Proditor: Book 5 of the Heku Series

Proditor

Book 5 of the Heku Series

By T.M. Nielsen

Published by T.M. Nielsen at Smashwords

Find us at

http://www.hekuseries.com/

Copyright © 2010 by T.M. Nielsen

ISBN: 9781452382357

Digital Edition, License Notes

This eBook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This eBook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

Chapter 1

Emily sat up quickly in bed, unsure at first where she was. The room was empty, and her suitcase was still lying open on the table in the corner. She could hear Allen and Alexis talking in the pink nursery, so she got up and moved to the door and smiled. Allen was reading to Alexis while she sat on his lap and pointed at the pictures.

Allen? Emily asked softly.

Mom! Allen yelled, and stood up, sliding Alexis off his lap. Emily’s eyes grew wide. In the two months she’d been gone, Allen had grown and was now as tall as she was. He ran into her arms, and she hugged him tightly.

I sure missed you, she said, and kissed the top of his head.

Where were you? he asked, and looked up at her.

It’s hard to explain, Emily said, and moved into the nursery. Anything fun happen around here?

Nothing really new, just, well, Dad, Allen said, and leaned against the wall.

Emily nodded. What about him?

Allen shrugged. He missed you is all. Course, he’s pretty mad now that he knows you’re safe.

He is?

Of course he is. He looked for you all the time. He wouldn’t go into the stables and was moody.

I had to go.

I know you did. I heard the Council talking about it yesterday, Allen told her.

You were in a council meeting?

No, but I can hear them when I want.

Emily just took a deep breath and nodded. How have you been?

If you go, will you take me?

I want to.

Allen watched her carefully. But you don’t know if you can.

Let’s just hope I don’t have to leave.

Are you feeling okay?

Emily nodded. Yes.

I have to get to school. I have a test in Human Pathology, Allen told her, and headed for the bedroom door.

Human Pathology? Allen you’re 8-years-old, Emily reminded him.

Allen grinned, and it almost stopped Emily’s heart. He had Chevalier’s grin. Only my body, Mom, and I’m taller than you are. I’m studying Medicine and should be ready to take my MCAT next fall.

MCAT? Emily asked, frowning.

Medical College Admissions Test.

Emily sighed. Why would you go into medicine?

Allen chuckled. Not all of us are afraid of the medical sciences, Mom.

Emily just nodded as he walked out to class.

I’m hungry, Alexis said, and took Emily’s hand.

Let’s go. I’ll make pancakes, Emily told the 3-year-old. They walked out of the bedroom and stopped at the fifth-floor foyer. There were guards posted by the stairs that turned and bowed when Emily and Alexis appeared.

Emily picked up Alexis and started down the stairs. She used the toddler to block herself from view. Two months away from the palace and she felt like an unwanted outsider. Everything seemed almost surreal as she descended the stairs and passed guards posted at each floor.

When they got to the kitchen, it was abandoned, so Emily sat Alexis down on the stool and went to the pantry. She frowned at the empty shelves and found the cupboards in the kitchen were also bare. The fridge and freezer weren’t even turned on, so Emily shut the doors and turned back to Alexis.

Shall we go into the city for breakfast? Emily asked, smiling.

Alexis nodded. Pantakes.

Good, we’ll get some groceries while we’re out, Emily told her, and helped her down off of the tall stool.

Emily ran up the stairs and grabbed her purse and then led Alexis out into the garage.

Leaving? Mark asked from behind her.

Emily nodded. Yeah, we’re going to go get some breakfast.

May I go?

Sure, Emily said. She didn’t want to cause any more trouble than she already had.

Mark smiled, shocked that she was allowing him to go, so he called for Silas.

Are we going somewhere? Silas asked, walking over to the Jeep.

Boring stuff, just breakfast and grocery shopping, Emily told them, and climbed into the driver’s seat.

Should I drive so we get there sometime today? Mark asked, laughing.

I do not drive slowly! Emily said, and pulled out of the garage.

Emily drove up to an International House of Pancakes and stopped the Jeep. Silas took Alexis’ hand while Emily got her purse, and they all headed inside, then sat down and Emily ordered while Mark and Silas scanned the room.

What? she asked when she heard a low hiss from Mark.

Our waiter is a heku, he told her, and looked around the room again.

Emily frowned. Seriously?

Mark nodded, and his hands tightened into fists when their waiter returned with their drinks.

Your breakfast will be up shortly, he said, and jerked his head away from them before leaving quickly.

***

You can go in, Derrick said to Mark and Emily.

Emily glanced at Mark as he opened the door and ushered her inside.

Quinn smiled. Welcome back, Emily. It’s good to have you home.

Emily smiled slightly and moved closer to Mark.

Derrick said you wanted to talk to us, Zohn said, and looked down at them.

Emily’s heart pounded in her chest. The old feelings of hatred for him flooded back into her, and she started to panic. She avoided looking at Chevalier but glanced up at Mark instead.

Mark smiled. We went into town, me, Silas, Emily, and Alexis. We ran into a heku at a restaurant.

Okay, was there a problem? Quinn asked.

No, not at all. They ate, but he decided to follow us out to the Jeep and then savored Emily, Mark told them.

Quinn frowned. You don’t call that a problem?

Not at all, Mark said. Before I could even react, he turned and walked back into the restaurant.

Without attacking? Quinn asked.

Without attacking, Mark said.

Get on with it. Why does the Council need to know this? Zohn asked, irritated.

Emily sighed and stepped forward. She shut her eyes and then moved back to Mark.

Derrick said you wanted to talk to us, Zohn said, and looked down at them again.

Quinn looked at Zohn. You said that already.

I did not. They just walked in, Zohn said, irritated.

Kyle chuckled. Nice, Em.

Zohn glanced at Kyle. What?

When did you perfect that? Kyle asked her.

Emily shrugged. While I was away.

Perfect what? Zohn asked.

Emily shut her eyes again and then glanced up at Zohn.

Derrick said you wanted to talk to us, Zohn said.

I was going to tell you, Emily said, and risked a brief glance at Chevalier. He was watching her, expressionless.

How controlled is it? Quinn asked, glancing at Zohn.

Zohn frowned. How controlled is what?

I can control how far back I take you, but it’s only temporary, Emily explained.

How long does it last? Kyle asked.

About an hour, then everything comes back.

How long were you going to keep this from us? Chevalier asked, annoyed.

Emily swallowed and steadied her voice before answering, I was going to tell you today.

What the hell is everyone talking about? Zohn yelled.

Emily moved back slightly behind Mark and shut her eyes again briefly.

Derrick said you wanted to talk to us, Zohn said.

Stop it, Emily, Chevalier said sternly.

Emily grasped Mark’s arm.

Quinn smiled softly. We appreciate you showing us, and we also appreciate you keeping it from the other factions.

Emily nodded and then ran out of the room. She didn’t stop until she got into the bedroom and shut the door behind her.

What? Chevalier growled at Mark, who was glaring at him.

Nothing, Mark said, and looked over at Quinn.

Mark, you may go, Quinn said, and then waited until Mark left the room. Kyle, take Zohn, and the rest of you leave.

The Council filed out of the room as Kyle walked Zohn out and shut the door behind them.

Quinn turned slowly to Chevalier. What was that?

What? Chevalier asked, his voice ominous.

You are just pushing her out the door.

I am not. She does what she wants.

You’re going to regret this, and I wish you would check your temper and get over it.

Chevalier frowned. Why should I? She left for two months without a word. Why should I act like nothing ever happened?

Because she did it for a reason. She wasn’t just leaving for the sake of making you miserable, and as soon as you realize that, you will want her back, Quinn told him.

I already want her back. I’m not pushing her away.

Yes, you are.

Stay out of it, Chevalier said, and stormed out of the room. He walked up to the bedroom and looked around the empty room, noticing Emily’s suitcase was gone.

Chevalier followed Emily’s scent out to the stables where he saw Mark and another member of the Cavalry standing outside the front doors.

Where is she? Chevalier growled.

In her new bedroom, Mark said, standing at attention and not looking at the Elder.

Chevalier walked through the stables to the caretaker’s room that Sam had occupied. Since his death, the room was abandoned. He knocked on the wooden door and stepped back.

Emily opened the door slightly and peeked out. When she saw who it was, she stepped back and let him enter.

You’re going to live out here now? Chevalier asked, sitting down on an old, rickety chair by a small table.

For now, yes, Emily said, and watched him. You can keep the bedroom.

Interesting new talent you found.

I guess.

Chevalier looked around the room. Everyone missed you.

Not everyone.

Emily I, he started to say, and then cocked his head to the side slightly. I have to go.

Emily nodded and watched him leave for the council chambers. She gave him enough time to get in his seat before heading into the palace to collect the rest of her things.

Commander? Darren asked when Emily got to the fourth-floor.

Emily smiled and went over to the Thukil Captain. It’s nice to see you again.

We’re not here for pleasantries, Darren said. The Valle have some of the Cavalry.

Emily frowned. How many?

Six

You’re going to ask the Elders to help you get them back? Emily asked.

Darren shook his head. No, we want to go but will need their permission. They are being kept at the Valle’s palace.

Let me go with you. I can get them back, Emily told him.

If you wish, Darren said, and they walked in when Derrick opened the door for them.

Emily stood by Darren to address the Council.

We understand the Valle have some of your coven, Quinn said, glancing at Emily.

Yes, and we want to petition to get them back, Darren said. Myself, the Commander, and four of Thukil’s Lieutenants want to go talk to them about a release.

Zohn frowned. The Commander?

Yes, me, Emily said, watching Zohn closely.

That’s out of the question, but the rest of you may go, Quinn said.

Emily frowned. Why? I’m their Commander, and I want you to name one other Commander you would say no to.

It’s still out of the question, Zohn said. I’ll go with the Captain, and we’ll get them back.

Darren touched her arm softly. It’s alright. We’ll get them back.

I can help you, she said to him, her voice full of desperation. Please, let me go.

I can’t, not without the Council’s permission, Darren said, and glanced back at the Elders.

Emily looked at the Council for a moment and then left the trial area before she lost her temper. She went up to the bedroom and started collecting the rest of her things from around the room.

Don’t be mad, please, Quinn said, and walked into the room. We are just worried about you.

Yeah, right, Emily said, and dug around in the closet before coming out with an armful of clothes.

Are you leaving? Quinn asked, watching her.

Not yet. I’m going to stay in the stables until I figure out where to go, she told him, and started throwing clothes into a bag.

He’ll come around.

Emily shrugged. Maybe.

Just give him time.

Emily turned to Quinn and crossed her arms. I want to go to the Valle.

I know, and I have no doubt you could get them back, but right now, we need you to stay here, Quinn explained.

Fine, she said, obviously not happy.

Quinn couldn’t help but smile some. It’ll help Chevalier if you will do what the Council asks.

What does it look like I’m doing? I’m quietly packing to move into the stables. I’m not running off to challenge the Valle.

I’m just saying.

You’re just telling me to behave. I know. Emily pulled the full suitcase onto the floor and started to drag it to the door.

Let me get that, Quinn said, and picked up her suitcase.

I need to put some things in Kyle’s bathroom. Be right back, Emily said, and ran a handful of toiletries across the hall.

She came back and ignored Chevalier, who was now sitting on the bed.

Ready, Quinn, she said, and they both headed down toward the stables.

Chevalier looked around the empty room. It was common for members of the Council to have a bedroom, even though they didn’t sleep. It was considered a private place where they could go to relax, undisturbed. His room had always been full of life with Emily’s things scattered around, a reminder of her presence, even when she was out. Now, the room seemed cold and dead.

Enter, Chevalier said when he heard a knock.

Quinn came back into the room. She’s getting settled in the stables.

Okay

She’s not planning on staying in Council City for long.

Okay, Chevalier said again.

Quinn sighed and walked out of the room, shutting the door behind him.

Out in the stables, Emily looked around the small room. It had everything she needed to be comfortable, except a shower, and she was going to use Kyle’s. She sat down on the bed and looked around the room. It seemed weird to think that Sam was gone, and she was now living in the stables, a far cry from palace life.

Emily sighed, already bored with the small quarters. She walked out into the stables to find something to do. Before long, she was trimming the mane off all of the horses. When she was done, she started to braid their tails to pass the time.

Em? Mark called out.

In with Kralen’s horse, she told him.

What are you doing? he asked, resting his arms on the stall door.

I’m braiding his tail.

Why?

I’m bored.

You could always finish breaking that demonic mustang.

Emily stood up. You know what? That’s a good idea.

I was kidding, Mark said, frowning.

Emily finished braiding the stallion’s tail, grabbed her riding gloves, and then slipped on a pair of spurs. She led the mustang out into the corral while Mark watched anxiously. He was shocked to see her wearing the hated spurs.

The mustang took the bridle and saddle well, and Emily handed him a treat, then turned around and saw that most of the Cavalry had come to watch. She blushed slightly and then hoisted herself up onto his back. She waited while he settled down and then took a deep breath and kicked his sides.

The mustang reared once and tried to buck her off, but she held tightly and he soon calmed back down.

Why don’t you let me do that? Mark asked, obviously nervous.

What fun is that? Emily asked, and again kicked the mustang’s sides. He edged forward a few steps and then stopped.

I guess I lost the bet, Silas said from the fence.

What bet is that? Emily asked as she kicked again and led the mustang around the corral slowly.

I bet he’d kill you before you broke him.

Gee thanks, Emily said. Open the gate please.

I don’t know, Em, Mark said, still unsure of how well the mustang was broken.

Just do it, please.

Mark sighed and opened the fence. Emily led the mustang out of the corral and pulled him to a stop, then took him in a few slow circles and smiled.

It’s now or never, eh? she said, and then kicked the mustang hard.

He jerked forward and took off at a fast gallop. Emily led him quickly through the city. She’d never been on a horse that fast, and it was exhilarating. She was soon up on the hills to the east of town and running toward the tree line. The mustang didn’t even slow down as he ran into the woods. He wove in and out of the trees, and Emily turned control over to him and just held on while she shut her eyes and felt the wind in her hair.

Emily pulled him to a stop on the far east side when she saw the dead Durango still sitting out by the trees. She looked at it for a few minutes and then headed back. She soon emerged out of the forest and kicked the stallion into a full gallop again, racing for the city. The Cavalry was still waiting for her when she got him back to the stables.

Oh good, we don’t have to come scrape you off of the ground, Mark said, grinning.

Such faith! I think Damon’s going to be a good horse, but I’m guessing he’ll never be gentle enough for Allen, Emily said, and slipped off of him.

You named him Damon? Silas asked, shaking his head.

Sure, he’s a pain in the ass and as mean as they come, she explained, and led him back into his stall.

Mark followed her. We could let Chatotay have him. His horse is pregnant.

Yeah, he can use him until his mare foals, Emily said, and scooped food into the stallion’s trough.

He’s not going to want to ride a horse named Damon though.

He’ll live, now, how do I get through to your Cavalry to stop letting the mares into the corral with the stallions while the mares are in heat? Emily asked, and shut Damon’s stall.

Mark shrugged. I told them again.

Do they need a birds and bees lesson? I could go over with them how exactly foals come about.

Mark leaned his head back and laughed. That would be interesting.

Emily turned to Mark. That mustang’s the fastest horse I’ve ever been on.

Really? Mark asked, shocked.

It’s amazing.

Can I give him a try? Maybe tomorrow?

Emily nodded. Sure, take him out.

Sweet! Mark said, and grinned.

I’m going out for a run. I’ll be back in a bit.

Okay, I’ll go too, Mark said, and headed in to change.

Solo, Mark. I won’t leave the city, promise, Emily told him, and then smiled when he walked out of the stables, irritated.

Within a few minutes, Emily was out running with her iPod clipped to her arm and her hair tied up high. She ran through the city, taking random streets and ignoring the way the heku watched from their windows when she passed.

Damnit, she sighed as her iPod died. She stopped and pulled the earphones out of her ears to see if she could fix it, then looked around, not entirely sure where she was. She sat down against a small store, so she could fix her music. She stopped working on the iPod when she heard whispers.

In three days, a man whispered from the alleyway behind her.

We’re going to get caught. We can’t keep letting the Valle in here, a woman replied.

Emily’s heart pounded in her chest as she listened, unmoving.

The man sighed. We’ve been here for thirty four years. We can’t give up now. We’re both Generals, and they don’t suspect a thing.

They are getting suspicious though, wondering how the Valle keep getting into the city, the woman whispered.

Until we get Selhman and Ingram back, we have to just stay here and keep doing what we’re doing.

Yeah, but that bloody mortal is back in the palace. That makes things more dangerous.

She won’t matter once we take out the Council. Just have patience, Terry. We’ll be back in our coven soon enough, the man whispered.

Emily stood up suddenly when she heard the voices moving closer, but she forgot that her iPod was sitting on her lap, and it crashed loudly to the cobblestone ground when she stood. Suddenly, the three heku blurred and surrounded her.

What have we here? the male heku asked. Emily saw the rank tag on his guard uniform. He was a commander.

An eavesdropper, the female said.

Emily suddenly found herself restrained by the male General. He had one arm around her upper chest and one around her waist.

What did you hear, baby girl? he whispered into her ear.

Enough, Emily scowled.

The three heku led Emily into a house in the city. She looked around the sparsely decorated house as she was pushed down onto a hard wooden chair.

What do we do with her? the male General asked.

Terry looked at Emily nervously. I don’t know. I’m not sure why she hasn’t turned us to ash yet.

Emily cringed when she heard a deep inhale.

Damn, Terry said.

Emily felt someone beside her as the Commander ran his nose up her neck. He finally pulled away from her, and she could breathe again.

Stop it, the male General said, and pushed the Commander toward a window. No feeding from her until we decide what to do.

***

Mark slipped off of his horse and reached down to grab Emily’s iPod off of the ground. He inhaled and looked around.

Her scent is a few hours old, Mark said to Kralen and Silas.

I knew I should have gone running with her, Silas said, and slipped off of his horse.

Kralen looked around. She promised to stay in the city. We weren’t worried about it.

Four more members of the Cavalry rode up.

What’s up? one of them asked.

We found Emily’s broken iPod. She went for a run a few hours ago, Mark explained.

This’ll make the Council happy. Emily’s gone so soon after returning, Silas said, and grinned slightly.

Mark sighed. Let me think.

Why don’t we talk to Kyle and see what he says? Silas suggested.

Great idea, let’s do that, Mark said, and mounted his horse. The Cavalry ran through the city streets, and while Kralen took Mark’s horse into the stables, Mark went into the palace and knocked on Kyle’s office door.

Enter, Kyle said, and looked up when Mark entered. Yes?

Mark sat down across from Kyle’s desk. While we were out on patrol, we found this on the street.

Kyle took the broken iPod from Mark and looked at him. This is Emily’s, I take it?

Mark nodded. She went out for a run a few hours ago. We didn’t go because she promised to stay in the city.

Kyle sighed. Damn.

Her scent is in the area, but it’s a few hours old.

See if you can find her. Chevalier’s head may explode if she’s already missing, Kyle said, and looked at the iPod.

Mark nodded and left Kyle’s office.

Quinn, Zohn, Kyle called out, and then told both of them to enter when they came to his door.

Zohn waited by the door while Quinn sat down.

Where’s Chevalier? Kyle asked them.

He’s out. I think he ran to Banks Coven for a few hours, Quinn explained.

Emily’s missing, Kyle said, and grinned slightly.

Zohn’s shoulders fell. Define missing.

The Cavalry said she went out for a run, but while on patrol, they found her iPod broken on the streets.

Great, Quinn said. Let’s find her before he gets back. Zohn’s heading out now to the Valle, but let me know what you find.

Kyle nodded. The Cavalry is out right now looking.

***

Emily watched while the three heku fought over what to do with her. One wanted to drain her and get it over with, but he seemed to be the only one that wasn’t acclimating to her scent. The woman wanted to take her to the Valle Council, but the other man reminded her that their orders were that she was to be left alone.

Damnit, this isn’t leaving her alone! Now we’ve defied the Valle Council and kidnapped the Winchester, the male General said, frowning.

So, let me just drain her. No one will know who did it, the Commander suggested.

The woman looked over at Emily. Why doesn’t she turn us to ash?

They all three looked at Emily.

I’m not ashing you because I’m being good and letting the Equites handle things, Emily told them.

They aren’t even looking for you, though, the General told her.

Then maybe you’re stuck with me, Emily said, and smiled.

We can’t keep her here, and we can’t take her to the Council. We weren’t supposed to touch her, the Commander said, and sat down.

Maybe you should have thought about that before you took me, or maybe you should have paid more attention to who was around while you three talked about being traitors, Emily said, and saw them cringe.

So that’s it. We have to kill her, the General said.

Yeah, like I’m going to let you kill me.

You won’t have a choice, child.

Yes, I will. It’s not that I can’t ash you. It’s that, until now, I’ve chosen not to.

I suspect you can’t, or you would have, the General said, and grinned at her.

Okay, you keep thinking that.

The General sighed. Let’s take her to the Valle Council. We don’t have a choice.

Oh fun, I haven’t seen Sotomar in a while, Emily told them, and rolled her eyes.

Emily’s hands were tied behind her back, and she was put into the trunk of a small car. She wasn’t afraid or scared but just laid back and napped during the long drive to the Valle’s Palace City.

Emily squinted when the General opened the trunk door and pulled her onto her feet. She saw the familiar Valle palace and walked in with her three kidnappers. The door guard to the council chambers gasped when he saw her and immediately let them into the council chambers.

Emily smiled when she saw the horrified look on Sotomar’s face.

What have you done?! Sotomar yelled at them.

We had to, sir. She heard us talking, the General said.

Nice to see you again, Sotomar, Emily said, and smiled.

Emily, we’re so sorry, one of the other Valle Elders said.

First, let my hands go, please, Emily said, and Exavior appeared at her back and untied them.

When her hands were free, Exavior pulled her into a strong hug. I’ve missed you.

She moved away and smiled. Have a seat, Exavior. I’m not done.

The Council watched her nervously as Exavior moved up to his seat and sat down.

What… what can we do to make this up to you? Sotomar asked. His eyes showed terror.

The last time I was here, I let all of your prisoners go, Emily reminded them.

The Council watched her carefully.

What Equites do you have here right now?

Sotomar sighed. Exavior, take her down.

Exavior walked down and took Emily’s hand. Let me show you.

Keep these three here. I’m not done with them, Emily told Sotomar as she left with Exavior.

Emily followed Exavior down into the prison cells. He led her past a few empty cells and then opened a door, revealing nine members of the Thukil Cavalry.

Commander? Darren asked.

Come on, Emily told them, and they fell in behind her. Exavior opened another cell, and Emily looked inside.

Zohn?

Zohn looked up at her, shocked. Emily? What are you doing here?

I’m getting you out. Come on, Emily said, and Zohn joined the Thukil guards behind her.

That’s it for the Equites, Exavior said.

Emily glanced back at Zohn. Who came with you?

Just myself and the heku from Thukil, Zohn told her.

Okay, back to the council chambers, Emily said. She rolled her eyes when Exavior tried to take her hand again, and she pulled her hand away from him, then cringed when he dropped down to his knees.

Marry me, Emily, Exavior said, and took her hand.

Seriously, Exavior, Emily started, but he stood suddenly and pressed his lips to hers. She pulled away from him, and she heard growls and hisses from the Equites behind her.

Marry me, Exavior said again.

Take us back to Sotomar, Emily told him, and took Darren’s hand, pulling close to his side. Exavior glared at the Thukil Captain and led them to the council chambers.

The Valle Council was in a discussion when they returned. Exavior headed back for Emily, but she pulled closer to Darren and heard him growl. Exavior sighed and returned to his chair.

Emily stepped forward. What are we going to do about this? I warned you.

Sotomar stood. Please, don’t disappear. We are still under the month long protection.

Yes, but this isn’t a stray heku attack. This is bigger, Emily said.

Sit down! Sotomar yelled at Exavior when he stood up to walk down to Emily.

So, this is what I suggest. You let my Cavalry members go, and I take Zohn with me. The three of these Equites guards come with me, too, Emily said, and crossed her arms.

What?! Sotomar yelled. We can’t give you thirteen prisoners.

Yes, you can, or you can face the wrath of the Encala and the Equites when I disappear, Emily said, and smiled sweetly.

Damnit, we want to punish these three for what they’ve done, Sotomar said, motioning to the three Equites guards.

Nope, I take them too, Emily said.

Sotomar growled and then slammed his fist on the table. Take them and go.

We’ll need a ride, Emily said, and glanced at Darren. A helicopter back to Council City, please.

Sotomar nodded.

Emily turned to the Thukil Cavalry. Take those three into custody.

They followed their Commander’s orders immediately and took the two Generals and the City Commander, restraining them.

Emily, why are some of the top commanding Officers for Council City under arrest? Zohn asked, sounding irritated.

Oh, there’s a good story. Let’s go, and I’ll fill in the Council, Emily told him, and followed the Valle guards up to the waiting helicopter.

They all crawled into the Valle helicopter, and Emily grabbed the radio as they approached the city. Base from Emily.

There was a pause. Emily? This is base.

We’re coming in in a Valle helicopter. Can we land?

One moment, the voice said, and the Valle pilot hovered over the city, waiting for permission to land.

Emily from base, Kyle said.

Go ahead, Kyle, Emily said.

Permission to land. Take it to the roof between Equites 1 and Equites 2.

Got it.

The Valle pilot glanced back at her. If I land this thing, am I going to be able to leave?

Emily nodded. You have my word. As soon as we’re off the helicopter, you can go.

He nodded and landed the helicopter between the two Equites’ Blackhawks. Guards quickly surrounded the enemy helicopter and crouched low when the pilot cut the engines, and the door opened.

Emily? Mark asked, helping her out of the helicopter.

Take them into custody. The Council will want to see them, Emily told Mark, and he nodded and ordered the three Commanding Officers into custody. They were escorted into the palace by both the Thukil and the Council City guards.

Emily nodded to the pilot, and he quickly started the helicopter and took off. Emily, Darren, and Zohn headed inside and walked into the council chambers. Zohn moved up to his seat after he shrugged at the other Elders.

Emily noticed that Chevalier was more relaxed and wasn’t glaring at her anymore.

Okay, so Emily, care to explain? Quinn asked, leaning forward.

Sure, she said, and stepped forward a bit. I was out running and overheard the three stooges here talking about how they’ve been letting the Valle into the city, and that there is a Valle attack coming in three days.

What?! Zohn yelled, looking at the two Generals.

She’s lying! the male General said.

Oh, shut up, Emily said, and then turned back. Geniuses freaked out after they kidnapped me and decided to take me to the Valle’s palace.

I’m imagining their orders were to leave you alone, Quinn said.

Emily nodded. Yes, so Sotomar was pretty mad. I agreed not to disappear in return for the captured Thukil Cavalry and Zohn. See, simple enough.

Quinn rubbed the bridge of his nose. Okay, so these three are traitors, the Thukils are all free, and you returned Zohn.

Yes, seems so.

Escort them to the prison, Zohn said. Everyone out, except Emily.

Emily cringed and smiled at Darren when he left.

Step up here, Zohn said.

Emily stepped forward. What’d I do now?

Do you want to explain the relationship between you and Exavior? Zohn asked.

Emily frowned. You mean the marriage proposals and the kiss?

Chevalier frowned, and she heard a low growl.

Yes, that, Zohn said.

What do you want me to say? I’m not going to apologize because he has a crush, Emily said, and scanned the Council.

How far has he gone with you? Chevalier hissed.

Emily glared at him. What do you care?

You two can fight later, Zohn said. I want to know what you are going to do about the… what did you call it? Crush, by the Valle’s Chief Interrogator.

I’m not going to do anything, Emily told him. She was watching Zohn carefully, avoiding the fierce look in Chevalier’s eyes.

Very well, you may go, Zohn said, and turned to Quinn.

Emily left, mumbling. Thanks Em, for returning all of the Equites and exposing the conspiracy.

Quinn grinned when the door shut. We could make our Faction Liaison Officer the new Coven Liaison Officer and give her the Faction Liaison position.

Do what? Chevalier asked, still angry.

They can’t kidnap her. She could handle all relations with the Valle and Encala.

No

He has a good point, Zohn said. She just got every Equites released from the Valle prison.

No, Chevalier said again.

It might give her a reason to stay, Kyle said.

No

Quinn sighed. Who wants to interrogate the traitors?

I do, Chevalier said, and disappeared from the room.

I do, too, Zohn said, and followed him.

Kyle followed the Elders and the three Valle into the interrogation chamber and made sure the door was shut before he took one of the prisoners and pushed him toward the iron maiden.

Chevalier clasped his fists together and slammed them into the side of the General’s head, sending him back into the fireplace. He pulled the heku out of the ashes and tied him to the rack.

Zohn was tying the female heku to the electrified table and watching Chevalier closely. The Faction Liaison Officer idea was good.

No, Chevalier said, and stretched the heku slightly on the rack.

Kyle pushed the iron maiden shut, ignoring the screams from inside. She’s going to leave if you don’t stop.

I don’t want to talk about it, Chevalier said, and sat down by his heku. Do you want to tell us what’s going on in three days?

No, the Valle said, gritting his teeth against the pain.

I will! a voice sounded from the iron maiden, and Kyle laughed.

I always get the squealers, Kyle said, and opened the steel coffin. Start talking.

Please, let me out, Kyle’s prisoner said. I’ll tell you if you let me out.

Kyle shrugged and shut the door to the iron maiden. I still want to talk about Em.

I think she and Exavior have a thing, Zohn said, and touched the button on the electrical current. He waited until the screaming turned to deathly gurgles before letting up on it.

They do not, Chevalier growled, and cranked harder on the rack.

***

What did you find? Quinn asked.

The Valle are coming after Ingram and Selhman in three days, arriving at night. The illustrious three musketeers were going to make sure they had a clear shot into the city, Zohn said, picking something fleshy off of his shirt.

Or they were, Chevalier said. I’m thinking now that Sotomar knows we have these three, we don’t have to worry about them.

We need to decide, once and for all, what to do about those two prisoners, Quinn said, deep in thought.

We just have to fill the last spot. We can’t try them with a missing member of the Council, Zohn reminded them.

Quinn growled, We can’t fill his spot though. No one is fit to do it.

You do realize that we have one more member of the Council, Kyle said, and nodded when everyone looked at him.

We do? Zohn asked.

Yes, we made spouses of the Council full members after Damon.

Bring Emily into this trial? Quinn asked, confused.

Why not? All she has to do is fill the thirteenth spot so the Council is full, Kyle said, sitting back in his chair.

No, Chevalier said sternly.

That’s one no. I vote yes, Quinn said. I’d like to get these two taken care of.

All eyes turned to Zohn. Gah, I’m thinking. It would be nice to have them out of the way, but she’s so emotional and illogical.

Elders get the deciding vote, Kyle said. All she has to do is sit here and represent the thirteenth.

Zohn sighed, Yes.

Damnit, no, Chevalier yelled, slamming his fists on the table.

Your dislike of Emily does not mean that she can’t hold a valid position with this faction, Quinn said, obviously angry. You need to get over your feelings for her and let us carry on with business.

No one said I dislike Emily, Chevalier hissed.

You sure as hell act like it, Quinn snapped at him. Two votes have it, and she’ll be on this trial, so we can finally be rid of these two.

Chevalier glared toward the trial door.

***

Emily sat up suddenly in bed when she heard a loud thud from the stables, then she slipped on a light jacket and moved out by the stalls. She saw Kralen’s mare lying up against the wall of her stall. She walked in and knelt down by the mare.

Damnit, Emily whispered when she felt the horse’s high temperature. Mark!

Mark appeared. What’s wrong?

Get the Cavalry. I need all of the horses out of the stables immediately, Emily said, and ran for the storage room.

Within seconds, the stalls were full of heku, and the horses were being led out to the corral. Mark came in just as Emily was giving a shot to the horse. He couldn’t help but smile slightly at how Emily fought when she needed a shot but had no problem giving one.

Sit with her, Emily said, and stood up. She left the stables and went out into the corral. The Cavalry was surrounding the corral and watching the horses.

Emily went horse to horse while the Cavalry watched, still not sure what was going on. She walked up to Patra slowly, and the mare nipped at her and whinnied. The Cavalry was shocked. Patra was the calmest and most gentle horse in the stables.

Take her inside, Emily said.

One of the Cavalry wrestled Patra back into the stables.

This one too, Emily said again, and the Appaloosa stallion was forced into the stables.

Emily went back inside and shut the stall doors as Patra reared back and tried to slam into her.

What’s going on? Mark asked.

I think they have a mosquito transmitted illness. Call Thukil, and see if Darren can come, Emily said, and started to fill another syringe.

Mark ran off, so Silas came into the stall. What can I do?

Watch the horses. If they are irritated, nervous, or listless, they need to come in here. The rest need to stay far away, Emily said.

Em, the Council needs you, Kyle said, strolling casually into the stables. He frowned when he saw the look on Emily’s face. What’s going on?

Encephalomyelitis, Emily said, and gave Patra an injection. Patra tried to kick her, and she dodged out of the way, barely missing the angry hoof. The Council’s going to have to wait until this is over.

Did… did Patra just try to kick you? Kyle asked, wide eyed.

Yes, Emily told him, and then gave the stallion a shot.

Kyle blurred from the stables and appeared back in the council chambers.

Is she coming? Zohn asked.

No, there’s a problem with some of the horses. Mark said she’s called the Thukil Captain in to help, Kyle said, and sat down in his chair.

She said no to the Council because a horse has the sniffles? Zohn asked, frowning.

It’s not just the sniffles. This is usually fatal, Kyle said. Plus, Patra has it.

Chevalier frowned. Are you sure?