Wow. You all have given me quite the curveball. Okay, here we go. Solstice has opted to be taken – elsewhere….
“Lady Solstice, I am glad to see you will be able to go home.” Nicholas comes up behind the half-elf, who was near the railing of the ship, staring out at the waters as the ship sails swiftly for her homeland.
“I admit, I was surprised by his offer.” Solstice turns, looking up at Nicholas. “Were you?”
“Aye, my lady. I was very surprised. I was certain he would demand you help his kingdom. However, I know where Eyanea lies – and we are not headed in its direction. He has been true to his word and is taking you to your homeland, Oriff.” Nicholas looks out at the sea, admiring the sunlight glistening off of the waters.
“I had no doubts he would be true to his words.” Solstice smiles faintly.
“And how did you know that?” Nicholas looks at her, startled. “Have you met him be – oh. Of course.” Nicholas chuckles softly. “You have seen it.”
“I have seen enough to know the truth of his soul, aye. I know the depth of his courage, the depth of his love for his kingdom. I also know he would abhor being a party to enslaving another human being, no matter how noble the cause may be.” Solstice turns, looking toward where Lucian stands on the bridge with Jarrod.
“What have you seen, my lady?” Nicholas is curious.
“Many things, Nicholas. The future is never really set. Everything is fluid. One decision can change everything.” She looks toward him. “Like you helping him rather than hindering him. Without your help, it was entirely possible he would have died that night.”
“I’m sorry?” Nicholas jerks, startled.
“I saw his death, not at your hands, but due to you calling the other guards, I saw it.” Solstice nods to Nicholas.
“I have saved his life?” Nicholas looks toward Lucian.
“Aye. And, quite possibly, the lives of many others in his kingdom. Thank you, Nicholas.” Solstice touches his arm.
“Why did you not tell me?” Nicholas rounds upon her, a dark pain in his gaze. “What if I had chosen the other path?”
“I could not tell you. You had to decide for yourself which path you would take. You needed to find yourself, Nicholas. I knew if I told you, I would be choosing your life for you. I could not do that.” Solstice smiles faintly at him.
“Er – oh.” Nicholas exhales slowly. “I see.” He turns, frowning.
“What is it?” Solstice blinks, watching Nicholas bound down the deck of the ship. “Nicholas?”
“Lady Solstice? Is there something wrong?” Lucian’s voice echoes across the space. He had seen Nicholas dart away from the woman.
“I am uncertain.” Both turn to look at Nicholas.
“They are coming, Lucian. There is a ship hiding around the edge of that island.” Nicholas points. “It is a new patrol, something Ryall has just begun. You must decide quickly. Either make haste for your own lands – or you will need to turn and fight.”
Lucian turns to look at Solstice.
“My lady, this will require your input. Shall we stay and fight? Or do we head for my homeland?”