InSpire (9 page)

“I suppose flying there ourselves would set off alarm bells in all worlds?”

“Yes it would. Don’t worry, I’ve got this covered.”

He opened the top drawer of the dresser and took out a wad of money, some ID’s, and two passports. Athena was impressed how prepared he was. It was then she noticed the pictures on the ID. It was one of her employee of the month shots from the grocery store. She wondered when he took it, but now wasn’t the time. That life was over the minute she became Prin. She stretched out her wings and then furled them. This was her life. She knew it.

“Here you go Mrs. Hillard.”

“When did you make these?”

“A while back. I figured we might need them.” 

“I see.”

“Come on Mrs. Hillard, we have a flight to catch.”

“Shouldn’t you call me Mercy?”

“Yes and you should call me Chuck.”

She laughed hard. He didn’t look much like a Chuck. Darian went downstairs to the living room. She watched as he sat down at a computer. He checked where the closest airport was and looked at the flights. He was making sure he had enough money and they could make the right connections. When he was done he grabbed her hand and led her outside to the motorcycle.

She threw her leg over the bike and wrapped her arms around him. He took off for the nearest airport. They drove to Shreveport and booked a flight to Atlanta. Darian was sure they could get a cheaper flight once they arrived in ATL. Darian certainly knew what he was doing. Athena had traveled a lot as the child of someone, but never really planned one out. She gave way to his knowledge.

When they landed in ATL, Darian headed right for the counter at American Airlines. She stood behind him and tried to appear like a woman on her honeymoon. Though she had no idea what that looked like. He spoke softly to the agent. She seemed to respond well to him. He exuded an animal spark on humans. Now that Athena was Prin again she could almost see it radiating off of him. She wondered if he used this same technique on her a few times. He turned and winked at her. Most certainly he had.

“Good. Then the flight leaves in half an hour?”

“Yes, sir.”

He turned around and handed Athena her ticket. They walked to security and passed through without a problem. They had just enough time to make it to the gate. They were calling for first class passengers on arrival in the terminal. Darian tugged her toward the entrance.

“But they called for first class?”

“Do you think I would make you fly all the way to England in coach?” He smiled and then kissed her. There was no way the Queen was riding in anything less than splendor.

She smiled and followed him through the gate.

“Have a good flight Mr. and Mrs. Hillard.” The stewardess was smiling broadly at them. It made Athena blush. It wasn’t all that hard for her to pretend they were on their honeymoon. She actually wished they were.

“Oh my.”

“Only the best for my baby, Mercy.” Darian had mastered a southern drawl.

“Why thank you, darlin’.” Athena’s wasn’t as good, but she really put her all into it.

“Welcome, I hope you enjoy your flight.”

The stewardess was handing them a warm towel before they even took a seat. As the rest of the plane loaded, Athena and Darian sipped happily on champagne. The stewardess brought them strawberries as well. Athena put her eye cover on and fell asleep quickly. Darian wasn’t so lucky. His mind was racing. This trip may be full of challenges. It wasn’t certain they would even find the entrance yet.

“Mercy, time to wake up.”

“We’re there already?”

“We are circling to land at Heathrow.”

“Good.”

“I take it you had no bad dreams this time?”

“None.”

“Finally.”

“It has been a while since I could remember peacefully sleeping.”

“Ladies and gentleman the pilot has turned on the seat belt sign. Please return your seats and trays to their upright position. We hope you have enjoyed your flight with us today. Local time is two pm. And the weather is slightly overcast. Please remember American when you fly and enjoy your stay.”

Seconds later the plane was coming to a somewhat bumpy stop on the runway. Landings were not Athena’s favorite. They both sighed knowing they were one step closer to home. She still needed to remember where the garden was, but being in England made them closer to the goal. Now he just had to pray the cloak would hold out as long as it took.

CHAPTER SEVEN

“I didn’t realize London was so big!”

“It has really grown up over the years.”

“I think the last time I was here was over a hundred years ago.”

“Where should we start?”

“The garden I am looking for is on the grounds of a castle. I believe they call it Arundel.”

They walked to Victoria station and looked for a map. “Look here.” Darian pointed to the map on the wall. “Looks like it will be about ninety minutes from here.”

“Well at least it’s a straight shot.”

They walked into the station and purchased their tickets. Athena was pacing. The electricity coming off of her body was enough to shock the air. She knew they were getting closer to home. It was time. They took their seats on the train and waited for it to leave the station. It was then she finally noticed the flutter. It wasn’t nerves.

“I think we aren’t alone?”

“You are right.” Their instinct for feeling demons nearby was going off. It was painful but bearable. They were close but not close enough to reveal themselves. Darian took her hand to calm her.

“What do we do?”

“Nothing. Act natural. Hopefully they won’t notice us.”

“Okay.”

Athena wanted to call her sword and hack off some heads. This was a crowded train. Darian knew he had to keep her calm. He stroked her hand with his hoping it would stop her from doing anything rash. He fought his own instincts as well.

“Hold on. We are almost there.”

“I hope so. I can’t keep this act up much longer. I don’t know how you do it so easily.”

“Millennia of practice. Here we go. This is our stop.” He got up in one swift motion and then pulled her to her feet. She landed against his chest and he placed a kiss to her lips. She knew this was part of his rouse, but she couldn’t help getting a little excited.

“I want to get away from these creatures.”

“I know.” They stepped toward the door hand in hand. They took the two stairs in one step. They were on the platform looking around. He found the map on the wall. They saw their path and headed toward Arundel.

The feeling was getting lighter as they walked further into Arundel. The castle was on a hill just outside of town. It was a forbidding sight. It was equal parts beauty and treachery. They walked passed it toward the garden. The further they went the more of tingle Athena felt in her toes. She stopped and closed her eyes to focus on the feeling.

“Is this the spot?”

“It is.”

“Shall we cross now or wait for evening?”

“I don’t know. I am feeling a little strange right now.” Athena’s wings started to unfurl. They knew where they were.

“What the hell?” Darian threw his coat over her back quickly.

“I can’t help it. I feel pulled.” Her body was being pulled toward a twinkling in the bushes. It was magical and horrifying for Darian.

“Wait for me.”

“Come on. I can’t control this. They want to go home.”

“Then let’s go.” She pushed her way through the brush. As they stepped in the air changes. A swirl of moisture hit her nose and she knew they were in the right place.

“Spire is down at the end of this cave.”

“Hopefully there won’t be guards waiting.”

Her father had never posted guards at this entrance. He was worried, but she wasn’t. No one outside the family knew this entrance. She was sure that wouldn’t have changed.

“There shouldn’t be. No one knows of this entrance. As far as father is concerned I died a century ago. He shouldn’t be expecting anyone.”

They kept walking cautiously. The only sound she could hear was that of the running water. This cave was full of underground tributaries. The sound used to comfort her as a child. Now it excited her. It meant they were getting closer to the outskirts of Spire. Her body felt alive with anxiety. She wanted to be home, but she didn’t know what this would cost.

The light was growing stronger now. She knew the entrance to this cave wasn’t far. They held hands as they walked closer. The future was about to confront them and neither one knew what to expect. As the opening appeared she filled her lungs with the sweet dew filled air of home. It was a pungent smell that she had almost forgotten. They stepped out into the golden hue of home for the first time in years. Nothing had changed. This area was still covered in lush green gardens and magnificent trees. The sky was shades of purple and pink. The light was warm and filled her heart with joy. Even though the purpose of Spire was very evil in nature it wasn’t. It was heavenly.

“It’s good to be home.” The smile on Athena’s face warmed Darian’s heart even though his own was racing with trepidation. He was banished from here. He had no way of knowing how the King would react. She could see it. “What’s wrong?”

“I’m a little nervous. You know I was banished from this place.”

“And I left it on not so great terms, so?”

“Your father may not be as welcoming as you hope.”

“He will be when he finds out he is to be a grandfather.”

“What?”

“Did I for get to mention I’m pregnant?”

“I think you might have.” She is glowing and rubbing her belly. He knew this was possible. To hear her say it was more than he could imagine. She was about two months along when they left Spire. Now that he really looked her, she had to be. He smiled and pulled her in close. As he squeezed her tight, her wings unfurled and began to beat with joy. That confirmed it for him. Their son had been returned to them.

“So, you see it’s time for us to be home.” She whispered in his ear.

“What’s the plan? Do we storm the castle? Do we hide out in the cities?”

“I don’t know yet.” She stepped back from him and wiped her eyes. When she looked over she saw Darian wipe his eyes as well. She had no idea how excited he really was to be a father. It meant as much to him as it did to her.

“Great. So which direction do we go in?”

“I think we head toward the castle. The answer will come to me.”

He squeezed her hand and they headed toward the castle. Neither one was sure of what was going to happen. Her father was certainly not predictable. She felt his presence, but wasn’t sure if he could feel her. She knew if he could there would be guards headed toward them soon. Darian was anxious. He didn’t like giving in to those feelings, but this was a new experience. He was always in control and always had a plan. Now they were definitely winging it.

Something was pulling Athena. She seemed to keep going in one direction without giving it any thought. He actually witness the trepidation spread across her face. He knew then her father’s power was pulling her home. It wasn’t comfortable. He didn’t want to be led there. He wanted to go there on his own terms and not on the Kings. It didn’t look like it was going to be anyone but the Kings.

She didn’t have long to ponder it. As they turned the corner clouds started to darken the sky. It was the only sign she needed. He knew they were here. The once graceful beauty of Spire was now consumed with anger. She knew the King would be upset, but this was too much.

“We need to get to the castle before he gets to us.”

Darian nodded agreement. He took her hand and they took to the sky. It had been a very long time since either of them had done so. It took a few seconds for them to find a rhythm, but once they did they flew straight and strong to the palace. There was no need to hide now. He knew they were there. Athena was tired, but she pushed on. Darian kept her hand tight so she wouldn’t fall. He knew this was going to be difficult for her. She hadn’t even tried to fly yet. He regretted that choice now. He should have had her practice a few times at night. It would have helped her along.

They landed outside the gate to a storm of soldiers. They had their blades drawn ready to fight them. She wasn’t going to fight anyone. This was her home. Darian called his sword just in case. He knew how well trained these soldiers were. He would take at least three of them with him if it came down to it. Athena put her hand on his stomach and held him back. She was commanding a grace he had only seen the once in the woods. She was all the regal Queen she could be.

“Peace.” She held up her hands and didn’t look away from any of them.

The soldiers look confused. They eyed each other than her. They lowered their weapons and parted. Athena looked up to see her father walking toward them. He was taller than all the soldiers by a foot. His jet black wings matched his hair perfectly. His piercing blue eyes were glaring at her and then at Darian. When he reached the two of them he stopped abruptly. The emotions playing across his face belied the anger he had previously shown.

“Father.” Athena bowed as gracefully as she could in a pair of jeans. It would have looked better had they changed first.

“This can’t be.”

“What?”

“You died, in front of me.”

“I know that.”

“Then you can’t be here in front of me now.” He swung his long regal gown around. His wings remained furled behind him. Everything he was doing was contradictory. If he were really angry his wings would show it. It seemed like he couldn’t decide which course of action to take.

“I have been revived.” Athena was getting dangerously close to acting like a spoiled child. Her father’s reaction wasn’t going to be great, but this was more than even she bargained for. He wasn’t jumping to believing her.

“That isn’t possible.”

“It is, Your Majesty.” Darian interrupted at the risk of his own life. Athena grabbed his hand and smiled. She knew he was taking this on for her sake. He could have remind quiet, but he did what no one else could.

“I will deal with you later.” Maliacom twisted quickly looking Darian square in the eye. There was no doubt of his feelings toward this one. He was the reason he lost his daughter in the first place. The King would not own his part her death ever.

“He is telling the truth, father. A witch gave me back my life after Darian found me. He followed me all this time keeping me safe.”

Malaicom thought about her words for a moment. His anger was still just below the surface, but his eyes weren’t lying. This was the exact form of his daughter Athena. “I’ve never heard of anyone being revived before. Let me see you.” She let go of Darian’s hand and stepped closer to her father. He looked her over closely. He even ran his hands over the scars on her wings.

“Convinced?”

“How did you die?” Malaicom decided to test her. Only Athena would know the particulars. Others would only know the facts everyone knew.

“I slit my throat and plummeted out of my window.” Athena wasted no time answering him. She knew what she knew.

“Oh, Athena, I thought I had lost you forever.” He stepped closer to her and threw his arms around her. Malaicom pulled her in so tight she couldn’t breathe. He picked up her and swung her around like he used to when she was a child. When he set her back down his eyes were filled with tears. Athena’s were as well.

“What is going on, father?” A young man standing behind them asked. She peered around her father to see a boy with jet black hair and her father’s features standing there.

“Your sister has come home.”

“Athena?” The young man ran up to her. His eyes are filled with tears as well.

“Yes.”

“My name is Johan.” He jumped into her arms and wrapped his arms around her neck.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Johan.”

Their wings react as they touched. The blood they shared pumped in joy as they embraced each other. Athena wrapped her white wings around his body. His black wings furled up underneath hers and quivered. He was definitely her blood relative. They were both confident of that deep down in their souls.

“I’ve heard so much about you, sister.”

“I hope it wasn’t all bad.”

“It wasn’t.”

“Now shall we go in so I can get the entire story?” As Malaicom spoke the ominous clouds started to fade and the light came back to Spire. Darian was standing there waiting for his turn to be embraced. The soldiers embraced him with cuffs. Athena turned around to see him being led toward the dungeon. She dropped Johan and spun toward Darian. She wasn’t going to let this happen even if it cost her life again. She knew Darian would find her no matter where she was.

“We can’t do anything until you release him.” Her hand was on his cuffs and she was standing defiantly. This was a side her father had never seen. She had always been a fierce warrior, but she was never this way when dealing with him.

“He is a traitor. I will not.”

“You will or I will go no further with you.”

“Has he really done anything wrong?” Johan decided to make his presence known. This was his long lost sister and he wasn’t going to let her slip through his hands.

“He betrayed my trust.”

“How did he do that? By loving your daughter. I hardly find that a betrayal.” Athena was surprised by his boldness. She wasn’t that bold at his age. She would certainly have never challenged their father.

“It was a very long time ago. Long before we let Prins marry whomever they choose. I had chosen a husband for Athena and it wasn’t Darian.”