Morgan let Shanbar envelop her with his cloak and a kiss as he ‘teleported’ them back to his fortress in-between the worlds. A feeling of calm, immediately fell over Morgan as she felt the cloak wrap around her and Shanbar’s soft lips touch hers. In an instant, they were both standing back in the fortress….what was to be Morgan’s new home now that she had decided to let fate win and to stay with Shanbar. A decision that did not come easily for Morgan. The journey took over eighty years before she felt it was the correct path. They were fated to be together and her dear Shanbar never let her forget that fact, regardless of how much it seemed Morgan wanted out of the deal. If truth be told, Morgan never believed she fought against Shanbar and certainly never would have believed she affected him at all in her games and trials with him. Nothing affects him, Morgan often told herself or least not much…

After all, he pursued her for eighty years and he never gave up, that was an accomplishment in Morgan’s mind. Taking away his power of sight, causing Shanbar to lose his connection to the fates, betraying him to Wizard’s Council, and leaving him for over thirty years after the ‘Casia Incident’, was all just an elaborate game in Shanbar’s mind. A game Morgan believed he enjoyed. As a matter of fact, Morgan believed he wanted her to defy him, it excited him. And she had to admit, it excited her…too much at times. Everything had always been a game with them, so why should things change now? She had asked herself that question many times since last night. As Shanbar held in his embrace and spoke the words of a lover, she had asked herself the question. As he caressed her body, she pondered on their future. Why should things change now?

Maybe it was because of Sheman and his threats upon both their lives. Maybe it was because of Morgan’s fears of Aragon, her former lover’s curse. Maybe it was because of Shanbar’s concern for her at Aragon’s temple when Sheman locked her in the room with Aragon’s tormented spirit and took Salina to be a Slave Girl. Maybe it was because of Morgan’s own desires…and Shanbar’s. Maybe, it was just fate…and everything made sense when they were together. More sense than it ever had before. Morgan’s mind had cleared. Shanbar regained his focus and his power of sight with her help. Maybe that was the answer and honestly, Morgan nor Shanbar really cared why, as long as it continued. The reasons hardly mattered anymore to either of them as they stood facing each other, looking deeply into their love’s eyes and trying desperately not to use words for emotions that ran deep in their souls.

Morgan was still wrapped in his cloak as the kiss slowly ended. Shanbar reached down and unclasped the hook, letting the cloak drop to the ground. With a look toward the cloak and a knowing smile, Shanbar told Morgan exactly what he was thinking. She smiled back and hungrily went towards him. Together, they fell gently on the soft cloak as the kiss deepened and they entered their world. A world of flames and passion, light and dark, protection and hope…And one of love. A love that spanned generations, survived wars and destruction. One was a sorcerer with the powers of the fates at his control, the other an Immortal destined for greatness, but neither of those people were present in their world. They were simply a man and a woman in love and consumed by longing, hurt by revenge and saved by a love.

Shanbar heard the scream. A tormented scream coming from deep within a tormented soul. He knew Morgan was fighting again…fighting against a demon she could neither fight nor win. All he could do was help her through the nightmare that threatened her life every time she closed her eyes. For a while, the nightmares had stopped after they were together, but it was clear to Shanbar Aragon had no intention of ridding her of the torments, even if it was only in her sleep. Shanbar made certain Aragon could not touch her soul or mind when she was awake.

"No!" Morgan yelled in her sleep. Still half-sleeping Shanbar reached out and pulled her back to him. She started to fight, but he held her close, rocking her gently. Slowly, Morgan drifted out of another nightmare and back to his protective arms. Shanbar never once opened his eyes, it was just used to it. Sometimes, he would have to help her fight, entering the dark world that Aragon lived in and would bring Morgan to on more nights than Shanbar could remember. Sometimes, it was enough to hold her and rock her gently bringing her back to him. Somehow, he had learned to know when each of those methods was needed. He prided himself on knowing Morgan well and her needs and desires…and he did, better than Aragon and better than herself, at times. Shanbar didn’t think, he just felt and that seemed to work the best with Morgan all these years.

They were still lying on the cloak on the floor; she had wrapped it around herself. Shanbar opened his eyes when he didn’t hear her soft breathing next to him. He knew she was still awake. Released from the nightmare, but not from the images that always haunted her. He concentrated a moment ‘teleported’ them from the floor to the bed in an instant. Now, she completely opened her eyes, turning to him.

"I wish I did not sleep at all," she said in a soft voice. Shanbar reached his hand toward her face, gently outlining her cheekbones as he spoke.

"We will win this battle. I promise you," he slowly pulled her head to his chest, stroking her hair. "You are not alone. You shall never be alone again." The intensity of his words reached Morgan’s sad heart. Never alone again, she thought. She wanted so desperately for that to be true. "You know that to be the truth, Morgan." Shanbar said, answering her own doubts in her mind. He picked up her chin to meet his eyes. His eyes searched deeply into his, holding an intense gaze. "Never doubt what we have."

Her eyes looked downward. Shanbar moved his hand to the back of her head, pulling her in for a kiss.

"Shanbar," she said, quickly stopping him in mid-motion. "You cannot always be there." Shanbar felt the fear wash over her with that statement. He sat up, bringing her with him.

"I will always be there, Morgan," he said, an edge of anger in his voice. She knew why. He wanted her to believe in him, but it just wasn’t that easy sometimes. "I told you when we escaped from the Temple. I would never allow that to happen again." He paused keeping her gaze. "I will not, Morgan. Ever." He finished, but kept the intense gaze on her. Morgan nodded as if in a daze.

"I know you will try," she said, honestly. She knew Shanbar wanted to protect her from those torments, from her own self at times, but sorcerer or not, she knew Aragon’s power.

"I will succeed, Morgan," he answered breaking her out of those thoughts. His voice determined and steady. "I will show you. If you do not believe in me now, you will."

"Why?" She asked suddenly. Shanbar looked at her, confused for a moment. "Why do this? Surely, you have other things you could be doing….ruling in Eslain…controlling fates. After all, you have your sight returned." Morgan stood up taking the cloak with her, wrapping herself in it. She walked to the small table in the center of the room. Of course, everything in the fortress could be considered in the center of the room. The fortress itself was a wide-open space. A bed built mostly by pillows and pillow rolls around it took up a large amount of space, it created a cloud effect and felt like it when you laid down on it. Then there was the well, Theoria’s Well to be exact, the only thing left of the Wizard’s World that Shanbar destroyed, including all the wizards, except Zorlac, with it. The Well stood center behind the bed. It glowed with a bluish soft light that never seemed to dim. The table that Morgan now stood at completed the room. It was decorated with candles, herbs and some other things depicting how far Shanbar has traveled, one of these items was Larinian that she recognized all too well. She dropped the cloak in front of the table and picked up her dress laying next to it. She saw Shanbar prop his head on his hand, watching her. The thoughts started in her mind as she put on the dress.

"And where are you going, Morgan?" Shanbar said, playfully from the bed. "You are not leaving again, are you?" She shot him a look, he smiled at her. "I was jesting, Morgan."

"It is not amusing," Morgan said, pulling her hair back over her shoulder.

"How about this?" Morgan felt herself tele-port from the table to the bed in an instant. She was pushed down by her hands. Shanbar straddled her looking deep into her green eyes. "Much better," he said softly. Morgan did not look amused. "And an answer to your question. There is no other place I would rather be at this moment, believe me." Morgan tried to hide a smile, but Shanbar took that as an invitation. He started kissing her arm, slowly, seductively. The kisses led to her shoulders and neck. He followed the kissing up to her chin and finally to her lips. Morgan seized the opportunity and used the intense kiss to push him over until she received the upper hand over him.

"I hate it when you win," she said in her voice. Shanbar smiled at her.

"And I love it when you do," Shanbar’s voice was soft and his face shown in the soft candlelight. Morgan studied it carefully, reaching out and gently running her hand along his beard across his lips, which gently kissed her fingers as they passed. She continued her caresses building the passion between them. Both giving in and taking from each other what they needed. Both fulfilling a long ago prophecy every time they touched. Souls meeting for the first time…and destined to be together forever.

Morgan reached for the purple candle in front of her, holding her hand over the flame lightly waving it. Shendou is the will, the will is the mind, the mind is creation, creation is Shendou, she thought softly in her head. She had been practicing the chants on a certain unaware sorcerer who happened to be Shanbar’s grandson, Dareth. Morgan needed the practice to go up against Sheman and frankly, she enjoyed tormenting Dareth, the one who kidnapped her and aligned himself with Sheman, sent her to Aragon without a second thought and defied Shanbar. Tormenting Dareth helped her keep her mind off Aragon and the fact that Shanbar had left a few hours ago. Morgan concentrated on the flame of the burning candle in her hand. She focused on it, letting the energy of the Pynwellian magic encompass her completely. ‘Shendou is the will, the will is the mind…'

"The mind is creation, Creation is Shendou," Shanbar finished the thought outloud as he walked in behind Morgan. She turned to look at him, but he was all ready behind her. He held her head gently not allowing her to completely turn to him. She felt his breath on her neck as he leaned forward to place a kiss there. She closed her eyes as he continued to kiss her neck, passionately. Morgan felt him take the candle from her hand and slowly turn her to him. She waited in anticipation of the thoughts he was conveying to her through their minds. Suddenly, the thoughts stopped, moments of passion and promises of lovemaking just ceased in both their minds. An overwhelming sense of dread came upon her and left her just as quickly. She opened her eyes, looking at Shanbar. His expression told her all she needed to know. He had sensed Sheman. He looked down at her and smiled softly, touching her face. He lingered there for a moment and let out a sigh, before standing up. Morgan followed him, catching his arm.

"I am going with you," Morgan said, bringing her hand up to his face to turn his gaze back to her. He looked at her deep, taking in her gaze, looking through her and into her soul as only he could do. Then he turned Morgan completely to him and pulled her into his arms. Without a word, he kissed her, deeply, passionately, running his hand down her back and causing Morgan to shiver at the touch. He continued with the kiss as she fell deeper and deeper into their world…a world Morgan had become accustomed to in the past few years they had been together. A world she had yearned for and had never known how much until that first night here in this place, in his fortress.

Morgan could still remember how Shanbar released her from the torments and pain that Aragon, her once ruler and lover now cursed by her to walk in a spirit world, had afflicted upon her at Sheman’s Temple. Shanbar took in her pain, the torments, the fears which haunted her and left a sense of calm, peacefulness and passion in its wake. An effect that could even surprised Morgan at times as the years past. Every touch was unique, the same in essence, but different somehow in meaning and in purpose. Shanbar had a great ability to make her desire for him, more than she believed was possible for her to desire for anyone. So, she had stayed with him these past years and to Morgan and Shanbar’s liking, they enjoyed the time together, even cherished it at times. He demanded nothing of her, other than things she was willing and very pleased to give, and he protected her…that was the most important part to Morgan. Protection, that meant everything…and Shanbar knew that. He knew Morgan all too well.

Shanbar broke the kiss slowly, allowing the last touch to linger for a moment before he spoke. She slowly opened her eyes to look at her. He gently caressed her face while he spoke, low and seductive. A voice that sent Morgan’s mind to passionate thoughts, ones she knew he was feeling from her. He smiled, his eyes holding the promise of continuing later.

"Sheman is still in the Temple, I only sense anger. I will return to Arlen and retrieve Salina. She should not remain unprotected…right now," Shanbar’s voice slowly took on an air of concern for Salina, the daughter who hated him all her life and now remains in his care until her love, Lewethayne returns from the Pynwellian Journey, Morgan sent him on years earlier. Shanbar leaned close to her ear, softly blowing in it, sending another wave of passion and chills over her body, she pushed her body closer to him. "I will return soon, my love. I promise," he nibbled on her ear, playfully and stood up straight looking at her. He could tell she was not pleased with his leaving at this moment, but that only made him smile to himself. Her thoughts were revealing everything he wanted to know. She desired for him, she wanted him, she needed him. He almost regretted going and even thought for a moment he could quench the desires running through both of them before his task, but he knew he had to retrieve Salina before Sheman found her. A slight feeling of hatred ran over him for Sheman, his once pupil now the controller of the Changeling powers and a complete menace to their world. Sheman seemed to stand in his path too often. It was getting on Shanbar’s nerves.

He looked once more at the woman who stood in front of him. It always amazed Shanbar how beautiful she really was. Her eyes the color of emeralds, her hair the color of fire, her body that curved at just the right angles. Her face was angelic and dark all at the same time. She was soft to touch, smooth and silky, she smelled of lilacs and the earth after a storm, almost pure…he stopped his thoughts before he was about to kiss her again. He had to find Salina and she always seemed to be his worst distraction in that task. Shanbar was focused, no one, not even Morgan, doubted that, but he thought, Morgan would be surprised at how much control he lost around her. This was his Morgan, the one he fought for and against the last 80 years of his life. They were destined to be together…it was in the fates…and nothing felt more right to Shanbar than to let his desires go and take her into arms, enveloping her in his passion and love. He had never told her how he really felt, how she made him feel…but it did not matter, Shanbar knew she understood. She always understood and he loved her, simple he thought, not so simple when dealing with Morgan. She did not speak of love or feelings in that sense neither did he, if truth be told. It was an unspoken trust, an unspoken love, and completely understandable to the sorcerer and immortal who stood facing each other at that moment.

"I thought you were leaving, dearest," she said, barely above a whisper. Her voice taking on a melodic tone that ran through Shanbar, heightening the desire he all ready had growing within him. "You have to find Salina, remember." This time she used the Voice, completely. The Voice that caused millions during Aragon’s Rule to bow down and worship her and Aragon. No one really understood the power she had over people with her voice. Being a sorcerer, the Voice did not affect Shanbar in that sense, but it did affect him and he loved every soft-spoken word. Morgan knew that. "Are you certain you wish to leave now," she leaned closer with the words as they threatened to send him over the edge and into the raging fire that burned deep within him. He breathed her in deeply as she kissed his chest. He wanted to lose this battle they both fought so well with each other. He knew what she was trying to accomplish. It was her special thrill : for him to lose focus, she loved that feeling.

However this time Shanbar decided she would not win. He pulled her tighter to him, causing her head to slide up to look at him. He reached his hand for her neck and held her face to his for a moment with intensity. He felt her take in a sharp breath, anticipating his next move. Quickly, and with all the passion building in him, he kissed her, long and deep. He felt her legs grow weak as she fell against him. He deepened the kiss once more and then…let go. She almost fell when he moved away from her. He smiled to himself, still feeling the thoughts she was having.

"I will be back soon, Morgan." Shanbar said with his back to her. "We will continue then, I assure you." He stopped walking for a moment looked slightly to his left not at her, just in thought. "Save those thoughts…for later." He smiled again and left the room.

Morgan stood there for a moment, a little frustrated, a little angry but mostly disappointed. This was a new feeling for her, disappointment, she never truly felt that emotion before. When she was Aragon, it was never disappointment more like waiting, knowing he would return, knowing that they would have their moments. But with Shanbar, it was complete disappointment. Disappointment in losing a moment, any moment she could have. They had a connection that was stronger each year. He was a part of her and she of him. This was a new experience for Morgan and she never truly thought it was possible for anyone to touch her heart, after Aragon and her own betrayal of her teacher, much less for someone to make her feel love. She would never say these things, of course. She did not feel love, she knew that…Shanbar knew that. But, she sighed to herself as she sat down on the bed with the candle she had taken off the floor, if she did feel love or even allow herself that feeling, she would have to admit she loved Shanbar. Morgan told herself he never really wanted to hear it, ‘no need to make things complicated’, she thought as she fell back on the comfortable bed in the fortress and spoke to him in their minds.

"Are you bringing Salina here?" She said without speaking.

"Yes, my love." Morgan felt a sensation run through with his words, she returned the sensation back. "I will be back soon."

"If you bring her here, she will want to talk," Morgan said in his mind, almost disappointment in her voice.

"I will find her something to do, believe me." Shanbar saw Salina standing in the Arlen Garden and instantly a feeling of anger come over him, Morgan sensed it and sat up in the bed. Salina sensed it and stood up quickly, looking at her father.

"Be nice, dear," Morgan said quietly in his mind.

"You try my patience," Shanbar started approaching her. Salina stood up to her father, defiance in her eyes. "I ask one simple thing, Salina. Stay with Zorlac in the chamber, but here I find you in the Arlen Garden. I all ready sense Sheman’s presence around. What would you do if he found you here?"

"I guess you would have to come and save me, father," Salina said under her breath and turned to walk away. Shanbar caught her arm, turning her back to him. When Salina looked at her father, his eyes grew dark and with purpose.

"Do not defy me, Salina. I have had enough of these games," Shanbar said calmly but his voice told her she had all ready lost this battle. "Do you think I need to spend all my time worrying about you?"

"No, Shanbar. I think you can find more interesting things to spend your time on," she said with a voice that completely annoyed Shanbar. In the beginning, after Lewethayne had left for the journey she had been defiant when he would command her to stay somewhere and to use her magic to sense Sheman herself, but she had been more controllable lately. So what was the problem now? Shanbar was starting to understand why her and Lewethayne fought when they were finally together. She can be a handful with her emotions. Something she obviously had no control over. It amazed him that Zorlac was not able to calm those emotions of hers. But then again, Shanbar never had respect for the wizards, whether he was born of them or not. They were completely useless beings in his mind and too often, they had proved him correct.

"You are correct, Salina, I can find more interesting things." He let go of her arm and started to walk away. Salina turned away from him and intended and walking away when she turned back, quickly.

"Shanbar…" she said, softly. He stopped walking but kept his back to her. After a moment of silence, she worked up the courage to ask the question burning in her. "Is Sheman here?" Shanbar heard the fear in her voice. It infuriated him to say the least. How many times did he tell her not to feel fear, it only strengthens Sheman’s resolve to continue these games on them. Shanbar knew all about those games as much as he hated to admit it, he taught them to the boy, years ago in Theoria. It seemed so long ago now to Shanbar. He remembered the young boy who begged for his teachings in the magic and longed to destroy his own brother, Lewethayne, taking Salina to be his only. He had promised the boy he would teach him powerful magicks and the ability to destroy Lewethayne. As for Salina, Shanbar never truly had the intention of giving her to Sheman, he had other plans for her. Plans that never seemed to work out…at least not yet.

Shanbar turned slowly to her. "No, Salina. He is still in the temple, but he is thinking of a game that much I do know. Now, could you please stop feeling fear so he will not be encouraged to come after you at this moment?" Salina crossed to him. She had heard the sigh in Shanbar’s voice as he had made the last statement.

"I can protect myself, Shanbar. I do not need your help." She stood face-to-face with the man she disregarded as her father and hated for more reasons than she could count. She knew she should let him help, Lewethayne entrusted her into Shanbar’s care and she trusted Lewethayne completely. So why couldn’t she let her hate go and let Shanbar protect her? He frustrated her and confused her all at the same time. She knew he loved Morgan…even if he refused to admit it. She could see it, everyone could. She knew he was truthful in protecting her and gave Lewethayne his word. It may not seem like much coming from Shanbar, but she knew her father and his word was not to be taken lightly. As devious and cunning as he may appear, he meant it and Salina knew that better than anyone. She wished it was easier.

"Salina, you need my help, I assure you. Now, I am taking you back to the fortress for a while since you cannot seem to stay where I put you. There is no argument, Salina." Shanbar extended his hand allowing her to walk past him.

"There never is," Salina said again under her breath. Shanbar felt an urge to send magick to her, not a death blow, but at least a punishment. Defiance was not something Shanbar took lightly especially from his own daughter.

"You still try my patience, Salina," Shanbar said as they both ‘teleported’ back to the fortress and Morgan. They appeared in front of Morgan who stood there with a hand on her hip and a look of playful anger in her eyes looking from father to daughter.

"Do not start Morgan. She is impossible" Shanbar said, referencing Salina and then passing by Morgan, brushing her shoulder slightly. He sat on the bed picking up the candle Morgan had placed there. He closed his eyes and concentrated on Sheman, letting his ‘power of sight’ take over and waited for the images to appear. Morgan and Salina turned away from him, facing each other.

"You are very much like your father, Salina," Morgan said in a neutral tone. It was simply a statement of fact, even Salina could not deny.

"Yes," she said a disappoint in her own voice. She did not want to be like him that was obvious.

Salina moved passed Morgan and sat down on the floor away from Shanbar. Morgan followed, smiling to herself. She sat down next to Salina, waiting for the anticipated conversation they were about to have. Morgan did not despise speaking with Salina, but her thoughts were still on Shanbar and that was not making any of this any easier for her at the moment.

"So, now we wait again. I could have waited in the garden," she said, turning slightly to Shanbar whose eyes were still closed in concentration.

"Did you do this to Lewethayne?" Shanbar said calmly staying focused on his visions, but with a hint of sarcasm in his voice. "It is no wonder he went on the journey," he said the last statement under his breath, but Morgan and Salina heard it. Morgan held back a laugh and quickly smiled at Salina, shaking her head.

"Did you speak with Zorlac?" Morgan started and this time it was Shanbar who almost laughed.

‘Are you going to start small talk, Morgan,’ Shanbar said in her mind.

‘Concentrate, dearest,’ Morgan answered back and focused on the conversation with Salina. "Did our illustrious wizard have anything to say?"

"He said he does not know when Lewethayne is returning," Salina stated simply. Morgan felt the sadness within her. She touched her hand, gently.

"He will return, Salina. That much I do know." Morgan smiled softly at Salina, giving her reassurance that her love would return someday. Salina smiled back quickly.

"I understand why he had to take the journey. I just wish I could have gone with him," Salina said, defeated. She stood up and walked a few feet away from Morgan. Morgan followed her, standing slightly behind her.

"Salina, you cannot think upon that now. You must look toward what the future holds, not towards the past," Salina turned to Morgan as Morgan looked over to Shanbar. "I have learned that lesson all too well." She said distantly. Salina wanted to ask Morgan about her past with her father. She was curious, even if the idea of it scared her a little. After all, Morgan ruled with Aragon and she assumed that was when she and Shanbar had met. She knew her father was aware in detail of Aragon’s Seige and final defeat. She knew Morgan had cursed her once friend and lover. Sometimes she wondered how the woman in front of her could do that. Morgan was confusing at best to Salina. Passionate toward the Shendoucan and the Pynwellian magicks and compassionate toward the father she hated and even to her at times. Salina had witnessed that during Lewethayne’s teaching. She truly believed in their power and their ability. She was passionate and even caring toward her father. She watched Morgan’s actions, since she never speak much when they were all together. She had thought Morgan could sense her own doubts in her, but Salina realized it was just Morgan herself, who never truly revealed her feelings to anyone, not her, not Lewethayne…however she did question what she revealed to Shanbar.

Salina knew of their connection. Zorlac had told her that Shanbar loved Morgan and that they were fated to be together and she, herself could feel that around them. It was strangely romantic to her. Morgan looked at Shanbar with eyes of passion…and love. She sensed it, they cared for each other just as deeply as her and Lewethayne did. Strange attraction as it all was to Salina. It made sense to them. It was the power of Morgan’s presence that surprised her all the time. She was pure in a sense, but dark in her soul. She was trustworthy and untrusting all at the same time. She was beautiful, that could not be denied. Beautiful and seductive and completely alluring, but could be a friend as well as a lover. Lewethayne regarded her as a friend and over the past few years, Salina had come to see her as one as well. She hated being brought to this fortress in between the worlds, but Morgan was her solace while she was here. She had come to actually look forward to speaking with her. Even when it was Salina who did all the speaking.

"I know I need to focus on Sheman. It is just so hard sometimes," Salina finally said, causing Morgan to look back at her. She smiled and touched her hand. A signal that Morgan was done talking. "Sheman is so frustrating, sometimes," Salina continued as Morgan moved to where Shanbar was, Salina following. "Everytime I try to focus on Sheman and what he is doing, I lose concentration. I think of Lewethayne. It is hard to block those feelings. Not to mention how jumbled Sheman’s mind is." Morgan continued to look at her as they sat down, paying attention to what she was saying. Her responses were in action and not words. Salina knew she was listening to her so she continued. "I wish it was easier to fight against Sheman and not be distracted. I know Shanbar says I cannot feel fear, Sheman will know and try to use it against me. I know all these things, but I still cannot concentrate or find a way to stop Sheman." Salina sighed and sat down next to Morgan. Shanbar’s eyes opened, looking at Morgan. She nodded and took the candle from his hand. She placed it on the floor in the center of them. Morgan reached out her hand, Shanbar took it while Salina watched. Morgan reached out her other hand and took Salina’s. Salina looked at her.

"I will show you what I see," Shanbar said, looking at Salina. Salina nodded. "Remember these are visions. The future is never clear…especially when dealing with Sheman."

"Concentrate on the flame," Morgan said, softly but with focus as her eyes rested on the burning flame in front of them. Salina and Shanbar turned towards it. "It is the pathway to the dark world we enter," Morgan continued. Her voice almost monotone, but with a slight anticipation. Salina felt the passion of the magicks run through Morgan and reach out to her. A calming effect came over her like she had never witnessed before. She quickly looked at Morgan. "Concentrate, Salina." Morgan said, focusing her back on the flame. "You must concentrate if you are to see what the flame shall show you." Salina had to admit it completely impressed her how focused Morgan become and even her father. He had taken her hand now as well and together they were about to make the future come to life in the present.

The flame moved to Salina’s eyes. She stayed focused. It shifted again this time creating a window or a mirror to see the images from Shanbar’s mind. The images started fast, almost blinding. Quick flashes of battles, Sheman, Lewethayne…and then the image stopped. It stayed focus on Sheman in the temple. Sheman was alone but he was speaking with someone. They could not hear the voices, but Sheman was getting excited, jumping about and laughing. The image faded in its place stood Salina crying and Lewethayne on his knees crying in Sheman’s Throne Room. The image faded and again Sheman was speaking with someone and a baby appeared. The image stopped quickly and the flame was again present. Shanbar had pulled away his hands and stood up quickly. Both Morgan and Salina were brought out of the trace-like state too quickly. They had to re-focus their minds and stop the magick running through them. Morgan recovered quicker and walked to Shanbar. They quietly stood facing each other, speaking in their minds, Salina thought. Intense eyes on each other, reading thoughts and sending them. Salina stood up and slowly walked to them. They turned to her as she approached.

"They are images, Salina," Shanbar said, reading her mind and her question about herself crying. "I do not sense his death. He will return to you. That I know." He said, finishing the conversation and taking Morgan’s hand. "We will return soon." They started to walk out when Shanbar turned back to her. "Do not leave this fortress, Salina…and do not defy me on this. Sheman is close. You will be safe here."

"What about you and Morgan?" Salina asked quickly.

"She will be safe," Shanbar said knowing that was who she was concerned about in her question. "Sheman shall never touch her." Shanbar’s voice grew dark and threatening. "We shall return soon." Shanbar looked at Morgan and together they ‘teleported’ out of the fortress leaving Salina alone…again.

"Look towards the future, Salina," Morgan’s distant voice was heard in her mind. Salina smiled. She was completely confusing. Not kind, not cruel, just Morgan. Salina shook her head and decided to work on her concentration skills. Surely this was the best place to do that. She sat down in front of the still-burning candle and concentrated as Zorlac had taught her to do.

Shanbar and Morgan had not traveled far from the Fortress or Salina. Shanbar had teleported them into a new room in the Fortress, one he had just created. It was simpler compared to the main room, but the feeling of floating somewhere between worlds was apparent. It was invisible to the eyes and no one not even Salina could tell where they were. However, Shanbar knew exactly where Salina was. He could sense her better in this place than trying to go into the mortal world where all the thoughts mixed with mortals who were around him.

It was a good choice, Shanbar thought as Morgan looked around the new room. Salina knew that they had gone off on their own to spend time together, he felt that when they left. Now he could sense her trying to concentration while thoughts of them ran through her mind. She was lonely without Lewethayne, her heart was sad and those feelings conveyed to Shanbar leaving him with a sense of that. He knew lonely before. Salina would never believe him, but he knew a lot of mortal emotions. He could hide them better from himself and the world than his daughter could do. Salina would not understand why nor would she understand why him and Morgan needed this time alone. Morgan demanded attention Shanbar had learned that all too well, and attention was the one thing he could openly give.

"Should we leave her alone?" Morgan said, softly, already turning back to him with a seductive look in her eyes. Shanbar smiled, sending her sensations that coursed through her body so rapidly, she almost swayed on her feet. Holding her place in front of him, she was determined to win this little game.

He whispered in her ear, "For a while, my love," Morgan tried to stay focused on her own seduction of him, but her own need to win was fading. Shanbar smiled against her neck as he slowly began kissing her. Sensations ran through him, softly, sweetly. He loved that feeling, she was the only one who could do that to him. It excited him as much as it made him desire for her even more. He led the kisses to her lips. Kissing her deeply, taking in her own desires and mingling them with his. After a few moments, Shanbar broke the kiss slowly and looked at her. Her eyes were closed and she was still in their last moment, slowly swaying toward him, anticipating his next kiss. He smiled and reached out caressing her face gently. She moaned slightly as he continued softly outlining her cheekbones and down her neck. Shanbar fought a sudden urge to tell her how much he loved her.

"Look at me, Morgan," Shanbar said, causing her to open her eyes. She looked confused that he had stopped the tender moment they shared. It wasn’t like him, she quietly said in her mind.

"What?" She said in a whisper.

"How do you feel?" He answered looking deep into her eyes. Morgan was taken back. What was he asking?

"Stop teasing," she finally said, playfully reaching for his own lips. He held her by her shoulders, keeping her at a distance.

"I want to talk to you," Shanbar said, keeping her eyes focused on him. This time, Morgan laughed. He didn’t enjoy her amusement. Morgan took a deep breath and started to feel uncomfortable. She tried to move away from his intense stare that threatened to see right through all the walls around her heart. He held her firm, not allowing her to escape his look.

"I thought you took me here for other reasons," she said seductively and smiling.

"I did, I assure you. But first, I want you to answer the question."

She stared up at him for a moment, then smiled. "Is this a game, Shanbar?"

"Call it whatever you want," He said, still focusing all his attention on her face.

"All right, have it your way," she said, her hand straying to his chest, moving her fingers lightly in circles. "How do I feel?" She said, outloud. "Well, my dearest Shanbar, I felt much better when you were kissing me." She reached up and kissed him. He kissed her back, hungrily. Then slowly she broke the kiss, hoping that would change his mind about talking. No luck.

"Good try," he said, smiling at her. "You have no idea why I am asking you this, do you?"

"I have no idea why you stopped," she said, honestly. "It is not like you to want to speak, dear," she added, smiling.

"Things are going to be different this time, Morgan." He said, taking a long breath.

She laughed, "my dear, things are all ready different. I allowed you to take me, is that not different than all those years ago?" She tried to lighten the conversation, but she could tell he had something on his mind and no amount of jesting from her was deterring him from his purpose. "I promise I will not leave this time," she said with a chiding tone to her voice that angered Shanbar.

"That is exactly what I mean. I am not Aragon," he said firmly. "Do not play those games with me, Morgan," Shanbar said, holding her hand to stop her from caressing him further. He wanted her complete attention. "I have waited long enough to discuss this. I should have said this on that first night, but," a small smile escaped him, "I was not thinking about that at the time." Morgan smiled and moved closer to him.

"Let me finish, Morgan." He said, looking at her with a warning in his eyes. She sighed loud enough for him to hear. "It is time that we settled this."

"What are you speaking of, Shanbar?" Morgan said, sounding innocent.

"Stop it," He said, firmly, causing her to look directly at him. Her face changed and anger flashed in her green eyes. Shanbar continued, "You have blocked your feelings. I can feel it. You always do that when we are alone."

"That is not true, I told you…" He laughed and shook his head, causing Morgan to once again look confused at him.

"You tell me things you know I want to hear. True as your desire for me may be. That is not what I am speaking of and you know it. So get rid of that innocent look, Morgan." He pulled her into him, quickly, looking down at her with intensity. "I know you, better than you know yourself. I know why you gave in, Morgan. I know why you are with me now. I am not a foolish mortal who you can weave your enchanting spell of love around. I care about you more than any other woman I have ever known, mortal or sorcerer and our games…with each other are over. It that understood, my dear?" He kept the stare on her. She had no where else to look but into his eyes, filled with mystery, caring and promises, all the things Morgan wanted so desperately for so many years. She hated to admit it, but she knew he was right about all of it. He knew her well…too well.

"No walls, Morgan. I will know," he added. "I have no intention of losing you again. Do not get me wrong, I admire your strength, but if I ever feel you slipping away from me, in any way, Morgan, I will fight, I trust you remember that," She fought her own urge to tell him everything. How she could feel exactly what he is. That together everything makes sense to her, that he gave her a purpose again to continue living in this world. That she was sorry about leaving, about the betrayal and taking away his powers of sight. That she wished she had never went to Larin. That she missed him when he left and desired for him to return everyday. That she was completely in love with him. But she pushed down her feelings, although she was certain he could feel them. She had to distract him from that.

"You know everything I am feeling, everything I am thinking. There is nothing I can hide from you," Morgan said instead, all ready not doing what he asked. Shanbar shook his head and let go of her. He let out a laugh as he walked a few steps away.

"Why do I try?" He turned back to her, smiling. "I know how much you care, Morgan. I am not insecure about my own feelings, nor yours. I knew we were destined to be together the moment I meet you outside the Temple that day." Shanbar walked past her, smiling again at the memory. She followed him to the bed. "I should have watched myself then, but I was young." He said, using his youth to pawn off his inability at the time to catch onto her game. The first one they had ever played.

"You handled it well," Morgan said, smiling as he pulled her down on his lap.

"It seems like a long time ago, now." He said, slowly kissing her neck and changing the conversation back to a lighter tone, reliving good memories, precious few as they were for the both of them.

"It was, dearest," she said, closing her eyes as he continued with his kisses. "You wanted to rule the world, even then, you were ambitious. Just like Aragon." He stopped kissing her and looked up. Morgan opened her eyes to look at him.

"Not like Aragon," he said, seriously. "I want much more than Aragon wanted."

"What do you want, Shanbar?" She said, smiling.

Shanbar reached his hand outlining her neck, slowly moving down to her breast. "Everything, Morgan." He moved his hand over her breast, hearing her moan lightly.

"I want everything and I want you there with me." His other hand went around her back as he gently pulled her off him and down on the bed. He laid down next to her with his head propped up on her stomach. He looked at her with determination. "I will settle for no less." He moved his hand up and down her thigh, causing her to let out another moan.

Morgan placed her hand on his back as he moved his hand further up her thigh pulling up her dress with the motion. Her nails dug into his back and Shanbar closed his eyes taking in her quick breathing and small moans as he continued giving her pleasure, a steady rhythmic motion took over, sending Morgan to louder moans. She dug her nails in further and felt a small drop of blood trickle down her hand slightly. Shanbar smiled feeling the warm blood on his back.

"Shanbar…." He heard silently in his head. "Shanbar…" He heard it again. The tone was mocking and completely undesirable. Shanbar stopped, the motion stopped, Morgan opened her eyes. He withdrew his hand, quickly leaving her feeling cold and unfulfilled. Shanbar’s eyes darted back and forth trying to listen closer to the voice in his head.

"Shanbar…" Morgan started as she slide up to him. He was sitting his feet on the floor, leaned over with his hands on the sides of his head, concentrating. Morgan got on her knees and leaned over him from behind, placing her arms around him. One hand moved slowly downward. He caught her hand a second before it had reached its destination. He held it tightly, almost painfully, that is if Morgan didn’t like the pain she was feeling.

"I have a game for you," the voice said, mocking and arrogant. Shanbar held Morgan’s hand tightly as Sheman’s voice completely forced its way into his mind. "How about with dear old father," he said and then laughed for a moment. Morgan had begun kissing his neck and back, tasting the blood there and she left a trail of kisses up to the back of his neck. Shanbar felt Sheman close. "Ohhh, Shanbar. Am I interrupting something? I can’t see Morgan, but I can feel her. I think she likes you. Tis a shame she can’t get over that. She is good, ohhhh, very good. You think I am jesting with you, after all how could I feel her right now, but you see Master, I can ever since the two of you…." Sheman sighed "were together, I can feel her when I try really hard. You see, the both of you are intertwined in spirit, in thought, in feeling…and I can feel…everything." He said the last part with a reaction to Morgan’s tantalizing caresses. She had managed to break free her hand from Shanbar’s and had continued to give him pleasure. Shanbar felt it, but was concentrating on Sheman’s whereabouts too much to react at this moment. "Oh, Shanbar, I can see why you will not let her go." Shanbar stood up quickly, causing Morgan to fall forward and almost off the bed. He reached up his arm and caught her in mid-fall pushing her back on the bed. She looked up at him. He was still looking outward and not paying attention to her. She had not even affected him from the look of him now, she thought to herself. This made her upset to say the least. She sighed and laid back on the bed, fixing her dress and hair. She propped her head up with her hand laying on her side, looking at him.

"Block him out," she pleaded. He turned to her and stared for a moment and then turned away again and back to the conversation. "Why do not just tell me to hold my tongue," she said, sarcastically under her breath.

"Because you would not listen," Shanbar said, moving toward the other side of the room.

"Do not fight," Sheman said in a pleading tone of a child in his head.

"All right, you have had your fun, Sheman, enough," Shanbar said, firmly.

"Well, I do have some matters to tend to. Time to play, Shanbar. Say goodbye to Mogan for me." Sheman said and the voice was gone along with the feeling of Sheman himself. Shanbar turned quickly to Morgan.

"Stay with Salina," he said, quickly and disappeared. Morgan stared after him for a moment and then fell onto the bed with a sigh.

"Leave him alone, Sheman," she said, quietly, but with determination. Slowly Morgan got up and suddenly she felt herself teleported back to the main room with Salina. Salina looked up at her, quickly as she appeared. "I was going, Shanbar." Morgan said, quietly, annoyed at him.

"Where is Shanbar?" Salina asked after a moment.

"Saving Vanir." Morgan said, sitting down on the bed. Salina was sitting at the foot of the bed, with candles all around her.

"What does Sheman want with Vanir?" Salina asked. Morgan looked over at her for the first time since she had appeared.

"Probably kill him," Morgan said, uncaring. Salina was taken back, Morgan seemed annoyed but surely she knew Shanbar had to save Vanir. If not for his own friendship he once had with Lewethayne’s father then for Lewethayne. Salina knew when it came down to it, her father would not let Vanir die. Well, that was not entirely true, Salina did think the opposite for quite some time, but she had a feeling Shanbar was not going to let anyone die at Sheman’s hands…not until Lewethayne returned at least.

"Are you happy here, Morgan?" Salina asked, suddenly, unsure of why she really did. She just wanted to know. Too often, she seemed to get a sense of sadness in her. No true unhappiness just a sadness that seemed to engulf her at times.

Morgan looked at Salina for a moment as if she didn’t understand the question. Then she sat down on the floor, lit one of her candles, slightly moving her hand back and forth over it. Salina watched the motion intently trying to read her thoughts. They were confusing at best. She was good at blocking her thoughts, Salina said to herself. How could someone who was immortal without sorcery magick block so easily? Salina had thought often of this one question alone.

"Yes," Morgan answered, causing Salina to look up at her quickly. Morgan caught her eyes, held them for a long moment and then refocused on the candle in front of her.

"Morgan," she heard Shanbar say in her mind. "I shall make up for my leaving you, my dear." The words came to Morgan softly, causing her to smile at the sound of his voice.

Salina saw the smile and pondered even more on what was going on in Morgan’s head.

"Can I ask you another question?" Morgan looked up at her and smiled softly. Salina continued, "Are you happy to be here with Shanbar?"

"You do not understand, do you, Salina?" Morgan said, blowing out the candle and looking back at her.

"I must confess I do not. I know about Aragon and ruling with him for all those years. I know now that you betrayed Shanbar to the Wizards’ Council which caused him to be exiled from Theoria and I know that you took away his powers of sight and have since returned them, but I do not know why." Salina looked genuinely confused at Morgan’s apparent lack of caring what she did next to anyone. "I always knew that you must care about Shanbar or you would not have stayed here." That was the part that confused Salina the most. How could she care and hurt him so much all at the same time? Morgan smiled at Salina once more before taking her hand and bringing them both off the floor. She walked with Salina to the well in the back of the room and knelt beside it. Salina did the same.

"You used to look this well, I understand, Salina when you lived in Theoria," Morgan started.

"Yes. I would watch the mortals in their festivals and tournaments, sometimes in war." Salina said and looked back at Morgan.

"From this well, you can see much more than just the Arlen Kingdom, Salina. You can see all you want to see just by thinking upon it." Morgan took Salina’s hand and gently touched the water in the well. It rippled and slowly an image appeared. Salina looked closer. Shanbar and Vanir were standing outside a small hut while Sheman appeared in front of them. Instantly, Shanbar and Vanir hit him with magick, Sheman laughed and threw back Changling magick on them, they fell down. Salina jumped slightly. The battle continues for a few more moments until Shanbar and Vanir were on the ground. Morgan closed her eyes and softly Salina heard her chanting. Salina looked through the well again. This time Sheman was being attacked by Shanbar. The magick Sheman tried to throw was blocked as Shanbar advanced on him. Sheman laughed and threw one more hit of magick towards Vanir, Shanbar stood in front of it, not wavering. Sheman disappeared. The well image vanished as Morgan placed her hand in the well once again and the water rippled.

"Do you understand now, Salina?" Morgan said, turning to her.

"My father needs you," Salina said, simply, not believing that to be the only reason Morgan would stay with him. Morgan smiled.

"Yes and I need Shanbar, Salina. More than you can know." Morgan stood up and walked back to the center of the room, sitting down on the bed again. Salina followed her, sitting on the floor. "It still makes little sense to you, does it not?" Morgan asked.

"I know you are both fated to be with each other. Zorlac told me of that," Salina answered.

"Fate does not always meet, believe me."

"Then why? Because he needs you, because you need him? It is because he saved you in the temple from Aragon?" Morgan’s expression changed, her eyes grew dark.

"It is much more than that. Shanbar saved me from the torments engulfing my mind in that forgotten room of Aragon’s, but he protects me, Salina. Protects me like no one ever has since…" Morgan stopped and looked at Shanbar’s daughter. Confusion and anticipation were in Salina’s eyes as she waited for Morgan to continue her thought. Morgan smiled. "Aragon will kill me if given the chance," Morgan said, coldly. "I have cursed him to walk in a tormented world of his own mind. I played the ultimate game…and I lost." Morgan stood up and walked away from Salina and her questioning eyes. Morgan hated talking about Aragon, even in the briefest moments. He scared her more than even Shanbar knew.

"But you did not explain why you hurt Shanbar by betraying him and taking away his sight. Surely you knew that would anger him?" Salina stood up, walking to her slowly, cautiously.

"I adored Shanbar," Morgan started. Salina stopped walking and stared at her. Did she hear Morgan correctly. She adorned Shanbar. Morgan turned to Salina and started the story of her life. Something Salina had wished for, ever since she met Morgan. "I met Shanbar after drinking the Dragon’s blood, after living for fifty years and after Aragon and I decided to have a….relationship, solely devoted to each other." Morgan laughed at the thought and walked back towards the bed. She stopped turning back to Salina. "Sit down, Salina. If you want to hear the story, it may take a while." Salina immediately obeyed anticipation in her eyes of what was about to be told to her. Morgan smiled at her youth, her innocence. She had that once also. She had lost that look at far too young an age for any child. Morgan dismissed the memories flooding her, of the rapes and beatings she had received too many times to count and focused her thoughts back on Shanbar and their first meeting.

"Shanbar had come to Aragon’s temple when he was very young, only twenty as I recall. He had long locks of brown hair,"

"My father had long hair?" Salina said, amazed at the thought of it. She had never known her father when he had more hair than the small amounts now, almost bald but not quite. Somehow the look suited him, made him handsome and now, Salina could not picture her father any other way, especially with locks of hair.

"Yes," Morgan smiled at a long ago memory in her mind. "He was just as handsome and charming, not as dark, not yet." A small smile formed on her lips and Salina knew she had been very taken by her father ever since he had walked into her life. "Aragon knew exactly how to bring that side of him out." Morgan smiled again at her memories of Shanbar and continued, "I thought Shanbar was the most handsome man I had ever seen. And I had seen many, believe me." Morgan sat down now. "Of course, Aragon was handsome as well, but in a different way, more dark, more alluring at the time." Morgan took a deep breath. "Shanbar had come to the temple to ask Aragon for help. Of course, knowing your father, he did not come right out and ask, instead he told Aragon he wanted to help him. Aragon and Shanbar spent almost every waking moment together discussing all different things from the worlds, between the worlds, magicks and eventually to conversations about me."

Salina looked at her, holding her gaze. "Did Aragon know?" She asked, quietly.

"Not right away, but he soon discovered something was different about Shanbar. The way I looked at him. And then, of course there were the dreams."

"Dreams?"

"Ever since Shanbar had been born, I had dreams of a man. I could never truly see the face, but the dreams felt safe, protected when I was in his arms. I had told Aragon about them almost from the beginning. I spent a great deal of time speaking with Aragon’s councilors, who were created through his own magicks. Dark creatures of the night who possessed powers of sight and vision, not like Shanbar’s, but just the same they were powerful. Even those powerful beings, could ever explain the dreams…until I met Shanbar. I didn’t know at the time, but he was also having dreams about me."

"Because of your fate with him." Salina said.

"Yes." Morgan sat down next to Salina smiling. "Shanbar and I knew from the moment we met, we were the unknown person in our dreams. The faceless person who filled our senses with desire." Morgan closed her eyes for a moment and in that moment Salina was completely taken with this beautiful enchantress in front of her. She thought upon Morgan in the temple, beautiful, seductress and her father, handsome, clever and cunning. Together they made a perfect pair, she had never thought about a love affair…a beginning. She almost laughed to herself about her own naïve thinking sometimes. Of course, they had to start somewhere and Salina wanted to know all about it. Morgan opened her eyes again and looked towards Salina. Salina could tell she was still deep in thought about that time. "Then your father refused my bed," Morgan said, throwing Salina completely off-guard for a moment.

"Shanbar…" she said in disbelief.

"Yes, Shanbar. I threw myself at him, used all my best seductive glances and most alluring moves and he refused me." Morgan smiled. "I think that was when I knew…" Morgan stopped, looked over at Salina. Salina knew what she was about to say, but Morgan ignored it and continued, "anyway, after Shanbar took all my virgins I had taught in my temples, and one by one destroyed my years of training, I thought it would be better if he was killed. I brought the matter up with Aragon. Aragon said he would kill Shanbar, if that was what I truly wanted," Morgan paused a moment. "I could not do it," she sighed. "So I continued playing the games. Aragon and Shanbar continued as well. Together we were an unstoppable force. The villagers became frightened of the temple and us. And slowly, Shanbar and I decided upon friendship instead of becoming lovers."

"Shanbar wanted to be your friend?" Salina asked, again her voice gave away her disbelief she was thinking.

"He was a very good friend. He listened to me, thought of interesting games to play to keep me amused and I learned all about his magicks. Of course, he did not know he was sorcerer yet. And then…" Morgan looked down, the sparkle in her eyes faded now. A darkness came over her…or Salina thought to herself, a sadness. "Shanbar was taken…" Morgan looked at Salina. "The Wizards came and took him away from me. For thirty years, he just disappeared. No one knew where he had went."

"You felt he betrayed you?" Salina said, softly, almost to herself. Morgan slightly laughed changing to a softness in her eyes again. Maybe you are more insightful than I thought, Morgan said to herself.

"Yes. When he returned, I hated Shanbar for everything…for leaving me with Aragon… for Aragon’s insanity. But most of all, I hated him because he left me." Morgan slightly shifted her position on the floor and picked up the candle left on the floor. Idly, she moved it in her hand, deep in thought of a time long ago.

"You missed him," Salina said. Morgan nodded slightly still turning the candle.

"I needed him…" she looked at Salina, holding the candle still. "Desperately. The will to fight against our fate together was strong, but without Aragon’s protection, without Aragon’s thoughts to encompass me, I was beginning to lose that fight."

"Is that when you decided to stop Aragon?" Salina asked. She was becoming more curious each moment. She started to romanticize about her father and Morgan’s relationship. They loved each other, but could not show it for years and now, after Shanbar was freed from Theoria and the Wizards, Morgan was lost in Aragon’s world of insanity. Lost…and lonely. Salina thought that was beautiful…in a dark way.

"No, that is when Shanbar decided to play a game on me." Salina looked at her quickly, she had not expected to hear that. She was beginning to think of her father as loving, even caring towards Morgan. Why would he play a game on her?

Morgan smiled at Salina now. Her innocence, her complete belief in love, in the way of the fates, of two souls finding each other and letting nothing come between them. Morgan wished at times, she knew what that felt like. To believe that love conquers all…she stopped the foolish thoughts she knew them to be and continued the story.

"The first game I ever played that I won and lost all at the same time. Shanbar tried to understand Aragon’s behavior I guess, in his own way, but it was beyond understanding. Aragon was beyond help any longer….and Shanbar knew it. And he knew I wouldn’t accept it. I refused to give him up…even for Shanbar." Morgan stood up and started walking to the other side of the room. She stopped at the small table where moreburning candles stood, herbs has been placed in a small bowl and there were small items of interest from Larin, Eslain and a piece of Truella’s fold, a small plant life that grew in Theoria, Salina knew it well.

Salina watched Morgan intently as she sifted her hand through the herbs, picked up a handful up and let them slip through her fingers back into the bowl. Salina could see Morgan was deep in thought and thought it best to wait until she was ready to continue. After a moment, Morgan turned back to Salina.

"I would not believe Shanbar, he said Aragon would try to kill me. Aragon would never do that. He always protected me. I knew that. And Shanbar was wrong." Morgan turned away so Salina could only see the shadow of her face. Salina stood up and started walking to her.

"But Aragon proved me wrong for the first time," she said barely above a whisper. Salina stopped in the middle of the room. "One night Aragon was frantic, the worst I had ever seen, speaking of Goth and the power he had inside him." She paused for a moment. "He lunged for me.." Morgan trailed off.

"Then what happened?" Salina asked without thinking.

Morgan turned to Salina with a deadly look in her eyes. "The unthinkable happened. I betrayed Aragon. My teacher, my lover…my friend." Morgan paced again to the other side of the room. This time she kept her back to Salina. "I agreed to help Shanbar with his…plans. He had another sorcerer leading the armies of two war-hungry peasants named Alexander Arlenton and James Eslan. They were fierce enemies until this sorcerer made them work together."

"Vanir," Salina said, matter-of-factly.

"Vanir," Morgan repeated with hatred in her voice. "Vanir led the armies to the Temple while I was the pawn in Shanbar’s deadliest scheme."

"You did not want to kill Aragon even at that moment?" Salina took a step towards her.

"As I weaved the curse in my mind, binding Aragon to walk in his own torment forever," Morgan turned to Salina. "I knew there was no other way, I trusted Shanbar. I always have." Her eyes held Salina’s for a moment. "He never left me even as I faltered, he stood strong." She broke the stare as her eyes went to the floor. "Another moment I shall never be able to repay to him." Morgan walked back to the bed and sat down at the foot of it. Salina followed, standing for a moment longer, before joining Morgan on the floor. "Aragon died and Alexander Arlenton gave the final blow with his sword, making him a hero, of course." She threw Salina a sideways glance with a slight smile. "Then the real nightmare started, tormented and frightening. I could feel Aragon next to me. He kept asking me why. I did not have the strength left to fight him…or Vanir."

"Vanir?" Salina questioned.

"Vanir tried to kill me with his sorcery. Shanbar saved me from the death Vanir wanted me to have and I, in turn, went to Shanbar. Alone and afraid I found comfort in his embrace for the first time…." She looked down again. "But I would not allow myself to be taken by him, I was hurt, confused and completely lost without Aragon. Shanbar knew that. Slowly he helped me find a part of myself I had left years ago when I entered that temple."

Salina wanted Morgan to let those feelings out, the ones that screamed inside of her. Salina knew the look of love and Morgan was still hiding from it, even now as she stayed with Shanbar year after year. Salina also knew that the next part of this story was the deep secret both of them kept for over fifty years.

"Morgan, why did you not remain with Shanbar?" Morgan looked up at her, sharply. A coldness engulfed her again and Salina saw Morgan slip away into another time of her tormented past.

"Sometimes I feel as if I never truly left him." Morgan said, softly in thought. Suddenly, her dark and sad eyes changed and she stood up quickly, excitedly. Salina could feel that emotion deep. It was one of the first times Salina had felt an emotion so strong from Morgan Morgan smiled at her own thoughts.

"Shanbar’s returning," she stated in her regular, soft, comforting voice Salina was accustomed to.

The colors in the fortress that shifted constantly in time and space, changed again to a soft blue which captured Morgan’s fire-red hair, her emerald green eyes and soft complexion. For a moment, Salina was breathless at the sight. She was the Great Lady of Larin, the legendary woman who ruled by Aragon’s side and the immortal whose beauty was never matched by sorcerer or mortal. Salina found herself feeling pity for her. She had reasons for her ways and judgements, did she not? Salina said to herself as

Morgan smiled and put out her hand to Salina.

"Come, we should greet your father. Enough dwelling on the past for today." Salina took her hand as she stood up and together they waited for her father. Everything she had heard and witnessed in the past hour with Morgan seemed like a lifetime of knowledge and Salina felt closer to understanding her father. An accomplishment which did not seem possible. But, Salina said to herself, I doubt Morgan has ever failed at anything. Even convincing her, Shanbar had ‘good qualities.’

Shanbar stepped into the room, walking swiftly towards Morgan. He didn’t say anything at least not out loud, but Salina could tell he was speaking clearly to Morgan who still stood next to her. Shanbar grabbed Morgan by the waist with incredible force, but Salina could see tenderness behind his eyes. He kissed her, passionately. Salina suddenly felt out of place and lonely again, missing Lewethayne. She wished desperately he were here to speak with…to hold. Salina slowly moved away from Morgan and her father towards the other side of the room. Salina moved towards the wells, caught up in her own thoughts as the two lovers continued their greetings. After a few moments, Salina decided to leave them alone for a while. She took a final step towards the well and began to concentrate on teleporting herself to Arlen when suddenly she felt herself being pushed back by magic. She immediately turned towards her father.

"It is not time to leave, Salina," Shanbar said, still focusing on Morgan.

"I just thought…" Salina started.

"That is the problem. Stop thinking, Salina." Shanbar moved towards her, Morgan laid down on the bed, propping her hand under her head and looking at them. Her other hand rested on her hip.

"I was trying to be…." Salina tried again, but Shanbar cut off her words.

"Salina, Sheman is growing in power. He will not be so easy to defeat….without your help." Salina started to say something and suddenly realized what her father was telling her. He wanted her help. She was taken back to say the least. For a moment, she looked past him to Morgan. Her eyes were on Shanbar’s back, but she averted them towards Salina for a moment with a knowing smile. Salina turned back to her father.

"A trap has been set should Sheman come after you again. We intend to stop his little games…for now." Shanbar moved to the bed as he spoke, sitting down next to Morgan. She caressed his back, seductively.

"We?" She said. An innocence rang in her voice, but deadly knives were apparent in her eyes as she looked up at him. He turned to her, smiling.

"Yes," he said, softly. "Vanir and I." Morgan looked away in disgust. "I am sorry it does not meet your approval, my dear." Shanbar knew he was walking a fine line, but he had plans of his own, plans that included his beloved Morgan, but his plans none the less and like it or not, she was going to agree with him…for once.

"What is the plan?" Salina asked quickly. Morgan did not look at Shanbar or Salina, she was lying down on her back now looking up and ignoring both of them. Shanbar stood up walking to his daughter.

"Well Salina, first of all you are very important in this plan," Shanbar started taking Salina’s arm and leading them to a space on the floor in front of the well. "I could not succeed in this without your help." They both heard Morgan sigh on the bed and turn her back to them. Shanbar smiled as he sat down, Salina followed. "Sheman is planning on waiting for you in Arlen. He knows you will return to speak with Zorlac."

"But I never said that I am returning yet." Salina said, quickly. Shanbar fought an urge to tell her to hold her tongue. Instead he smiled.

"No, Salina. I did." Recognition of the plan started to formulate in Salina’s thoughts.

"So when he comes to Arlen you and Vanir are…" Salina prompted him to tell her the rest.

"We are going to bind him," Shanbar said and heard Morgan laugh out loud. "Of course, we need someone very powerful in Pynwellian Magicks to actually complete the binding spell…and someone," he turned toward Morgan, "who could teach another, shall we say sorceress to help her." Salina stood up now, excited that she would learn some of the Pynwellian magicks…from Morgan. She had always hesitated to ask her. But now, Shanbar’s plan directly involved her in learning the oldest of all magicks.

"Yes. I want to learn," Salina said, walking towards Morgan quickly. Morgan laughed again and stood up looking across the bed at Salina.

"You believe you could learn Pynwellian?" Morgan laughed, insulting Salina. She turned towards Shanbar. "And you think I will teach her." She laughed again. "I know what your game is, Shanbar. You want me to become jealous so you can get what you want. I am not working with…Vanir. Not even to help stop Sheman. I hate him." Morgan’s expression turned to anger as she crossed around the bed to Shanbar. "And I hate you for asking." She started to walk past Shanbar, but he grabbed her around the waist pulling her into her. He held her from behind, talking in her ear.

"It is not a request, my love." Morgan felt sensations run through her body as his soft voice engulfed her thoughts. He sent her more sensations of ecstasy, she felt herself fall against him. "If you do this with me, Morgan, I promise you I will reward your efforts…in ways even you have not imagined." He smiled as he bent down kissing her neck and sending a new wave of sensations to her, forcing her to moan. He waited a moment longer and then released her quickly. She steadied herself. "Good," he said, walking to Salina.

Now Morgan was angry. How dare he treat me like that. She concentrated and a feeling of burning ran through Shanbar. He ignored it and did not even turn to her to acknowledge he had felt it, but she knew he did. She sent another feeling, this one of coldness engulfing him. She heightened the thoughts, coldness surrounded him and feelings of power being drained come back to her. Still he ignored her. She moved one step towards him and sent another sense of coldness towards him. This time, he turned to her, grabbing her hand quickly and pulling her to him. She tried to fight with the magics, but he was too fast.

"Stop it, Morgan," he said in her thoughts. She smiled at him, she got his attention.

"No," she answered back, sending more coldness towards him. This time she was greeted with burning and intensified sensations through her. She weakened from the force.

"Send me into coldness again," Shanbar said, out loud. "And that is all you shall feel from me," Salina watched them as they faced each other, staring each other down with an intensity she had not seen before. But somehow she knew, her father would not lose this fight either on this day. Slowly Morgan’s eyes changed and she smiled, reaching up and kissing Shanbar passionately. He took the kiss in and let her continue kissing his neck and moving towards his chest. Shanbar took her hand, kissed it and smiled at her.

"You can continue apologizing in a moment," he said and started to turn towards Salina. In mid-stride, he turned back on Morgan, who was obviously preparing herself to attack him again with Pynwellian magicks, "stop it. I am not in the mood." Morgan sighed and started to walk to the well, she thought about jumping through it…and of being alone. She dismissed the thought quickly and walked back to the bed. Shanbar smiled to himself. It was his victory this time.

"Salina, you will need rest before Morgan teaches you the magicks," He teleported Salina and himself to a separate room in the fortress. He began to leave when he felt Salina touch his arm lightly.

"Father, do you really think this will work?" Salina said, carefully. Shanbar turned toward her.

"If you learn the magicks, Salina." He paused, placing his hand on hers, causing Salina to once again to be taken back by her father on this day. "I know you can do this, Salina." He smiled at her now, "you are my daughter," he added and disappeared.

Salina stood in the center of the room for a moment pondering on her Shanbar’s words, he had confidence in her. She smiled at the thought, not particularly knowing why. It made her feel important somehow and that made her feel useful. Salina slowly retreated towards the bed. Her father had been correct, she would need rest to go against Sheman.

Shanbar walked towards Morgan, he knew why she chose not to face him, why she was ignoring the thoughts he was placing in her mind, why she was not complaining or fighting with him about the plan against Sheman. Shanbar knew all the reasons and that is why he was not going to explain himself to Morgan. He loved her, she knew that. He protected her, she knew that and it was time she became part of his life, his plans and his ultimate goal. He needed her at his side, not behind him in a battle. Morgan was strong, she survived more than Shanbar could have imagined and he tried to imagine it at times. He lived in the temple with Aragon, he felt the power that was wielded over everyone, including her and that was why Shanbar had been determined that when she was his, he would allow her freedom. No confinement, no expectations, he never wanted her to stay with him out of obligation. However that did not mean that she could be completely irresponsible or foolish in her own games. It was amusing at first, inviting to him after all those years of being alone. He wanted her to do whatever she desired…to an extent. It was not really a condition, it was only Shanbar’s own jealousies that stopped him from completely giving her the freedom he wanted to. And Shanbar tended to be jealous quite a bit when it came to Morgan. He knew that, also. That is why he could not back down on this decision and Shanbar had no intention of doing that.

"Morgan," he started. His voice was soft and soothing. She did not move. He sat down next to her on the bed and began running his finger lightly down her back. She lay motionless. "Look at me," he said still soft and alluring. She slightly moved away from his caresses, but stayed the same position on the bed. Shanbar looked away for a moment and then, without hesitation, pulled her down on the bed, holding her hands firmly above her head, while he straddled her. He started to feel the pain of the burning she was sending him. She intensified it, showing her own strength against him. Shanbar enjoyed that he let out a moan and locked eyes with her. He heard her slight catch in breath as she struggled to concentrate on the magicks she had placed on him. Slowly her strength was leaving. He watched the transformation as she began to struggle with his hold on her hands. He tightened the hold and smiled at her.

"You are a tease, Morgan," Shanbar said, seductively. He began to lean down kissing her neck and stopping this game for the moment, but Morgan had no intention of stopping.

"I am not teasing," she answered back with a deadly tone in her voice. Her expression was stone as he looked at her. Shanbar smiled, continuing to kiss her neck, moving slowly towards her breasts. He heard her breath knowing she was about to say something to most likely ruin a perfectly good feeling for him and Shanbar was not going to have that. The wait had been long enough in these past few days. Shanbar heard instead a slight moan escape her lips as his caresses reached their destination. Even the Great Lady of Larin was powerless against his touch and she did not seem to mind. Shanbar looked up at her for a moment. Her eyes were closed, taking in the feelings he was sending her, she moved slightly underneath him. Shanbar was taken for a moment with this woman. He stared at her pondering for a moment and how she came to be his…in his bed…in his arms…in his life. He touched her cheek gently, she moved her face closer to the warmth of his hand. Slowly she opened her eyes, causing Shanbar to release a part of the emotions he held inside for so long.

"You are truly beautiful, Morgan," he finally said as Morgan responded to his compliment with an alluring look and a passionate kiss.

There were no more protests or arguments or even speaking. Now they were lost in a world they both knew so well, a world where Sheman nor the Changeling nor Aragon existed. A world where only a complete sense of perfection, desire, protection, sharing, lust and love was present and neither Shanbar nor Morgan would have wanted their lovemaking any other way.

Several days past before Shanbar went to see Vanir and Morgan went to teach Salina a Pynwellian Chant. Several days past before Sheman was baited by Morgan to come to Arlen and be caught in Vanir and Shanbar’s little plan. A plan that both Salina and Morgan were extremely impressed by. Not only did it work quite well, but they all worked together, mostly due to Shanbar’s constant interference between his once best friend and his lover. Shanbar was beginning to believe just as Morgan and he were destined to be together, Vanir and Morgan were destined to hate each other for an eternity. Shanbar was also beginning to think eternity would be a long time to separate the two.

After Sheman’s binding’ spell was complete and he was sufficiently frightened. Of course no one told Sheman he was only good until the full moon, which happened to be the next night, nor that the binding spell of Pynwell needed some ingredients Morgan and Salina simply could not find. Either way, Sheman believed it was real and they all knew it would be a while before he figured out he could still use his magicks. Sheman, on the other hand, surprised them…again. It would be almost four years before he would venture out of the temple again and into their lives. And for Shanbar, Morgan, Vanir and Salina, five years was a long time to be in a world without Sheman. Shanbar and Morgan became extremely busy….with each other and Vanir and Salina spent a great deal of time in Arlen speaking of Lewethayne and Vanir’s tragic life with Casia, his now dead wife and mother of Lewethayne and Sheman. Salina got to know Vanir in a different way, not only as Lewethayne's father, but a friend to Shanbar as well. Even with Vanir’s influence, Salina could not help but find herself still drawn to Morgan and her father. She would speak upon it from time to time with Zorlac and waited patiently to hear word about Sheman.

Meanwhile in the Eslain Kingdom, King Rugen Eslan was dying and Shanbar had a new plan…or more accurately, it was an old plan he may have let slip for a while. Rugen’s son, Prince Dareth had a new son of his own, Seth. The Eslan name was about to receive a new King on the throne, unfortunately for Dareth, Shanbar was very good at receiving payment for a debt owed him, or in this case Morgan. He had every intention of making certain Dareth remembered as well. The other unfortunate fate for the unsuspecting Prince was Morgan’s approval and agreement of her lover’s plan. Especially considering she had her own debts to be repaid for, concerning a certain Anadonian named Lydora, who had betrayed the Great Lady giving birth to Dareth’s little brat-son, as Morgan referred to Seth.

The fall of the House of Eslan, the natural death of Rugen and the unnatural deaths of Queen Malina at Dareth’s own hands and of himself and Lydora at Shanbar’s hands, led to something everyone had thought about from time to time, but never believed would truly happen. Shanbar and Morgan found a way to recapture their bond together that they had first felt in the Temple, years ago. They found a connection and formed an indestructible partnership.

Finally they fulfilled their own fate and Shanbar and Morgan could not have been happier with this life, with each other and of course, ruling the entire Eslain Kingdom as Shanbar raised Seth to be a sorcerer as well as a fighter. But even in the midst of this, Morgan knew more was to come, more darkness in their world and something she was not prepared for…pregnant with their son.

"Are you feeling better, Morgan?" Salina asked as she saw Morgan come back to the Eslainian Garden from vomiting her breakfast that morning.

Morgan looked at her with a flash of anger in her green eyes. Her face was paler than usual and she sat down on the bench from weakness.

"I hate him," Morgan said, looking towards Shanbar and Seth talking next to a Great Oak in the center of the Garden. She concentrated on Shanbar, bearing her eyes into him. He turned to her as he felt the rush of cold run through him. He smiled at her and continued to talk with Seth. Morgan continued her stare and the coldness ran deeper through Shanbar’s body. Salina watched her father say something to Seth and told her in her mind to come watch the boy, Salina obeyed and started walking towards her father.

"She is not in a good mood this morn," Salina said as they past each other.

"Why should this morn be any different?" he said, not hiding his annoyance at that moment. He didn’t look at Salina as he continued to move towards his love.

"Do not attempt to make me feel better," Morgan greeted him with as Shanbar stood over her, looking down annoyed.

"I was not even thinking about it, Morgan," Shanbar said, never faltering on his stare. Morgan looked away and stood up. Shanbar grabbed her arm and turned her back to him. She ignored him, looking away. He grabbed her chin with his other hand and made her look in his eyes. "I will tell you what I was thinking of, my dear and I do not think you would find it inviting," Shanbar said. Morgan tried to squirm out of his hold and attempted to use Pynwellian to continue the coldness on him. She broke from his hold on her chin, he tightened his hold on her arm and turned her back to face him again. "I am not finished speaking with you," Shanbar said, his voice was firm and thoroughly annoyed the woman standing in front of him.

"I am not your servant," Morgan said. "Do not command me what to do." She held his stare with a defiant look that excited Shanbar and made him angry. He shook his head at her. She had to understand, Shanbar thought. It would be too easy when the child was born, for someone to divide them, if they didn’t stand together now. He had tried to unite them through love, he gave her all she desired for years, he had pursued her, wanted her more than life and she fought against the connection. She fought against fate until he decided he wouldn’t give her a choice anymore. He had won and Morgan wasn’t going anywhere. He knew it and she knew it, but Shanbar also knew Morgan would put up a front as much as she could. That could no longer be allowed, Shanbar thought, they had to be truly united in this…for their own survival, for what would come of Sheman and the Changeling and for their son now. Shanbar had never been so determined before and that determination was what Morgan fought against day and night and Shanbar knew it had to come to an end. She had done it before in the Eslain Banquet hall, let him take control and they had reached their objectives just as he had promised her they would. He just needed to convince her again concerning the child.

"I will and I shall until you can show me you are capable of having reason in that pretty head of yours," Shanbar said, causing Morgan to raise her hand towards him. He grabbed it and pulled her closer to him. "Do not defy me. You will lose this battle," he said looking at her with a dark look. A look that bore into Morgan’s soul. She turned away. He gently turned her face back to meet his eyes. "I know this is difficult for you and I told you I will be with you, but I cannot help you if you continue to fight against me. No more magic." Morgan slowly looked down and Shanbar let her go. She sat back down on the bench and held her stomach weakly. He sat down next to her and touched her hand over her stomach, easing the uncomfortable pain she was feeling. She closed her eyes and regained a sense of calmness within her soul.

"Is that better?" Shanbar asked, softly. She didn’t answer, but leaned her head on his shoulder and let him wrap his arm around her. "I promise you, my love, I shall protect you from this as from everything, but I cannot use my energy to fight you also."

Morgan moved slightly looking up at him, he leaned down and kissed her. She pulled him closer building the passion within them. She moved her hand onto his chest, caressing him. Slowly she moved her kisses to his neck and softly kissed his ear.

"I still hate you," she whispered seductively in his ear. Shanbar smiled and slid his arm around her waist. He moved his own lips to her ear, softly kissing it.

"No, my love, you do not." Shanbar whispering, causing Morgan to feel sensations run through her. She moved her lips down his neck, Shanbar slightly looked over to Seth and Salina a brief distance away. They were playing some sort of game, Salina had learned in Theoria he figured. He moved Morgan’s head to face him again and kissed her deeply. Morgan felt him transport them back to the fortress. She smiled as he continued to give her pleasure. As her passion built into an intense level, Shanbar ceased his caresses and kisses and smiled, getting off the bed.

"What is wrong?" Morgan asked, looking up at him concerned.

"Nothing, my love," He said, kissing her on the forehead, sweetly and walking away from the bed, finding his shirt she had taken off him.

"What are you doing?" She said, sitting up now on the bed.

"Leaving you, my dear. I have to return to Eslain," he said, simply. Morgan moved off the bed in complete anger, Shanbar threw his hand and she was gently pushed back on the bed, causing her to fight him again. Shanbar shook his head. "Stay there, I will be returning shortly," he walked over to her. "And this is where I want you to be." He reached down and pulled her in by her neck, kissing her deeply and sending sensations through her that caused Morgan to forget about anything but his touch. He left in the middle of the kiss. Morgan lay back on the bed and smiled.

Shanbar appeared back in the mortal world of the Eslain Kingdom, approaching Seth and Salina.

"Where were you?" Salina said looking at him with angry eyes. "You know you could let me know if you were leaving?" She held Seth’s hand and looked up at her father.

"Salina, I have had a very interesting day so far and I suggest that you hold your tongue, before it becomes much more interesting. Do you understand, my daughter?" He said, smiling as he made clear to Salina not to annoy her father anymore. She turned away from him.

"I am sorry," she said, softly. Shanbar leaned over her shoulder.

"Much better, thank you." He said, causing her to push down the anger she still felt. Why was she always yelled at, she said in her mind.

"Because you always speak when you should not," Shanbar answered her and looked down at Seth for a moment, then back to Salina as she turned to face him. "It is a trait I have gotten used to," he said. "If you would be so kind now to take Seth back to the castle so he can eat."

"What are you doing?" Salina asked quickly as he turned away.

"I am ruling this Kingdom or did you all forget!" Shanbar said raising his voice in anger at her. Salina looked away in anger and took Seth with her as she walked back to the castle. A knight came running across the garden, looking around and running up to Shanbar.

"My lord, the Arlenton forces have pushed into Devon," he said. Shanbar looked at him, he was his Master of the Knights for the past month. His name was Ethan and he infuriated Shanbar at that moment. Shanbar raised his hand slightly, Ethan crumpled at his feet, dead. "Why must these mortals fail at everything they do?" He said looking at Ethan. Another knight entered the garden and came up to Shanbar, looking cautionly at Ethan’s dead body.

"My lord," he said, getting down on his knees and bowing his head. "Shall we send go to Devon?"

Shanbar started to walk away, "yes, Jacob…" he paused with his back to Jacob. Jacob stand up to face him, "and you are the new Master of the Knights." He said, walking away from Jacob. Jacob smiled and run away towards the knights’ barracks. Shanbar looked back at Ethan’s body lying on the ground. "Well, we shall try again. I am certain he will do no better, but watching them attempt to do the job is so much more amusing." He smiled and transported himself to the Courtyard waiting for the knights to receive his commands.

Morgan now was in head, begging him to come back and making a good argument as she sent him erotic thoughts, but Shanbar wasn’t listening.

"Do not push me, Morgan. Now, be still and wait," he answered her in mind.

"I do not wish to wait," she answered back, seductively.

"The longer you protest, the longer it takes me to finish my job and return. Now, my dear…stop it," He said, firmly in his mind back to her. Morgan sighed, but ceased her protests and sent him one more thought, which made Shanbar smile. "You are good, Morgan," he thought to himself, not allowing her to hear it.

The knights filed into the courtyard led by Jacob. Shanbar turned his attention back to the group.

"We await your commands, my lord," Jacob said as they bowed on their knees to Shanbar. He often thought he would like being worshiped and bowed to as Aragon once had been, but the idea of these mindless mortals doing so, did not impress him. Most of them never returned from battle because of their own stupidity and secretly he wondered if anyone of them had any real courage in them. Just the same, he did have to lead them and as mindless as the task was, he had to give them something to get some of them alive, if only they would actually take his strategy into battle it would work, but no, Shanbar, thought to himself. These fools would rather try to be heroes and get killed by the Arlenton knights instead of remembering his commands.

It was terrible to be a king in this world, no control, Shanbar said in himself. No control and everything is in chaos, he should know. He has seen it before and he would not make the mistake Aragon did. And Morgan would not betray him, because he wouldn’t dare turn his back on her. She was beautiful, even loving and sweet at times. He knew she loved him and he knew she would help him in his plans, but her needs had to be considered at times and ignored at others. Just the right balance and she would never feel a need to leave, he reasoned with himself. Just the proper balance in everything, he said silently.

"Devon is one of Eslain’s greatest Provinces. Populated with many of your families’ and many more who fought each day for this kingdom. We must protect them and not let the Arlentons take away what is ours," Shanbar said the words with passion, causing the knights to give a big yell in agreement, but he didn’t feel anything for Devon or the Eslainian people who lived there.

"Jacob will led you into battle and you will…" Shanbar looked at Jacob, intently as if willing him to do as he said and come back in victory for once, "you will guard the perimeter and wait." he paused as the word, wait, sunk into their thick, overzealous minds. "Wait for the Arlentons to approach the center of Devon. This will allow you to be in the position of surprising them and therefore push them out of the province in their confusion." Shanbar jumped down on the bench he had been standing on and moved towards the knights. They were still on their knees, looking up at him. He grabbed Jacob and pulled him to a standing position. "Do not lose your common sense and try to attack them as you enter Devon, wait at the perimeter. I assure you the Arlentons will try to approach the center of the province. And do not," he said, still holding Jacob but looking out to the group, "hesitate to kill them. Do not bring any prisoners back with you. Or traitors. Or knights to question. Or any Arlenton. If they are wearing the Arlenton colors, kill them." Shanbar let go of Jacob and moved away from the group.

"My lord…" Jacob started. Shanbar turned back and hit him slightly with magic, causing him to fall back.

"Let me set one thing forth right now," Shanbar said, looking over the crowd. "You will not think, you do exactly what I have said…and just maybe, you will survive to fight another battle." Jacob stepped back into the group as he got up. "Good," he said looking over the crowd. "I do believe you shall give me some hope that all mortals are not born with stupidity." Shanbar walked away from the group of knights who stood in fear not moving. After a moment, Shanbar heard a loud yell and the knights take off to their horses and out of the castle.

Shanbar didn’t turn around to watch them leave, he simply teleported out of the courtyard and back to Morgan, who was waiting on the bed in the fortress. She lay with her back to him, her hand resting under his head. He walked to her and gently traced her back with his hand, she started to turn, he leaned down and softly whispered in her ear.

"Do not move," he said and placed a kiss on the back of her neck. "Do not think," he continued placing kisses down her back as she moaned in pleasure. "I want complete control, give yourself over to me. Surrender your mind and your will…" the seducation continued as Morgan slowly lost her will and did not think twice about doing as he said. Her reward was an incredible night of lovemaking. Shanbar took her in every way imaginable and nothing entered her mind except his touches and the pleasure that ran through every part of her body.

"Shanbar," she said, softly as they lay in each other’s arms after the lovemaking.

He kissed her gently and wrapped his arm tighter around her.

"Shhh, my love…" he said, softly. She looked at him for a moment as he closed his eyes. Morgan felt Shanbar fall into a peaceful and calm state of mind as he drifted off to sleep. She smiled and curled up next to him, closing her own eyes and letting sleep overtake her.

Salina watched Morgan closely as she sat down on the soft couch in the newest room of the fortress. A room her father had created for Morgan, a sitting room of sorts, a place to be alone in her own thoughts, a place for solace and Morgan adored it. Salina could still remember a few months ago when Shanbar created it and shown it to his love. Morgan showed her appreciation that even Salina hadn’t expected. Salina was used to the way Morgan and her father showed affection and appreciation to one other and when Morgan reached out and gently touched his face, smiling at him and kissing him sweetly, Salina expected that kiss to lead to so many more they often engage in. However Morgan ended the affection there speaking all the words she never dared speak in silence and one small gesture, Salina was touched by her softness, her sweetness toward a man Salina never would believe deserved a moment of it.

Morgan’s sigh brought Salina’s mind back to the present and to Morgan’s condition. Now that Morgan had been showing signs of her pregnancy, Salina thought this would surely send her into hate for her father. But even Salina had to admit she was surprised at how much Morgan did not complain, at least not when she was there. Instead Morgan had transformed into a woman Salina was not certain she knew anymore or understand. Last night at the Eslainian Banquet hall, Salina had watched in awe as Morgan waited on Shanbar as a servant would, providing him with everything he desired before he even asked for it. These actions caused many of the knights to take notice as well and decided that their beautiful Queen could be tamed and that it was Shanbar who accomplished that task. So following the feasting when Shanbar stood and spoke about the upcoming battle in the Arlen Province of Denningburg and his strategies to be carried out, Salina had never seen the knights listen so intently, agreeing with his every word.

It never crossed Salina’s young mind that Morgan was simply carrying out her own duties as Shanbar’s Queen and helping him in his own duties in turn. Of course, Shanbar was baffled by the display as well during the night and this led him to wonder what she had done and was trying to avoid responsibility for. But as the night ensued, Shanbar decided he was just enjoy it and deal with the problem later…and he was certain Morgan was hiding something.

"Salina, are you all right?" Morgan said, softly, still sitting on the couch and slightly holding her stomach. Salina looked over at her quickly, her eyes held confusion as her mind was still thinking about the banquet. She smiled quickly and sat down next to Morgan.

"Yes." She paused for a moment and looked at Morgan. "I have a question, Morgan."

"You are full of those, are you not?" Morgan said and smiled genuinely at her. "I am not angry about that, Salina. Asking questions is he only way to find answers." Her voice was soft and calming and Salina was growing accustomed to it over the years. Secretly, Salina loved these moments alone with Morgan, she had only a few friends ever, Alexandria and Susana, but they have since died and she knew she had closed off her heart to friendship. Her own protection against the sadness which followed in death. Salina had thought it was best, but sitting and speaking with Morgan had changed her thoughts on the matter. Morgan was wondrous to Salina’s youthful mind and ideas. She was independent in thought and completely dependent upon the man in her life, as Alexandria had been. She loved, she hated, she stood strong in her beliefs, as Susana had been. But Morgan held a softness in her eyes and a smile that filled the room when she was touched or moved by something, those qualities were not like anyone Salina had ever met. Salina smiled at her for a moment before continuing to ask her question.

"Do you believe that women should serve men?" Salina asked, her eyes widening with the question. Morgan looked away for a moment and turned back laughing slightly.

"You are so young, sometimes, Salina." She said, causing Salina to look away feeling foolish now. Morgan reached out and touched her hand, Salina turned back to her. "I did not say I despise that quality about you. In truth, I admire it. I wish sometimes I could possess the youthfulness of your eyes, the innocence of your heart and the ideals of your mind. It has been a long time." She paused for a moment. "To answer your question, Salina, no, I do not believe that women should serve men."

Salina turned slightly towards her. "Then why serve my father?"

Morgan laughed again, this time a little louder. She stood up. "I could tell you a lot of reasons, Salina. First, it is the women’s duty in this world, because men expect it of us," she turned back to her. "But they would be lies. When I do serve your father, as you say, it is for only one reason." She faced her completely now. "He enjoys it," she said, smiling to herself. "And I like to please him." Salina took a moment before standing and walked to Morgan. "That is why women serve men. We know we should not, we know we are capable of much more than we are given in this life. We are independent, have our own thoughts, our own minds, and our own desires and dreams. We are also loving, caring and sensitive. We are mothers, daughters and sisters to men. But we have understanding as well. We understand what they need and too often, our own minds

and hearts deceive us. Our needs become their needs and we become content with giving them what they desire and in turn it fulfills ours."

Morgan took Salina’s hand and walked her out of the room and towards the main room of the fortress where the well stood. "Women are difficult and confusing creatures, Salina, believe me. I have seen more women fall to men then the other way around." Salina smiled at her, she was correct. Did she not fall to Lewethayne’s decisions? Was she constantly trying to make him happy, even at the cost of her own feelings and thoughts?

"Of course," Morgan continued, "it does not mean that we should always give in to men’s desires…" she walked closer to the well and looked upon it. "Sometimes they need to be reminded we are independent and have thought." Morgan smiled at Salina. "I have an idea."

Salina looked at her a little frightened about her meaning, but completely intrigued by the thought. "What is it?"

"Bring me to the mortal world and I will show you, exactly how women fall to the hands of men," Morgan said. "Think of it as an experiment on mortals."

Salina looked down for a moment, "we are not going to hurt anyone, are we?" She asked, concerned.

"Of course not," Morgan smiled. "It is just a game, that is all." Salina looked at her and thought for a moment. She smiled quickly back at Morgan. Why not? She said to herself. If no one was to be hurt…where would the danger be in a little game?

If Shanbar had believed Salina would put Morgan in danger by defying his own commands to keep within the fortress, he might have seen them leave. If Shanbar had not been caught up in the Lord’s meeting in Devon, he might have heard Morgan laugh in his mind. If Shanbar had thought his daughter would willingly help Morgan to be herself in danger in her condition, he might have heard the thought of excitement from Salina. But Shanbar was consumed with five Lords who were leading him into wicked thoughts of his own, thoughts which involved killing all of them and ceasing the useless fighting and bickering which endlessly continued on in Lord Gregory’s banquet hall. Unfortunately, the two women walking in Eslain were heading into much more than just a simple game to learn a truth about not women needing to serve men in this life, but rather the reasons men offered protection to women…

"What happened to you?" Morgan said, concerned to the woman in front of her, crying and obviously beaten badly by her lord. She was young, no more than just a girl of fifteeen. Her dress was ripped and she had no shoes on her feet which were now very cold from the newly fallen snow on the ground.

"I cannot say, my lady. I must go!" She said, quickly trying to pass Morgan and Salina on the road. Salina stopped her gently holding her arm.

"We can help you," Salina said. "I promise you who ever did this to you, we shall find and he shall be severly punished by the King."

The girl looked at her confused now, "I apologize my lady, but I assure you he will not. The King’s laws do not protect wives. I am his property and he may do what ever he wishes to me. It would be mercy to be killed then to live."

"Tell me, girl, who is your husband?" Morgan asked, softly, touching the girl’s hand.

The girl looked at her for the first time and in a moment, she was on her knees. "Oh my lady, I am sorry I did not recognize you…please forgive me." She started crying again.

Morgan reached down and pulled her up gently.

"Do not bow to me," Morgan said, sincerely causing Salina to be more than intrigued.

"You are the King’s…" she trailed off, unable to term what Morgan was to Shanbar. She only had seen them together in her village once. She remembered how Morgan saved a girl from being taken from her home by a greedy lord who wanted to marry her. She always thought of Morgan as their Queen, but not in title and it would be insulting to call her anything else and yet she did not know what to refer to her as.

"My name is Morgan and this is Salina," Morgan said, softly lifting the girl’s head up to meet her eyes. "What is your name?"

"Rowan…Lady Rowan of Essex."

"I like your name, Rowan, very beautiful," Morgan said, taking her hand and walking her to a tree stump on the side of the road. She motioned for her to sit down. "Salina, we will need some bindings for her wounds," Morgan said, staying focused on Rowan.

"You are too kind," Rowan said to Morgan and then looked quickly to Salina who was all ready at her side tending to her wounds. "Both of you."

"Is he following you?" Salina asked, carefully.

Rowan’s smile disappeared and was replaced by a darkness in her eyes. "My lord will always come after me. He will not be a fool of by his wife, he has said on more occasions than I can count," Rowan said, sadly.

"How long have you been married?" Salina asked, finishing the mending on Rowan’s wounds.

"A little over a year this past summer."

"Is this the first time you have run away?"

"Yes."

"Is this the first time he has done this to you?"

"No. My lord hit me on our wedding night. He was angry because I did not know how to serve him properly in his bed." She looked down, not daring to look in their eyes. Mostly in fear of seeing pity or worst shame at her ignorance towards men.

Morgan watched this exchange between Rowan and Salina and knew Salina would never survive life on her own. The compassion for this girl was overwhelming Morgan. She stopped counting the times she had played this game on unsuspecting lords to gain shelter or food when she was younger than Rowan.

"You are good, Rowan," Morgan said, causing Salina to look up quickly at Morgan’s tone. "You have convinced Salina and I am certain many men in your travels." Morgan walked a step away and turned back to her. "Unfortunately, I have played your game before and you have to be careful when you inflict your own wounds that you do more than just a cut on your face and a rip in your dress. Especially considering the cut on your face could only be self-afflicted. The wound is not deep enough to be done by an angry lord with a knife and you used a dull blade when you did it. Lords who beat you will often leave marks in places others cannot see. That is the way they can continue to beat you and no one will look twice as you pass."

Rowan stood up now looking confused with innocence in her eyes that truly impresses the Great Lady.

"I assure you, Morgan, I speak the truth," Rowan protested. "My lord…"

"What did he truly do, Rowan? If you are even married, that is." Morgan said, looking at her with doubtful eyes now.

Rowan sighed and sat down, defeated that her plan had been discovered.

"I will be married in less than a fortnight if I did not leave my home," she started. Salina turned her attention back to Rowan, shocked at this girl and surprised at herself for not seeing through her lies. "He is a old Lord who wants a child, but I cannot marry him. I am in love with other."

"A peasant no doubt," Morgan said, standing a few feet away from Salina and Rowan. Her voice sounded disgusted. "Tell me, Rowan, what can the Lord offer you?"

"What do you mean?" Rowan said looking towards her.

"A manor, money, a good name in the court, what?"

"Well, all of that, but I do not love him. I love Caleb. He is a fisherman," she said, smiling towards Salina, feeling compassion from her. "We are to meet in Cornwall and be married before my father can marry me to Lord Robert."

"So he is waiting for you there," Salina said, her voice dream-like. Morgan turned toward Salina, shaking her head at her.

"And what will you do if Caleb is not waiting for you in Cornwall?" Morgan asked. Rowan looked at her sharply and with defiance.

"He will be. He has promised me when he left me in Essex to find a better life, a home for us…." She looked down, briefly, but Morgan caught the thought escape her mind and from the look of Salina’s face, she had heard it as well.

"So you are with child and that is why you are running from your father? He is the one chasing you, is he not?" Morgan said, looking at her sternly now.

"Yes." She stood up quickly and went down on her knees in front of Morgan. "Please good lady, please protect me. I promise you I will not disappoint you. I can work in the castle. I can do many things." Rowan said, urging Morgan to believe her.

"What of Caleb, Rowan? I thought he was waiting in Cornwall for you?" Morgan said looking down at her. Salina stood next to Morgan now, completely confused at this young woman in front of them.

She broke into tears and pulled on Morgan’s dress. "Please, my lady, I beg of you. You are kind and compassionate, I have seen your goodness. In my village, I saw you save a girl from marrying one of the Lords who was to take her to his manor and away from her family." Salina looked over at Morgan, questioning her silently on the incident.

"Yes, well, Kathleen was different." Morgan said, looking down at Rowan for a moment.

"You are merciful, I know you are, great lady, please help me and I promise you I shall do whatever you ask of me," Rowan begged for help as she kept her head down in reverence to Morgan.

"Get on your feet, girl." Morgan said, quickly, pulling her up. "First of all, if you are going to do any good for the little one you carry. Stop asking for help from others and start depending upon yourself." Morgan’s voice took a harshness Salina had not heard other than when she spoke to Shanbar. "You can do no good to a child if you teach them to be dependent upon others for their life and your pathetic display here has shown me that you still have much to learn about being a woman. Now, tell me the truth about all of this or I will bring you to the King myself and then he shall send you back to your father and your impending marriage, I assure you."

"Why are you lying to us?" Salina asked. Rowan did not look at her, she stayed focused on Morgan and answered her.

"I am sorry, my lady that I lied to you." She took a breath and continued, "my father believes it is the only way I can live in royalty. So when Lord Robert took a fancy to me, he wanted me to marry him, to throw myself at his mercy. I am just a poor peasant and we have no money, Lord Robert assured my father that my entire family would be taken care of, including my unborn child. He cannot have heirs of his own, so he knew I could give him that. Even if the child was not his. Lord Robert did not seem to care about that and he sent Caleb away to Cornwall as a squire to a knight named Sir Gregory. But I do love Caleb and I know he loves me so I ran away and I am going to find him in Cornwall and we will be together."

"Is that the entire truth, Rowan?" Morgan asked, looking at her with a sideways glance.

"Yes, Lady Morgan, tis the entire truth." Rowan answered, bowing her head.

"Very well. You can call me Morgan, I do not believe in titles of the court." Morgan said, simply. Salina looked over at her for a moment. She has been known as the Queen of Aragonia, The Great Lady and many more titles throughout the past two hundred years, why should that matter to her? But Salina was beginning to realize that Morgan was a very different person and everyday she learned something new about her father’s love. "If you are truly looking to be reunited with Caleb in Cornwall, then Cornwall is where we shall travel."

"What of my father? He is after me with many from the village and Lord Robert’s men as we speak." Rowan looked nervously behind her. Morgan smiled at Rowan and turned to Salina.

"Salina, you go ahead to Cornwall and I will take care of Lord Robert and Rowan’s father."

"What are you going to do?" Salina asked, concerned now that this plan wasn’t such a good idea and leaving Morgan with these men unprotected would most certainly upset Shanbar.

"Just a little persuasion, that is all." Morgan smiled, sweetly to Salina and touched her hand. "No magic," she said, softly. Salina nodded.

"I feel I should stay with you. Or rather you take Rowan onwards and I will speak with the men," Salina added. It would be better that she be caught in the middle of a fight than Morgan, carrying a child. Surely the men would think of her as a mere woman and do what they want to Morgan and Salina did not want her hurt. She may not always agree with her and she may hate her father, but that was no reason to get Morgan or the baby killed in a useless fight.

"Salina, I will be fine, I assure you. I shall meet you in a few moments. Just go towards Cornwall." Morgan walked back the way Rowan had come, leaving Salina still questioning her. She waved once and disappeared from view around a bend in the road.

"Will my lady be all right, Salina?" Rowan asked, concerned.

Salina shook her head and took Rowan’s hand leading them down the road towards Cornwall. "If anyone can handle overconfident, strong-willed, stubborn men…it would be Morgan," she answered, leaving Rowan questioning this woman’s relationship to the King’s mistress. It was a brave and harsh tongue, Rowan thought, that would speak as such about Lady Morgan. Salina patted Rowan’s hand, "come we have a long walk ahead of us."

Morgan had not walked a few minutes when she heard horses approaching. She smiled and stood in the center of the road, waving to them as the group came into view.

The lead rider stopped his horse in front of her and signaled for the knights and men behind him to halt. He dismounted and approached Morgan. The man, obviously Lord Robert, Morgan thought. He was dressed in full Lord’s attire, displaying the amount of riches he owned and most likely made from the backs of his own peasants. The amount of jewels he wore disgusted Morgan. She never really had a taste for vulgar displays of finery. To her, simple attire was better suited for any man. If Aragon never needed this display of power, she always believed, no other man ever would. After all Aragon was the Ruler of the known world and this man was just a little man with little riches and a small manor somewhere in Eslain. Not even Shanbar would display such finery, thank Goth for that. She said in her mind as she smiled at the Lord who stood taller than her and looked down upon her.

"Why do you look into my eyes, woman?" Lord Robert bellowed, his voice husky. He was an older man, somewhere in his forties. He had been a knight that was apparent from his roughness and lack of refinement. Then again, Morgan thought, Eslainian men had lost any concept of refinement for many generations. Tis a shame, she thought to herself, Elsevier, the first Eslainian she had ever known, had much more refinement in his tongue and mannerisms than all the Arlentons put together. But that was a long time ago and unfortunately as Morgan looked at the man in front of her, she knew Eslain would never see that again. Tis a shame, she said again to herself. "I have asked you a question, woman and you will answer me." Robert raised his hand and Morgan turned her head cowering from the blow she was about to receive. Robert could not see the smile on Morgan’s face and Robert’s hand dropped and he felt a terrible pain deep in his chest. He feel to the ground in pain. After a moment, the pain stopped and Robert, completely perplexed stood up again to find Morgan looking back at him with wide confused eyes.

"Are you all right, my lord?" She said, innocently, helping him to stand. He brushed her off quickly and looked back at his men. They were confused as well. Not knowing what to think of their lord who had dropped suddenly to the ground for no apparent reason.

"Are you a witch?" Robert said, sternly. "We burn witches in Eslain. We do not believe in magicks." Morgan held back a laugh, pity, she said in her mind.

"I am not, I assure you, my lord. I am here to give you a message from Rowan." Lord Robert grabbed her arm tightly, Morgan put her head down in pain and fought an urge to kill him.

"Rowan. Where is she? That wench will pay when I find her."

"She has taken the help of a sorceress, they travel to Cornwall as we speak." Morgan said, innocently.

"A sorceress? Who?" Robert looked at her sternly, not letting go of her arm. "What is your name, woman and how have you come by this information? Are you helping the sorceress?"

"My name, my lord?" Morgan questioned with an innocence that would have impressed anyone who knew who Robert was speaking with.

"Yes, woman, your name. I presume you have one. You look familiar. Do I know you? Well, speak woman."

"My name is Morgan. I reside in the Eslain Castle with the King." Morgan said, simply, causing Robert to release the grip on her arm. "Perhaps you remember me when you visited the King a fortnight ago in search of more knights for your province of Essex. I recall you were quite angry about the King’s lack of concern with your plight." Morgan smiled and walked to the side of Robert, talking softly to him. "I also recall you setting forth a plot to kill the King and a find a new successor."

"I said no such thing, my lady." Robert said, his voice softer now. Morgan could hear the fear building in it. "You must be mistaken."

"Perhaps you were simply angry, Lord Robert. I am certain you would not want to harm the King who sent you those knights less than a day later."

"No, my lady. I would not."

"Now about this Rowan." Morgan started quickly. "She is heading towards Cornwall and the sorceress we help her find safe passage across the sea. That is the fastest route."

"The sea? It is controlled by Arlen ships from Galahad." Robert said, refocusing his thoughts on Rowan. "She will be taken or killed."

"Well, that would save you the trouble of punishment for her betrayal of you, would it not?" Morgan said, looking at Robert with devious eyes. Robert smiled.

"You are very clever, my lady."

"Why thank you, my lord." She smiled and bowed her head slightly. "Now, may I suggest," she took Robert’s arm and lead him away from the men, "that you inform the King of this sorceress and leave the punishment of her in his hands. He will be grateful to you, I assure you. He knew of her in Eslain, but was unaware of where she hid."

"Will the Arlen forces not finish her as well?" Robert asked.

"She is a sorceress, my lord. I am certain she had clever ways of handling Arlen forces." Morgan whispered in his ear. "I would tell the king quickly before someone else receives the glory of the deed."

"Yes, my lady," Robert said, bowing and smiling to her. "Our King is wise to have such a devoted woman at his side, if I may say such, my lady."

"I thank you, however I must ask a favor of you before you depart."

"Anything, my lady."

"I shall need your silent tongue upon where you received this information. My life would be in danger from the sorceress if she knew." Robert nodded and strike his chest in knightly honor towards Morgan.

"It shall be my secret to my grave, my lady. I am honored that you would trust me alone with such information."

"Thank you, my lord. I shall remember you." Morgan smiled. Robert returned the smile and kissed her hand.

"You are truly beautiful, my lady. The King is very fortunate to have you." Morgan smiled again. Robert started to turn and stopped, turning back to Morgan.

"My lord?" Morgan asked, looking at him.

"Will Eslain have a new Queen, my lady?" Robert said, looking towards Morgan’s stomach and back to her face.

"That is the King’s decision, my lord, is it not?" Morgan said, innocently.

"Eslain would be fortunate to have one of such beauty and intelligence as a Queen and perhaps, mother to the next King." Robert bowed again and remounted his horse, bowing his head slightly as he passed her on the road. The garrison of knights followed, looking at her, Morgan turned away and continued walking towards Essex and away from the knights, Salina and Rowan. She was free from the fortress and Shanbar’s eyes at the moment, she would make the best of it. She smiled as she walked down the road to the center of Essex. She pulled the pin that held her hair up and let it cascade around her shoulders, slightly shaking her head as it fell. Free, she said to herself and picked up some snow by the side of the road, letting it fall through her fingers as she continued.

"I have had enough!" Shanbar bellowed through Lord Gregory’s banquet hall. All of the Lords stopped through bickering and looked at him quickly. He had been silent through most of the meeting and this sudden outburst caused them to fear him suddenly. Shanbar stood up and walked to the door.

"My King…" Lord Gregory started, but stopped when Shanbar turned back to him with a look that sent fear through his heart. Shanbar looked past Gregory to the other men seated at the table.

"You cannot solve this issues because you are fools who fight over unnecessary things. Your lands and boundaries will mean nothing if Arlen takes them, now you will do as I command and combine your efforts and knights to build a wall of defense along the borders of Eslain. Larianian fleets will be here soon to take back your seas. You must be ready with your knights on the shores." Shanbar shook his head. "And if any of you are fortunate enough to survive this battle, perhaps you will remain a lord. If Eslain loses just one province in this battle, I will strip all of you of your title and your name, that is if I leave any of you alive!" Shanbar stormed out of the hall, leaving the lords speechless, but after a few more moments, they were working on an Eslainian defense together.

"It is no great mystery how Eslain has lost all these years," Shanbar muttered as he passed a serving girl. The girl kept her head down and bowed to him as he past her. Shanbar stopped a few feet away from her and looked back.

"Come here, girl." The girl got up and ran towards him quickly, bowing again in front of him.

"Yes, my King." She said, softly.

"Are you not from the village of Essex?" He said, reaching down and pulling her up to look at him. She nodded. "Why are you here?"

"My lord has made me a servant to him and we shall be married in a fortnight."

"Morgan set you free from that bond," he said, more to himself than to her, but she instantly nodded.

"Yes, my King. My lady came to my village with you, my king. She told Lord Gregory he could not have me as his bride, but the Lord sent a garrison of knights to take me to the manor and my lord…" she trailed off, but Shanbar knew what she was about to speak of.

"Do you carry his child now?" Shanbar asked. She nodded.

He sighed and shook his head, Morgan would not be pleased, he thought. "All right, girl…Kathleen, that is your name, correct?"

"Yes, my King," she said amazed at his memory of her name.

"Come, Kathleen, you shall work in the castle until the child is born. I shall need your services and I am certain Morgan will wish to speak with you. Now, go and wait outside for me. I have a matter to discuss with Gregory." Shanbar walked back to the banquet hall as Kathleen smiling, did as she was told, running to the manor entrance.

"Gregory!" Shanbar yelled as he walked into the room, which become silent.

"Yes, my king." Shanbar took the sword off the far wall as he passed it and walked toward Gregory. Without another word, he ran Gregory through easily and let him drop to the floor with the sword still in him.

"I will commission a new lord for this province. In the meantime, do as I command or you will fall to the same fate." Shanbar said and left the room again. This time, the lords did not speak at all, but to depart and prepare their knights for the battle, leaving Gregory’s lifeless body lying on the floor.

After Shanbar spoke to one of the Lord’s advisors and commanded him to carry on with the plan of the Arlen attack, he took Kathleen with him and decided to ride back in the Lord’s coach instead of teleporting. He needed some time to think.

"My King, is there anything I can do for you?" Kathleen asked as they headed towards the center of Essex and back to the Castle. Shanbar looked over at her for a moment. The look of her face told him exactly what she was offering.

"No, Kathleen. There is nothing you can offer me," he said, annoyed.

"I am sorry, I did not mean to offend you, my King." She said, softer and stared out the window. Shanbar looked over at her again, but the idea of even touching her applauded him. She was pretty enough, but her eyes didn’t hold the excitement of certain green ones he was accustomed to. Her body did not send him into waves of passion and desire. Her hair did not fall down her back and around her shoulders and it did not hold the color of fire as the woman who was in his mind and heart. Morgan, he said softly in his mind. Morgan, my love…he said again, but felt nothing return to him. Shanbar put his head back and closed his eyes as the coach continued. He thought of her eyes, her hair, her body and slowly drifted into a restful sleep dreaming of Morgan.

"My King," he heard softly next to him. "My king," a little louder the voice came into his head. He opened his eyes and looked annoyed at Kathleen who was looking up at him. "My king, I am sorry."

"You should be," Shanbar said, trying to hold onto the last moment of his dream. He ignored her and closed his eyes again.

"My king, there is a problem in the village." Kathleen said, causing him to open his eyes completely and look at her.

"What problem?" He said as she pointed out of the coach’s window to a small village square and people all around a man who was obviously dead lying on the ground.

"She has used magicks and she shall be killed for this death," a man yelled. Shanbar got out of the coach and looked around at the villagers pulling a young girl out from the crowd. Standing to the girl’s side was a woman with hair of fire and…

"Morgan!" Shanbar said, passing Kathleen quickly, who was stepping out of the coach. He walked up to Morgan, who sighed heavily, annoyed that he had found her. The villagers stopped what they were doing and bowed to him as he passed. They watched as he pulled the woman out of the crowd and towards the coach.

"My king," Morgan said seductively. "Imagine finding you here."

"Yes, imagine, Morgan." Shanbar answered back, anger in his voice.

"Kathleen," she exclaimed as they passed Kathleen standing at the coach. She broke from Shanbar’s grip and hugged the unsuspecting girl. "How have you been?" Shanbar took her away from Kathleen and to the other side of the coach, away from the crowd. The crowd went back to their conversations about killing the poor girl who was terrified.

"Do not," Shanbar said, pointing a finger at her. She reached out and tried to bite it, he pulled it away and looked at her, shaking his head. "You are determined to make me lose my mind, are you not?" Morgan took a breath, but he edged closer to her. "Did I say you could speak?" He stood inches from her as Morgan shook her head no, smiling at him. "Then do not even think…" Shanbar’s words were met with a passionate kiss as Morgan released herself from his grip and placed her arms around his neck, pulling herself in as close as she could, careful not to push hard against her stomach. She continued the kiss which he responded to, hungrily and placed a hand behind her neck. Morgan continued to cover him in kisses down his neck moving to his chest, untying the tunic as she went. She heard him take an intake of breath and felt his hand come down on hers.

"That is enough…for now." He said, sternly, but she could feel him against her. Her free hand which had been on his back slowly came forward moving downward….he caught it before it had reached its destination, she continued kissing his chest and moaned lightly. He closed his eyes and almost let her hand go, but instead a loud cry from the village stopped him. He took the hand he held and pulled her with him back to the other side of the coach. He stopped by Kathleen.

"Stay, Morgan." He said, sternly.

"Of course, my king," She answered back with excitement in her eyes. Shanbar resisted the urge to kiss her lips that invited him. He turned to Kathleen.

"She is not allowed to leave."

"Why would I want to leave, my king?" She said, innocently. Shanbar looked at her for a moment and decided instead to take his chances with the mob in the square than Morgan.

"What is happening here?" He said, loudly, causing everyone to look at him. A man who had been tying the girl to a tree, came forward. He went on his knees.

"My king, this girl has killed this man and has used magicks to do it." Shanbar looked back towards Morgan. She caught his eye and smiled.

"Morgan, did you do this?" He asked her in her mind.

"I could not resist, my dear. He was trying to take me," she said back to him. "I should have waited for you, my king, but I was scared."

Shanbar smiled at her. "I am certain you were, my dear." He said to her and then turned back to the man.

"How did he die from magicks." Shanbar asked and turned towards the man lying on the ground. He walked to him and turned him over, a small dagger was in his back. "Is that the magicks you speak of?" Shanbar took the knife out and walked to the young girl. "Is this your dagger, girl?"

"No, my King. I assure you I did not touch that man! I did nothing!" She yelled at the crowd, Shanbar stood next to her and softly spoke.

"That is good enough. Do not deny too much or they will suspect you again." The girl looked at him confused, but nodded. "Now, girl, do you know who killed this man." She briefly looked at Morgan and then back to Shanbar.

"I did not see anything, my king. But I can assure you that who ever did this had a good reason," she looked at Morgan once more, who smiled at her. Shanbar caught the exchange. He took the dagger and cut the ropes that bound her to the tree, she went on her knees and thanked Shanbar.

"Sweet girl, is she not?" Morgan said in his mind.

"You may go, girl, your deeds here are done." He handed her some gold coins and she ran away, smiling towards Morgan as she went. "It seems your murderer is still here," Shanbar said, looking at the man. "Shall we seek him out?"

"I am certain we shall find him, my king." The man said, bowing to him.

"If you are certain you can handle this on your own?" Shanbar questioned. The man nodded.

"We thank you, my king, for your wise decision." The man said as Shanbar left the villagers and returned to the coach. In a matter of moments, the villagers were carrying the dead body away from the marketplace and most likely no more would be said about it.

Morgan was exchanged in conversation with Kathleen as he approached.

"How awful," Shanbar heard Morgan say realizing they were discussing Kathleen’s unfortunate condition and her almost marriage to Gregory. "The King shall have to do something about Gregory." She said as he passed her.

"It is done, now can we return to the castle?" he said, opening the door of the coach and helping Kathleen inside. As he took Morgan’s hand, he leaned into her. "Unless you have some other wrongs you would like to set right, my lady." She smiled at him.

"Not today, my king." He pulled her hand, gently.

"It is Master to you." He said, looking at her sternly. She smiled.

"Whatever you wish," she leaned in close to him. "Master." Shanbar felt sensations through him as she breathed slightly into his ear.

On their way back to the castle, Kathleen and Morgan discussed the village of Essex and the man who died. Kathleen had known him as well and agreed with Morgan that he was a vile man who deserved to die with a dagger in his back. They went onto discuss Kathleen’s baby and how far along she was.

"And what of you, my lady?" Kathleen said, looking at Morgan’s stomach.

"Four months," Morgan answered. Shanbar had closed his eyes sitting next to Morgan, but he was listening. He reached out and took her hand. She smiled at Kathleen. "Do you like it?" She asked.

"Being with child?" Kathleen questioned, Morgan nodded. "Yes, it is a wondrous experience, is it not, my lady?"

She paused for a moment and saw Shanbar open his eyes and look at her. "Yes, Kathleen tis a wondrous experience." Shanbar smiled and kissed Morgan’s hand.

Kathleen looked sad for a moment. "Of course, my baby shall not have a father."

"Of course, it shall. We shall have to find you a husband that is all. Tis easy enough." Morgan said with determination and Shanbar knew that tone of voice. Morgan had found a new friend, he smiled and kissed her on the forehead as the coach stopped.

Shanbar got of the coach first, speaking to one of the servants before allowing Morgan to step out.

"The king is very fond of you, my lady." Kathleen said, softly to Morgan as they walked to the courtyard.

"Do you think so, Kathleen?" Morgan said, innocently.

"Oh yes, he gives you much affection. Will you marry him?" Kathleen said, excitedly.

"Well, if he wishes to have a queen, he need but only ask me…." She smiled at Kathleen. "And if he does, then I shall help him find a wife." She laughed and Kathleen joined.

"You are very strange, my lady, but very good at jesting." Kathleen laughed again.

"Perhaps then, I shall ask the king if he needs a Court Jester for the eve." Morgan said, smiling at her.

"I think the king would not want you to entertain him in that way," Kathleen said, blushing from her bold statement.

"My goodness, Kathleen, you have spirit in you." Morgan said, taking her hand. "I know some wonderful tarts that the kitchen makes, perhaps we could see if they would make some for us." Morgan walked up to Shanbar. "My king," she said, bowing her head to him. "Kathleen and I would like to have some tarts. Can I get something for you?"

He smiled at her and turned to Kathleen.

"Kathleen, please tell the kitchen, the king and my lady will be in the castle shortly for banquet and tell them to prepare my lady’s special treats."

"Yes, my king." She bowed to Shanbar and went inside the castle to find the kitchen.

"You wish to speak with me, my king." Shanbar took her hand and placed it over his as they walked towards a bench in the courtyard, covered in snow. He brushed off some and sat down, sitting Morgan on his lap.

"Perhaps, you would like to tell me the adventure you had today. Or perhaps, you would like to tell me why you left the fortress. Or perhaps, you could tell me where my daughter might be. Any answers to this questions would be greatly appreciated, my lady."

"Well, let me see. Salina wanted to show me something, but we never got the chance to see it, because she met a friend on the road and decided she would spend the day with her, thus leaving me all alone." Morgan slowly traced circles on Shanbar’s chest as she continued. "Not knowing which way it was to the castle or back to the fortress, since you never let me leave," she smiled quickly at him. "Well, I was lost and ended up in the village of Essex where I met a man,"

"The one who lies dead I presume," Shanbar interjected.

"Yes, actually that would be him. He seemed to get in his head that I was to come home with him, I assured him that I was all ready taken by a powerful man who was quite jealous of other man touching me. But he said that he did not care about who I had bedded or about the child that I carry being another man’s. He said, I was so beautiful that he would take me on as his wife and he would raise the child as his own. Was that not sweet?" Morgan stopped for a moment and looked at him. Her eyes held fire and innocent all at the same time.

"Continue, my love. I am certain it will become more interesting a story yet."

"Well, then when I refused and told this man that I truly cared about the father of my baby. He became angry and he hit me."

"Amazing. No marks, though. Fortunate for you." Shanbar said, playing with her game.

"Yes, very. So after he hit me, I decided he just could not live, what with his temper, he could kill a girl. Suddenly, a girl approached the man and yelled at him. It happened to be his wife."

"The girl being burned at the tree, I assume."

"The exact same one." She smiled at him and moved slightly on his lap, Shanbar lightly caressed her back as she continued. "Well, she told me that he beats her all the time and that it was just like him to try and find another woman to hit, since the night before she had hit back."

"Brave girl," Shanbar added.

"Brave indeed. So we devised a little plan."

"The one that ended in his death?" Shanbar asked, smiling at her. She was adorable and exciting to him. A voice of innocence and the soul of deception. Perfect balance, he thought.

"I took his hand, he fell to the ground and the next thing I know everyone accused the poor wife of killing him. And until, luckily they found that dagger in his back, they believed that she possessed magicks. Can you imagine? Magicks in Eslain?" She smiled and leaned down kissing his neck lightly.

"I cannot, my dear." Shanbar enjoyed a few more moments of her kisses and caresses before gently pulling her head up to face him. "Come, my dear, I have a surprise for you." Morgan stood up quickly, he stood up and held her from behind for a moment, touching her stomach. He paused and Morgan knew he was thinking about the son she held inside her. "You are beautiful, Morgan."

"I am fat, Shanbar." She said, annoyed slightly. He turned her in his arms.

"You are beautiful," he said, sincerely looking deep into eyes. "And your beauty is heightened with each day the child grows in you." He said, causing Morgan to remain speechless. He smiled after a moment, "come do you want your surprise?"

"Yes!" She said, excitedly and her eyes flickered with the thrill of another adventure.

Shanbar took Morgan to one of the chambers in the Castle, one she had grown accustomed to. It was their chamber when they stayed here at all. Most of the time, Shanbar liked to be at the fortress and if truth be told, Morgan liked it there as well. It was home to her now and she had come to regard it as such, but this chamber was nice. One of the better decorated chambers in the castle. Morgan had done some of the decorating herself. If she had to live there once in a while, he would be prettier than just green and brown all over. Shanbar pulled a scarf lying on the bed and placed it around her eyes.

"What are you doing?" She said, laughing slightly.

"Giving you a surprise, now, quiet and take my hand." Morgan took his hand, laughing and he lead her through the chamber. She resisted a bit a little afraid she would bump into something. "Trust me, Morgan, let your senses go and trust me. I will lead you." She relied on him and felt herself almost floating. After a moment, he stopped her and she could distinctinly smell the scent of lilacs in the room. It was beautiful. Morgan smiled, Shanbar smiled behind her and slowly undid the lacing on her dress, kissing her back and he continued.

"Do we not have servants for this?" Morgan said, jesting.

"Servants cannot do what I can," Shanbar answered back seductively. "Besides, I always loved undressing you. Servants should not touch such delicate skin," he said, moving his hands to her shoulder and sliding the dress down letting it fall to the floor. "Much better," he said, softly. He took her hand and placed it around his neck, picking her up gently. She smiled at the feelings he sent through her body, she moaned slightly.

"Shanbar…" she said, half whispering. He placed her down in the tub of warm water and kneeled on the floor beside her.

"You are wonderful, do you know that?" She said, reaching out with her wet hand and touched his face. He smiled.

"Yes, I do. How do you like your punishment, my dear?" He said, softly, taking the bar of soap that lay on the floor and slowly washing her.

"I believe I could be punished everyday by you," she said as he sent her sensations and she put her head back, closing her eyes.

"Well, my dear it seems I shall need to give you better reasons for staying at home," he said in her ear, softly biting it as he continued to wash her body. "What do you think?"

"I think you are…" she whispered. His hands moving on her body and sending her into ecstasy silenced the rest of the sentence.

"Do not think, my dear," was the last thing he said as his lips met hers with a passionate kiss.

Morgan woke up a few hours later, not knowing or caring how she had gotten out of the tub and onto the bed in the chamber. Her hair had been washed and smelled of lilacs after a spring rain. Covering her body was a warm bearskin blanket and underneath her head was a soft pillow. She sank into the bed a little, smiling. She remembered the rest, the way he washed her body, the way he kissed her, the way his body moved on hers, careful not to lean on her stomach. The way he held her as she drifted off to sleep. As if in a dream, she remembered a sweet kiss he placed on her lips as he had left her.

She smiled again to herself and pulled the warm blanket closer to her. ‘Thank you,’ she said in her mind, knowing he would hear, wherever he was. A sweet sensation ran through her and she closed her eyes, still feeling his caresses on her. She wanted to return to sleep, where he was still left in her dreams. Where they were always together, but an insistent knocking on the chamber door stopped her happiness. She looked toward it.

"What!" She said, annoyed. Kathleen opened the door slowly, carrying a tray in her hand and looking scared. Morgan smiled at her as she entered, sitting up on the bed, pulling the blanket with her. "Kathleen. Are those the tarts?" She said, looking excitedly at the small round treats on the tray she held.

"Yes, my lady." Kathleen said, coming towards the bed. "The king asked me to bring you some. He thought you might be hungry when you woke up."

"Yes," Morgan said, smiling and taking one of the tarts off the tray, popping it into her mouth. She moaned at the taste, taking another. Kathleen smiled at her. She had such a young face, but in her eyes, Kathleen could tell she had seen much in her life. But at that moment, as she watched her lady eating tart after tart and enjoying them, she only saw a girl who had never received such pleasures as a child.

"Where are you from, my lady?" Kathleen asked, suddenly as she handed Morgan the tray and sat down on the bed.

Morgan looked up at her. "Morgan, please do not call me my lady. It sounds like I do not know you. But I do know you Kathleen. We are friends, are we not?"

Kathleen nodded smiling. "Yes, we are."

"Then it is to be Morgan. Because that is my name."

"Morgan, would it be wrong to ask you questions?"

"No, I come from a village that no longer exists. It was near Cornwall in Eslain. It has since been flooded and it is now part of the sea there." She popped another tart in her mouth.

Kathleen smiled at her. "You are jesting with me, Morgan. You are not that old to have lived in a village that was flooded. I know those stories and that happened many years ago."

Morgan looked at her and decided she would agree, no use trying to explain she was over 250 years old. "You are correct, Kathleen, I am jesting. I came from Cornwall though."

Kathleen nodded. Morgan offered her the last tart on the tray, but she said no. Morgan shrugged her shoulders and eat it, smiling at Kathleen.

"I shall wish to see the King, could you give me my dress. It should be over there…I think," she said, pointing towards the tub. Kathleen looked around and found the dress on a chair next to the tub. She walked back to Morgan.

"I shall help you, Morgan," she said.

Morgan laughed, "I did not bring you to the castle to be my servant. I have many of those. I want a friend."

"Can a friend not help another with their dress?" Kathleen said, Morgan laughed.

"Clever, Kathleen. Yes, they may as long as that friend can give the other friend a gift for their troubles." Morgan said, pulling the blanket with her as she got up walking to a dressing closet on the wall.

"Tis no trouble, I assure you." Morgan smiled at her and opened the dressing closet, pulling out one of the dozens of beautiful dresses hanging there. "There are beautiful, Morgan."

"Here, I think this shall fit you." She looked at her and brought the dress to her. "You should really get out of those serving clothes, before someone mistakes you for one."

"No, I could not wear one of your dresses, it would not be proper." Kathleen protested.

"Kathleen, I am giving you the dresses so now they are yours and not mine. Besides, I cannot wear them until…" she looked down at her stomach. "Until I am not as fat. It was be a few months before you are as I am, so enjoy the dresses." Kathleen smiled and hugged Morgan, taking the dress from her hand. She eagerly put it on and turned for Morgan to see. "It is beautiful on you. You are quite a beautiful girl, Kathleen. It shall be easy to find you a husband at the court."

Morgan smiled and touched her hand. After a moment, she was dressed and Kathleen insisted that she help Morgan with the lacing.

"Come, I will speak with the King about a banquet for you and then we shall teach you how to be royalty."

"What royal family are you from in Cornwall, Morgan?" Kathleen asked quickly, still looking at the dress she wore.

"None. I have not title in the court, unless of course, you count the ones the ladies give me." She laughed, Kathleen did not. "Kathleen, do not get offended by names or titles, I assure we are all people, some different than others, some with titles, some without, but just the same we are people, men and women. The first thing to remember about royalty is that they all have to get dressed in the morning, eat, sleep and work for what they have or work to keep what they have. ‘Tis simple. We are all on this world to either be royalty or work for royalty, so if you have to choose one or the other. Choose royalty, not for the servants that help you get dressed in the morning or wait on you everyday. But choose royalty because you can have so much fun in life if you do not have to work for wealthy lords and ladies who look down upon you." Kathleen smiled at her.

"You are very kind, Morgan," Kathleen said, stopping her at the door. Morgan turned to her.

"No, Kathleen I am not. People are not always what they seem," she whispered, smiling with mischievous eyes at her. Morgan laughed taking them out of the chamber and towards the throne room.

"Good day, Morgan," Shanbar said, smiling at her as she and Kathleen entered the throne room and Morgan approached him. If Morgan had looked at the men leaving the throne room, she might have recognized Lord Robert from her travels the day before, but she only had eyes for Shanbar at that moment. She took his invited embrace and kissed him.

"Kathleen," Shanbar said, looking towards her. "I need you to assist Lord Robert," he said. Kathleen immediately followed out the door.

"Shanbar she is not a servant," Morgan said, sweetly, moving her fingers lightly over his chest.

"It is not what I ask of her. The Lord needs assistance and she shall provide it. You wanted to find a husband for the girl, did you not?" Shanbar asked, looking at Morgan. Morgan smiled at him. Shanbar dismissed Kathleen and played upon Morgan’s good mood, sitting her down on the throne chair and sitting on the arm of the throne, softly kissing each finger on the hand he held.

"So, my dear how are you feeling? Better?" He said, softly next to her.

"Oh, yes, much better. I feel rested and…"she reached her arm up to his neck, leaning her head against him. "Very happy."

"Good," Shanbar said, gently pulling her arm down and placing it on the arm of the chair as he got up and proceeded to walk in front of her. "Then you are well enough to explain to me where Salina might be."

"Salina…"she looked at him for a moment and then laughed. "Oh my goodness, I forgot all about her."

"Yes, my dear, you did." Shanbar walked down the steps of the thrones and towards the center of the room. "I thought I could send all the knights out to search for her, but we have a bit of a problem. You see, Arlen has decided to attack our borders and the knights positioned there are busy defending the kingdom." Shanbar smiled and turned back to her. Morgan stood up as if to speak. "Sit down, my dear. We are not through." Morgan sat down and obeyed him. "Nice to know you can still listen to some of my commands." He threw her a sideways glance and continued, "Next I thought I would seek her out and see if she would listen." He walked back to the throne chair, putting a hand on either side and leaning face to face towards Morgan. "Do you know what she told me, Morgan?" Morgan did not dare speak. "She told me that she was helping a girl from the village named Rowan and she was to met with you in Cornwall where this girl was meeting her love named…something….anyway, do you know where the battle is happening, Morgan?" Morgan looked away, Shanbar pulled her face back to him. "In Cornwall." He let go of her face and stood up, not facing her. "I knew you and her were up to something, but I had a least thought that you would not lead Salina into a battle. How foolish of me!" He said, sarcastically. Morgan stood up and approached him from behind.

"If you cared about her so much, why did you not just ask me when we returned from Essex. Or rather why did you not retrieve her?" Morgan said, carefully.

"Because my dear, I have been looking for her all morning in Cornwall and she keeps eluding me on purpose. Now, you will come with me to Cornwall before the battle breaks out and you will get her back!" He yelled at Morgan, who backed up. Morgan’s eyes filled with tears and turned slightly away. Shanbar looked over at her. "Morgan…" he sighed and paused for a moment. Maybe I should not have yelled, he thought to himself. Then another thought passed him. He smiled and walked up behind her. "Morgan," he said soothing. "Morgan, look at me." She slowly turned as a tear fell down her cheek. He wiped it off and she fell into his arms, sobbing quietly now. He stroked her hair gently.

"Do not believe that this foolish display will grant you escape from my punishment, Morgan." Morgan instantly stopped crying and looked up at him.

"I almost made you believe it."

"Almost," Shanbar said, walking away from her.

"What kind of punishments?" She asked as she followed him out of the throne room.

He stopped at the door and turned back to her. "Not the kind that you are wishing for."

She looked at him for a moment and reached up kissing him on the lips. Shanbar turned away from her, slightly looking over his shoulder.

"That will be a beginning." Morgan smiled and followed him down the corridor.

After a few failed attempts, Morgan and Shanbar finally met up with Salina as the Arlenton forces attacked. Shanbar took the three girls, including Rowan, who did find Caleb, but was not greeted with the reunion she had hoped for. It seemed he liked being a squire and had not intention of getting married and denied that it was his baby she carried. Rowan was now crying uncontrollable and Salina was attempting to comfort her.

"Stop it!" Shanbar yelled at Rowan, who instantly looked in fear at him and cried harder. Morgan shook her head at Shanbar. "What?!" He yelled back at her.

"Nothing," Morgan said, infruiating him more. "All of you are going back to the castle, I will sort it out later." In a moment, Salina, Morgan and Rowan were back at the Eslain castle.

"Women!" Shanbar said heading towards the battle. He was met by three Arlen knights, he killed one through magic to get a sword and fought the other two, killing both of them. That was when one of his knights, Jacob, recognized him.

"My king, what are you…" Jacob said, quickly. Shanbar pushed him aside and fought two more Arlen knights behind Jacob.

"Saving Eslain," Shanbar said, quickly moving towards three more knights, fighting one of his. After a hour or more, the Arlen forces were being pushed back and the Larianian Fleet took out the rest of the forces on water.

Jacob fell beside Shanbar while trying to talk to him about the wounded.

"My king…" he said, out of breath.

"Organize these peasants, Jacob. Tend to the wounded and bring what’s left standing back to the castle." Shanbar said, throwing his sword in the ground and walking away.

The knights watched in amazement as Shanbar walked away with not a cut upon him. Shanbar went behind a hut and disappeared.

When he reappeared in the castle, the first thing he heard was fighting.

"Yes, you did, Morgan," Salina said standing across from Morgan, who was sitting on a chair and looking tired.

"Of course, Salina. I betrayed you. I set out to get you and Rowan killed in a battle I did not know was about to happen," she stood up and swayed a little, she held the chair for support. Shanbar went to her and picked her up gently placing her on the couch in the room.

"I am fine," she said, defiantely.

"No, you are not. No more fighting." Shanbar said, softly touching her face. He turned toward Salina. "Salina, bring me some water for her…" Salina did not move, she was feeling guilty for Morgan’s collaspe. "Salina, please, do as I ask." Shanbar said. Salina quickly fetched the water and brought it back to him. He gently helped Morgan drink some and then covered her with a blanket at the foot of the couch.

"I did not mean…" Salina started, looking at Morgan sleeping.

"I know," Shanbar said. "She is too headstrong and she will not lose a fight, I should know that all too well." He sat down in a chair, pouring himself a glass of wine and looking at Salina. "Do not look so frightened, Salina. She is resting. She will be angry with me when she awakens. You see I did not give her a choice in sleeping." He looked at Salina, she smiled at him and sat down.

"Shanbar, I am sorry I did not keep Morgan in the fortress." She said.

"No one can keep Morgan anywhere she does not want to be." He threw her a knowing look, Salina nodded. "I do not blame you, Salina. I blame myself."

"You?" Salina said, amazed, he would take responsibility for anything.

"Yes, me." He stood up, pouring another glass of wine and handing it to Salina. "I cannot be there all the time and Morgan is lonely. She feels unwanted in her condition and she needs support." Shanbar walked past Salina and leaned on the table, eating some fruit.

"How can you care about her so much and have such disregard for others’ lives?" Salina said, looking at him. Shanbar smiled.

"Do not ask questions you do not want the answers to, Salina." Shanbar said.

"But I do want to know why?"

"You want to know why I take care of Morgan and killed your mother?" Shanbar said, bluntly.

"Yes, I want to know why."

He walked past Salina again and sat down in the chair, looking at her. "I love…" he stood up and drank down the rest of his wine, walking towards the door. "If she wakes up let me know, otherwise I will be in the war room." He stopped at the door and turned back to Salina. Salina stood up and faced him. "Just because I did not take care of your mother while she carried you, does not mean I was not grateful to her for the child she bore."

"But you did not love her, did you father?" Salina said, hate growing her voice.

He turned to her, "No, Salina, I did not love her." He said and turned, walking out of the room.

Shanbar walked down the hall towards the war room, he paused outside the door and leaned against the wall, closing his eyes for a moment. He wanted to make this day go away from the Lord’s meeting, Morgan and Salina’s game to the battle in Cornwall, he was tired to say the least. He just wanted to return to the fortress and sleep. He wanted peace for a moment, maybe if Morgan was feeling better later, he would ask her to give him a oil rub. She was so good at those, he said to himself, smiling. But the smile faded as he faced reality yet again. For Shanbar there was only one thought in his head, control. He had to regain control. Salina and Morgan could not be allowed to roam freely all over the kingdom, it was too dangerous. It wasn’t that Morgan could not take care of herself, it was that she had to take care of their child, did she not know Eslain had many enemies and the Arlentons would be pleased at best to get their hands of her, especially in her condition. He had to think of something. Something that would keep Salina and Morgan and their new friends busy, but safe within the Castle walls. Shanbar sighed and then a thought came to him and a smile crossed his face. He had the perfect distraction…

If you would like more on Interlude, Email the Author.

Hosted by www.Geocities.ws