"And behold, I am with you always,

  To the end of age"

  - Book of Matthew ESV 28:20

  "Ruth, I was made aware that you talked to Dimitri already, or was I misled into believing you took care of such a task?" Samyaza broke the silence. Ruth knew it was best not to lie to Samyaza as he had a way of finding everything out. It's not that she had lied. She had told Dimitri that she may soon be taking a trip south, besides the chances of her going were little to none. She wasn't sure how he would take the news that she would be leaving today.

  "I spoke to him. I just thought that perhaps I would have more time." she refused to make eye contact with Samyaza. He had always towered over her, Samyaza was even taller than Nicodemus. Although he had a soft spoken voice, his tone was always unclear, it was hard to know what Samyaza was thinking or how he felt about any situation in particular.

  "Were my orders not clear?" He asked.

  "They were, I will say my goodbyes before we leave."

  "Have him send you off. How has it been working with Buer?" He changed the topic. Ruth lit up a bit, and as if it was magic she faced him with a big smile. She had always enjoyed talking about her work and studies. Getting her an apprenticeship with the best physician in Avernita was Samyaza's idea from the beginning. Buer never took in new apprentices, it was hard to convince him to do almost anything willingly and he preferred to spend his time mixing all kinds of medicine together. She wanted to ask how he managed to pull something like that off, although perhaps it was better unknown, she knew that Samyaza got away with a lot.

  "I am enjoying it, Buer is nice to me. It is also an honor to be trusted by the emperor so much to be taken on this trip."

  "Indeed. If you keep your studies up and learn fast, I am sure you will be able to even surpass your teacher. Nicodemus likes you. Taking someone closer to his age would also make him a lot more comfortable."

  "I see, as for Buer I could never surpass him, he knows too much. You tell him one symptom and he already has a line-up of medicine or mixtures that would heal you. He has given me over ten note books in the past three weeks, I am still learning new things to this day." She remembered the first night she worked alongside Buer, he had her sit on a desk as he went over every poison that existed in Avernita, then the exact antidote. His office was full of book and notes, he carried exactly ten pens and a notebook everywhere he went. Ruth really liked Buer, He was organized, and always detailed with his work. She had learned his behavior and picked up some of his quirks as well.

  "He is always reading. Does he not get tired?" Samyaza asked.

  "I would not know. He is taking notes and reading when I walk in, and by the time I am prepared to head back, he has only moved a few times to either grab us coffee or check up on you and the emperor. I know he was pleased once I took over healing Micah."

  Ruth and Samyaza kept conversing, he asked more questions about her own research. While Buer enjoyed learning about antidotes, and healing, Ruth was studying different types of plagues and disease. Leprosy was a topic she enjoyed the most, not only did it cause some of the worst physical damage to a human body, including the strict isolation one had to follow by law, many who had the disease became social outcasts. There was no cure for leprosy, as of right now, and with it being highly contagious as well, your best bet was divine intervention. She had spent a few nights with Buer studying that topic alone.

  When they had made their way to the infirmary, Ruth stood by the door way checking if the coast was clear. She peeked inside a few rooms until she finally saw Buer hunched up by his desk. She felt a warm feeling and lightly knocked on the door frame. Samyaza stood behind her peeking inside. Buer took his glasses off and put his pen down gesturing her to come in. Buer looked young, he was a handsome man. He had short black hair and his eyes were a shade or two lighter than Samyaza's. He had noticeable dark circles because he probably never truly slept. He always wore a black, long sleeve shirt and white pants, he was slim yet looked athletic enough due to his military service. Ruth was surprised to find that out since he has not ever once done more than walk around in the palace, and that alone was a chore.

  "Judith!"

  "It's Ruth." She corrected. "I'm leaving today, Samyaza wanted you to explain the new pills for his majesty to take." She gestured Samyaza to follow her, they both sat down on stools. Buer was never good with furniture, none of it matched, for someone so organized with his notes, books and research, maybe interior design was not something he cared for.

  "Hmm, yes, yes. Judy do you know how long the trip is?"

  "It's Ruth, and no... We estimate it being a few days to get to the twin cities, besides the rest could take months." Samyaza said, Ruth felt her stomach drop.

  "Months?" Buer questioned.

  "Depends, Cain is not easy to find. He is also stubborn." Samyaza said. Ruth just stared back with a blank expression, she had hoped this trip would be easy since Samyaza said they were alleged friends. Now knowing they had to find a man who was stubborn made things sound a bit harder. Micah was stubborn enough, Nicodemus had a slight attitude, he had his reasons. She had asked if Dimitri would be a better replacement for Micah, with of course him being a captain he had far more important things to take care of.

  "My apologies then, I have made enough for two weeks." Buer sighed after. He walked over to grab a small box and handed it off to Ruth. "Did you tell Jude about the emperor's condition?" He looked at Samyaza.

  "Not yet, now that the oath has been activated, I truly do not know how much or what I can say."

  "Very well, it is important for her to at least know a little." Buer said

  "I am aware. That is why you will explain."

  "Is the emperor okay?" Ruth interrupted, the two men did not seem worried enough. She felt a tad bit annoyed by how casual this conversation felt between the three of them. They both seem to know the gravity of the situation, in spite of that spoke vaguely about it.

  "Me? I was not the one left in charge to babysit. Besides, you were to blame for breaking the oath seal, now his majesty is taking up your job, because you just had to get caught." Buer turned to Ruth, "Yes, he is fine physically as long as he stays in the palace. The issue is we do not know how he will react in certain areas in Avernita, more or less especially the place you're headed."

  "You will be in charge of writing everything down. His reaction, symptoms and any side effects. You are going on this trip not only to assist, otherwise to also to help Buer finish his research. We cannot say much. I guarantee you, as soon as you come back things will make sense. There is a few of us in the palace that know how to help him, Buer and myself are the only ones who know in full detail the gravity of the situation." Samyaza reached for his neck feeling around, it seemed to bother him more. Ruth was even more confused now.

  "Does he know I am doing this?" She asked, "I do not like how suspicious this all sounds. What is it that I am even looking out for? None of this makes sense."

  "You just have to trust us. The reason he was not allowed out much as a child was not because her majesty was over protective, yet simply because we truly have no idea how his body will react to certain levels of radiation." Buer said, he seemed annoyed, and frustrated. "Judith, the best way to put it is this; let's say Nicodemus is variable A." He grabbed his notebook and drew a little stick figure. "The palace is in a neutral area, so we will say Nicodemus is water."

  Samyaza coughed. "Buer, what in hell's name are you saying?" He leaned in looking at the worst drawing in human history. "How would this make any sense? Without directly breaking your own seal?"

  "Would you let me finish? I am fully aware there are certain things we cannot say, so what if I explained it in a way she would understand without directly saying certain words?" Buer said. "Let me see how well my only student actually pays attention in class. Lithium, sodium, potassium, rubidium, cesium, and francium are all?"

  "Alkali metals." Ruth responded. This was a recent topic they had researched.

  "Correct! Now, Avernita has 7 sections, which we will substitute for 7 different variables; C through J. The twin ghost cities are located at the heart of variable C." Buer drew up an inaccurate map, labeling different sections with both a number and letter. Ruth was still as confused, although having a visual helped her understand the circumstances a bit better.

  "If you throw an alkali metal into water what happens?"

  "They react violently..." Ruth said, she put a few context clues together.

  "Exactly. They all have a different reaction. Now, to neutralize an alkali you need to add?"

  "Acid, it will neutralize the base, producing salt as the reaction. So if you said that Nicodemus is water, and the a location is an alkai metal... I am making a guess that Nicodemus would have an effect on the area? or.. the area would affect Nicodemus."

  "Yes! The pills I made you would be considered variable B, the acid." Buer smiled. Ruth fully understood now.

  "Because I am only given two-weeks worth of pills..." she looked at them, and the little drawing. "and the emperor never once has left the palace, or in this case his neutral state... You guys do not know how he will react at all. He could potentially get extremely violent, or have an unknown reaction to the location. The closer we get the higher the reaction?"

  "God I love this girl." Buer said

  "You picked all that up with his shitty drawings and explanation?" Samyaza asked,

  "It makes sense, the thing is... the reason these metals react a certain way is because of their outer electron. So, his majesty-"

  "-Isn't fully human"Buer said "I cannot tell you any more than that, or I will face the same consequences as Samyaza."

  "He doesn't know, does he?" Ruth saw them both shake their heads, it all made sense now. It did not once cross her mind that Nicodemus perhaps wasn't human. She had never noticed anything out of the ordinary, now, she was really curious what he was. She looked at Samyaza and Buer. "I will try my best with this research, if it means you would be able to help him later on. I will keep this between us as well, merely what if his majesty has an uncontrollable reaction? This is all just too new. What is he?" a rush of anxiety filled her chest. She would have to hide this from him as well as try to keep him in a calm state.

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  She was not even fully sure where their relationship stood. Sure they got along well, and he has many times paid her visits, she liked to think they are close friends too. Hiding something this important from him just did not feel right.

  "Was her majesty aware of the consequences of him finding out?" She asked

  "Yes. There is a lot to it. Our original plan was to tell him when he became emperor. We would slowly expose him until he was able to control it. We are bound to the no speak oath, and we are already risking too much. We cannot expose ourselves, or help others realize who they are." Samyaza replied.

  "Rudith, the world we live in surpasses even science. When the emperor saw Samyaza's wings...it was hard for him to comprehend, thus, he forgot about it due to the shock and trauma of what he witnessed. Seeing the scars, the way he reacted was from the post traumatic stress flashback. Our bodies tend to forget the worst in stressful scenarios. The smallest things can trigger it." Buer got up, and stretched his back "Get some rest, I understand if you still have questions or have your hesitations. Otherwise we are counting on you. The pills can be split in half, it's up to you to regulate it. Just keep in mind what I have just explained, and by all means... do not let the Alvon know whats going on."

  Samyaza stepped back a few feet and started to look through Buer's book shelves. He still looked in pain and the scars on his neck seemed to almost get worse now. Ruth tapped Samyaza's shoulder, and he turned around with a soft smile.

  "You have a lot of explaining to do once we come back." She said.

  "I know, I have gotten enough shit from his majesty. Find Cain, take care of Nicodemus, and help bring back the sword. You know the situation now, do not let him out of your sight." Samyaza said, He reached to fix a strand of her hair. "Go say goodbye to Dimitri. You'll leave before sunset."

  .   .   .

  Ruth ran down the halls carrying a few notebooks, and the pills rattled in her hand. She knew her way around the palace, which halls turned where, and the short cuts to get to her bedroom. She noticed a few men putting a painting up. It was one she had not seen before. She stood and watched them finish their final touches, this spot was perfect. The way the light shined on it, the green palm trees that were laid to rest in giant pots. Mauve curtains draped over the portrait with golden tassels. The frame was carved with crystal leaves and flowers, a giant snake wrapped around it and on one corner an apple. She stood there in awe, Nicodemus' portrait was beautiful. His side profile was almost life-like. She wondered if he had seen it, and if he would like it. Ruth smiled and did a little bow before continuing her run.

  She opened the door to her room and set a few things down on her desk. She was told to pack light, as they would be collecting more when they traveled north. Ruth threw a few items on the bed and folded them neatly. There was a light knock on the door, she turned to see Dimitri.

  "May I come in?" he asked, he looked at clothes on her bed.

  "Hi. Come in!" she ran to him and kissed his cheek. "I have to tell you something..." she fidgeted with the buttons on his shirt. He watched her for a moment before taking ahold of her hands.

  "Yeah?" he lifted her chin making eye contact with her.

  "Mitri, today, Well, um - Samyaza-"

  "I know. I was told to prepare your horse. Ruth, I- I know you'll do great." he looked down, not surprised. She knew exactly how he was feeling. Dimitri had always worn his heart on his sleeve, he didn't hide any intentions and was always honest. Ruth loved that about him. She wrapped her arms around his waist and laid her head on his chest. He hugged her back and picked her up bridal style, he walked over to their bed and sat down with her still in his arms.

  "Hey, when you come back, I need a full length book of all your stories and everything you saw okay?" Ruth felt a bit silly in his arms, she wasn't fully used to being carried around, Dimitri took advantage when he could. She nodded and rested her head.

  "Of course, besides I have so much I already want to tell you. When I come back you also need to take me on a date. We have not gone on one in so long."

  "My love, anything you wish for." He kissed her forehead and pulled her in closer and tighter. Ruth felt happy in Dimitri's arms, he was her safe space, her first and only love. He got up with her still in arms and gently placed her in bed. She scooted over allowing him some space near her. He laid down and pulled her close. "How long will you be gone for?" Ruth did not want to answer that.

  "I am not so sure."

  "They didn't tell you?" He asked

  "No... You're not mad are you?" She looked at him trying to read his expression.

  "..." He got up and sighed.

  "Dimitri-"

  "No. I am not mad. I can't be, it would be unfair to you. Ruth- just... be careful okay?" He didn't look at her now. Ruth knew he was was holding himself back. He was thinking of the many possible answers, only he would never be one to stop her from anything.

  "I will. I have to finish packing." She said getting off the bed, Dimitri nodded in agreement and got off the bed as well, he turned to her and helped her pack.

  Dimitri led the way to the horses and the gate. Nicodemus and Micah would be arriving soon, and they would need to take off before sunset. Ruth held his hand the entire time as he carried her bags. The barn was exactly a mile away, once they passed the gardens it was straight down the hill. They had walked this path many times. When they arrived, three horses were prepared with saddles and all the necessary equipment for the trip. Dimitri mounted everything for her and even helped her up. He went over a few basic riding skills. This was not her first time on a horse, just a refresher was always welcomed, He got her brand new gear to ensure her safety. Her horse was a beautiful chocolate brown, he had a white spot on his forehead and long black hair tied up in braids. He was well kept and sturdy. She asked Dimitri to hand her her cloak, as the sun began to set, the temperature also went down. Dimitri stood next to her and caressed her leg.

  "I love you...Please remember that okay?" he said.

  "I love you too. I promise to ride back the fastest as soon as we have the sword." she caressed his curls, and took off his glasses cleaning them in the process. Placing them back on his head she leaned down to kiss him one last time. There were a few foot steps heard and some familiar voices. They both turned around and waved at the group. Samyaza, Nicodemus, Micah and Buer waved back.

  Samyaza helped Nicodemus and Micah prepare, they both put their cloaks on and got comfortable on their own horses. Buer came up to Ruth and patted Dimitri on his shoulder.

  "Be safe, if you can bring back samples of plants or whatever you find. I packed a small kit incase you run into any emergency, come back home safe. Good Luck, kid." Buer didn't smile. He also seemed as if he had a lot more to say just could not spit it out now. She nodded and took the first aid supplies. She would after all be the medic and need as many tools possible in case anything went south.

  "Hey... Buer, when I come back, teach me about everything you know! It's my payment for bringing you back samples."

  "I will. I must go now. Goodbye, Ruth." Buer turned and did not look back, he did a small dismissive wave. Ruths eyes widened when he called her by her actual name. That was a first, she felt almost too happy. She smiled down at Dimitri who chuckled at the interaction.

  "So he does know your name?" he said

  "Seems so!"

  "I have no idea how you can work with that guy, he looks rude."

  "He has his moments. He just knows he'll have to take care of everyone now until I'm back. No more sitting in his office all day looking at the same samples of bacteria." She pictured Buer rolling his eyes every time the bell in his office rang. Dimitri shook his head in disappointment.

  "Mitri, get some rest okay?" She reached down to cup his face.

  "I will. Goodbye, Love. Come back home to me soon." He kissed her hand and moved back. He waved at her one last time before turning back to the palace. She knew he had plenty of work to finish himself. She was more grateful he was able to come and say goodbye.

  Samyaza explained their route one last time, and gave them all their own sword forged individually for their height and personal strength. He carried himself in a different way today, almost like a worried parent seeing their child go. He said his final goodbyes to Nicodemus. The emperor looked a bit anxious as well, only he masked it with a smile. Ruth knew this was his first time traveling without a parent or Samyaza. Micah looked at Ruth and smiled, he was perhaps the only one happy about this whole situation, especially because he was no longer wearing cuffs and chains. Samyaza did one last check before hugging Nicodemus and walking them to the white gates. The walk over was silent, and held tension. Ruth was let out first, the guards bowed at her. Then she was followed by Micah, and lastly Nicodemus.

  "May you always be safe, come home soon. Goodbye everyone." was the last thing Samyaza had said to them. He bowed and stayed to watch as the three of them commanded their horses. Ruth did not know when they would return. No one did. She knew Nicodemus' secret that he himself wasn't even aware of. She had made a promise to take care of him the best she could. She looked over her shoulder and saw the other two riding behind. Nicodemus made eye contact and smiled.

  "Ruth, lead the way to our first camp! We are right behind you." He said catching up to her, Micah sped up and was to her right.

  "Make sure to not get us lost, I'll take care of the rides in the morning." Micah said

  "Twenty-miles south. We should be there before the sun fully sets. You can trust me! My fiancé is the captain after all. I was taught by the best."

  "Fiancé? That's who he was?" Micah commented

  "Yes! I will tell you all about him once we get to camp." She smiled.