Their routine held over the next month, with class and training taking up the majority of their time. Clover and Ling spent any extra time they had trying to find resonance. Gregory, Jenn, and Yukiko practiced holding their aether, enduring the pain to work on their channels. The novices poured themselves into Empire’s Gambit, intent on matching their friends next year. Roshana studied hard and continued to meditate with the Peaceful Fist. She mentioned that her channels seem to be widening little by little, and thanked them for showing her a better way to train.
When the game of Empire’s Gambit ended, Paul informed them that they would be off for the week and, the following week, they would be leaving for the tournament with Buldoun.
When they told the others, the novices had been happy, but sad— it meant that this might be their last week together for years. Gregory felt much the same, and was sure the others were in a similar state. That colored the entire evening for them. Even Dia telling them that they would have the day off from training with the novices barely raised their spirits.
~*~*~
Gregory rolled over, but found the bed empty beside him. Blinking, he was confused for a moment, then smiled. “Another rank, my heart?”
“Of course,” Darkness replied.
“That’s good. It means I grow closer to you.”
“Yes,” Darkness sighed happily.
“How have you been?”
“Busy, dear one. I am working hard to help you, and you have been working hard to accept your former wives. I was very happy that we have all connected. Even some of the outliers are being drawn in. The threads of the future are nearly certain on them now.”
“Roshana?”
“Among the number,” Darkness giggled. “One or two you have no clue about, and I am keeping it a secret.”
Gregory chuckled. “I won’t ask, then. I’ll just wait and accept what my heart would have of me.”
A soft happy sound came from Darkness. “My core grows warm when you say those things about me… Love… it fills me.”
“Are we on the right path for them?” Gregory asked, his mind flicking through his friends and Roshana.
“It is almost certain. A few things could cause minor setbacks or disasters, but things are good right now. Even my outliers are closing the uncertainty.”
“Good. Yuki and Jenn are fine with it all, right?”
“I love how much you worry for them, as you do for me and your friends,” Darkness told him. “Yes, they truly are fine with it, now and in the future. Maybe a little eager for it, in fact. Both for different reasons, considering their desires.”
“Okay,” Gregory exhaled, letting go of some of his worry.
“There is a lot that will happen today, dearest. Most of it is good, so do not worry. You might panic a little, but rest assured that Yuki and Jenn will be fine with it.”
The worry came back. “No hints?”
“None,” Darkness giggled.
“Okay.”
“But there is also some bad news coming today, too,” Darkness said solemnly. “We cannot change it. Just be prepared and know that it is what is.”
Gregory thought for a long moment, then swallowed. “Lightshield?”
“He will be here and is not doing well. He has anywhere from a month to two years left, depending on what happens.”
Gregory sat up and rubbed his face. “Okay. Can we do anything to make it the latter?”
“Not without repercussions that I do not agree with.”
Darkness’ voice had been adamant, so Gregory nodded slowly. “I understand, my heart.”
“Sorry, dear one, but you are worth the world,” Darkness whispered. “Saying no to you runs counter to my very being, but I have to at times.”
“It’s okay. When you tell me no, I know that I have to listen. Thank you.”
“Your channels are coming along nicely,” Darkness said, clearly changing the subject.
“Yeah, we’ve been happy about that. Why haven’t Clover and Ling found resonance yet?” Gregory asked.
“They will soon. I did not hinder nor aid them. The struggle had to be real for them.”
“Will it be for the others?”
“Yes.”
“Okay.”
Darkness sighed. “It is almost time, my love. Please continue to think of me, both with our wives and without. Every time you do, I feel that love, and it makes me smile.”
“I will, my dear Darkness. Now try to stop me,” Gregory said, pushing aether through his entire body and lunging for her.
He strained, but Darkness’ power clamped down on him roughly, stopping him cold. “I only stop you because, if you touch me now, it would be bad,” she told him, her voice fading as his consciousness started to fade. “But in time, you will reach me and make me yours.”
~*~*~
Light snoring told Gregory that both of his wonderful wives were still asleep. The naked bodies pressed to his would have let him know that, but if he was honest, he heard the snoring first. He smiled down at both of them and wondered how he’d gotten so lucky.
Thinking back to Darkness reassuring him about what they were all thinking of doing, he exhaled slowly. She says they’re interested— eager, even— and she wouldn’t lie to me, he thought. Not like I’m against the idea… my dreams even reinforce that at times. I just worry about hurting them… and where did that lead us last time? Into danger… okay, no putting off and hurting everyone. Besides, it’s not like it’s going to be today.
Bending the little bit he needed, he planted kisses on both of their heads. “Good morning, my beautiful wives.”
Jenn and Yukiko stirred at his kisses and soft words. The feeling of them pressing into him was hard to ignore, and he didn’t even try. Jenn planted kisses on his chest while Yukiko shifted enough to claim his lips.
The kisses ended with the third bell. They didn’t complain, though Gregory took a few deep breaths when he stood up. It was when they were crossing to the armoire that Yukiko noticed their medallions had another ring illuminated.
“What did Darkness have to say, dearest?”
Jenn blinked, then smiled. “Oh, another rank? Good.”
“That you’re both really okay with the others joining us,” Gregory said. “That today will have some good and some bad. I’m probably going to panic at some point, but it’s okay, because you two already approve of whatever it is.” He paused as he thought about Lightshield. “That the elder will be here…” His tone must have conveyed enough of the story, because both of them touched his arms.
“Is this his end?” Yukiko asked.
“A single month to two years at the most,” Gregory said. He wasn’t sure why he felt as sad as he did— Lightshield was a good man, but he wasn’t family. Or is he? He did give us this family to be a part of… Gregory questioned himself.
“Can we help at all?” Jenn asked.
“She said if we try, it’ll cost us in ways she doesn’t agree with.”
Yukiko inhaled sharply. “I’m sorry, dearest. I side with her.”
“So do I,” Gregory said softly. “That makes it all the harder to accept.”
Jenn kissed his chin, straining on her tiptoes to manage it. “We’re here to help.”
He pulled her to him, holding her tightly, as Yukiko went to hold him from behind. They just stood there for a moment, accepting what was to be.
After a few minutes, Gregory coughed. “We need to get dressed and go. We’re seeing the kids…” He trailed off when he realized it was probably their last time seeing the children until their service to the empire was done.
“Today has many unpleasant moments, it seems,” Jenn sighed as she stepped away from him.
“Yes. Bittersweet,” Yukiko agreed. “Good in that we grow closer to being done with our time to the empire. Bad in that we’ll be separated from our friends and loved ones for what is likely to be years.”
Gregory nodded, wondering how the children would take the news. He dressed in silence, already thinking of how to comfort them.
~*~*~
Clover didn’t greet them with joy. Her medallion showed their growth as well, but she and Ling were both subdued.
“Morning,” Ling greeted them.
“Yes, it does feel like that kind of day,” Yukiko said. “You both grew.”
“As did you,” Clover said, her smile unable to remain in place.
“The children?” Jenn asked.
“Partially,” Clover replied. “I feel bad that in another week, we’ll leave our friends.”
“For more than just the tournament,” Ling added.
“We understand,” Gregory said. “We might see them after the term ends, for the time before next year begins. We don’t know yet, but I think we’ll find out today.”
Ling gave him a look before nodding slowly. “The elder?”
“I think he’s here,” Gregory replied. “We should go find out.”
Trooping down the stairs, they found the novices in a similar state as they were in. Daciana didn’t speak— she just grabbed Jenn, hugging her tightly. As if that was a signal, they all ended up in a group hug. Some sniffled as they did their best to hold in their emotions, all fearing that this would be their last week together.
Dia cleared her throat behind them, getting them to break apart. “The elder arrived late last night and is waiting for us. I would normally chide you for blocking the hall and stairs, but I understand. It has been decades since I felt the pang you do now. I can only say that, if your friendship is true, this will not be the last time you are together.”
They wiped their eyes and bowed to Dia, apologizing for being in the way.
“It’s fine, but come. Let us see what the elder has to say.”
~*~*~
Gregory felt his stomach drop when he saw Lightshield. The elder looked ancient— his skin had taken on a slightly yellow cast, and his liver spots and wrinkles were more prominent. Gregory was one of the chorus greeting him as they took their seats at the table.
Lightshield greeted them back, his voice worn but his eyes were still bright with intelligence. “It is a blessing to hear so many voices in the hall again. Please do not feel bad for me. I can see it in your eyes. I have had many long years and my clan is on the rise again, so this is far from something to mourn.”
“Elder,” Gregory said when he paused, “the clan rising is something to celebrate, but the loss of a good man is always something that should be mourned.”
Lightshield bowed his head. “Well said, Gregory. I shall grant a little bit of mourning, but I’m not dead yet, so let’s not mourn too much, hmm?”
“As you command, Elder,” Dia said.
Gregory looked up, realizing that Bishop wasn’t at the table, nor were any of the other instructors. Lightshield saw his glances and nodded. “Bishop and a few others are handling certain matters for me.”
“Breakfast,” Steva said, bringing the meal to the table. Once he served them, he bowed to Lightshield, then left the room.
“Eat,” Lightshield told them. “I will talk while you do so.”
They all did so, but kept their attention on the elder. Gregory dimly noticed that Dia and Lightshield were not eating.
“I’m sure you are all wondering what the end of this year and beginning of the next are going to look like for you,” Lightshield began. “I have answers for you, and many you will not like, but it is for the best.”
They slowed, their melancholy emotions coming back.
“Novices, you will be headed to Waterrock, where you will train in non-magic professions. Nessa, you will have a challenge for yours, but if you apply yourself, you will be fine. While Brown is unpleasant at times, if you pass his test, he will train you like no other can. This is an opportunity that even the best chefs of the empire would kill for.”
“Thank you, Elder,” Nessa said as stoically as she could. “I do want to become a more skilled cook.”
“And you will,” Lightshield smiled. “Have faith.” He turned to Daciana. “You had an interest in following in Jenn’s footsteps. I have arranged for you to study under the same instructor. She will be tough on you, but if you can survive the first week, she will come to accept you, much as she did Jenn.”
Daciana blushed, shooting a glance at Jenn before nodding. “I will survive any test.”
“That determination will serve you well,” Lightshield told her, then looked at Victoria. “You had not settled on yours as completely, but I took the one I felt was best for you.”
“Groom,” Victoria said.
Lightshield’s smile grew. “Exactly. You know that cavalry will be important in the field. Knowing exactly how to care for steeds will be important. I’m glad you approve of my choice.”
“I would never disapprove of your choice, Elder,” Victoria said. “You are the head of our clan.”
“I thank you for that, but I will soon be passing that role onto another.” He shifted his gaze to Clover and Ling. “For our two crafters, I have arranged for you to not see combat. Clover, you will help take care of the new orphanage the clan is starting in the city. Ling, you will be assisting Dia in settling the novices and apprentices here in the clan hall.”
“Orphanage?” Clover blurted.
Lightshield’s smile was warm and wide. “Indeed. Some of our younger members took it upon themselves to assist the young and unfortunate. I, myself, have always had a soft spot for helping those who have no family. I have purchased a home from an armsmaster and it is now an orphanage, run by our clan.”
Gregory swallowed the lump in his throat, and felt Yukiko’s and Jenn’s hands on his legs.
“The current caretaker, Baylyss Ursinda, will be happy for your help. You will also be assisting any of our novices or apprentices who use the building to learn while at the academy.”
Clover shot to her feet, bowing deeply at the waist to him. “I will do my best, Elder.”
“I know, and it will be good for them and you, Clover.”
“I am to help guide the next class?” Ling asked, touching one of her ears uncertainly.
“Yes. They will be respectful to all of the clan or they will be ejected,” Lightshield replied. “There will be some mild unpleasantness, but you will be stronger for it.”
Ling took a deep breath, but bowed in her seat. “I will do my very best for the clan. We must prepare them for Aether.”
“Yes. You believe, and that will be seen. Both of you will remain here for your adept year, but you will also be assisting in aether introduction class at times.”
They blinked at him. Clover took her seat and they bowed to him again, murmuring their understanding.
“Novices,” Lightshield said, turning back to address them, “your apprentice year will see you doing as your seniors have done. You will be guiding the next class which, in turn, will help their juniors. But for your initiate year, you will go to train with your troops, then be posted into the empire to spread the clan name.”
All three of them bowed to him.
“That is as important as helping those who come after you,” Lightshield went on. “The clan name needs to spread. Your seniors will be doing that, but you will, as well.”
“We’ll do our best,” they replied to him.
Lightshield finally turned toward Gregory and his wives. “You will not be back to the academy after you leave next week, nor will you be going to Waterrock again. Take your time this week to say farewell to your friends. Not goodbye, but farewell, as you will see each other again.”
Gregory and his wives all felt pain at his words, but they bowed. They glanced at their friends, who looked just as upset.
“I have arranged for your troops to be stationed in the same area next year, but sadly, not together. You will each be posted to towns a day’s ride from each other. This will give you a chance to see each other occasionally, but not stay with each other. I did my best, but this was the trade required for your magus posting. The rest of the bad news is that your adept postings will be even farther separated. I am sorry.”
Now, Gregory’s heart dropped, and he breathed slow and deep to stay calm. “The trade required for our magus posting, Elder?” he asked, holding onto that single sentence.
Lightshield nodded. “You will be posted to the same place. I will say nothing else about it other than that your extensive studying will be put to the test. As for your initiate and adept years, each of you will face trials, but your souls are true and you will come out stronger.”
“You did your best for us, Elder,” Yukiko said, though her voice trembled slightly. “We will do ours in return. While we will be sad now, we will thank you later.”
“Yes, you see it,” Lightshield replied. “I know you wanted to be posted together for all postings, but… with three of you, it got harder. Out of the many options, I felt five years together outweighed two apart.”
“It does,” Jenn said, “and we are grateful, Elder.”
Gregory and Yukiko agreed with her.
“That is my news for you all,” Lightshield said. “I have done all I could for each of you. That goes for all of you. For your postings in the future, I tried to do my best for you and the clan.”
They all thanked him, bowing in their seats.
“Dia, if you will help me? We have more things to discuss in my office,” Lightshield said. He slowly leveraged himself to his feet, using a cane and the table to stand.
“Of course, Elder,” Dia said, moving to assist him.
They left at a slow, halting walk, with Dia beside him every step of the way. Everyone felt a pang of sadness as Lightshield left the room, his failing health all the more apparent. When they were out of sight, the friends looked at each other and felt a growing gulf start to form among them.
“We have the week, and we will use it,” Yukiko said softly. “This isn’t goodbye, as the elder said… this is just a temporary parting, a farewell until we meet again.”
Everyone nodded, their spirits dimmed as they finished eating.
