Westward

"That's it?" she asked, quizzically. "I can dance, so we are good to go?"

"No time like the present," Sabok said, grinning. "I am anxious to see what is in Hyrcania myself. Go on, meet me in three days and we will get this show on the road."

Astra was beyond pleased, for she could finally put her plan into action. She informed Paula and Copernica of the news, and then started preparations.

Some hours later, Astra prepared for bed. As she laid down to sleep, she heard something slide under her door. Jumping out of bed, she was fully alert and opened the door but no one was there. In her room was now an unmarked envelope containing a letter.

Dear Astra,

Please read the entirety of this letter. You have no idea the effort it took to get it to you. The uprising happened exactly as you stated, but using the power of the marble I was able to quell it and I have since restored order. This has been... somewhat costly for me. I was forced to open myself up to the marble, to let it in, and in doing so it has consumed me.

Fortunately, I have moments of lucidity and in this one I wanted you to know things that I have learned. Yes, doing what I did had its price but my power has increased tenfold. Although I cannot affect things outside of Allaria, not yet, I can view them as through a darkened glass. I know that you plan to go to Hyrcania, and I must warn you not to. Even my powers cannot penetrate what is going on there, and you would be in the utmost danger.

I propose you return to me, to Allaria. You can help me restore my sanity, and then with my newly increased power we can expand my influence to your country, and I can return your people to their rightful place. I promise you I will restore Aqualaria if you trust me. I need you, Astra, I have learned so much about magic and how to help my condition but I need someone unaffected. King Fred cannot help me, he is tied up with ruling the realm.

I know that you do not trust me, but awaiting you in Hyrcania I sense the darkest sort of terror. You must let me help you. If you wish to respond to me, write upon the back of this letter and I will receive it immediately.

Your friend,

Reaibn

Astra sat back, thinking. She could not trust that madman, and yet... the situation of her people was beyond dire.

1. Astra continued on with her current plan. Preparations must be made.
2. Astra wrote Reaibn back, asking some questions.
3. Astra decided to go back to Allaria. It was the best hope for her people.

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