Four years ago

A starry sky hangs over a vast, empty prairie save for a lone stable in the distance. Three children lay among the thick, tall grass gazing up into the night sky. The chirping of crickets and other insects fills the air as they talk.

“Do you two always do things like this?” a girl with brown hair and eyes asks.

“Of course! Vincent is the one who thought of it. You can just relax and let your mind wander while looking at the stars,” a blond haired boy replies.

“Yeah, but it was Prince Winston’s idea to bring you out here though, Lady Lillian.”, Vincent says. He tilts his head up, straining a bit to look at her. “You’ve been looking down since you arrived,” he goes on. Winston doesn’t say anything. He did notice Lillian’s weird mood, but Vincent was the one who thought to bring her along. A look of regret appears on Lillian’s face as her eyes leave the sky.

“I suppose,” she says simply. Though he doesn’t see her face Vincent can tell she’s crestfallen.

“It only makes sense. I’m sorry that you’ve had to go through losing your family.”, Vincent tells her sympathetically, returning his eyes to the stars.

“At least you don’t have to go through it alone. Vincent doesn’t have his blooded family either.”, Winston says. His eyes widened suddenly. He turns to Vincent. “I-I didn’t mean it like that! I just meant…”

“It’s okay. I know what you meant.”, Vincent chuckles understanding. A relieved expression covers Winston’s face. “But unlike Lady Lillian I never got to know my family. My parents died when I was one years old.”, he shares with Lillian. She sits up and turns to Vincent to meet his gray eyes.

“I’m sorry,” she offers. Vincent nods simply.

“Anyway we’re family now. The three of us.”, Winston offers. Lillian’s eyes betray her shock while Vincent smiles.

“That’s right. We’re just the members each of us got to choose,” he says.

Four years later

“Alright, what’s the overall situation in Gordowe?”, the question comes from a young man at the head of a table. He is joined by four others gathered around. Light fills the room from behind him through the windows, yet the brightness from outside clashes with the intense and serious air that penetrates every aspect of the room. “Lillian?”

“Mother Margret’s detainment has caused an uproar in the town; however, her actions at the cathedral were successful in turning the people’s opinion in favor of the convent. As a result the soldiers stationed there by the church have been forced to back down for now, according to Selena,” a young woman with brown hair and eyes reported from his left.

“Even though the immediate threat has been removed the soldiers are still in the town. They are just on stand-by at the cathedral under Archbishop Rederick’s command,” a young man to his right speaks.

“So have the knights been able to leave as well?”, asks an elderly gentleman in golden knight armor.

“Yes, but they are still keeping an eye on the convent. Just now the situation isn’t as prominent to those that live there. The conflict is more between the people and the cathedral.”, answers Lillian.

“That sounds like a victory: though a small one. Lillian, what does Selena know about Mother Margret’s condition specifically?” the young man asks at the head of the table.

“From what Sir Marcus has told her, Mother Margret’s sentence has not been able to be carried out, thankfully, as a result of the people’s protest. She is, however, being held isolated from everyone.”, Lillian informs him.

“She is in danger as long as they have her. What was the response to me having her turned over to the knights?”

“Because her crimes are against the church they insist on handling it. Including her transport to Lumorra.”, Lillian replies. A thoughtful expression comes across the blond haired man’s face. “If they are allowed to do that she’ll no doubt be killed en route.”

“Winston, if I may ask, with the convent safe, what is your goal now?”, Alexander asks.

“The convent is only safe as long as Mother Margret is safe and the people support both. We need to ensure the church is unable to disrupt the delicate balance in Gordowe,” he answers. An older woman nods her head in understanding.

“Winston is right. Although I doubt even the church will do anything against Mother Margret or the convent. Not now that the people’s emotions are tied to them. A wrong move would cause a riot,” she says.

“So do we leave Mother Margret in their custody?”, Lillian asks. Winston leans back in his chair with his fingers entwined. He twiddles his thumbs as he thinks on the spot before answering. He sighs.

“Yes, for now at least. It’s best if we don’t antagonize them first.”, Winston finally answers.

“Is that wise for her safety?”, the older gentleman questions.

“Actually, she’ll be alright. The church isn’t who is watching her, but the knights. She is only classified as a prisoner of the church. It is the knights who oversee her.”, Lillian presents.

“That’s how Selena has been able to keep up with her condition.”, the older woman guesses.

“Yes, Queen Mother.”, Lillian tells her.

“Alright then. What about Vincent? How’s things on his end?” Alexander inquires.

“I last sent a letter informing him of the situation in Gordowe. I haven’t heard from him since.”, Winston informs them.

“Where was he headed?”, Lillian asks.

“Tymes and then Penoplice.”

“So he is heading to the Regece region?”, the queen mother asks.

“Yes, according to Selena.”, Winston says to her.

“I hope nothing happened.” Lillian voices worriedly. The room falls silent at Lillian’s words.

“Now, now, give the man some credit.”, the older knight speaks up. “The conflict with the church is not widespread. Therefore the chances of him being targeted are small,” he tells them.

“True , but would they send a squad after him after what he did in Gordowe? He did make it clear who he was siding with.”, Alexander offers.

“I don’t think they would, but even if they did. Something that small Vincent should be able to handle.”, Lillian says.

“I would like to agree, but let’s not count out the possibility.”, Winston speaks up as he gets to his feet. “At the same time I’m pretty confident that no one in the church’s service can match Vincent in a fight. Let’s wait to hear from him. It’s only been five days since he should have arrived in Tymes. Let’s end the meeting here.”

“Yes, King Winston.”, everyone present speaks in unison. As everyone gets to their feet Winston turns to the window. He looks out over the path that leads from the outer gates to the castle and spots them opening. Alexander comes to stand by his side. Despite the meeting ending and the good news it brought, the tension had not left Winston’s shoulders.

“I know what you are thinking. Trust me, everything is going to be fine.”, Alexander tells him.

“It’s been so long since we’ve been together just to hold court or for a family meeting.”, Winston says solemnly.

“At least now it’s us that’s handling it this time, but I get it. The influence of the older generation is still present and its remnants.”, Alexander reassures him. Winston turns to face his cousin.

“Can I trust you then?” Winston responds. Taken aback Alexander returns Winston’s gaze with raised brows.

“Are you just doubting me now, or are you finally making it known?”, Alexander retorts. Winston doesn’t reply right away. He turns away to leave and throws the answer over his shoulder without looking at him.

“Both.”

Lillian walks out of the council room alongside the Queen Mother. She looks over and notices the unreadable expression on the Queen Mother’s face. “Are you alright, Grace?” she asks.

“The first of our visitors arrive today, and after over almost twenty years the court is being held once again and a family meeting is being held,” she answers without turning her head.

Lillian looks at her out of the corner of her eye. She is aware of the tension and apprehension felt by Winston, Alexander, and Queen Grace in regards to the arrival of the top nobles of the kingdom. Although mostly due to those very nobles being members of the former ruling family, the Magide, whom Alexander and Queen Grace themselves are a part of and thus Winston through his mother.

“Forgive me, Gace, but I don’t understand. What issue could it be that you would not want to see your family?” Lillian asks, unable to understand. The queen mother stops abruptly and turns to Lillian, who follows suit, surprised.

“You don’t know? Really?” she responds in disbelief. Lillian shakes her head awkwardly.

“Winston hasn’t told me anything,” she goes on.

“Most likely because he assumed you knew as well. Did you not learn about your family lineage when you were younger?”, Grace responds.

“I didn’t get the chance. It wasn’t an important matter for me to learn early.”, Lillian tells her before dropping her eyes to the floor. “My brother most likely was though,” she says quietly. A look of pity flashes on Grace’s face and she lets out a sigh.

“Very well, I’ll tell you the story of the divide of our family.”, the queen mother says. However, at the moment a servant approaches them quickly.

“Your majesties.”, he greets them with a bow. “The families of Sir Augstine, Sir Tomas, Sir Carlos, and Sir Manual have arrived.”

“Thank you.”, Queen Grace answers.

“Head to the throne room to greet them.”, the sudden order causes Lillian and the Queen Mother to turn their heads to see Winston behind them.

“Yes, right away.”, Lillian answers before starting off with Queen Grace.

“It seems that time is not on our side. It is imperative that you know what’s going on though since it involves you just as much as us. For now make sure that you present yourself as the perfect reigning queen.”, the queen mother tells Lillian who nods in reply.

The two ladies arrive in the throne room followed by Alexander and his family. Lillian and Grace ascend the steps to stand in front of the thrones facing the grand, double doors while Alexander and his family stand to their right side.

“Wait, Sir Manual? Sir Tomas? Those names are a little unusual. Carlos too.”, Lillian says to the Queen Mother.

“Manual and Carlos are not blood relatives themselves, but they are married to Alexander’s sisters and they are all from Mermont. Which is the northeastern region of the kingdom. It shares a lot of cultural similarities with Ganca’s southern regions on the other side of the border,” she explains.

“Oh, but Tomas is?’

“That’s right. In fact these are my brothers and sisters’ families arriving today.”, Alexander adds.

“I see.”, Lillian replies, understanding. Queen Grace glances over to Lillian with a concerned expression before facing forward again.

“Remember the protocols and procedures,” she goes on before nodding her head giving the signal for their visitors to be let in.

“Right.” , Lillian says quietly. Two servants open the doors as the announcer calls Sir Augustine and his wife, Malinda’s, names. Lillian’s eyes slightly widen at how similar Alexander and his brother look. The only difference between them could be how they wear their brown hair. Augustine allows his bangs to come down his face while Alexander has his hair brushed to the back. She also notices their three children, two girls and a boy.

As Augustine and his family stop near the bottom of the steps Lillian and Queen Grace descend the steps to greet them. Sir Augustine and his son take a knee with bowed heads while Lady Malinda and her daughters courtesy in a similar manner.

“Queen Lillian. Queen Mother, it is an honor to be here in your home.”, Sir Augustine speaks.

“We are most delighted to have you and your family, Sir Augustine. I trust all of you shall enjoy your time here at court.”, Lillian speaks as she offers her hand. Looking up, Sir Augustine takes her hand and gets back to his feet with a smile. Giggles escape the girls as they and the rest of their family do the same. Resulting in a stern look from their mother.

“My queen.” greets Sir Augustine’s wife simply as bows her head.

“Lady Malinda.”, Lillian returns with a nod. “Oh! Your hair is beautiful!” Lillian tells her in awe.

“Oh, thank you!”, Lady Malinda replies surprised, but happily. The sound of the Queen Mother clearing her throat causes Lillian to turn to her. It is then Lillian remembers that it is time for Sir Augustine and his family to stand aside so that they may greet the other guests. Who were now waiting their turn. Lillian nods again allowing them to move on. A chuckle comes from the two girls again.

“Try to save the small talk for later. We just need to welcome them so that Winston may arrive and commence court. After that we won’t have to worry about this again.”, Queen Grace reminds Lillian.

“R-right” Lillian responds with understanding.

“Good job nonetheless though.”, Queen Grace goes on. A smile finds its way to Lillian’s face. At that moment the sound of an opening door comes from behind the two ladies. They turn to the door to the left of the thrones to see Winston entering. The announcement of his arrival causes every eye to fall on him.

“Winston, what are you doing?”, asks the Queen Mother shocked.

“I thought there was no need to go by special event protocol. Not to say that this isn’t special of course, but I should greet my family as well.”, Winston answers as he approaches Sir Augustine and his family. “Cousin Augustine. Lady Malinda,” he greets them. Sir Augustine hesitates before replying.

“King Winston.”, Sir Augustine replies finally. With a nod Winston walks over to Lillian and his mother. Who looked anything but pleased. Ignoring her, Winston goes on to greet Sir Manual and his family. Taken off guard by Winston’s actions Lillian pushes past her shock and continues performing her duties, yet she doesn’t miss Queen Grace’s unhappiness.

“Did your mother not come?”, Lillian hears Queen Grace asks Sir Tomas as they finish welcoming his family.

“I’m afraid not. She’s been rather aloof recently and she is just recovering from a fever.”, Sir Tomas informs her.

“Oh my, she never quite recovered from your father’s death did she?. I will be sure to send word to her.”, the queen mother replies. Sir Tomas nods in thanks. By now Lillian is ready to sit down and rest. So much so that she nearly misses Lady Maria talking to her.

“You must be close to giving birth, my queen,” she says.

“Yes. In a month or so.”, Lillian tells her. Lady Maria smiles with both her lips and her light brown eyes. Lillian feels a hand rest on her shoulder and turns to face Winston.

“If you wish, you could take a seat,” he tells her.

“Thank you. I may have to take up that offer.”, Lillian responds with a smile before turning to ascend the steps to her own throne next to Winston’s. Queen Grace also steps away to help her. Once she seats Winston addresses everyone.

“I am deeply happy that you all have come and more so that you all are the first to arrive,” he starts off addressing Alexander and his siblings. Winston’s expression grows serious. “In terms of our family we make up half of the James branch. Meaning we are all descendants of King James. The eldest of the three sons of King William the first.

Aside from our other cousins who are members of the same branch. We are each other’s closest relatives, but we are also the most divided because of our grandfathers and that has driven off the other branches and our closest relatives further dividing and weakening us. A situation that has been made worse due to even more recent events.”, Winston locks eyes with Sir Alexander, Sir Augustine, Sir Tomas, and even Sir Manual, and Sir Carlos in turn as he speaks.

“So I call on you now, my cousins, and your families to help me and join me in bringing our family back together, for if our family falls so will this kingdom and everything and everyone we hold dear,” he finishes. Sir Augustine and Sir Tomas look to Alexander who walks up to Winston to stand by his side as he faces his brothers and sisters.

“I have been here in Lumerra for the past three years and I have had the pleasure of working with King Winston, his wife Queen Lillian and Queen Grace. As you know since our father’s death and even before then I have never desired what Winston’s birthright is. I will not sacrifice my family or myself in pursuit of something that is justifiably not mine. However, to the rest of the world I am the serpent that is stalking the throne more than anyone else.

It’s time we change that and show that our family is just as strong and united as ever. This is something we must do. You know that, for even my position as the head of the family is under threat as the branches of Remus and Herbert are drawing closer and closer to each other through marriages. It won’t be long until they are able to undermine us in familial affairs and pose a threat to the throne.”, Alexander speaks.

“We know this, dear brother, and honestly I wish you two as the centers of power for our family would have done something about this sooner.”, Sir Tomas speaks first. Lady Cathrine nods her head agreeing.

“Yes, we all do. King Winston, you’ve been on the throne for three years and you are just reopening court and calling a family meeting,” she goes on. “Even with the disbandment of the Order of the Lords that has allowed others to move about their own dealings freely.”

“Alexander has tried, but with everyone on their own estates no one was able to really keep control.”, Sir Augustine adds. “Although, it is a relief that you’ve finally been able to get out from under your mother’s hold. Now we can see if you can stand on your own feet.”, Sir Augustine’s comment causes Lillian to flinch.

She looks at Queen Grace, but no expression is clear on her face or in her eyes. Only the slight tightening of her grip shows that she wanted to say something, yet is choosing not too. Lillian understands why as well, for if Winston had any chance in reuniting the Magide family he first had to reunite the James Branch. Even if he was only a Magide by blood.

Lillian’s eyes drift over to Alexander’s wife, Jessica. She had taken it upon herself to keep the children occupied while their parents talked. Her own daughters were playing with their cousins, but there was no doubt she was listening. Her eyes meet Lillian’s and they could see the same look of desperation in each other’s eyes.

“That’s enough Augustine! You go too far. Winston has always stood on his own feet. Ever since he took the throne. He is brilliant and quick, believe me. Winston is more capable than you think.”, Alexander defends.

“How could I know? Court is just being held. Playing games together as children barely gives any hints of how effective a ruler he is.”, Sir Augustine retorts.

“Don’t be foolish, August. You have eyes and ears. You’ve seen what Winston has done for the kingdom thus far. We all have benefited from it.”, Sir Manual defends this time. He turns back to Winston with a steady gaze.

“I have never known King Winston until now, but I’ve seen the results of his rule. Not only that, but considering the stories that Cathrine has told me about your family and upbringing. The fact that Alexander would defend him speaks volumes.”, Sir Manual pauses before going on. “This is more your family issue than it is mine, but my son and my other children will carry Magidge blood, a greater status than mine. Therefore, if Alexander is willing to bet on him then I will too.”

“Thank you Manual, Alexander, but I don’t expect to have your total trust and support. I apologize for my lack of action, and I can guarantee I will do my best to right my wrongs. All I ask for is a chance.”, Winston speaks calmly. A moment of silence passes that causes knots to form in Lillian’s stomach.

“You have our support,” Sir Tomas speaks.

“And ours.”, Sir Carlos finally speaks with an accompanying nod from his wife.

“You already have had mine for a while now,” Alexander says. Lillian heaves a sigh of relief as excitement rises in her chest. Now there is only Sir Augustine. He takes a breath and releases it.

“Very well. I’ll see what you can do,” he answers challengingly. Winston acknowledges with a smile and nod.

“Thank you all. Now then how about we have lunch in the inner gardens.”, Winston says.

In a glade away from the capital four individuals rest while enjoying lunch. “It’s a good thing we thought of getting something to eat before leaving.” a young woman with neck length brown hair and blue eyes says. The young man next to her nods in agreement as he chews a bite of a piece of bread.

“Although I think Vincent and Colin would have had just enough food to get us home,” he says light heartedly.

“I don’t know Luke. Sir Vincent has a big appetite.”, a brown haired boy responds.

“Is that so?”, the girl chuckles. Her eyes trail to another young man with dark brown hair across from her. His gray eyes are focused on the ground, glazed over with thought. He is only half listening to the others as his mind is swirling with questions.

“You aren’t eating.” the girl says to him. At the sound of her voice his head rises up. Silence passes between them before anyone speaks.

“Tell me again. How did you and Luke come to the conclusion you are related to me?” Vincent asks, referring to the young woman and man. Her eyes flicker between the ground and Vincent.

“That necklace you’re wearing. I noticed it when we first met. It’s a triple braided pattern, but the knots are what makes it unique,” she starts off, lifting her chin to gesture to the necklace around Vincent’s neck. “Three strings are used to make it and at equal intervals a knot is made until completed. That is a technique only members of our family know, but parents only will do it for their kids, so only members of our family will have one.”

“Amelia told me about it that night you guys arrived in Tymes. I thought you had just come across it. Because we always knew that our mother had a sister that left years ago.”, Luke chimes in.

“You mean stole.”, Vincent corrects. Luke shrugs in response.

“But I told him how you looked so much like each other, and instead we came to the possibility that you’re the son of our aunt and that you are our cousin. We only knew without a doubt when we saw you knew magic though.”, Amelia says.

“Well, all three of you do have similar auras.”, Colin adds quietly. Vincent listens in silence, rubbing the necklace between one of his fingers and thumb. His eyes drift down to it before he decides to reveal the necklace completely from inside of his shirt. Its tide around a clear crystal that shines in the sun. Amelia and Luke’s eyes widen in surprise.

“I can tell there is more to this than what its appearance lets on. When I first got it I sensed two energies that I felt like I should have recognised. Not only that, but the box was sealed by a charm that only I could open. If the two of you know about this then what makes it so special besides its uniqueness?”, Vincent questions them.

“Do you not believe us?”, Amelia responds. Vincent lets go of the necklace as he answers.

“No, I believe you or I should say a part of me knows you are telling the truth. I just wouldn’t have in a million years thought I would meet anybody that is actually related to me.”, Vincent admits somberly. He takes a breath and releases it.

“Well that’s why we are taking you and Colin home with us. Something like this Grandma Alice would want to know. Everyone will want to know in fact. She’ll be able to explain everything.”, Luke tells him.

“Not only that but you two are going to need somewhere to lie low after what happened in Tymes. We already have to keep moving as it is. After that you can head straight south to Harcata without losing too much time.”, Amelia says.

“Hmm, you are right about that.”, Vincent replies thoughtfully with his hand to his chin. He looks over to Colin. It is his family they need to get to to help. Feeling Vincent’s sight on him the boy turns to him and nods his head.

“Alright, how far away are we?” Vincent asks, turning back to Amelia and Luke. Luke looks behind him.

“About a day. Now that we’re out of the woods it’s really just plains around here. If you guys are good we can get going now,” he answers.

“I’m ready.”, Amelia says.

“Me too. What about you Colin?” Vincent says. The boy nods his head and gets to his feet. Vincent watches him for a moment, but doesn’t say anything. Instead he stands up and gets ready to continue on foot to Luke and Amelia’s home.

.............................................

A day later Vincent and the others reach the top of a ridge. They stop to catch their breath and rest. Vincent sets Colin down after carrying him the rest of the way.

“I could have made it, Sir Vincent,” he says after reaching the ground.

“You were starting to fall behind. It was no trouble for me to carry you.”, Vincent says to him. He hands him some water.

“I had made it most of the way though, but thank you.”, Colin replies stubbornly, but still takes the water. Vincent sighs.

“You’re welcome Colin,” he says.

“You certainly surprised me, young blood. I honestly didn’t expect you to make it as far as you did. I knew you were strong, but you may be stronger than I thought.”, Luke speaks up from where he was resting. Meanwhile, Amelia walks from the rest of the group to the edge of the crest.

“Look! We are here!” she calls back to them. “Ah, you were right Luke. We did come from the northwest.”, she sighs.

“Told you! That’s why we ended up having to climb this ridge!” he calls back in response. She returns to the others with bright eyes and raring to go.

“I thought we ended up coming more straight on from the west,” she defends

“You are certainly more energetic than I thought.” Vincent comments as he gets to his feet.

“And you are a quicker healer than I thought,” she responds back referring to how easily Vincent has dealt with the journey despite having taken an arrow to the leg and a spear to the shoulder back in Tymes.

“That’s because admittedly he’s better at magic then we gave him credit for.”, Luke clarifies ready to go. Vincent chuckles.

“I may not use it often, but I had a good teacher and have been learning it for three years now. Well, four now I think.”, Vincent admits thoughtfully. The group heads in the direction of the town as they continue to talk. A gust of wind blows from behind them and ruffles their clothes and hair.

“Really? We’ve been learning since we were ten years old.”, Amelia shares.

Once they reach the edge of the crest the quartect falls silent as Vincent takes his first look at Amelia and Luke’s town. A small lake sits to the left away from what Vincent guesses is a market area. Thick vegetation chokes its shallows. Around the lake are clusters of homes all around it. A man made stream can be seen leading from the lake to woods that start off beyond to the south. Further to the east of the homes and lake can be seen fields plowed and ready to be sewn.

“Those clusters around the lake are families. Each one basically owns a piece of land around the lake.”, Amelia tells him, pointing to the area around the lake. “The market is where outsiders and townsfolk gather to conduct business. The town’s pretty well off, but we don’t have the money for an amisher,” she explains. Vincent silently takes in the scenery resulting in a smile from Amelia.

“Well, no sense in just standing here. It’s nearly dinnertime and I can smell grandma and mother’s cooking.”, Luke says walking past Vincent and the others. A sense of anxiousness springs up in his chest as he follows. Not knowing what to expect when he arrives.

After reaching the bottom of the hill the group heads to the far side of the lake closest to the fields. On their way the townsfolk they pass by greet and welcome home Amelia and Luke. Calling out their names and waving to them. A few of them approach, but at the sight of Vincent some decide not to. Others throw curious looks his and Colin’s way.

“Hehehe, sorry. It’s not everyday someone new comes here that isn’t a merchant. For some people that means competition.”, Amelia explains. Vincent nods in understanding. His attention is really on Colin anyway.

“Are you okay?” he asks the boy.

“I’m fine.”, Colin answers looking up to Vincent.

“Just let me know if you become overwhelmed. I can put a shield up for you.”, Vincent tells him. By now he was familiar with Colin’s sensory technique and the risks of overload it posed to him.

“You don’t have to do that. I can stay focused, trust me.”, Colin quickly replies. Colin’s defensiveness catches Vincent off guard causing him to raise an eyebrow at the boy.

“What’s gotten into you?”, Vincent questions him. Colin’s eyes fall to the ground.

“Nothing. Sorry.”, Colin answers.

“Guys we’re here!”, Amelia says. Vincent and Colin’s attention goes from each other to in front of them. Amelia and Luke had pulled ahead of them a bit, and were standing a few paces away from a house. Vincent notices Luke keeps looking around nervously.

“Luke what are you-”

“LUKE!”, the shout interrupts Vincent’s question.

“Darn it, Vincent! I was so close.”, Luke says. At the same time a girl approaches Luke with a look of frustration. “Ah, Angelina. It’s good to see you.”, as soon as Luke stops speaking the girl slaps Luke across the face. The hit causes Vincent to flinch.

“That had to hurt.”, Colin comments with a hurt look of his own. The girl leaves right after not waiting for an explanation from Luke. He turns to the others.

“I...think I deserved that,” he says simply rubbing his cheek. A silent “ow” is formed by his mouth.

“You know you did. You made a promise to propose to multiple girls when you got back didn’t you?”, Amelia accuses him.

“I-I...refuse to answer that question.”, Luke retorts. Vincent shakes his head.

“Probably said he would use the enormous profit from you guys’ recent venture too.”, the voice comes in the direction of the house. Everyone turns around and sees a young man around Vincent’s age perhaps a year or two younger approaching them. He has chestnut brown hair and amber eyes. “She was just here looking for you,” he tells Luke as he stops by him.

“That’s why he was in a rush to leave.”, Amelia realizes.

“And why he was determined to make a huge profit,” Vincent adds.

“No. I actually thought I’d rearranged their memories.”, Luke defends himself under his breath.

“You did. Uncle overridden your spell.”, the guy informs him.

“What?!”, Luke exclaims, dropping his hand.

“Is he home, Stephon?”, Amelia asks.

“No. He and my father are at the fields planning this year’s crop. Mom, Aunt Ledia, and grandma just got back from the market. I was here watching the house and kids, and doing some work on the horses. We were expecting to hear from you guys days ago to come and get you from Harcata, but we didn’t. Everyone’s been really worried.”, Stephon informs her.

“We know. We had a bit of trouble. We had to come home by land and it ended up taking almost over a week to get here on foot. ”, Luke tells him.

“Hm, who’s this?”, Stephon responds by gesturing to Vincent and Colin with his chin. A hint of suspension in his voice. Amelia and Luke smile ignoring it.

“Pretty much the reason we are late and someone everyone is going to want to meet.”, Amelia starts off with excitement rising in her voice. A curious look appears on Stephon’s face, not quite following.

“Okay, Stephon, this is cousin Vincent. Cousin Vincent, this is cousin Stephon.” Luke announces.