《Of Heirs and Errors》


 Chapter One: Daelyn

    It was sunny. Not a cloud in sight, a cool breeze kept it from getting too hot. The perfect summer''s day, designed to be enjoyed outside.


    And yet, here sat Daelyn, staring at the closed door to the King''s office. She longed to know what was being said behind it. God, she hoped it wasn''t about her upcoming birthday.


    King Lucas and a handful of his trusted advisors had been in there for over an hour now. While this wasn''t entirely unusual, she suspected something was going on. Meetings had been scheduled with other Kingdoms and secret conversations-stuff Daelyn had not been privy to.


    "May I get you anything, Miss Daelyn?" Alberta, her lady in waiting asked.


    Holding in a scream, Daelyn bumped into the table in the entryway.


    As politely possible, she waved Alberta away quietly and picked up the table.


    Alberta curtsied and left.


    Daelyn, trying to be discreet, moved further away from the door. The hallway was long and led to the main components of the palace; the library, the ballroom, and the dining hall, all located on the east wing.


    Walking to the library she tried to calm her shaking hands.


    Alberta sneaking up on her had made her even more nervous. At least it was Alberta who had found her and not one of the King''s footmen or butlers. She could trust Alberta to not mention it to the King. He HATED her snooping around.


    Daelyn stopped and looked out the big bay window in the library. This was one of her favorite spots in the whole palace. The windows had been opened and the scent of flowers spilled in from the gardens outside.


    Part of her wanted to go run through the gardens like she had as a child.


    Daelyn wished she knew what was keeping the King so busy. She wasn''t accustomed to her brother keeping things from her. For the first time in her 17 years, she felt alone. Of course, the palace was often filled with guests and staff but few that she could allow herself to get close to.


    Without notice, footsteps filled the hallway. Farewells were being exchanged.


    Too early for supper, too late for lunch.


    Listening, she heard numerous engines igniting in front of the palace.


    Letting out a sigh, she stretched her arms and waited.


    As if on cue, Lucas walked into the Library. His sleeves were rolled up and his tie undone. His blue eyes crinkled with an apologetic smile.


    "Sorry, I know you had to eat lunch alone," he joined her on the sofa, "Things went later than we''d planned."


    Daelyn noticed the hairs by his temples were beginning to pepper with grey. The title of King was weighing heavy on him.


    Nodding toward him, "You know I''m capable of eating meals by myself..." she pushed him jokingly. Yet, she couldn''t put much past him. He knew her too well.


    "I know, I know. I feel bad though, leaving you alone all the time. Pretty soon, you''ll have a family of your own and I won''t get to see you as much."


    He ran his hands over his face, letting out a yawn.


    Daelyn''s heart sank at the talk of the future. She was in NO rush to leave her home.


    "Is that what you were discussing in there? My future?" she asked, bravely.


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    Her 18th birthday was coming soon. Typically, this was the earliest age when Princesses would be arranged for marriage.


    Pausing for a moment, Lucas sat up straighter.


    Squinting his eyes, "Is that why you were lurking outside the door?" The way he said it, Daelyn was sure it wasn''t a question.


    Feeling the blood rush to her cheeks. She had felt bad eavesdropping, but she was also VERY curious to know what all the secrecy was about.


    Keeping her eyes on the floor "I''m sorry, I''m just so out of the loop. You never tell me anything anymore. I was afraid it was about me and that was why you haven''t told me anything" she admitted.


    Surprisingly Lucas wasn''t angered by her confession. He remained calm and if anything he looked more compassionate than Daelyn felt she deserved.


    Glancing out the windows, he looked back at Daelyn.


    "I wish I could share everything with you, even just for my own sanity. But events are happening that have to remain at maximum security" he said, gravely.


    She could feel the intensity of his words, "I understand."


    "Some good news I can share with you..." he said changing the subject. His whole demeanor lifting.


    "Okay." Curious, she adjusted herself on the couch, her full attention on him.


    "I''ve chosen a bride" he beamed cheek to cheek.


    "What?" she asked without thinking.


    Daelyn couldn''t believe it, how hadn''t she thought of this possibility?


    "Er-That''s amazing, Lucas! Who is it?" she asked, thinking of who he could have decided upon.


    He smiled at her and chuckled, "No, tell me how you feel..." He joked.


    Women were in short supply these days. Due to fertility issues, men outnumbered women three to one.


    "Princess Pilar Claremont" he proudly sang her name.


    She hugged him.


    "I''m so happy for you brother! She is stunning."


    Daelyn genuinely liked Pilar, but she''d only seen her once or twice. Pilar was from the Kingdom of Belraithe across the river from them. Her hair was a lovely rich reddish color and she had greenish-blue eyes. More importantly, she was as kind as she appeared beautiful. Although she''d only interacted with her a couple of times, Pilar always treated Daelyn with the most respect, like an equal... even despite her age.


    Not completely sure how old Pilar was, Daelyn was sure she wasn''t close to the maximum age for arranging a marriage. Princesses were expected to be married by 24.


    Daelyn wondered when Lucas had decided Pilar was the one for him.


    King Konrad Claremont was over for dinner the evening before, perhaps that was when they decided upon it...


    He was not a man to mess with. Built like a brick house, Daelyn had thought to herself during his visit. A solid six foot three, with probably 240 pounds of muscle. His skin showed signs of sun exposure and battle wounds. However, as far as rumors went, he hadn''t been in any battle for 5 years. Leaving it for the younger generation.


    Somehow during his visit, Daelyn never recalled any mention of his daughter Pilar.


    Drawing her out of her thoughts, Lucas spoke up.


    "Pilar will be coming here by the end of this week for the engagement party," he cleared his throat.


    Standing up he adjusted his shirt, "I think I''m gonna go for a walk before dinner" he said as he patted her on the shoulder.


    "Alright," she said half-mindedly, "And Lucas...I''m happy for you," she told him as he walked to the door.


    He paused at the door.


    "Daelyn", he said.


    Looking up at him, she could hear the sincerity in his voice.


    "Yeah?"


    "I sense you''re worried about your next birthday because of the arrangement guidelines. I hope you know me well enough by now to know that I''m not going to choose someone just because that''s protocol. I''ll only select someone that I feel is the best for you...If it takes longer than usual, so be it. You can still count on me" he said before leaving without giving Daelyn a chance to respond.


    Relief washed over her but was quickly replaced by curiosity.


    If the meetings hadn''t been about her? Then what was taking up so much time?


    Lucas''s engagement to Pilar?


    No, she quickly decided.


    Something else was at play here.


    Daelyn had meant what she said about being happy for her brother, but she feared she was going to lose the only person she had left.

 Chapter Two: Nicolai

    It had been two months since Nicolai started working at the Obstetrics and Fertility office. However, the adoring looks from the nurses were still going strong. Fidgeting in his chair, he leaned forward and closed the door. He paused to admire the new sign on the door: Dr. Nicolai Archibald FACS, MS, OB/GYN sparkled on the glass.


    His reasons for moving back home did not include romance or whatever it was the female population in the office was after. Nicolai had worked hard his whole life; he wasn''t about to get distracted just to lose it all.


    Running his hands through his hair, he tried to relax.


    In thirty minutes, he''d be meeting with Dr. Warner Tate, the President of the Genetics Engineering Program. Dr. Tate used to work here at this very office. Sometimes he would take on a doctor from the office to participate in one of his studies.


    Nicolai tried not to get encouraged by the visit; his boss Dr. Brown had informed him of it this morning when he finished with his first patient.


    "Dr. Archibald, I was talking to my former colleague Dr. Tate about how impressed we all are to have you aboard our team. Anyway, he was very interested in meeting you. He wants to stop in today after lunch. Is that okay with you?"


    Nicolai was stunned. He shook Dr. Brown''s hand with one hand and patted him on the shoulder with the other. "That''s great news. Thank you for the kind recommendation."


    Dr. Brown smiled, genuinely appreciative of Nicolai''s reaction. "Alright, I will let him know."


    Although he had only been there a short time, Nicolai was not surprised that Dr. Brown was impressed with him. It was something that he strived for. He was the first doctor in the office in the mornings and often the last one to leave. He had even volunteered to be on-call for the last two holidays. He quickly learned and implemented their policies and procedures.


    Not to mention, the female patients had taken a liking to him. He had become the top requested doctor in the office.


    None of this had gone to his head. He was used to being the golden boy, well, in school at least.


    A busy schedule of patients kept Nicolai occupied for the next four hours-too bad every day wasn''t like this, he thought to himself.


    He looked in his desk for a breath mint.


    The knock on his door was right on time.


    Dr. Tate was introduced by Dr. Brown.


    "This here is the talented Dr. Archibald that I have told you so much about," he said.


    Slightly shorter than Nicolai, but only by a couple of inches. He had dark brown hair and dark eyes, with a bit of a receding hairline.


    "Nice to meet you, Dr. Archibald. I''ve heard many great things," he said. His voice was a higher tone than Nicolai had expected.


    Nicolai gripped his hand. He was confident you could tell a lot about a man from his handshake.


    "The pleasure is all mine, Dr. Tate. It''s a privilege to meet you." He gestured to the seats in his office.


    Dr. Brown excused himself from the room. "I''ll let you two talk. Nice to see you again, Warner," he said before shutting the door behind him.


    Dr. Tate took the seat across from Nicolai''s desk. Nicolai was getting a feel for the type of visit this was.


    "So, Nicolai," he paused, crossing his legs and looking around the space at the awards hanging on the walls. "After Dr. Brown told me how impressed he was with you, I did my research."


    "Oh, and what was it you found?" he asked, curious about the results.


    Dr. Tate straightened in his chair, leaning on the desk to look Nicolai in the eyes.


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    "You have an IQ of 140 and graduated as valedictorian of your high school class at the age of 10. Grew up here in the orphanage until you emancipated yourself at 14, I think it said. After passing medical school, you moved across the border to Strayerfield, then completed your residency and fellowship ." He clasped his hands together. "And now you have returned home. Have I forgotten anything?"


    Nicolai was startled by Dr. Tate''s apparent interest in him. Sitting up straight, he raised a brow at the man sitting across from him.


    "Sounds like you know all about me, Dr. Tate. But I was very curious as to the purpose of your visit today," he said humbly.


    The past was the past, Nicolai thought to himself. He was only ever interested in the present and future.


    Shaking his head, Dr. Tate continued, "Right. I am looking for an intelligent and dedicated fellow such as yourself to step in on a confidential experiment we are running."


    "Oh," Nicolai said, "That explains the background check."


    Dr. Tate laughed, "Sorry, but it is a consequential case, and we have to make sure whoever we bring on board can be trusted. There is a lot at stake," he explained, his face growing serious.


    Nicolai was starting to think that the details of the job offer would not get much clearer than this. However, he would not turn down the opportunity to work on something for the Genetics Engineering Program. This could lead to potential offers here and in Belrathe if he ever wanted to leave.


    Clearing his throat, Nicolai asked, "Dr. Tate, are you offering me a job?"


    Wrinkles formed lines on Dr. Tate''s forehead as he shook his head. "Yes, we would like you to join our team. I understand that you work here, so this opportunity would be secondary. Dr. Brown has agreed to extend your weekend duties to coworkers."


    Nick felt his stomach drop; he didn''t want to cause a fuss with his current colleagues.


    "There might be some travel. I mentioned that to Dr. Brown as well. Anyway, I can''t go into more detail than this until you accept the offer and sign some forms for us," he said as he handed Nicolai confidentiality waivers and a form listing the wages and benefits.


    His earnings for this job offer were equal to what his current wage would be working full time. This was more than generous, he thought to himself.


    Waiting patiently, Dr. Tate smiled. "I hope that you will find we will compensate you well for your time," he said.


    "I can see that," Nicolai paused, setting the papers on the table. "But why do you want me? You listed my accomplishments and did so accurately, I might add. But other than my intelligence and dedication, why me?" he asked.


    Smiling, Dr. Tate sighed. "You are very perceptive, too."


    Waiting for him to answer his question, Nicolai just nodded in response.


    "I selected you because you show passion and endurance, for finding solutions. You are not hasty in making calls. Emotion does not get the best of you. I believe your previous Chief of Surgery said something about you ''thriving best under pressure.'' You''re young. This is an opportunity of a lifetime. Please sign the papers so I can tell you the rest..."


    Nicolai rarely did anything without really doing his homework, especially with job offers. But he was impressed at Dr. Tate''s determination and confidence. He felt compelled to accept the position.


    Taking a pen from the pocket of his coat, he signed his name.


    "Now you can tell me," he said, sitting back in his chair and crossing his arms.


    A satisfied smile crossed Dr. Tate''s face.


    "We at the GEP have been working alongside other countries to develop a cure for the conception issue. We have an experiment where an antidote was established using the DNA from the last naturally conceived baby. The antidote was successful on select individuals from Strayerfield," he said.


    Nicolai''s mind was blown. He hadn''t even thought about this possibility.


    "That''s incredible," was all he could say.


    "Yes, this could mean bringing back natural conception and eventually fixing the population issue. The doctors at the GEP and I have decided to orchestrate a mission to obtain the antidote from Strayerfield and bring it back. It needs to be tested on our men to be sure that it can work."


    "When is the mission?" Nicolai asked.


    "Right, it is to be by the end of next week. A select number of soldiers have been chosen to accompany you and a few others. We need you to secure it for travel."


    "I understand," he said, processing it all.


    "Nicolai," Dr. Tate said, his voice serious, "This is a one-shot deal. The child that the antidote was made from has died. There is no one left for us to try this again."


    The weight of his words fell on Nicolai.


    "Then we won''t fail," Nicolai assured him.


    "I had hoped I could count on you," Tate said as he stood.


    He extended his hand to Nicolai.


    "I will see you at 7 am on Saturday."


    "See you then," he said as the men walked out of his office.


    Dr. Brown met Dr. Tate in the hall, and the two of them walked out of the building together.


    Nicolai bit his bottom lip, trying to figure out what he had just agreed to.


    He could be part of the solution to the cure of the conception issue.


    What a great way to start his career, he thought on his walk back to his office.


    Ollie, the friendliest nurse they had, greeted him at his door. "Hi, Dr. Archibald, your patient is prepped for you in room three," she said.


    Looking at his watch, he realized that he was almost late for his appointments.


    "Thank you, Ms. Ollie. I appreciate your help."


    Quickly, he stopped in his office to secure the documents Dr. Tate had left for him. There was a manila folder containing information on the mission and experiment.


    Wishing he had a minute to look it all over, he stepped out of his office and darted down the hall.


    What an afternoon, he thought to himself.

 Chapter Three: Daelyn

    Daelyn tiptoed through the servants'' corridor. Rough stone scraped her hands as she fumbled through the darkness. Nobody used these passages anymore not the royal family, at least but she''d memorized every turn from those old blueprints tucked away in the library''s forgotten corner.


    Just an hour. That''s all she wanted. One hour of freedom.


    A rat skittered past her foot. She swallowed a scream, flattening herself against the cold wall until she could breathe again. Her silk gown caught on something sharp, making a hole that Alberta would notice.


    Tomorrow''s problem.


    The passage ended at an ancient wooden door, warped from decades of neglect. Daelyn shoved her weight against it, shoulder aching until the thing finally budged. Night air rushed in, carrying rose scents and possibility.


    The gardens lay empty before her; no gardeners, no guards. Everyone bustled inside, preparing for that stupid gala tomorrow where she''d be paraded around like a prized cow, with men sizing up her family connections and treaty potential.


    She had 53 minutes exactly before Alberta checked her bedroom.


    53 minutes of not being Princess Daelyn of Wintergate.


    Just a girl named Daelyn.


    She kicked her slippers off and ran across the wet grass, dirt squishing between her toes. This feeling earth against bare feet, no royal bullshit was worth whatever hell she''d catch if they found her missing.


    Her hair came undone as she yanked out pins one by one, dropping them like tiny breadcrumbs. By the time she reached the pond''s stone bench, she could hardly breathe, looked a mess, and felt more alive than she had in weeks.


    The water reflected a stranger not the prim princess from her palace portraits. This girl with wild hair and flushed cheeks felt more accurate.


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    "Midnight rebellion going well?"


    The voice made her blood freeze. Daelyn spun around, excuses already forming.


    Lucas stood at the garden''s edge, his face half-hidden in moonlight. Brother. King. Warden.


    "How''d you find me?" she demanded, not bothering to fake remorse.


    "You''re predictable." He stepped closer. "And there''s dirt all over your dress. Again."


    "Gonna lecture me now?" Daelyn let the bitterness flow. "About princesses not running barefoot? About embarrassing the crown?"


    Lucas surprised her by sitting on the bench beside her. "I came to warn you. King Claremont showed up early. Brought his son with him."


    "Andrik?" The name felt odd on her lips. She''d heard plenty about Pilar''s brother mostly scandals involving women across half the kingdoms. "Why should I care?"


    "Because he''s staying with us all summer. For ''diplomatic negotiations.''"


    Daelyn''s brief taste of freedom shattered. "The ENTIRE summer? Are you kidding me?"


    "Politics. Treaties. Same old garbage." Lucas watched her face carefully. "They''re looking for you inside. I bought you 10 minutes by saying you were changing clothes." His gaze dropped to the rip in her silk gown. "Which, clearly, you need to."


    "I don''t want to go back. Not yet."


    "You don''t have a choice, D." His voice softened. "But listen, Andrik''s father was asking about you."


    Dread pooled in her gut. "Me? Why me?"


    "Take a wild guess." Lucas''s face darkened. "You''re almost 18. You''re not betrothed. And Claremont wants stronger connections with Wintergate."


    "No." The word shot out like a bullet. "Lucas, you PROMISED me. No arrangements until after my birthday. You swore I''d have time."


    "And I''m keeping that promise." He stood, hand extended. "But you should know what you''re walking into. Claremont has his schemes. And that son of his..."


    "What about him?"


    "Just watch yourself around him. His reputation with women isn''t exactly stellar."


    Daelyn nearly laughed. "I''m hardly at risk. I''ve never even been alone with a man who isn''t related to me."


    "Keep it that way." Lucas''s tone brooked no argument. "Now come on. Your future husband''s waiting."


    "He''s not my future ANYTHING," Daelyn muttered, letting him pull her to her feet.


    Walking back toward the palace, she felt her title settling back onto her shoulders like a lead cloak. Princess again. Property again.


    For a few precious minutes, she''d tasted freedom. Now the walls squeezed in tighter than before.


    But something defiant still burned in her chest. If King Claremont thought she''d be an easy political bargaining chip, he was dead wrong. And if his playboy son expected her to swoon over his royal charms, he had another thing coming.


    She''d play the perfect princess tonight. But behind her smile, she was already plotting her next escape.

 Chapter Four: Daelyn

    Daelyn''s fingers ached from gripping her champagne flute too tightly. Two hours into the gala, hosted for her brother and Pilar''s engagement, she''d already been introduced to seven eligible nobles, each one eyeing her like she was a prize mare at auction. Lucas kept his promise not to discuss arrangements, but the intentions were clear in every introduction, every meaningful glance exchanged with King Claremont of Belraithe.


    If one more man kissed her hand while staring at her breeding potential, she might "accidentally" spill her drink down his pristine formal jacket. The penalty for such a breach of etiquette would be steep: another month of Lucas''s disappointment, another round of whispers about her lack of proper refinement but right now- it almost seemed worth it.


    She''d escaped to the library, the one place guests rarely ventured during these events. The shelves of ancient books wrapped around her like a shield, their familiar scent of leather and paper tinged with dust and secrets a comfort. Leaning against the window seat, she gazed out at the gardens where she''d tasted freedom just hours before, the moonlight reflecting on the same path her feet had traveled.


    The sound of the door opening made her stiffen. The distant melody of the string quartet slipped through the gap before being muffled again as it closed.


    "So this is where princesses hide," a voice said behind her.


    Daelyn turned, ready with a polite dismissal, the one she''d practiced in her mirror firm enough to discourage without offending. The words died in her throat.


    The man standing in the doorway was not one of the stuffy nobles Lucas had introduced her to. Tall, with shoulders that strained against his formal jacket, he had the kind of presence that seemed to shrink the room. His blond hair was slightly longer than court fashion dictated, falling across eyes that caught the lamplight and blue, impossibly blue.


    Prince Andrik. Had to be.


    Daelyn straightened, remembering her brother''s warning. ''Keep your distance from Claremont''s son. He has a reputation.''


    "The library isn''t restricted, Your Highness. But most guests prefer the music and dancing."


    "I''m not most guests." He shut the door behind him, making her pulse skip. They were alone now. Something Lucas had specifically warned against, something that could endanger the delicate alliance he''d spent months cultivating.


    "Clearly." She kept her voice cool, despite the heat rising in her cheeks. "Most guests know it''s customary to be introduced before seeking private audiences."


    Andrik''s mouth curved into a smile that had probably charmed ladies across all three kingdoms. "We were introduced. You just don''t remember."


    "I think I''d remember you."


    The moment the words left her mouth, she wanted to erase them. They sounded too much like flirtation. His smile widened, confirming her error, and the library suddenly felt too warm, too small.


    "We were children," he clarified, moving deeper into the room. The floorboards creaked beneath his boots. "Your father brought you to Belraithe for diplomatic meetings. You were...seven, maybe eight? All skinned knees and attitude."


    A memory flashed in her mind, a palace with impossibly high ceilings, marble floors cold against her bare feet as she snuck into the kitchens, and a boy who''d stolen her dessert at dinner. "You put a snake in my bed."


    Andrik laughed, the sound rich and warm, bouncing off the bookshelves like something alive. "You remember that part."


    "The screaming woke the entire east wing. My father nearly called off the trade agreement with Belraithe."


    "And you got your revenge by putting maple syrup in my boots the next morning." He came closer, the scent of sandalwood and night air following him. "The servants couldn''t get it out for weeks."


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    Despite herself, Daelyn smiled. "I''d forgotten that."


    "I hadn''t." Andrik moved to the bookshelves, running his fingers along the spines, leaving trails in the thin layer of dust like secrets written in ancient languages. "You were the only one who ever stood up to me. Everyone else was too afraid of offending the crown prince."


    "I''ve never been very good at court politics."


    "No?" He turned, studying her with those blue eyes that seemed to see too much. "From what I hear, you''re the perfect princess now. Dutiful. Obedient. Exactly what your brother needs to secure alliances."


    The words stung, though she wasn''t sure why. Perhaps because they were true. After her father died, she''d locked away the curiosity and playfulness side of herself and replaced her with someone worthy of her family name. "You shouldn''t believe everything you hear, Your Highness."


    "Andrik," he corrected. "After the snake incident, I think we can dispense with formalities."


    There was something dangerous about the way he said it like they were conspirators in something forbidden. Like he was offering her something no one else could, the freedom to be herself.


    "What are you doing here, Andrik?" she asked, deciding directness was her best defense. "In the library, I mean. Surely there are more entertaining places for someone of your... reputation."


    "Same as you, I imagine. Escaping." He leaned against the shelf, arms crossed. The shadows played across his face, highlighting and concealing the sharp line of his jaw. "Though in my case, it''s my father I''m avoiding, not potential suitors."


    "You have suitors?" she teased, surprised at her boldness.


    "Not officially. But my father has plans." His expression darkened. "Always has plans. Always some alliance. The minute my sister''s marriage to your brother Lucas is finalized, I''m next on the auction block."


    The familiar weight of royal duty settled between them, a shared burden she hadn''t expected to find with the notorious playboy prince. All her life, she''d been told stories of Prince Andrik''s wild escapades, his rebellion against his father''s authority. Seeing something lingering behind his smile, she wondered how many of those stories were true and how many were desperate attempts to claim something for himself before it was too late.


    "So you''re hiding from arrangements too?" she asked.


    "Among other things." His gaze drifted to the window where she''d been looking earlier. "Nice view. You can see the secret passage entrance from here."


    Daelyn followed his gaze, startled. "What passage?"


    "The one you used earlier." His eyes met hers, knowing. "Your hair still has grass in it. And there''s a smudge of dirt on your sleeve that doesn''t match your pristine image."


    Sneaking out daily had become her refuge and her brother would not be thrilled if he knew just how often she was out and today of all days. Her hand flew to her hair, mortified. She''d changed her dress, but in her rush, she''d forgotten to check her hair. If he''d noticed, who else had? "How did you¡ª"


    "I saw you running in the gardens from my window." He moved closer, reaching out. Before she could step back, he plucked something from her hair. "Evidence."


    He held up a small green blade between his fingers, twirling it in the lamplight. Daelyn felt exposed, caught in her rebellion. If Lucas discovered she''d been sneaking out again, especially with the delegation from Belraithe in residence, his disappointment would be crushing.


    "Are you going to tell my brother?" she asked, lifting her chin defiantly, though her stomach twisted with dread.


    "Do I look like someone who reports rule-breaking?" Andrik''s voice lowered, a conspiracy shared in the space between heartbeats. "Your secret is safe with me, Princess."


    The way he said "princess" not with the reverence others used, but almost like a tease,sent a strange thrill through her, like standing at the edge of her balcony and looking down, terrified and tempted all at once.


    "And what do you want in exchange for your silence?" she asked, only half-joking. No one did anything for free in royal circles. Every kindness came with a contract written in invisible ink.


    "A tour." He gestured around them. "Of the secret passages."


    "That''s... inappropriate." The word felt inadequate for what she knew Lucas would think of such an arrangement. If they were caught alone together in the dark of the hidden corridors, the scandal would jeopardize the alliance, maybe even her reputation. Lucas would never forgive her.


    "Completely." Andrik didn''t deny it. "But somehow, I doubt that bothers you as much as you let on. The girl who put syrup in my boots is still in there somewhere, isn''t she? Trapped behind all the rules and decorum."


    She should refuse. This man was exactly the kind of complication Lucas had warned her about. But after years of forcing herself to be flawless, of following every rule, of being the dutiful princess while watching her desires wither like unwatered gardens...


    "Okay, deal," she heard herself say, the words rushing out before caution could catch them. "And if anyone catches us, I''ll say you got lost and I was escorting you back to your quarters."


    Andrik''s smile was slow, dangerous, and entirely too appealing. "I wouldn''t miss it."


    The door opened, breaking the moment. Alberta stood there, relief washing over her face.


    "There you are, Miss Daelyn. Your brother Lucas has been looking for you. King Claremont wishes to speak with you before dinner."


    The real world came crashing back. Daelyn nodded, composing her features into the mask of royal propriety, feeling it settle over her like a second skin. "Of course. I was just showing Prince Andrik our collection of first editions."


    Alberta''s gaze flicked between them, suspicious but unable to contradict her.


    "Prince Andrik, if you''ll excuse me." Daelyn moved toward the door, keeping her voice formal, her steps measured.


    As she passed him, he leaned in slightly, his voice barely audible, his breath warm against her ear.


    "Princess."


    Daelyn felt his words like a physical touch, trailing heat along her skin. As she followed Alberta back to the ballroom, she counted the hours in her head. Seven hours until midnight. Seven hours until she did something entirely for herself.


    The weight of her crown felt lighter already, even as the weight of her decision settled in its place. What waited for her in those dark passages? Freedom? Ruin? Something in between?


    For the first time in her life, she didn''t care.

 Chapter Five: Daelyn

    Daelyn could feel her brother''s eyes on her back as she followed Andrik out of the library. Whatever shred of freedom she had hoped to gain was slipping away with each minute she spent with Pilar''s brother.


    Andrik was waiting for her in the corridor, half of a smile on his lips. His blue eyes followed her movements, seemingly amused by the whole situation.


    "So," he said, "Now that we''ve been properly introduced, Princess Daelyn." He gave a playful bow.


    "Prince Andrik." She curtsied, fighting to keep a straight face. "I believe I''m now obligated to show you the palace."


    "Obligated," he repeated, raising an eyebrow. "That doesn''t sound particularly enthusiastic."


    "Would you prefer I lie and say I''ve been dying to play tour guide?"


    His laugh was deep and warm. "I''d prefer honesty. Which, I have to say, seems to be in short supply in our court."


    Something in his tone made her look at him more closely. There was a sharpness in his eyes that hadn''t been there in the library, a keen intelligence that she hadn''t initially noticed.


    "Well then, honestly, I was hoping to enjoy my dinner in peace. But since that''s not happening..." She gestured down the corridor. "Shall we begin the tour?"


    "After you, Princess."


    As they walked, Daelyn pointed out various rooms and artifacts, giving the standard tour she''d given countless dignitaries and guests. Andrik, however, seemed more interested in the secret passages she accidentally mentioned again while explaining the palace''s history.


    "Secret passages?" he asked, immediately perking up. "You mean like hidden doorways and tunnels?"


    Daelyn bit her lip. "I shouldn''t have mentioned that."


    "But you did." His eyes gleamed with mischief. "Come on, show me one. Just one tiny passage."


    "They''re not for guests to explore."


    "I''m not just any guest. I''m practically family now."


    She let out a small laugh. "That''s a stretch."


    "Is it? Your brother is marrying my sister. That makes us..." He paused, considering. "Well, something. Not quite siblings, but definitely not strangers."


    Daelyn weighed her options. Taking him to one of the lesser-known passages wouldn''t really break any rules. And it would keep him occupied, which might help her escape back to her room sooner.


    "Fine. One passage. But you have to promise not to tell anyone."


    "I swear,¡± he said, placing his hand over his heart with exaggerated seriousness.


    She led him down a series of corridors, past the grand dining hall and into the east wing''s old section. The lighting was dimmer here, the wallpaper slightly faded from years of sunlight filtering through tall painted windows.


    "This part of the palace isn''t used much anymore," she explained. "It was built during my great great-grandfather''s time."


    Stopping before a large painting of a stern-looking man on horseback, she glanced around to make sure they were alone. Then she carefully pressed a hidden latch behind the frame. With a soft click, the wall beside the painting swung inward, revealing a narrow stone passage.


    Andrik''s face lit up like a child on his birthday. "That''s incredible!"


    "Not so loud," she whispered, though she couldn''t help smiling at his reaction.


    He peered into the darkness. "Where does it lead?"


    "This one goes to the old study, and then branches off to the gardens and the kitchen pantry."


    "Why would anyone need a secret passage to the pantry?"


    "During the early battles, these tunnels were used to smuggle food when the palace was under siege." She shrugged. "At least, that''s what my father told me."


    Andrik stepped closer to the opening, his shoulder brushing against hers. "Can we go in?"


    The warmth of his body next to hers made Daelyn suddenly aware of how isolated they were. Alone in an empty corridor with a man she barely knew, showing him secret ways around her home. If Lucas found out...


    "I don''t think that''s a good idea," she said, stepping back and closing the passage. "I''ve shown you it exists. That''s enough for tonight."


    Disappointment flashed across his face, but he nodded. "Fair enough. I wouldn''t want to get you in trouble with your brother."


    "Too late for that," she muttered.


    "Oh? What terrible crime have you committed?"


    "Being alone with you, for starters."


    He tilted his head. "Is that such a terrible thing?"


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    The way he looked at her made Daelyn''s stomach flutter. She turned away, pretending to adjust a nearby vase of flowers.


    "My brother is protective. I''m not supposed to be alone with any man, especially not one I just met."


    "Yet here we are," Andrik observed, his voice soft. "Breaking rules."


    There was something dangerous in those words, or perhaps in the way he said them. Daelyn straightened her shoulders.


    "We should get back to the party."


    "Already? But I''ve only seen one secret passage. There must be dozens more."


    "Maybe another time."


    "Is that a promise?" His eyes met hers, challenging.


    "It''s a possibility," she replied, matching his gaze. "If you behave yourself at the party."


    He laughed again. "I''m always on my best behavior."


    They started walking back toward the main hall, the sounds of music and conversation growing louder with each step.


    "Somehow I doubt that," she said.


    "You wound me. I''ll have you know I''m considered quite respectable."


    "By whom?"


    "Well, my mother thought very highly of me."


    The past tense wasn''t lost on Daelyn. "I''m sorry about your mother."


    His smile faltered slightly. "Thank you. It was a long time ago."


    An awkward silence fell between them. Daelyn searched for something to say, something to bring back the lighter mood.


    "I lost my father a couple years ago," she offered. "It''s... difficult."


    Andrik''s expression softened. "I heard. He was well-respected, even in our kingdom."


    They paused at the entrance to the grand hall, the celebration in full swing inside. Couples danced beneath crystal chandeliers while others clustered in small groups, deep in conversation.


    "I should probably return you to your sister," Daelyn said, spotting Pilar across the room.


    Andrik didn''t move. "Would you like to dance first?"


    "I..." She hesitated. One dance wouldn''t hurt, would it? "Alright."


    He extended his hand, and she took it, allowing him to lead her onto the dance floor. His palm was warm against hers, his fingers wrapping securely around her hand.


    As they began to move to the music, Daelyn was surprised at how naturally they fell into rhythm together. Andrik was an accomplished dancer, guiding her effortlessly through the steps. His eyes never left her face.


    "You''re staring," she said after a moment.


    "Am I? I apologize." But he didn''t look away. "It''s just... you''re not what I expected."


    "What did you expect?"


    "I''m not sure. Someone more..."


    "Refined? Sophisticated?"


    He shook his head. "Reserved. Someone who follows all the rules and never says what she''s really thinking."


    "Ah," she said, a smile playing on her lips. "So I''ve disappointed you."


    "Not at all." His hand pressed slightly more firmly against her back. "Quite the opposite."


    The music swelled around them, and for a moment, Daelyn forgot about everything else, her brother''s watchful gaze, the weight of royal expectations, the uncertainty of her future. There was only the dance, the music, and Andrik''s blue eyes looking into hers.


    When the song ended, he reluctantly released her, though his fingers lingered on hers a moment longer than necessary.


    "Thank you for the dance, Princess."


    "You''re welcome, Prince Andrik."


    "I hope I''ll see more of you during my stay."


    Before she could respond, Lucas appeared beside them, his expression carefully neutral.


    "Daelyn, there you are. I''ve been looking for you." He nodded politely to Andrik. "I trust my sister has been a good hostess?"


    "Excellent," Andrik replied smoothly. "She''s been showing me around your magnificent palace."


    "Has she?" Lucas'' eyes shifted to Daelyn, questioning.


    "Just the main areas," she said quickly. "The library, the gallery, the east corridor."


    Lucas seemed satisfied with this answer. "Good. If you''ll excuse us, Prince Andrik, I need to borrow my sister for a moment."


    "Of course."


    As Lucas led her away, Daelyn glanced back over her shoulder. Andrik was still watching her, that half-smile on his lips. He raised his hand in a small wave.


    Despite herself, she smiled back.


    "What was that about?" Lucas asked once they were out of earshot.


    "What was what about?"


    "You were supposed to show him around, not dance with him."


    Daelyn sighed. "It was just one dance, Lucas."


    "One dance can lead to expectations. Especially with someone like him."


    "What''s that supposed to mean?"


    He looked at her seriously. "Andrik Claremont has a reputation. He''s charming, yes, but he''s also known to be... impulsive. His father has had to smooth over more than one incident."


    "We just met," Daelyn protested. "I''m not planning to run away with him."


    "Good," Lucas said firmly. "Because you need to remember that any... attachment would be complicated. Politically."


    The implication was clear. Now that her brother was marrying Pilar, another alliance with Belraithe would be redundant. If Daelyn were to marry, it would almost certainly be to someone from a different kingdom.


    "I know my duty," she said quietly.


    Lucas'' expression softened. He touched her cheek gently. "I just want you to be happy, Dae. But we both have responsibilities. You know that."


    She nodded, though something inside her rebelled at his words. Why couldn''t she choose her own path, just once?


    "Can I go now?" she asked. "I''m tired."


    "Of course." He kissed her forehead. "Get some rest."


    Daelyn made her way through the crowd toward the exit. As she reached the grand staircase, she felt someone watching her. Turning, she saw Andrik standing apart from the other guests, his eyes following her movements.


    She should have looked away. Should have continued up the stairs without acknowledgment.


    Instead, she paused, meeting his gaze across the room.


    He raised his glass slightly in her direction, a private toast.


    Daelyn felt a flush creep up her neck. Without thinking, she touched her fingers to her lips, then lowered her hand quickly, embarrassed by the gesture.


    But Andrik had seen. His smile widened, eyes crinkling at the corners.


    Turning away before her brother could notice the exchange, Daelyn hurried up the stairs. Her heart was beating faster than it should have been.


    It was just one dance, she told herself. Just one conversation.


    It didn''t mean anything.


    But as she reached her room and closed the door behind her, Daelyn knew she was lying to herself. There had been something in that dance, in the way Andrik had looked at her. Something that both thrilled and terrified her.


    She walked to her window, looking out at the gardens below. The party continued on the terrace, lights strung between trees glowing like fallen stars.


    A dangerous game, that''s what this was. A game she shouldn''t play.


    Yet as she turned away from the window, Daelyn couldn''t help wondering when she would see Prince Andrik again.


    And part of her, a part she didn''t want to examine too closely hoped it would be soon.

 Chapter Six: Andrik

    Listening to the leaders discuss the mission was difficult for Andrik. His thoughts kept drifting back to his encounter with Daelyn.


    Roland nudged him to pay attention.


    In response to his best friend''s prompting, Andrik gave him a look. He knew Roland was looking out for him. With about thirty men gathered in King Lucas''s conference room including his father Andrik was determined not to miss anything important.


    Dr. Warner Tate commanded the room''s attention as he detailed who would accompany them on the mission. As lead doctor of the Genetic Engineering Program from Strayerfield, he was essentially the mastermind behind this operation. Working on an antidote had been his personal goal for the past decade.


    Andrik knew Dr. Tate better than most. Since the doctor had been brought in to help with the fertility problem, he and his family had been staying at Andrik''s palace. His daughter, Solene Tate, the young woman who had secretly been dating Roland for some time now,


    was particularly well-regarded among the court.


    Also part of this treaty was Dr. Nicolai Archibald. Andrik recognized the name; he had known Nick briefly as a friend of Pilar''s. When they were children, she had visited their orphanage at their father''s insistence. King Claremont wanted her to know all possible ways of life, believing it essential to prepare his children for their future roles.


    Sipping his coffee, Andrik''s eyes wandered across the polished conference table. He wondered if Daelyn ever came in here.


    Running a hand through his hair, he forced himself to concentrate on his father''s commanding voice.


    King Lucas sat at one end of the long table with Andrik''s father at the opposite end. Neither seemed to object to Dr. Tate''s suggestions. Nick sat beside Lucas, waiting expectantly.


    "Has Strayerfield been contacted regarding our treaty agreements?" King Claremont asked, looking pointedly at one particular advisor.


    The man shuffled through the documents spread before him. After a moment of searching, he found what he sought and hand-delivered copies across the room to King Claremont, Nick, and King Lucas.


    All three men studied the papers in silence.


    The room waited, tension building with each passing second.


    Andrik hadn''t heard the details of the treaty, and judging by the deepening lines on his father''s face, he wasn''t sure he wanted to.


    King Lucas coughed and sat up straighter. "If it is agreeable to you, King Claremont and Dr. Archibald, I''d like to discuss this treaty in private. Shall we adjourn for lunch?"


    Andrik''s father barely lifted his eyes from the document as he nodded. "Yes, that would be good."


    "Alright, men. We''ll reconvene after lunch," King Lucas announced.


    With that, the men gathered their things and filed into the hallway. The heavy doors slammed shut behind them, the sound echoed down the corridor: a sound that settled uneasily in Andrik''s stomach.


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    Roland and Andrik walked side by side.


    "What''s up with you, man?" Roland asked.


    They hadn''t seen each other in a couple of days, and Andrik hadn''t had the chance to tell him about Daelyn. Not that there was anything concrete to tell yet, but he needed to confide in someone and Roland was the only person he trusted.


    "Let''s go outside," Andrik suggested, wary of the many ears in the palace hallways.


    He found a door leading to the gardens, with Roland following close behind. Once outside, Andrik spotted a gazebo and headed in that direction.


    "Are you okay? You''ve been out of it all morning," Roland observed as he leaned against the gazebo railing. "Is staying here starting to get to you? How many more weeks until the wedding?"


    Reaching up to grasp the top of the white frame, Andrik pulled himself up in a series of rapid chin-ups.


    "Now is probably not a good time or place for exercise, man," Roland commented wryly.


    Trying to burn off the adrenaline building inside him, Andrik continued.


    One. Two. Three. Four. Five. Six.


    "A month or so," he finally answered, dropping down when he noticed the security men eyeing him with disapproval.


    "That''s not bad. You''ll be back home before you know it, just in time for the mission," Roland said.


    Andrik stared at the ground, avoiding his friend''s perceptive gaze.


    "That''s not the issue," he paused, finally looking Roland in the eyes. "I can''t stop thinking about Lucas''s sister." He wiped his face with his hands, as if trying to erase the admission.


    Roland remained silent for a moment, looking toward the palace. He scratched the back of his head, considering his words carefully.


    "Well, I''m not one to talk about secret romances, but," he paused, his eyes serious. "You know her brother: the King of Wintergate and your future brother-in-law¡ªwould probably kill you, right? How are you going to stay here until Pilar''s wedding with that kind of distraction? Is she even old enough¡ª"


    "I know, I know," Andrik cut him off, shaking his head as if he could physically dislodge thoughts of Daelyn. "I don''t even know if she feels the same way, and you''re not asking anything I haven''t already thought about myself. Her birthday is in a month, her brother can technically arrange a marriage for her at any time." He crossed his arms defensively. "I don''t know what to do. You know how my father is. She''s been helping me find passages and exits in the palace, but now it''s... different."


    Roland nodded solemnly. "Let''s say she returned these feelings... your father would definitely flip out. The thought of two marriages with one country? He''d be furious."


    They both knew Andrik''s reputation, how he could have his pick of any eligible woman back home, how his affections had always changed with the wind. But this felt different in a way Andrik couldn''t fully explain.


    "Please, tell me what you really think," Andrik joked, attempting to lighten the mood.


    "Sorry, man, you know I can''t lie to you," Roland said. "Truthfully, though, if you can be with any woman, why choose one who''s off-limits?"


    Andrik wasn''t sure he knew the answer.


    Taking a deep breath, he confessed, "I don''t think I chose this. Right now, I feel like I''m being tortured. I''m not sure you can choose who you love."


    He expected Roland to make a quick joke at his expense, but his friend remained serious.


    Instead, Roland stared at him thoughtfully before patting him on the back. "I think you''re right."


    The two of them began walking back toward the palace.


    "So you think it will work out?" Andrik asked, surprising himself with the vulnerability in his voice.


    "Man, I think you''re used to getting what you want," Roland said honestly. "But I''m not sure you''d listen even if I told you not to pursue this..."


    "Probably not," Andrik admitted.


    Roland held the door open for him. "Okay then, be careful."


    "Plan on it," Andrik replied, stepping back into the palace with his mind still full of Daelyn.

 Chapter Seven: Nicolai

    Seven military-grade vehicles waited in the parking lot of the Genetics Engineering Program.


    The exhaust from the trucks made me cough.


    I''d been here since "Zero Dark Thirty," the time Dr. Tate told me to arrive. Looking at my watch, I saw it had been thirty minutes since I''d gotten here.


    The driver propped himself over the back of his seat. "Should be leaving here in ten mikes."


    During the past few weeks since joining Dr. Tate''s service, I''d been trying to learn military jargon. Luckily, I''d realized "mikes" referred to minutes. Even so, I was anxious to get the mission moving.


    My job was crucial. I had to prepare large quantities of the antidote for travel back to our country. To make it more complicated, I wouldn''t have much time to get it done and only a couple of men to assist me.


    The antidote was located in the outskirts of Belraithe, on a retired military compound that hadn''t been occupied in years. Rumors had it that a rogue group from Strayerfield was planning on retrieving the antidote for themselves.


    But it was just a rumor.


    Strayerfield had the last population where civilians were still conceived naturally. They''d been studying the male reproductive organs believed to be responsible for the infertility inflicting our countries. Infertility was spreading to other areas of the world as well.


    Although I didn''t know all the details, I was aware that politics and other controversies were putting Belraithe and Wintergate at risk. By helping us, they''d established treaties to see this mission through.


    Even with King Claremont and King Lucas sending their top military officials and Prince Andrik coming along, our safety today was not guaranteed.


    I stretched my arms over my head and cracked my fingers.


    It would be a day''s drive before we would arrive there.


    Yesterday, before leaving for the day, Dr. Tate had said, "King Claremont and the advisors want the arrival and mission to take place in the dark. They think the darkness will provide some protection."


    "You don''t think it will help?" I had asked.


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    "Well, I think they have enough safety precautions in place. Once you all arrive, you will only have a certain amount of time before your presence is known. That''s why we practiced the removal of the antidote so many times. Do your part and stay out of the way of the other guys," he''d said as he patted me on the back.


    My stomach flip-flopped now, even with all that reassurance. I didn''t want to miss this opportunity.


    If we were successful, it would mean an end to this. Babies would be created outside of labs again. Girls and boys in equal numbers. No more unwanted boys in orphanages like where I grew up.


    No, I thought to myself. I wouldn''t pass this up for anything.


    Up ahead, armed men dressed in black were exiting the Genetics Engineering Program headquarters. They began filling the vehicles.


    One soldier climbed into the front seat of my truck. By the looks of him, he was well prepared for this. Muscles were prominent even through his shirt. He was about my age, with short hair. I recognized him, Roland. He was Prince Andrik''s best friend.


    Roland said something quietly to the driver, who just nodded in response.


    No surprise, joining us was Andrik himself. Roland and Andrik did everything together, as far as I could remember. They were practically brothers.


    Andrik took the seat next to me.


    Smiling, he greeted me. "Hey, Nick."


    "Hey, man," I answered.


    Not many people called me Nick.


    It felt odd. I hadn''t seen Andrik in years. But I had known him and his sister Pilar well enough before. Though I was closer to Pilar than to him.


    Once seated, Andrik set his weapons down and tapped the driver.


    The driver picked up his phone. "We are all set and ready to go."


    A voice, which I was certain belonged to King Claremont, answered, "Alright men, you are in the all clear."


    Just like that, all the vehicles took off. It was still very dark out. The town was clear, not a person awake. Heading west, we took one of the freeways. I was sure we were over the speed limits, averaging in the 90 mph range.


    We were the fourth car in the entourage.


    I realized that it was no coincidence I was placed with Andrik and Roland. King Claremont wanted this mission seen through, and he knew that his son would get it done. From what I''d heard, Andrik had been in the military academy for a few years now. His temper was probably one of the deciding factors for his dad to enroll him early on.


    I remembered, years ago, that Andrik would get violent when angry. It didn''t happen often, but when it did... it took a lot for him to calm back down.


    Pilar had told me once that their "father was not mindful of his children, especially Andrik."


    Unfortunately, I knew a lot of guys like that from the orphanage. Boys growing up with no fathers to teach them how to be men. Most ended up with drug problems or dead. That was one of the many reasons I was quick to leave this place behind.


    Looking out the window, I wondered if coming back home was the right decision.

 Chapter Eight: Nicolai

    The compound appeared through the trees: a low, concrete structure surrounded by a chain-link fence. It looked abandoned, just as we''d been told. No guards, no lights, no signs of activity.


    Too easy, I thought. But I pushed the feeling aside as we approached the fence.


    Roland cut through it with surprising efficiency, creating an opening large enough for us to slip through one by one. I went last, my medical bag clutched tightly against my chest.


    The east entrance was a simple metal door, which Roland quickly bypassed with some electronic device I didn''t recognize. It swung open silently, revealing a dark corridor beyond.


    Flashlights clicked on, illuminating the way forward. The interior was dusty and neglected, with peeling paint and the occasional overturned chair. But as we moved deeper into the facility, the condition of the surroundings improved. The floors were cleaner, the walls intact.


    Someone had been maintaining this part of the building.


    We reached a set of double doors marked "Laboratory" in faded letters. Roland checked his tablet, then nodded to Andrik. This was it.


    Andrik pushed the doors open.


    The lab beyond was illuminated by the soft glow of emergency lights. Scientific equipment lined the walls: centrifuges, microscopes, computers. And in the center of the room, a glass-fronted refrigeration unit.


    Inside, row upon row of vials filled with clear liquid.


    The antidote.


    I moved forward, my training taking over. I set my bag on a table and began the process we''d rehearsed. Carefully extracting the vials, packing them in insulated containers, sealing them for transport.


    Andrik and Roland stood guard by the doors, weapons ready. The other men spread out through the lab, checking for any additional materials we should take.


    I worked methodically, my hands steady despite the adrenaline coursing through me. Vial after vial, secured and packed. The process was going smoothly, too smoothly.


    That''s when I heard it. A soft click from somewhere in the corridor outside.


    Andrik tensed, raising his weapon. Roland moved to the other side of the doorway, signaling to the rest of the team.


    "Nick," Andrik whispered. "How much longer?"


    I checked my progress. "Five minutes. Maybe less."


    "Make it less."


    The tension in the room was palpable now. I increased my pace, careful not to compromise the safety of the samples.


    Another sound from the corridor, footsteps this time. Soft, but unmistakable.


    We weren''t alone.


    A shot rang out, followed by a scream. O''Connell, who had been guarding the door, rushed back into the lab.


    "They''re here!" he shouted, just as we discovered the body of the scientist who was supposed to assist us. He lay on the floor in a circle of blood, clearly dead for hours.


    "Shit," Andrik said, his face hardening.


    "We knew this was a possibility," Roland responded, surprisingly calm. "Let''s hurry."


    O''Connell kept guard by the front door while I was already retrieving the glass containers from shelving on the East wall.


    Andrik ran to join me. "I thought we were told the antidote would be in plastic containers? And in gallons, not liters."


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    "Must have been bad intel," I muttered, scanning the room. "Where are the transport containers we brought with us?"


    Roland called for O''Connell and went outside to look for him. He had been there a second ago.


    Roland came running in and tossed four containers to us.


    "There''s a couple of trucks headed this way..." he announced.


    "The rogue group from Strayerfield?" Andrik asked, hurrying to bring more vials to the table.


    I struggled with the sealed lids. "These shouldn''t be sealed like this. The briefing said they''d be ready for transfer."


    Roland tried to crack one open, applying too much force. The glass cracked and the precious liquid began leaking. He cursed and quickly handed it to me as I scrambled to pour it into one of our containers.


    Outside, we heard gunfire and shouting.


    "Let''s get moving!" Andrik yelled to Roland.


    They ran to the shelving to get more of the containers. Just as they reached for the bottles, the building shook and the containers fell from the shelving. The shelving came down and knocked them both to the ground.


    The glass shattered all over, and I could see it puncture their bodies. They were soaked as they tried to push the remnants of the shelving off.


    "You guys alright?" I called.


    "Yeah," Andrik managed to say.


    Roland coughed as he tried to lift the shelving off.


    I was already there, lifting it. "Together, on three. One. Two. Three," I called out.


    It took all three of us to lift it so they could climb out from underneath. A fire broke out on the East wall and the remaining antidote was destroyed."Does it burn?" I asked, concerned about potential side effects.


    "Like hell," Roland admitted, gritting his teeth.


    A fire broke out on the East wall, quickly engulfing the remaining antidote stored there.


    "What do we do?" Roland asked, holding his bleeding arm, his face pale.


    I grabbed the only bottle we had successfully retrieved. My heart sank: it was not nearly enough to fulfill our mission.


    "We have to get out of here," I said, pointing to an oxygen tank that the fire was fast approaching.


    Andrik looked out the door and signaled for us to follow him.


    Outside, bodies of our men lay scattered alongside half a dozen unfamiliar ones. In the distance, I could see the headlights of an approaching vehicle.


    "We have to get the last of the antidote out of here," Andrik said.


    Looking at Roland, I could tell his arm needed medical attention.


    "What about the men?" Roland asked.


    I checked the pulse of O''Connell and another lying near us. "They''re gone."


    Andrik and Roland tried to run to the others to check, but the laboratory took full fire. Flames spread to the vehicles parked in front of it.


    "Run!" Andrik called.


    The three of us barely made it to the gate, diving behind the cement blocks.


    With a force I had never known, the Earth around us shook.


    Behind us, the entire camp was up in flames.


    The bodies of the men were disintegrated, and the smell was unbearable.


    "There''s an old pickup down the road by that post office. I can hardwire it," Roland suggested.


    I ripped the bottom of my shirt off and tied it around Roland''s arm.


    Andrik vaguely recalled seeing the truck, but Roland was confident and it was about the only option we had left.


    The lights from that vehicle were getting closer, and we didn''t have much time to waste.


    "We need to get out of here before the rest of their group arrives," Andrik said, pointing in the direction of the lights.


    The camp was hidden within woods; we might be able to hide our tracks.


    "The sun is coming up soon. Can you remember where you saw that truck?" Andrik asked Roland.


    "Yes, but we need to leave now," he said, looking in the direction of the truck lights. They were minutes away.


    I adjusted the backpack containing the only remaining antidote. "I''m following you."


    Roland led the way into the woods.


    I couldn''t begin to process what had just happened. We had lost everything. I was focused on getting this small sample back safely. It was our only hope.


    But I couldn''t help noticing Andrik and Roland. They were soaking wet from the antidote, shards of glass still piercing their skin. Yet neither seemed to register the pain. Andrik kept looking into the distance with a vacant expression.


    "What''s on your mind?" I asked him as we trudged through the underbrush.


    He barely glanced at me. "Someone I need to get back to."