Halos and Horns: Dark Embrace

Four days had passed since the unexpected edict from the god Autem. Serenah had gone back and forth over the god's order. She couldn't fathom how she could even contribute to a battle. In two days the big fight would happen and she still wavered.

If she did as Autem ordered she ran the risk of her father finding out and punishing her for obeying a god's order over his own. Though that was dangerous, no one would protest because he was king, and even the temple trod lightly when it came to her father. It had been years since her last punishment from her father and she had no desire to repeat it.

"What to do...," she murmured.

"My Lady?"

"It's nothing, Lael." Ignoring Lael's questioning gaze, Serenah stood and went outside to the balcony.

She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. Courage was needed. Hadn't she always stood up for her convictions? How was this any different? She had to believe deep in her heart that obeying Autem would only result in good things.

Finally resolved for what she had to do, she sent Lael away and called for Alastar.

"Yes, My Lady?"

"Alastar, your loyalty and sword belong to me, right?"

"Always, My Lady."

"That means you will follow me into hell and not miss a breath, correct?"

Alastar straightened, his eyes on her face. Serenah had to resist the urge to fidget at his scrutiny.

"Yes," he resolutely replied.

"Good. Because I need your help on the day of the battle."

"What are you planning, Your Highness?"

She winced at his use of her title. Not good. Whenever he used her title it meant he was about to prevent her from doing something he deemed foolish or dangerous. She needed his cooperation, though. She couldn't stop now.

"Alastar, please. I wouldn't ask if it wasn't important."

"What would you have me do, My Lady?"

"I need you to sneak me onto the battlefield."

His scowl almost made her lose her resolve.

"You understand, Your Highness, this goes against our King's command that you do not participate in any battles or war councils."

"I know but I received an edict from Autem. I am to be present at the Plains of Tenroc for the battle. If I don't the battle will go badly."

Alastar frowned. "Autem's orders supersede any mortal order. I will be your shield and sword. Do not leave my side."

"Thank you, Alastar!" Serenah impulsively hugged him and ignored his grunt of surprise.

He patted her head and she smiled into his chest. He always treated her like a younger sibling. She was okay with that. He was the only one who made her feel safe in the castle. The only one whom she truly understood and trusted above all others.

She stepped back and glanced at his expression. Alastar's stoic face gave nothing away and that was fine.

"I'll find clothes to disguise you. Is Lael coming with us? She would be handy and give you another layer of protection."

"Yes. I wanted to tell you first because you are my main bodyguard."

Alastar nodded. "Good. We will meet behind the stables on the day of the battle. Don't be late."

"I won't. Again, thank you, Alastar."

"Don't thank me yet. Thank me only if we are successful."

"Understood. Now, I must get ready for dinner. So out," she shooed him away with a playful grin.

Alastar bowed and quit the room leaving Serenah with her thoughts. They would pull this off because the alternative was unacceptable.