loudly for everyone to hear, "This is my fighting partner and soon to be fellow ranger." I shot him a glance at this, I had no intention of becoming a ranger. He pushed his way through the crowed and past the girls who fluttered at his passing. He lead me to a discrepant house and past it into a field. An old man sat on a broken ground tiller. He looked up when he saw Ranger and smiled. "Ranger my dear boy! Come to help me again have ya?" Ranger returned the smile and said, "I'm not good with fixing materials but my friend Raina is very talented in that area. She'll help you fix anything that needs to be fixed. When she's done helping you will you bring her to the town square?" The old man nodded and stood up. Ranger left and I didn't know what to do. The old man looked me over and said, "You must be one of those magic folk. Well . . . no use fighting about that. Help me fix this blasted tool and we'll move on from there." And so I went up to it having no idea what I was supposed to do. I recognized it from our farm and said the words that would hopefully put the tiller to rights. The old man looked over it once it was done and nodded and told me to follow him. I swear I fixed every thing that man owned. But the last thing I fixed was a rocking chair for his old wife who had to lay in bed because her rocking chair didn't work. He asked me to fix the rocking chair instead of telling me to fix it like he had done with the other stuff. I spent most of the day in that manner.

All in all I actually liked doing that work. After he couldn't think of anything else for me to fix he started to lead me back to the city. And since it was a far walk he started up a conversation. "Raina, that's what he called ya right?" I nodded. He contiued, "Are ya married?" I shook my head. "How long ya know the young Ranger?" "Not very long." I said. The old man kept asking me questions about myself that I almost regretted being alone with him. But at length we reached the village. Ranger was playing with the little boys while the girls watched and giggled at him. I can't believe we used to be as immature as those girls. I'm glad we grew up. Well as soon as I came close Ranger called out making everyone become silent. It must be that every time he opens his mouth people listen. "Boy's do want to see a real fight?" he said. The boys cheered and even the young men who had been standing a little far off perked up at that. "Raina will you be so kind as to engage in a sword fight with me?" I looked at him uncertain and realized that I had placed my weapon in the ground like I usually do, I wasn't sure if he wanted me to have such a grand display of magic. Ranger nodded seeming to perceive my thoughts and we circled around each other. He took lunges, which, with my enhanced speed, I was able to dodge out of the way and after a few attempts at that I summoned my sword from the ground. Ooo's and Ahh's rippled across the crowed as my sword blocked his. I reached out and grasped my weapon and we started to fight. It was so relaxing. We weren't trying to kill each other or teach something we were merely showing the art that we both cared for. Our movements were percise and we seemed to move as if in a dance, perfectly synchronized. We knew what the other would do and correlated our actions to counter the attacks. We finished after several minutes and the crowd was in silence. I looked over at the girls who stood with mouths open, gawking at the fact that I had sword played with their hero. Ranger and I bowed to each other and the boys ran up to the both of us telling us their favorite moves that we had done. After we spent the night there we left early in the morning and just travled. Ranger explained to me that there are two types of heros. Heros of man and heros of the world. This explanation will surprise you. Heros of men are those who end up in history books but heros of the world are those who in meekness serve to provide and save their families and all they hold dear. Ranger is a very interesting person.

I hope you are safe sister. I pray that your out of prison. I hope Sol isn't driving you crazy. I also hope Luc is safe. If you know anything about him and Princess I'talia or what's going on I would love to hear.

Love as always,

Raina.

18

Dearest Raina,

May I live to see another day. May I live to hear your beautiful scoldings. May I live to fight another fight! May I live to taste my first kiss! May I live to regret what has passed.

I know not whether laws be right, Or whether laws be wrong; All that we know who lie in gaol Is that the wall is strong; And that each day is like a year, A year whose days are long.

Do you remember the tales of Kaun? The tales of the songs we used to sing as children and how they came to be? I remember sitting in the old cellar, pretending I was in gaol for starting the Rebellion, endlessly singing that mournful strain. What goes around, comes around.
A small shaft of sunlight beams in through the barred window high above my head, giving me sufficient light to lay before you the events of these last days.

I lay awake some hours that night we camped by the Tower. It loomed large and solitary in the open space and seemed to grow in the moonlight.
Near mid night, I heard the voices of Luc and Sol, sitting near the embers of the camp fire. Here is what I heard of their conversation. I only include it so that perhaps you will understand Luc a bit more.
"What have you learned of Emlyn?" Sol asked.
Luc's voice was sad and I could imagine his face, one of those rare times that sorrow shadows his bright eyes. "Nothing. I've searched for months, Uncle. But she is gone." He must have dropped his head in his hands for these last words were muffled.
"Ah..." Sol was silent for a moment. "So it would seem." Another pause. "It was a good six years ago that you came to me last. You told me you were setting out on your journey to become a hero and a Warrior. How did it go?"
Luc laughed softly. But his laugh died out quickly and he waited a moment to answer.
"Long ago I yearned to be a hero without knowing, in truth, what a hero was. Now, perhaps, I understand it a little better. A grower of turnips or a shaper of clay, a farmer or a king--every man is a hero if he strives more for others than for himself alone." He began to speak but his words caught in his throat. He tried again. "Emlyn showed me that. Did you know that she came with me on that journey? She insisted that a hero needed a page, just like the old stories." I could hear his usual smile in his voice. "But she was the one to become a hero. She was the one that opened my eyes to the heroes around me. We would spend weeks in one place, Emlyn insisting that a hero needed to fix all the problems he could, but in truth, each place we stopped, I was the one that got fixed, while Emlyn did the fixing for others. And everywhere she went, she left a trail of sunshine and I saw how it changed people, more than any conquering Warrior can. I decided that it would be better for me to become like Emlyn than any of the Warriors of old. The real heroes are the ones that save lives, not destroy them.
"We met Aunt Mor'en in Fre'gard and Emlyn got so close to Zel that I didn't have the heart to tear her away. I never made it to Warrior Training. And I didn't become the hero that I first set out to be. But I did change. And I'm still changing. I only wish I could do to people what Emlyn did. The world lost one of their greatest hero's when they lost Emlyn." His voice cracked and I pressed my ear against my pillow, a few solitary tears of sympathy leaking from my eyes, sorry for intruding on such a private conversation.
I fell asleep with a smile on my face though, the by-product of Luc's enthusiasm and countless smiles.

The fateful day dawned cold and bright. I was confronted by Sol early in my preparations. I groaned at his presence but turned to face him.
"Good morning, Sol." I said in the brightest tone I could muster.
He just grunted and stared me down. I stared right back and we stood there for a good minute.
"Are you afraid?" The question startled me and I nearly laughed.
"Old man, I haven't been afraid for years. There's no point in starting now." A bit cocky, but saying it helped to quench the small bit of fear in my gut.
"Then you are a fool." There was no smile in his voice and I saw a shadow flit across his face. I remained silent, unsure how to answer to that accusation.
"Lesson five: Courage."
"Already mastered, old man." Now I was overdoing the cocky role a bit much.
His eyes closed and he pressed his fingertips together. "Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of fear, not absence of fear." He walked away and I just shook my head. What a weirdo!
I finished stretching myself and doing all I could to mentally prepare myself for a duel that seemed every moment to grow in size.
Luc had gone into the Tower to fix the details of the duel with Y'ata and I was anxious when he took so long to return. I sat on a stump, attempting to "master the fear" inside me. I calmed myself and put myself in a trancelike state, imagining every detail of the coming fight, a trick I had taught myself and one that has never failed to keep me focused.
Sol was doing some type of "meditation" in his tent, most likely asleep, and I was completely alone, facing the Tower and waiting for Luc to return and call me to duel.
My legs suddenly cramped and I stood, attempting to stretch them out and get the blood flowing. I was stomping around when I nearly stomped on Benk's toes. He seemed to appear out of thin air and I was speechless at his sudden appearance.
My first impulse was to embrace my old friend but I quickly recalled to remembrance his hated profession and our strict difference of feelings and opinions in a highly important matter.
He smiled very slightly and motioned for me to be silent when I opened my mouth. I could sense his discomfort and I gained confidence in knowing that I was in my "territory" and he was the intruder.
"Just listen to me Tair." His voice was level and businesslike. We were both aware of our differences and knew that it would just be a waste of time to try and patch it up. You know, besides you, he is the only one that has taken to calling me Tair?
Anyway, "We don't have a lot of time." He glanced around and I saw his eyes focus on the Tower door. "The King knows you're here. He had Y'ata set up this whole "duel" thing, knowing that if you were still alive Mor'en was sure to find you, desperate to save her daughter." He grimaced. "I have told you time and again that you must not take everything by it's face value!" We both couldn't help from smiling as we thought on the times that he had tried to teach me the ways of the Spy and in a lot of ways told me more than I should rightly know. "But that's beside the point. The whole thing is rigged. You may be able to go through a decent fight, but the King will be waiting to set the trap. His entire force is on his way here and a tse-tse fly wouldn't be able to escape. You've got to go now!"
We heard the big Tower door swing open and he stepped into the shadows of the trees.
"Please Tair! You've got to get out!" He seemed in earnest but something stopped me. I realize now that what I took to be intuition was nothing more than pride.
I glanced behind me and saw Luc coming closer. "Go away Benk." I turned my back on him but he would not leave so easily.
He came up to me, leaving himself open to Luc seeing him, and grasped my arm, turning me to face him. I could see Luc hurrying foward and Benk spoke quickly.
"Tair, I don't know who you think I've turned into, but you must know that I'm not going to leave you here to die! It's a trap! Just listen to me!" I yanked my arm away from him and delivered a good slap.
"GO. AWAY." I could not keep the tears from coming and he must have taken that for a weakening.
By this time Luc was beside me. He put his hand on my arm and gave me a questioning look, his eyes full of worry.
Luc turned to Benk and I was afraid there would be a messy confrontation. Luc is not the most skilled fighter, but neither is Benk and I don't think either of them would have hesitated in starting such a duel of honor.
But fate intervened. Or rather, Sol did. I had completely forgotten about him and his appearance startled me.
He turned his penetrating glance on Benk. "Young man, what could possibly have enticed you to come here?" Benk must have seen that Sol seemed to be in charge and he directed his case there.
"I'taira is my friend and I have come to warn her. This duel is a trap and the King is waiting to catch her. You must all leave now." He was composed but earnest.
Sol stared him down and he stood under it admirably. After a moment Sol turned to Luc.
"Pack up camp." Luc obeyed instantly and I was left to face Sol
"What!?" My voice screeched out. Something snapped in me. "He's a spy! The King's right hand man!" I nearly yelled, my finger pointing to his chest. "How can you believe him?!"
Sol watched me calmly and then turned to pack up his things. I found myself alone, Benk having disappeared, apparently confident that I would leave with Sol and Luc. But my blood was running high and my pride had been pricked.
I stomped my way to the Tower, passing by Luc but heedless of his protestations. I burst into the Tower and nearly smacked into Y'ata.
He is a tall and well built man, with graying hair and amber eyes. I stepped back to give myself room and then, with eyes blazing, I confronted the Mage.
"Mage Y'ata," I bowed slightly. "Let us begin." He smiled, a rather sickly sight, and the doors behind me swung shut.
The room was circular and empty, the perfect spot for a duel. The ceiling was high, but short enough to convey that there was another room on top. I inspected the space with my eyes, storing it in my memory and then nodded that I was ready. He handed me a beautifully jewelled blade and I hefted it in my hands, getting used to it. I find jewelled weapons silly things, but there was no denying that this blade was beautiful. It dazzled the eyes and I already felt as though I had been put under a spell.
I shook myself free of the feeling and we both circled the room and then, saluting each other, began. The fight was long and troublesome, but no magic was involved. With you as my sister, I believe I have some sort of sense of magic and I felt nothing and I actually gained. But so did he. I would gain ground, confident that I could end the whole thing soon and then he would push back the attack.
To make a long fight short, neither won. As you must have guessed, the King came bursting in the doors in the second hour and I was surrounded. I fought as best I could but I was dry of strength and with a bop on the head, I was out.
I found myself in this small room, with nothing but my writing pad and pen on my person. By my reckoning it has been almost two days since the duel. I delayed writing to you, hoping to write you after my "great escape" but I fear it may be long in coming. As far as I can guess, I am in the Tower of Deth. I don't know if Zel is here, but if she is I'm afraid I have little chance of helping her. I don't know why I am kept here still, but I fancy the King will get me when he needs me. I thank the stars that you never told me details of our followers. At least they will be safe when the torture begins.
I write this to you not for the intent that you rescue me, but that you carry on the work of the rebellion and if you ever see Benk, tell him I am sorry. I... I'm just sorry.
I don't know what has happened to Luc or Sol or Weed but I hope they are safe. Even Sol. On the bright side I suppose I could say that I got rid of Sol before I completed my lessons. But that thought doesn't help much.

Yours always,
I'taira, Warrior of the Rebellion

P.S.
Don't worry about me! I love you!