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