The Girl Who Walked Through Fire

by Dana Gricken

  “You there! Come here. We want to speak with you,” One Knight demanded, curling his finger towards them.

  “Hey, look at her clothes,” Another Knight called out, as his flashlight shone upon Elara’s burnt nightshirt.

  “What’s going on here?” The first Knight asked as he approached angrily.

  Merek shifted uncomfortably, clearing his throat. “A fire broke out. Nothing we couldn’t handle.”

  “A fire? Was it The Fallen?”

  “No. Our neighbor, actually. It was an accident. Everyone’s fine,” Merek replied, quickly. “We made it out before the home collapsed.”

  “Do you mind if we ask you a few questions?” The third Knight asked, stepping forward. “The King’s ordered us to investigate the area. Were you aware Serenity was destroyed by The Fallen a few hours ago? Since you’re connected by the Wards, we need to know if you saw anything unusual that might help.”

  I can walk through fire, Elara thought. Nothing too unusual.

  “Serenity was destroyed?” Elara asked. “I can’t believe it. All of those people, murdered...how could they do that?”

  “That’s what dragons and witches do,” The other Knight snarled. “That’s all they’re good for. We’ll get them all, sooner or later.”

  “I’m afraid we can’t help you, gentlemen,” Merek interjected, desperate to get rid of the Knights. “We didn’t see or hear anything.”

  “Figures,” The first Knight scoffed. “What are your names? We need to know for our report.”

  Merek hesitated. “Merek and Elara Everly.”

  The first Knight paused. “Why does that sound familiar? Merek Everly...”

  The other Knight’s eyes lit up. “Merek Everly! He owes the King taxes. Isn’t that right, Merek? I guess coming all of this way won’t be for nothing after all. Better pay up.”

  Merek gulped. He couldn’t tell them he was poor, could he? He doubted they cared anyway – no one did about the Wards.

  “I’m afraid I don’t have your money, gentlemen. Drought has hit our farm pretty hard, and blackwings have eaten most of our crops. If you could just give me a few more weeks, maybe I could take out a loan at the bank and-”

  “We’re not looking for excuses, Merek. Give us what you owe or we’ll take something of yours,” The Knight replied, nodding towards Elara.

  “No! I swear to you, I’ll have your money soon. Take me if you need to, but leave my daughter out of this. It isn’t her fault.”

  The Knight laughed. “What could we want from a dirty old man such as yourself? Get out of the way.”

  As they approached Elara, the third Knight stepped in front of her protectively. “We didn’t come here for this. The Fallen are more important. Stay focused, Knights. He’ll have the money soon. Won’t you, Merek?”

  “I will!” Merek replied, nodding fervently.

  The other two Knights contemplated what he said for a few seconds, before turning away from Elara. They waved their arms in dismissal as they walked back towards their vehicle.

  “Fine. You’re the Master Knight. We won’t question you. But we won’t be the ones who tell the King that Merek’s taxes are late. He’s angry enough as it is. Now, come on – it’s almost morning and we still have other places to investigate.”

  Elara caught the third Knight’s eyes, and the two of them shared a moment of sincerity before he walked away. Only when the car sped off into the distance did Merek sigh while shaking his head. He embraced his daughter in a quick hug, before cursing himself for putting her in danger.

  “I’m sorry you had to witness that. I hate these Knights. You know what I wish for at night? I hope the dragons and witches kill all of them! Especially that King Angus! If they really wanted to make a difference, they’d start with that tyrant.”

  “Dad? Focus. We have to find the money you owe somehow. Who knows what’ll happen if we don’t have it again. Do you really want them to come back?”

  “Well, I can’t go back to the bank again. They’re still after me from last time. You don’t want to know how much money I owe them,” He replied, shaking his head. “It’s a long shot, but I guess the only one who could help us is a cousin of your Mom who lives in Orana. Her name is Lilian. I met her once when she was younger. I heard she married into a rich family there – the Belmont’s.”

  “Why me?” Elara asked, with a hint of exasperation in her voice spewing out a little stronger than she had intended.

  “You can be very charismatic, you know - and you’re a woman. I hope she’ll take pity on you. It won’t hurt to ask. Besides, the farm needs me here, especially after the fire.”

  Elara nodded, sighing. “I hope you’re right. I’ll be back soon. Try not to get into any more trouble with the Knights, all right?”

  “Real funny. I should be the one telling you that.”

  As she turned to walk away, her father gently grabbed her arm and placed a locket in her palm. It was cold to the touch.

  “I wanted to give you this locket. It belonged to your Mom. She always said it brought her good luck. I hope it’ll have the same effect on you.”

  Elara inspected the locket in her hand. It was silver, with cherry blossoms delicately carved into the front. It looked like it had been hand-made. Its rough and tarnished exterior indicated it had been worn and handled for an extended period of time. The inside held an inscription, which read:

  FOR THE DRAGONWITCH; WHO WILL ONE DAY BRING PEACE, PROSPERITY, AND HOPE TO ALL KINDS

  Elara was tempted to ask what the inscription meant, or where her Mom acquired the locket, but she kept silent. She knew her Dad would only answer her questions with more questions. Instead, she tucked the precious heirloom away safely in her pocket.

  “You should get going now, Elara. It’ll take you a few hours to make it to the city. And change your clothes, will you?”

  The Girl with the Violet Eyes

  The journey from Haven to Orana was long and strenuous. The harsh gravel roads strained Elara’s feet as she carried forward. Cars drove by quickly, spraying up dust and rock into the air. If she hadn’t been wearing boots, she was sure her feet would’ve been blistered and red by now. The hot sun beat down in the early morning of a clear midsummer’s day, causing little beads of sweat to form under her hairline. As she stopped to take a break, she knew she had reached her destination. The tall, golden gate in the distance couldn’t be missed.

  Peering over the gate, the city was like something out of a fairytale. Sparkling white sidewalks lined the streets, and tall apartments that seemed to go on for miles were made out of brick and gold. Beautiful murals and paintings were etched on the sides of the buildings, and lush, green grass with supple crops was ready to be harvested. Tall billboards flickered between pictures of dragons and witches, making them look evil and twisted. The King wouldn’t want anyone to forget who the enemy is.

  The city was bursting with life, as the crowded streets were busy with its well-dressed citizens in their expensive vehicles. Children from the Wards could only dream of living in a city as glamorous as this. A somber guard stood tall in front of the gate, restricting access. Various homeless people gathered outside with whatever little property they had, hoping generous passers would spare a few dollars. As Elara approached, the guard held out his arm to stop her.

  “Sorry - we don’t allow bums in The Diamond City,” The guard said, coldly.

  “I’m not a bum. I have business with a cousin of mine. Her name is Lilian, and-”

  The guard drew his sword and placed it in front of her, causing Elara to gasp. “Maybe you didn’t hear me the first time. No bums allowed. Get lost.”

  Suddenly, a familiar face appeared on the opposite side of the gate. “I think I gave you that sword too early, Squire Joel. Let the lady past the gate.”

  The guard became startled and placed his sword quickly back into the holster that sat snugly on his hip. Elara recognized the man as the third Knight from earlier, who stopped the other men from
taking her as payment.

  “Sir David! I didn’t see you there. Forgive me,” The guard replied, as he quickly opened the gate.

  The guard motioned for Elara to enter. She walked through, nodding politely. That’ll teach him, she thought.

  “We meet again,” The Knight quipped. “Your name was...Elara Everly, right?”

  Elara smiled. “You remembered. And you?”

  “My name is David Caballero - and it’s nice to meet you. Again.”

  He was in his late twenties if Elara had to guess. His brown eyes held a glimmer of hazel, and she could see that there were much truth and compassion in them. His thick, dark brown hair was styled neatly, except for a small strand that hung loosely against his forehead. He had a chiseled jawline, with a full, well-kempt beard that swept across his face from ear to ear. Despite the armor he wore, Elara could tell he was nothing like the other Knights.

  “If you’re here to discuss your father’s payment,” He began, regretfully, “I’m afraid there isn’t much else I can do. He owes a lot of money.”

  “I’m just here to visit a cousin of mine, but I never got the chance to say thank you. I really appreciate what you did for me.”

  “Of course. It was the right thing to do.”

  “So, why did you become a Grey Knight?” Elara asked as the two of them began walking side by side slowly throughout the city.

  “To defend and protect. I wanted to help others.”

  “I wouldn’t expect a Grey Knight to say that.”

  “For me, it’s the truth. My parents were both Knights. They were thrilled when they learned I joined the Order. In just a few years, the King promoted me to Master Knight. That’s the highest rank you can get. I guess he was impressed.”

  “You know, you’re not like the other Knights around here,” Elara said suddenly, as she stopped walking. “You seem like you actually have a soul.”

  He chuckled. “The Grey Knights have had a bad reputation for too long,” He shook his head out of frustration and then continued. “I agree that they act on impulse instead of compassion, but there are things that I’d like to change around here. They’ve become too power-hungry. Many of them are good people deep down; just misguided.”

  “Does misguided give the Knights the right to harass and intimidate the dragons and witches?” Elara asked, warily. “I’ve heard rumors.”

  “I’m not condoning violence,” David began. “I don’t agree with harming dragons or witches, but they are unpredictable, and most often dangerous. You didn’t see what happened to Serenity in person.”

  “But couldn’t the same be said of humans?” Elara challenged. “How many humans have been murderers, thieves, and liars in history?”

  David was silent for a moment. Before he had the chance to respond, a young guard who looked about sixteen or seventeen approached the two of them.

  “Sir, King Angus wants to speak with you inside. He said it’s urgent,” The guard said, nervously.

  “Thank you, Matias. I’ll be there in a moment.”

  The guard hesitated for a moment, his eyes wavering between Elara and David for a few seconds before quickly scurrying away.

  “I’m afraid you’ll have to excuse me,” David said, politely, “But if you’d like to come back to the city at any time, you’re always welcome. Somehow, I don’t think the guard at the gate will be a problem for you anymore.”

  “Me either. I think you scared him enough for two lifetimes.”

  David laughed. “It was nice seeing you again, Elara.”

  “You too.”

  He gave her a little wink before heading towards the castle, and Elara hoped that a good man like David wouldn’t be corrupted by the cold and calculating King.

  DAVID CABALLERO HAD served the King long enough to know he was a very demanding man, and he was afraid to make his Highness wait too long. He walked quickly through the castle, rushing to hear what was so important. He nodded towards the guard who stood tall outside the King’s office and entered to find the monarch near the crackling fireplace, gazing wistfully at the burning wood. A half-empty bottle of whiskey sat on his desk.

  “You called for me, my Lord?” David asked, unsure of whether or not he should disturb the King in mid-thought.

  The King nodded, not bothering to turn around. “I heard you returned from your patrol. Have you learned anything in your investigation? Do we have any new information about The Fallen?”

  David shook his head. “I’m afraid not, your Majesty. The rest of the people in the Wards swore they haven’t seen anything. Haven was surprised to hear of the attack.”

  “The Fallen are desperate. Attacking a city in the Wards was a political statement. No one is safe from these brutes. It’s time to face the truth – we’re on the verge of war at any minute – and frankly, I’m tired of standing around waiting for their onslaught.”

  “What are you suggesting?”

  “Increasing security would be a smart move. Sending Knights to patrol the Mystic Veil and the Chamber of Fire will discourage the dragons and witches from leaving their cities. We’ll match their force,” The King replied, shrugging his shoulders, and the tone of his voice sounded defeated and monotonous. “You’re our Master Knight; the Order’s leader. I’m sure you’ll think of other pre-emptive measures.”

  “What about Project Black Skull?”

  “It’s already begun. These are its earliest steps. The first thing to do is show the dragons and witches that we’re serious – that we won’t sit idly by while our cities burn.”

  “Forgive me if I’m intruding, but are you all right, my Lord?” David asked, stepping closer.

  The King sighed and finally turned around. His bloodshot eyes were glossed over in shame and regret.

  “I fear for the safety of humanity,” The King replied earnestly, as he shook his head and balled his fists. “The dragons and witches will not kill my kingdom as they once killed my wife.”

  ELARA AIMLESSLY WALKED around the city of Orana, trying not to notice the disapproving looks of various townspeople she passed, who were dressed elegantly in expensive silks and furs. She spotted one man who was dressed similarly to her, in ragged and tarnished clothing, and decided to ask him for directions. He was fiddling with the nearby garden, neatly trimming the various bushes and plucking the weeds. He was barely five feet tall and quite older – Elara guessed in his fifties – and had a few missing teeth and disgruntled hair.

  “Excuse me,” She said, on approach. “I’m looking for a woman named Lilian Belmont. Do you know where I can find her?”

  “Oi, you startled me!” The man replied, in a strong Irish accent. “You’re in luck, lassie. I’m Alby, her slave – uh, servant – depending on who you ask.”

  Before Elara could reply, the large doors leading to the mansion in front of her opened swiftly. She glanced at the woman, who was dressed lavishly and beautifully, who opened them. She would be the spitting image of Elara if it weren’t for her brown hair and green eyes.

  “What’s all of this commotion?” The woman asked the older man before her eyes found Elara’s. “Can I help you?”

  The older man scurried away, continuing his gardening work.

  “Are you Lilian Belmont?”

  “If you must know, yes,” The woman replied, slightly annoyed. “Who are you?”

  “My name is Elara Everly. I live in Haven. You know, the city in the Wards? I think you once knew my mother, Reya. You were cousins?”

  “Knew is a bit of an exaggeration. I think I met her once, years ago. Nice woman, if I can even remember her correctly. What of her?”

  “Well, I hate to ask, but my Dad and I have fallen on hard times with our farm, and-”

  Elara was interrupted by the woman’s sneer. “You came all this way to ask a woman you’ve never met for money?”

  “It would only be a loan, just until we can get back on our feet.”

  “As much as I would just love to help a complete stranger, I’m
afraid you’ll have to ask my husband, Richard. He handles the family’s finances.”

  “Is he here now?”

  “No. He’s out right now, working. That’s what some people do to earn their money,” The woman rolled her eyes. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have young children to look after.”

  Before Elara could add another word, the door closed in her face with a loud bang. The man, who was busy gardening and pretending not to eavesdrop, shook his head and continued with his duties.

  “Rich people,” He muttered under his breath, too quiet for Elara to hear. “No compassion in their hearts. Witches would never do that.”

  Elara turned back, heading towards the path she came from. She couldn’t bear to see the look on her father’s face once he learned that they had no one else to turn to. That would destroy her the most.

  HALFWAY ON THE JOURNEY home, thunder crackled and rain suddenly began to pour furiously. The sun had disappeared from the sky, and Elara only had the grey clouds to guide her home. As if to make matters worse, the cars driving by splashed her with each puddle they struck. She fell to the dirt road, defeated, and began to sob. She couldn’t tell where her tears began and where the rain ended. This was it. They were even too poor for the Wards.

  As she wiped her tears away and stood up, shivering from the rain, she heard a faint yell in the distance. She paused, thinking she was only hearing things...when another yell came, even more desperate than before. She followed the sound, unable to resist her curiosity, and it led her down an off-road trail, near a large, hidden forest. She silently crept behind a nearby bush, peering around the edge to see what the commotion was about.

  Elara had never seen anything like it. What could only be described as an aura of bright purple, green, and blue covered the opening of the forest like an aurora borealis. It was nearly blinding, and Elara had to squint to fully make it out. It swept over the tall trees like a fog, yet untouched by the rain. It seemed to serve as a portal into the forest. She noticed a girl in front of it, around Elara’s age. A group of eight Grey Knights stood in front of her, with one only inches away from her face.