A Change of Heart

Caelynn waved her hands over the mugs and murmured a few words, coating the mugs in frost. A look of relief washed over her face as Silas and Issic took their seats. She knew they wouldn't hurt her, but she didn't know if they would sit and talk with her or if they would storm off.


Silas reach over and took her hands in his, his eyes filled with shame and sorrow. "Caety-girl, I'm so sorry. I never meant to hurt you. You know I care about you and that I want to look out for you. But I never meant it to go so far that you would feel I was tryin' to control you. I'm sorry and I hope you can forgive me."

Caelynn leaned over and hugged him. "I know you are just looking out for me, Silas. And I really do appreciate it. But I'm not a little girl. I know something is going on and I know it involves me in some way. Please... tell me what is happening."

Silas glanced to Issic, a look warning the lad to be prepared for anything. Looking back to Caelynn, he spoke softly, gently. "I know you haven't had contact with your family since you returned to Gothwaite, Caety. I know it's been painful for you, but it's probably the one thing keeping you safe here now." He paused, studying her somber expression before continuing. "There have been reports, Caelynn, of a traitor. They say an Avalonian wizard is helping the Midgardian Horde. Those who have claimed to have seen him describe a young man looking very much like you. Some of the lords in Camelot think it's Andreww. You're entire family is under suspicion now, Caety." He stopped to let his words sink in.

"NO!" Caelynn bolted from her chair and paced the room, seething with confusion and anger. "Andreww would never turn traitor! He'd die before aiding the enemy!" Tears started to course down her cheeks. "My parents have been loyal to Albion and Camelot! How could those fools think they would stoop so low?!" She stopped her pacing and stood, face buried in her hands, sobbing in the middle of the floor.

Silas stood to go to her, but in a flash Issic was at her side, wrapping her in a gentle embrace, comforting her while he escorted her back to her seat. "We will help you, Caelynn," his words were a soft murmur, but Silas could hear them. Letting go of his jealousy, he could clearly see now the regard Issic held for Caelynn. For the first time since his arrival, Silas was truly grateful to have Issic here to help.