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At first Jared had been completely drained sleeping soundly but soon his body felt uncomfortable and he actually woke up trying to roll over sensing something different. The experience was basically the same for Nessandra although she had much more experience sleeping with her twin but with the ferret tossing and turning well both spending a rather unrestfull night waking or part way waking each time the other moved around. They were finally interrupted the early the next morning by a soft call of 'Princess'. "Yes?" Nessandra answered.

"I believe the High Lady has asked for Cassandra. I don't believe she has yet been informed that she is not in her apartment."

Jared jumped up with Cassie's jolt already looking for his clothes. "Lady Neista and the womens chamber members!" Nessandra had also gotten out of bed stopping Jared as he tried to stuff his legs back into his pants.

"Relax, you have time and Cass can dress here." She told him pulling his paws up and placing them around her neck. Her kiss this time was the softest brush of their lips meeting, which brought a heated response from Jared's body before he was hit with a flash of blinding light.

He was outside, in bright sunlight, with Nessandra next to him in a extravagant dress. He could smell flowers on the breeze and the lightest harp music plucked out in the background. Loud roaring which turned to cheering sounded as their lips met this time in a deep meaningful soul kiss. He could sense hundreds of people around them possibly even more as their mouths parted and he stared into her eyes before everything went black.

Only it wasn't black, in the darkness of Nessandra's room he pulled back nearly overbalancing himself. Sensing the bed behind him he collapsed backward landing rather hard. 'Jared?' The was a slight surprise in her voice. 'What was that?!' ~ 'What was what? Are you alright?' He sat back up as the vixen slipped between his legs stroking the side of his muzzle.

"I don't think we have time for more of that." She stated teasingly.

There was another flash though this time not as bright and he immediately recognized the Seriene Hall. The next thing that drew is attention was Drentan sitting on the throne. He was seated on the left side among several others he recognized from court. He turned, suddenly noticing Lady Lindara heading down the isle in a deep dark blue stepping forward until she finally bowed before Drake who was attired in full red and green, it took him a moment to realize they were full ascension robes.

Then he was back, Nessandra leaning over him ready to kiss his lips. 'CHANGE!' Jared cried out desperately. Without question Cassie complied taking the brunt of her sisters strong kiss as Jared forced her forward. He could feel the younger twin grip tighter and press deeper when she realized they had swapped.

It was the last thing Jared saw as he was swept away by the next burst. He was standing in Nessandra's bedroom, but now he was near the door and the room was full of light. She was standing barely a foot away from him staring into his arms at the cloth bundled cub. Inside he shivered as the vixen moved the blanket exposing the lightest pink nose and the muzzle attached to it. "She's beautiful." He could hear Nessandra's soft voice as his own mind trembled with the implication. Kits born from mixed species almost always followed the same race and gender as one of the parents, and more often they were female taking after their mother. To know this was a ferret and female made his mind stall almost as badly as knowing that this was his daughter.

There was a small pause as darkness crept back in before he was assaulted with images and scenes that played so fast he had trouble realizing what he was watching before it vanished. Burst and flashes, Nessandra, a small cub, groups of people, court, often there were images of his daughter as a cub slowly growing, but then came the image of a young ferret being attack trying to block off a sword. Suddenly instead of trying to push back the flood he reached out forcefully dragging back what he had just seen drawing in the darkness before the scene replayed showing more than what he had glimpsed.

"AGAIN!" He recognized Lorran's voice as young maybe sixish ferret stepped back trying to defend a swing of a sword. Three other people stepped forward each taking one swing which she blocked before stumbling backwards. She was gone before her rear hit the stone floor. The image faded replaced with her at a desk reading and what he thought was the same book he might have seen her waving around in a previous image. Then they started again faster flashing and flickering showing him a small girl who slowly grew into a young jill, riding horses, practicing swordplay, seating in groups of adults, hallways, strangers, an endless amount of information forced upon him making Jared quake inside trying again to push away the images away seeking an empty space to retreat to and totally failing.

Then there was another pause of complete darkness and Jared began to hope it was finally over before he was gripped hard and yanked forward as he watched a young lady clad in leathers thundering through a meadow charging into a camp of tents cutting down the first person she came across as dozens of men rode in after her. The scene flipped and she road away with smoke and the smell of blood and death behind her. It happened again, this time the difference was a small village with a river in the distance charging through as she and her companions cut into everything that moved. The difference in the ending was when they road away there were a few saddles that held bodies. Jared wasn't sure how many more times it happened, perhaps a dozens, each time the invading group grew, but then so did the resistance they found. They became full blown battles involving hundreds and leaving behind fields of bodies but always the ferret rode away with her banner flying high, his banner, his crest.

Then suddenly blackness, the ferret could only try to pretend to hold his eyes closed as he was again brought forward this time riding with a large group at a slower pace. Jared could sense that there were possibly hundreds behind her as she held her hand to stop them slowly riding forward herself several dozen yards to call out to the town in front of her and the line of armed men and women blocking the way forward. She called out again and several of her opponents raised there weapons shouting back. One more time she called before turning and riding back to her group. Jared didn't understand why with such a force she wasn't charging forward like before. The real surprise came when the female raised her sword high before flinging it at the ground. As she turned so did her force slowly riding away but suddenly in multiple directions smoke appeared and swiftly grew burning out across the countryside around the town.

This happened several more times as the jill road up to towns or even small cities meeting a large force or resistance which could not match her own. She would ride forward calling out before throwing down her sword and riding away with the surrounding areas burning, sometime the fires seem to take parts of the towns and homes as well. The last image was a large village that was built around a massive oak tree that towered to heights Jared had never seen nor quite imagined from the stories he had heard. The young female road forward shouted out and then turned away and this time when the fields began burning so did the oak as well. Towering flames roared over the village with people screaming and fleeing as the group slowly rode away. When it was over Jared curled into the tightest ball he could hiding from what he feared would come next. He waited for a long time fully expecting more before he finally had a small amount of hope that it might finally be over.

Tentatively he spread out carefully creeping forward ready to fully retreat in an instant as he slowly tested the edges of where he should be. Cassie called out to him with worry and concern suddenly holding him and trying to help. He fought her attempts weakly crying out for her to stop. 'Please just give me a moment.'

She allowed him to move back at his own pace as she moved to a wall of the dining room to be out of the way. 'What happened?' She finally asked after Jared took enough interest to glance around wondering where they were. 'Were at Lady Merina's estate, Lady Neista's meeting is over and lunch is being served.' She answered leaving him with the shock that the entire morning vanishing for him. 'Did you see any of it?' ~ 'Jared explain. You stumble and fall on the bed then demand to change like it's a desperate thing. Then you hid so completely I couldn't touch you. Ness is upset, Mother sent a message asking me where I've been, and Lord Callen wanted a word with you earlier and I had to tell him no. What is going on?!' Twice she had waved off a servant causing them to scurry away from her frown, but before Jared could answer Lady Merina stepped up beside them.

"Princess Cassandra are you alright?"

"I'm fine." She quietly answered. "I just need a moment."

"NO I'm not Fine!" Jared spoke hoarsely getting Merina's full attention and Cassie's silent rebuke. 'Forget your Mother!' He growled at her inside, 'I don't care what she wants right now.'

"Perhaps we should make this private." Lady Merina suggested pulling one of her closest servants and issuing out quick orders before gently taking Cassandra's arm and guiding them down a hall. She opened the door to a rather small but elegant bedroom and waved the vixen at the bed. "Please sit." She stated pulling a reading chair away from it's tiny table turning it to face the bed where she took a seat.

"What's wrong Jared?" Cassie asked for the other females benefit.

"I saw my daughter and what she is going to do." He gave her several flashes of the young ferret as she grew up keeping her silent.

"I didn't know you had a daughter." The statement was plied like a question.

"I don't, yet." ~ "Jared we can't talk about this." She literally rode over him. 'Cassie you didn't go through several hours of this! I can't tell your parents otherwise they may try to control her!' "Lady Merina, is there... How hard would it be for you to never repeat what I'm going to say?"

"That would depend on several factors. I can offer my confidence."

"NO. I need you to make me a promise you will never repeat any of this." 'Jared you can't tell her anything. I won't allow you to.' ~ 'Even if I asked you? Cassie I need to tell someone and I'm not going to your family. Uncle Max is to far away, I trust Donald but I don't see him being a help, who else Bervante?' His thought was almost snide. The bird would have his own agenda and likely not stay silent. Before the pair fell into a full argument the lady spoke.

"You know I had a son. He was killed for being more than a little foolish. Honestly he never understood much beyond the fact he wanted and believed others should respect him and defer to whatever he wanted. It got him in trouble with a man who took things to far. Often times I wonder what would have happened had things been different, he would be about the age of Drentan now. I could only wish that had he lived, he would be as strong as you. I don't know anyone who could have heard voices in their head, been thrown into the court, and maneuvered themselves so well. I understand Cassandra was likely a great help but I think most men, most people, would have given up along the way. What is it exactly you wish my silence on?" The mouse inquired.

Taking a deep breath and ignoring Cassie's warning he stated simply. "The future, a prophecy, possibly the fate of a nation, but not our own." 'How can you be so sure Jared. She could drag us all into a war!' ~ 'Cass it wasn't this land! I think, I think it was part of Talistad or Nareim I saw one of the great oak trees, there can't be that many left.' As they started to argue Lady Merina watched the princess scowl and give a little head shake, even uttering a light growling huff.

"Princess." The word caught both of their attention. "You evidently have a problem with this. Do you believe you have the right to silence Jared?"

Cassie took several breaths before replying, "No, but at the same time I have to protect myself and my family. We both know we can't tell anyone!"

"Why? Is it something dangerous? He said the fate of a nation, you should know princess I would never hold a secret that would deliberately harm the Mystalane Empire or endanger your family." The mouse stated firmly.

"It doesn't have to do with Mystalane, it's another land entirely." Jared forced his way in. "But you cant guarantee that. We can't tell anyone!" Cassie stated again.

Just as the argument started again Merina spoke, "Why?"

"The less people that know about the prophecy the less chance there is for us to be in danger." Cassie spoke quickly shoving her point towards Jared.

"That makes me extremely upset Princess Cassandra! What makes you think telling me anything would put you in any danger. I have had your mother's confidence for years and never did I give her any reason to think she made the wrong decision. You are sitting in MY house, in one of my private rooms which can only lead me to believe you think I can't be trusted!"

"Forgive me Lady Merina but there are some things I can't trust you with yet. After all I haven't know you for that long." There was silence afterwards as both females stared at each other before Jared spoke.

"I will trust you and Cass this is my decision. I won't mention the prophecy beyond the fact my daughter is supposed to bring about flesh or famine, not both. But I need to tell someone what I saw. All morning I have been bombarded with images of her and the things she does. It doesn't effect Mystalane and I won't tell the High Lord because I do believe it will change things."

"Princess do you think him telling me anything will really endanger you or the country?"

"I don't know. I'm not even sure what he wants to say, I've only seen a few confusing things." 'Can I tell her I marry Nessandra?' Jared asked softly, feeling her surprise he gave her the scene including the fact it was when Nessandra kissed him and he fell back on the bed. 'Jared we have to be careful.' She finally responded. 'I have to tell someone Cass and who would you pick? No don't answer that.'

Taking a breath for them he spoke, "Cassandra, I swear on the Purelight that what I saw doesn't effect..." Jared tried to speak but her throat closed as a tightness gripped their body, when it passed they gave a shiver together. 'Jared?' "Sorry." He spoke weakly. "I was trying to say it doesn't effect Mystalane or your family but the first few do, after that its all about her."

"Really it doesn't concern her family?" Lady Merina asked. Cassandra growled at him inside feeling he was giving to much away already. "It's no secret that Jared and Nessandra are betrothed, I would assume his daughter would be her daughter, especially if it isn't born yet."

"She is and she isn't. You see she is a ferret." The female blinked several times in surprise before she stared hard at them. "It's not unheard of." He quickly added in.

"That is far rarer than you make it sound and if you consider Nessandra's magical heritage far out weighs yours, it becomes likely impossible." 'One of the old house.' Cassie muttered privately sounding irritated while the mouse continued. "Though that hardly puts her separate. She would still be Lord Marverath's granddaughter and I don't see him not being involved."

"Jared what's wrong." Cassie suddenly asked. He had dropped back and gone both still and quiet.

After nearly a minute he finally answered, "It's one of the reasons why I can't talk to him and the main reason why I want Lady Merina to swear never to repeat anything."

The mouse seemed intent on inspect the princess, so much so that Jared felt she was trying to study him. Hoping it would help he changed their head and asked again. "Lady Merina, Can I trust you to never repeat what I'm about to say?"

"There is no promise nor oath I can give but one. Jared, I promise on the spirit and memory of my son Kylson. He was precious to me in life and what little I have left is more so. I swear I will not repeat what you tell me." He almost shivered feeling both her conviction and the near tear in her eye as she finished. 'Cassie I'm going to trust her and I hope you can too.'

"First I saw what I think was my marriage to Nessandra. She was kissing me and people were cheering. The second image I saw was far more important. It was Drentan's assertion to High Lord." He got nothing from Cass even as he replayed the scene to her. She seemed closed to him even though she was the forward soul there was nothing for him to feel. "There were other things but I saw my daughter, and infant days after she was born and I could see and hear Nessandra telling me she was beautiful. Her nose was no fox, that was only more apparent as the next images came in. She was growing up and fast. It wasn't but flashes of things until I thought I saw her being attacked. It was actually a training session with Lorran and she couldn't have been more than seven." As he spoke Jared feed Cassie more and more slowly going through things. "I could see her reading next then she..." He stopped suddenly realizing something. They weren't random, they were flashes of two separate lives. Now it all made sense, especially the final visions. His daughter riding in killing everyone, or his daughter riding away as everything burned. It was a choice, His choice!

He opened up first to Cassie showing her everything while explaining what he thought. The female ferret would need to be taught one way or the other. Knowing this he began to slowly explain to Merina going through her life as the flesh bringer, well trained, agile but forward, outspoken, direct. She hid nothing and did what she felt was right. He also stated he believed she had magic that seemed to ward off other magics. Her other life involved learning books and studies before she turned to studying people and more. Jared now felt her actions were hidden, secretive, and well executed. He could really see her being like his father, never one to take an insult or defeat with out setting the score and then some. She would have no problem bringing forth famine and suffering to achieve her goals.

When he finished Cass was still closed ans silent, unwilling to even talk about his visions even though he felt she had begun to believe more and more as he spoke. Lady Merina was silent as well staring at a picture on the wall but Jared knew she was thinking heavily. "Are you the one?" He asked softly. Her look slowly changed to one of puzzlement before he explained, "Are you the one who can teach my daughter the other half? I know Lorran will be the one to help her achieve skills with weapons but I have no idea who would be the one to help her study and learn to, maneuver people."

"Perhaps Jared, maybe even likely but what will you choose and why must it be one or the other?"

"Because it can not be both! I do understand what this means and even without a prophecy no one is going to be able to start a true war without several governments being involved. However perhaps half a war, one where either people died or the land suffered might be allowed to happen. No, I know I have to make a choice, I have to choose how to help her grow. She needs to be subtle or direct, not both."

There was silence which lasted several minutes before a light knock was placed on the door. Slowly it opened and Lord Marthin looked in then stepped inside closing the door. "I've held off long enough, lunch is started and we should both go back."

"Call for our driver. We have places we should be and I'll have to go find Lord Callen." Jared stated getting neither an approval or rebuke from Cassie. Lady Merina stood up and stepped forward taking both of Princess Cassandra's paws.

"When things settle down a little we can talk more. You are probably right, I am one of the people you will need whatever your choice is but I think both of you should talk with me more, I will hold to my promise." She stated, they both watched her shoo her husband out quietly closing the door behind them. Even though their ride was ready almost immediately they spent over an hour in the bedroom as Cassie finally opened up. They finally left because both agreed there wasn't anything they could currently do. In the end the only decision they could agree on was to not tell anyone else and Cassie still planned on trying to figure out how to stop her father from dieing, but she agreed there was little they could even do until after Ness and Jared married and they both guess that was likely to happen within two years from the image of Nessandra. Also that it would likely be a few years before their kit was born because Nessandra looked a bit older.

Besides the time Jared spent with Lord Callen and others finishing the final preparations for the auction the next two days saw Princess Cassandra all over the Palace, Court, Inner City, and City proper. It was truly wearing on both, Jared often helping or even taking over for a few minutes allowing Cass to have a small respite. They had done their best to keep a semblance of being entirely separate but the need for the princess was so great Jared only had a few rushed minutes and barely time to pass on messages through her. They were both eagerly waiting the next day which would bring the Historical Palace's event to a close and the start of the Auction which was the ending of more work and hassle than Jared had imagined. One more day and then they could rest.

"Alright, the next item up for bid will be the Trone bar. An intact gold strip used by the Cerastin government more than two thousand years ago." Princess Cassandra stepped forward carrying a specially made box that held the treasured piece. Against many objections the bar was to be auctioned off in fifth place rather than at the end. Jared had argued hard with a simple reason. The Trone was to be at the beginning to allow all those who truly wanted it, a chance to buy it. Rather than trying to plot and hope for others to spend their money one person was going to blow a lot but hopefully that would leave the rest to bid as they should and possibly spend more on pieces that deserved it. The Trone wasn't the only piece that had parts of its profits going to different caused but it was the only one where the owner was taking no profit or benefit and Jared had asked for this specifically to make things seem a bit more fair from his view point.

Cassie set the box on the display table, opened it, and stepped around behind the table waiting for the bidding to end. Although it was unheard of for any sort of princess, and nearly unheard of for a lord to display their own items during an auction but both of them had decided a princess standing behind the Trone would be very appropriate since there were already two extra mages who had escorted her up on the stage. Jared had made it clear without any argument, no one was going to cause any trouble nor feel like there was any unfairness if the princess was standing on the stage.

The pair watched as dozens of hands were raised at first causing the bidding to jump hundreds of thousands, then slowing to tens, and eventually fives as the bid climbed over four and a half million. Finally the representative standing in for a private buyer caught the final bid of four million seven hundred and eighty thousand. Giving nothing away, Jared quietly shook inside over the amount, Princess Cassandra returned the item to the strong room before heading to a private office they had been given to change in. A few minutes later Jared entered the hall through the side entrance in front of the railing that separated the back half of the hall.

The large room was split side to side and front and back, a wide walkway down the middle of the front with forty soft chairs spaced in the first few rows for the Lords and major contributors before the same type of chairs were squeezed closer together were only important or wealthy people sat before the back end which was past the railing where cheap chairs were crammed together and many stood against the walls and any unoccupied space.

The ferret gave a light tap on Bervante's wing as he passed moving down the isle to the front row taking the third seat in. It seemed to Jared that each time one of his items cam up for bid dozens of hands shot up making the auctioneer jump higher amounts and many including the Rising Sun, bought by Bervante went for more than was estimated. Also the first two times Jared placed a bid most simply dropped out leaving him to take the item for far less than it could have made. However the third time he raised a paw to bid was entirely different.

Jared had tried to keep his mouth closed and be totally polite when speaking with Master Lane. The man and his father had several run ins and arguments over the fact he had purchased a good deal from Jared's grandfather at prices that were, according to his father's notes, criminal. The first time had been outside a coin shop where the half drunk ferret had handed over everything he had for a few thousand with out even walking in the store. The price for those items should have been well over twenty thousand and had seemed to be a huge vexation for his father from what Jared could tell. The arguments between the two men had boiled down to one item, it was the coin that started what most people were now calling the Ferannce Collection. Several times Aurthur had attempted to regain the coin but Master Lane, who had at the time had been looking for just that coin, had refused any attempt to sell or trade it because he felt it had brought the good fortune he now had.

Master Lane now had a modest home, a decent business, and a serious collection which is why it had surprised Jared that the other had put the coin up to be bid on especially with his seeming vehemence over keeping the item. He waited for a dozen bids to pass, all of them from the back side of the hall before raising his paw and called out, "Eight Hundred." when the auctioneer acknowledged him putting more than two hundred over the previous bid, he figured that should buy him the coin.

"Ten thousand!" The call got several gasps and mutters causing most heads to turn in that direction.

"Sir, the rules clearly state you can not bid on your own pieces."

"I don't care, there is no way I'm allowing HIM to have that piece!" The male half shouted.

"Eleven thousand." Jared stated simply.

"Fifteen!!" Lane shouted standing up.

"Sir please this is against the rules." The auctioneer stated again this time sounding worried.

"Please everyone if I may have a moment." Jared started also standing up and looking at Micheal waiting for approval from the Auction Hall manager and getting his nod before continuing. "Master Lane, we both know this is the coin that started my Great Grandfather's interests, we also know you never paid a proper price for it and several others. That coin has brought my family and yours a change for the better. I am happy you chose to allow it to pass on, I just wish to make sure I know where it goes."

The comment was snide, "What makes you think you'll get it?"

"I will only be buying it. I hope to give it to someone, right now if you'll let me. Twenty Thousand!" Jared told the auctioneer.

"Umm, Sir, er Lord. It's just that I.." "Twenty Thousand! Master Lane here will be paid the money which is far more than he ever should have and I _ will _keep my promise right now, after all it would look horribly stupid for me to do otherwise."

After several seconds the voice came still slightly shaky, "Then, the bid stands at twenty thousand. Are there any others?" After a full thirty seconds of silence he tapped the chime lightly, "There are no other bids, Lord Jared takes the item at twenty thousand."

It probably still startled some as the ferret climbed up onto the stage but no one stopped him when he picked up the small case. Every single eye watched as he hopped down and strode to the back of the hall stopping just inside the gate for the railing. "Allen Corgent." Jared called looking pointedly at the young feline. The ten year old was sitting on a stool against the wall looking shocked, then scared as his father standing next to him tried to get him to step forward. "Two weeks ago Mr. Corgent was attacked and knocked down, the man grabbing both the case and satchel Allen's father was carrying. The thief didn't make it far, barely a dozen feet and Allen was extremely upset, but not for the reason you might think. He was upset because the man was tackled, hurt, and begging to be let go. Why did you want him to be freed?" Jared asked looking down at the boy who was finally maneuvered forward. The young feline was totally speechless ears pressed to his head trembling slightly, wishing he was anywhere but the center of attention. "You said something," Jared coaxed talking quieter, "That he had to have a reason right?"

The boy's father leaned down and whispered I his ear for a few seconds before rubbing his back. With barely more than a whisper it came out, "He wouldn't steal unless he had to. He should have gotten help before that."

"He should have gotten help before he had to steal." Jared stated loudly helping the rest of the hall to hear. "You were correct in saying something and you were totally right, he and his daughter needed help. This coin is special, not because of what it is but because of the changes it has brought each time its changed hands." Jared reached down capturing the boy's paw so he could press the case into it. "I want you to keep thinking and telling people that others should be helped before they have to steal, and I'm not talking about the bad ones who steal for profit. I think you can bring change and make a difference. However if you ever think you can't anymore, or you find someone who you think can make a difference with this coin pass it on alright?"

Carefully Cassie took some control placing their hand on his head she barely spoke in Jared's voice, "There is another who wants you to know that your actions did directly help that man. Sometimes the smallest action, even speaking up, can make a difference." They both ruffled his head and ears before Jared turned away walking back down the main isle. Cassie had agreed with Jared several days earlier when he had decided where he thought the coin should go, but neither had expected it to be so public. "Master Lane." Cassie stopped Jared's body and spoke for him. "I am not my father. I really do hope you can let go of whatever problems you had with him or at least try to interact with me without letting the past dictate the present. To everyone else I apologize and thank you for the time you have given me." She waved at the auctioneer after speaking moving them back to their seat.

The auction continued uninterrupted all the way up to the final five. Since the Trone had been sold far earlier it was decided that the auction would end with five of the most pristine pieces that were up for bid. Two were from Mystalane's earliest mints but the other three were far older each looking barely used. Although only a few noticed Lorran's entrance near the stage and Jared's hurried exit his return after the second Mystalane coin sold stopped the auction again. "Lords, Ladies, and guests, I must apologize again. I am supposed to be closing this auction but as it turns out I must leave now. Before I go I want to thank the Auction Hall along with Lord Callen and our major supporters. I also wish to extend a special thanks to everyone who placed a bid. I know many of you have ended up disappointed over not acquiring the piece or pieces you wanted but you should be happy to hear we have a special offer from Master Bervante. He is willing to take a contact from anyone who placed a bid today and will take a short list of the items you were not able to get. He will continue looking for those pieces and help you find possible contacts where purchases might be found. For anyone who doesn't know he owns a shop here in town and can be spoken with once the action is over. Now, I truly wish and hope there are no more interruptions and again I thank each of you, and bid you a good afternoon." He waved at the auctioneer and was quickly flanked by Lorran and two other guards before he started back out of the hall with everyone watching his exit.

All Jared had really been told was that he was to leave immediately for a meeting that he had to attend now, at the order of the High Lord. He knew something was up but wasn't quite expecting Lord Marverath to be seated at a table with several others after he was driving out of the inner city to a large estate at the edge of the capitol.

"High Lord." He spoke giving a bow. He was pointed to a chair and as he moved Cassandra straightened his back and make him walk tall, she had noticed several of the people already sitting as members of other governments in high ranking positions including Council lead Craize. She tried to pick out some names for him as he sat down glancing at several including the daughter of the new Prime Minister of Talistad whom was certainly staring right at him.

"I will assume the auction is a success and I apologize for pulling you away from it." The High Lord started after he got comfortable.

"Yes High Lord. The auction went very well and we guess this is rather important." Cassie caught the slight frown from her father leaving both of them wondering what was wrong.

"So it did go well?" Jared frown slightly himself at the question that sounded full of disbelief.

"There will not be another like it for decades, possibly longer. I believe the only ones who are seriously disappointed are those that lost bids. Otherwise, yes the auction went well, in fact the entire week has gone very well." He finished.

"No doubt because of the first princess." It was the daughter of the Minister of Talistad who spoke.

"Forgive me for correcting you but you will get a disagreement from both of us on that point. This project required dozens of people each contributing a huge amount of time, not just this week but the past month plus. As I said it's not something that will happen again soon."

"So then Jared. If you were asked to create another event somewhere else it would not be possible?" The High Lord questioned.

The ferret gave a side glance at the high councilor for a moment but got a slight head shake in return, "I am unsure what exactly you are hoping for."

"I was wondering if you and my daughter would be able to create and host an event similar to this one, with an exhibition and fund raising beforehand with an auction afterwards. I understand it would not be as large and likely many items would have to come from your own collection, along with those you might coax to help you out. I'm certain you have made some suitable alliances with other collectors who might be willing to help."

"High Lord," It was Cassie who spoke for Jared, "The simple and quick answer is no. I am not willing to auction off more of my collection and I don't know of very many who are willing to part with much beyond a few simple pieces. But what exactly are you hoping for out of my collection also how, where, and when would such an event be held when we just finished this one." Both could feel the looks that passed around the room wondering what exactly was going on, after a lengthy silence the High Lord answered.

Where is not as important as if you are capable, and if you would be able to raise significant enough funds by the end. The High Lady believes her daughter to be quite capable hosting an event to raise funds the question is whether or not you're capable of putting the full event together." Jared scanned the room several times trying to pick up more of what was happening but neither he nor Cassie were sure about anything and she didn't have much advice to offer when he asked though she did try and help him start.

"If we don't know where then how can we know if an event will be successful, after all the capitol of Mystalane is far different from any other town." Jared quickly picked up after her, "Also who am I to ask for help if I have no clue where the event is being held." Cassie was the first to notice the High Lord's frown again warning Jared as he finished that it might be her own use of 'we' that caused it.

"What exactly do you mean by ask for help, all the help you would need will come from those you organize with and anyone who wants to sponsor at the event." It was the ambassador from Pinsent sitting next to them that spoke.

Cassie studied the other longer than Jared before stating, 'Something is up.' He didn't respond to her instead addressing the other. "Help as in what artifacts or coins can be gathered by other collections. Also there would have to be a theme involved too. Preservation seems to be popular but if for instance we created an event with the Larkin government I doubt I would bother asking Lord Callen for help, instead I would speak with the Solemin Institute and possibly ask Master Ranston, who I did meet recently, for some help as well. The further away or the different area would mean asking for help from different sources. I can not create an event on just my collection alone unless it is to be coins only, and after this event I doubt that would even work. I'm afraid I haven't memorized my father's contacts but I'm sure several of them still have collections or at least could point me to someone I could seek out."

"What about in Talistad. Who would you get help from there." Cassie told Jared to wait and the pair held out looking around the room and trying to ignore the minister's daughter. "What is going on?" Cassie finally stated with Jared's voice when she finally caught her father's eyes.

"Well the Larkin Government has profited greatly this week. Much more than anyone expected. The new Talistad wing is working to raise funds to pay of large debts that the previous minister left behind when he died. They, and several other governments and bodies, want to try and recreate the success that you have had here in the hopes of stabilizing Talistad." Lord Marverath stated.

"Stabilizing as in training troops and building weapons?" The question was spoke sharply by Cassie and barely in Jared's voice making the tod glare at them.

It went unnoticed as the female canine from Talistad jumped up, "Damn it! Can't any of you understand! Half our hospitals are bankrupt, several companies have completely abandoned factories, and most mages won't even look at a contract if it's based in Talistad!" She turned back from shouting at the room to looking at Jared. "We are one step away from begging for critical aid just for our people which will pretty much destroy my father and the hopes of the next generation. There is money within our lands that has been horded over decades. We need money for repaying debts and rebuilding projects without borrowing more. I was truly hoping you could help be part of the answer."

Jared was straining to remember the sheets his father had written out, the problem was he had never planned on selling anything beyond what he had brought to Mystalane at first so he barely glanced at the names let alone the information that went along with each person. While he was still thinking Cass spoke, "If you are able to show percentages of where the money is going and how it will be spent leaving less than fifteen percent unaccounted for then yes I guess we could try to help." Cassie glanced towards her father wondering if he would speak. Instead Jared kicked in, "I'm not sure how much I can really help though. Without knowing what resources I can draw from and where you hope to hold the event, including what theme then it's not possible to guess at success."

"How soon? How much time to you need?" She asked.

Cassie frowned hard enough for Jared to copy it. "I have been extremely busy for months, not just the past week. We were promised some time to relax and rest."

"Jared!" The High Lord put in firmly stopping him. "I understand how much _ you _ have been doing. Lady Dombrin asked if we could help facilitate an event before the end of the year. You have gained a good deal of knowledge working with Lord Callen and my daughter was able to host a most successful charity event." They could both hear and feel how the tod was stressing them as being separate. "You do have resources, connections, and now skills, time will be given to you as needed but this is a rather important and time sensitive matter. I'm sure _ you _understand how important it is for the Silver Wing to show how capable they are."

'Four and a half months?' Cassie blasted at him stating the amount of time before the years ended nearly making him stumble over his response. "I'm sorry High Lord I do understand but I can't do anything now. Nor would I want to make offers or promises knowing that I could be very wrong. This is not about capability or time but knowledge. I need to know what kind of event you want, what you hope to show, where it is going to be held, and a slightly more precise time frame. I can stop by the Imperial bank and speak with Bervante and Lord Callen tomorrow, perhaps in a few days I can have a better idea but in all honesty _ we _ need some rest. If you can send me more details tomorrow I can work something out." Jared had turned to finish speaking with the female completely ignoring the tod's scowl.

"This is going to be a problem. I have to leave tomorrow afternoon." She stated.

"And so do I." Someone else at the table spoke.

'CRAP! They want us to do more than one!' He heard Cassie's shout and nearly groaned himself shaking his head slightly realizing six different countries were represented at the table.

"I am sure we can pull the information together much faster than Lord Jared thinks." The High Lord started.

Cassie took control rubbing Jared's temples while speaking, "You're not listening. I haven't slept well in days." The truth was they hadn't, Jared's visions kept popping up in both of their dreams, more often warping into a worrisome image or plain nightmare centering on the High Lord's death.

"Jared you understand..." "SIR!" Jared yelled yanking back control from Cassie standing finally fed up with everything. "I understand you want this NOW! Fine I'll have as much as I can ready in the morning but after that WE need a break. When was the last time you asked your daughter how she was doing? I have heard far to much about royal duties and what is expected from a family member. Princess Cassandra is doing everything expected of her and more, which is far more than many others of your family, and none of that counts towards all the work I've put in every single second in between. You are expecting far more than one person can do, certainly more than two people can do with so little time. WE need a break, otherwise I will find a healer to do a sleep spell and I'll alter it to put us out for days!" 'That was a bit much.' ~ 'It's not a lie!' He retorted knowing she wouldn't argue.

"Perhaps you are right." The High Lord spoke after nearly a minute of silence.

"I apologize High Lord, mainly because I'll be pestered to until I do. Yes I could have chosen a better place and time but, after how much both of us have been doing in such a short time if feels like the last time we actually rested was after the attack." He leaned his hands against the table and slumping down and for a moment let their exhaustion show.

"I see, you are correct in this matter and yes I will expect you to find a better time and place if it must happen again."

"Thank you High Lord." With a grunt he straightened up glancing over the table. "I'll excuse myself now and get to work. I'll gather as much information as I can. In the morning if you can provide a suitable location, and a theme, I will try to have a few options on what will be available." Jared tuned and left with out another word. 'He's going to be upset with us for a while.' ~ 'Fine but maybe next time he will listen to us, or maybe Drake will help us out.' The pair hadn't spoken much with the first prince beyond what was required but it seemed the tod was far less antagonistic and even helpful whether he was dealing with Cassie or Jared and it had given both of them a sense of satisfaction from their interactions.

It took three full days, all of Jared's time, and hours of mage assisted calls before details were hammered out to start the event in Talistad. In the end Cassie was in full agreement when Jared knocked on her father's study door. The High Lord at first refused when the ferret asked for a healer or a mage to sleep. It took Cassie's shaky voice stating they couldn't get past some nightmares before her father finally paid attention. Jared insisted the nightmares were a problem they both seemed to share, and in the end the tod reluctantly agreed but wasn't happy that the pair wouldn't reveal what was bothering them. "We need time to sleep, rest, and recover, two people can not do what is necessary in the time one person has. I'm hoping part of this is just the stress on us both but Please just let us work it out." It was the combination of both of their thoughts spoken in a voice that wasn't quite one or the other.

With permission they were put under a spell that was supposed to allow them an approximate twelve hours of relaxation but the pair slept a full twenty before they startled awake from a sudden image of Drake's ascension, only this time Lady Lindara stepped over a bloody mass to be able to stand in front of her son. With both of them panting for breath Jared tried to sooth Cassie reminding her once again that they had no clue what was going to happen to her father. They rose slowly taking their time planning to stay in their apartment as instructed having been given a full two days to rest.

When Cassandra sat down on the couch they both decided it was finally time to discuss Jared's visions and other things but before they got very far they were interrupted. Nessandra burst through the main door, followed by several servants who began laying out an enormous meal, as she went over and dropped down next to twin. Before the others left Jared and Cassie had made a few decisions.

"What's wrong now?" Nessandra asked as soon as the door closed. She had wiggled her way into her sister's lap but did not get the response she wanted from the little licks she gave. 'Tell her only about the first three.' Jared stated again, it was the concession he had made knowing he could not keep Nessandra out of this. Cassie hugged her twin tight squeezing even harder until he helped her relax trying again to ease her worry and fear. Nothing was said as the two vixens continued to hold on to each other for several minutes.

When they shifted Jared took control of an arm and moved Nessandra's chin giving a light kiss on her nose. With his own voice he told her, "I have more secrets now. Ones I can not tell you or your family, yet. However I will marry you, Drake will become High Lord, and we will have a child. Please do not blame or pester us, this is hard enough and we really need your support." As he finished he let her chin drop and hugged her close again.

"Jared had a set of vision that morning..." Cass started slowly. "They covered a great deal. The first being your marriage." The twins talked for over an hour about the first short vision, what Ness wanted for her wedding, where the place might have been, and how soon or when it might possibly happen. After that they stopped moving to the table and eating food in silence as Cassandra struggled with how to proceed. Finally when they sat back down on the couch Jared simply stated what he had seen. He finished telling Ness how Cassie often had nightmares worrying over her father. "I don't want him to die." Cassandra added in barely above a whisper.

"Oh Cass, there is no guarantee on any of this. Father will probably be fine for years, decades! There is nothing..." She finally fell silent as her sister's paw covered her mouth.

It was Jared who spoke softly. "We will marry, he will die, and we will have a kit. This is not something we can avoid nor is it a maybe. I can't explain why only that you look maybe a year or so older in the first and perhaps four years at most when you bear my cub."

"Father won't be happy, nor will.."

"He's going to Die Ness!! Can't you understand?!" She shouted interrupting her twin trembling for several moments before her sister scooted over to comfort her. Jared pulled back drawing himself away in the hope that the wordless connection they shared would become stronger. When he crept back a while later Cassandra ended the discussion they were having. "I saw what Jared saw. There is no doubt about father's death, but that doesn't mean I will accept it. I will still try everything to prevent it but we know nothing Ness, maybe somehow, maybe somehow he doesn't die, but Drake does ascend to High Lord and mother was alone and I just can't see father not being there."

He waited several minutes still allowing the two to hold each other before acting once again. He took Nessandra's but this time changed his head as he looked into her eyes. "Nessandra you will give birth to my daughter, a wonderful little ferret kit." With that he kissed her strongly and passionately finding her body pressing in against him as she molded herself against her twin.

"Jared,.. Jared,.. Jar.." Each time he stopped her from speaking by kissing her lips forcefully. "Don't question Ness, it's going to happen. She will grow up with the love of two mothers and a father becoming a women of greatness. She won't be a vixen, this is how it will happen."

"And my child is going to be dangerous?" Nessandra suddenly asked pulling back. They didn't answer both being a little surprised, but Cass did send a uncertain and unknown feeling to her twin. This time it was Ness who started a kiss working her dress up and moving so that she was straddling her sister's legs before she broke it. "You know I'm not stupid. I asked mother and father but neither will say anything about the prophecy, but everyone seems to forget that I was in the room when they told you. Cass is the first born of a pair, she will mix with the blood of the old and together they will bear a child that will raise up the old lands by flesh or famine. BUT it's not Cass who is going to have the child is it. Who would be the father anyways, no together means both of you and that means I'm the mother of the child of prophecy, she will cause a war to return the Ferrondance line." She paused seeing the fact Jared looked away. "You know it's possible, that means Talistad, parts of Nareim, and the forest, maybe bits of others. With Talistad the way it is it will be possible, especially since they are literally begging you for help." She smiled at his surprised look giving him a light flick to the muzzle. "I was also sitting there when mother said you were from an old dead line."

He sat there slightly shocked but growing more worried by the moment, it was Cassandra who acted retaking full control of the body and gripping her twin tightly. "Ness don't tell anyone. They attacked Jared and tried to take me alive. No one knows Jared's linage, they only tried to take me to force me to have a baby they can use. I can't keep you safe."

"And what makes you think I need to be protected? Or that I'm not already?" Her light anger faded swiftly as she felt the wave of fear and worry that washed over from her twin.

Jared spoke allowing Cassie to regain her composure. "They attacked us Ness. IN the palace, with out anyone knowing what was happening. I can protect us magically and as long as we keep a few guards close we should be safe, but how could you possibly protect yourself if they thought you were the one who would bear a child that could raise up old lands? She has to be raised carefully and not weighed down by your family. Your father would never allow that, but Drake might." Jared changed his head yet again staring into the vixen's eyes. "We will get married, Drake will ascend to the throne, and we will have a daughter together, a ferret. After that... well let's work on getting that far first. I swear I'll tell you more when the time comes."

"You'll tell me everything the night before our wedding, and Drake too." "NO!" Ness grabbed a hold of his muzzle and squeezed hard enough to make them squirm. "This is how it is going to be! I won't marry you if you're keeping secrets and once we are married I expect you to protect me just like our daughter. I will teach you what magic I know and the council can be dust if they try and stop me. BUT if what you say is true then we need Drake's help."

Neither could argue her point and when she released his muzzle Jared reluctantly agreed. "I don't want to do this, but you have a right to know everything before we marry. However Drake doesn't need to know it all. Our daughter is raised here, in the palace when she is young but as she grows older I saw her in different places. She is not one of the Reylexion line, Cass is already removed from the ascension line I will ask the same thing for our daughter once she is born." Nessandra leaned in giving Jared a strong tongue engaging kiss nibbling on his lip as she finished.

"Very well, but I decide what secrets we keep from him." Her finger traced under his chin down the neck before running over the frill of her sisters dress pulling it forward so her other hand could slip inside nearly reaching her twin's breast. "No offense Jared but can I play with Cass for a bit? You can be first next time, after all no one should be bothering us for the rest of the night." Her grin spoke of naughty plans as Jared flopped back allowing Cassie full control.

It started as a fierce argument near the end of the dinner meal a month later when Jared requested for Nessandra to be allowed to leave with them at the beginning of the next month. The Auction was still a month out but the Talistad government had pressed plans together with frightening speed meaning that Jared and Cassie were going to have to leave in two weeks with the opening being just ten days after they arrived and finishing after six days. It would still take them four days of travel to get there and four days back leaving them gone basically one month.

The entire table of twenty some vulpine surrounding him erupted each bent against such an action, most livid that he would even suggest they would travel 'alone' even though they would be surrounded by guards and a few servants the entire trip. It hadn't even been a minute before Lord Marverath spoke a final No to allowing Nessandra to leave.

In the following silence Alexandria spoke up to the surprise of everyone. "Father I would like to see the Talistad Empire. I could go as your son and escort Nessandra as well. Jared could leave earlier and he will likely be busy for most of the trip, however we could travel separately and arrive for the opening day of his event. We would make a week trip that would coincide with some of the historical fund raising events." The theme Talistad had chosen was preservation, although all of the funds raised were being used for current projects and economic stabilization the idea was to make sure the Talistad Empire didn't crumble and become true history. In a sense to preserve the present so it could become history later.

"Alexander, I don't believe you're old enough nor would it be appropriate." The young fox dropped her head slightly before taking a deep breath and trying to look straight at her father.

"I know Cassandra, Nessandra, and Jared are hoping to find a way to make their plan work. The twins wish to run an event together showing not just our people but the rest of the nations that they are together again. I also know that Jared was hoping for a partner for the evenings events. I understand many here are still upset that they are betrothed but your decree was to allow Nessandra to marry the person who brought back her sister IF he was Suitable!" The vixen raised her voice slightly over the mutters. "Father he is known, he has money, he saved Nessandra's life, and he is now a lord which makes him more than suitable. It would be foolish to try and deny him the rights you proclaimed. Both Nessandra and Jared, even Cassandra have decided the match is acceptable. I believe if you let them go they will speak their vows on one of those nights."

What was muttering and grumbling exploded with yells and shouts, Nessandra being one of the loudest screaming out how none of them could stop her. It was Drake who stood and pounded out on the table even trying to lift a small portion of the long table managing to budge it slightly with a squeal but most had already dropped silent. "NEVER, Never before have I seen my family act like this. You don't like it and Father can clearly see that, however Alexandria had not finished speaking!"

The young vixen sat surprised for a moment and became extremely nervous when everyone's attention focused back on her. "I was... I was going to say how they could publicly speak anywhere as long as it was witnessed. To be honest I have heard several at court compliment Jared on how much work he has done, many of them seeming to approve of such a match as well but that isn't what is important. It seems that none of you have thought this through or thought about the future. The traditions in Talistad are far different from those in Mystalane. There you can speak your vows and if no one objects you can marry after one year as long as you have lived together for half that time. And if there are objections you must wait another year living together the entire time to prove that you are suitable to marry each other. I know its just traditions but I would suggest this should happen. I know many of you object so that would set the marriage out one year, or two if all of you continue to object. The thing is by then the High Lord and the rest of us will know exactly what he is worth. None of you considered the fact that in two years he may have connections with several different governments and likely be a significant influence within the court, we would be stupid to not include him into our family by then."

When she finally finished it was Lady Lindara who asked a question. "Alex, are you willing to escort your sister as my son and only my son?"

"Yes Mother."

"You realize you would be expected to break up Jared and Nessandra if they took things to far?" She asked. The young fox was quick to reply, "I can do that."

"I would have to have your oath on that plus one for Jared and Nessandra, and Cassandra." Lady Lindara tacked on. The three looked at each other before each responded that they would be willing to do that. "Then I would consider allowing this after speaking with the High Lord and Minister Turkin. If there are any problems or issues that arise then you can forget this little jaunt. And if you two truly wish to speak your vows I will expect both of us to be fully informed before it happens."

She looked over Jared and Nessandra nearly glaring at both before giving a quick glance at her husband but it seemed he was content to wait several moments before speaking and started by addressing Alexandria. "How much of this idea is your brother's? I ask because this is the first time you have spoken up and the first time you have contradicted me in some way."

The young vixen only glanced sideways once trying to keep her attention with her father. "Drentan told me that if I wanted to go that I would have to ask, that he was not going to ask for me. He also told me I would need a reason to go." She finally looked away staring at her plate.

"Often times you have argued or walked out on your mother, but you won't do more than ignore me or my summons and even then I have never had you ask me for something even close to this. Every member of this family has confronted me at some point over some matter or something I have decided, even Cassandra and Jared can make their wishes known. I am glad you spoke up because you remind me that I have more options this way, also your thoughts on allowing your sister to speak her vows would actually be helpful in a way. I have no need to honor vows spoken outside of our empire unless I choose to, I believe you are correct in thinking Jared might become someone in the future that would have ties that could benefit our family. We will have to wait and see, and this allows me time to consider all options. Now as long as there are no issues I will let you escort Nessandra. You will both go as visitors separate from Lord Jared's event. This means you can both take a gift from our family to donate to the Talistad cause."

"High Lord How much are you going to invest in this? It's more than likely that all this planning is for nothing." The High Lord was quick to acknowledge the speaker and the point by answering.

"I have invested little if nothing in this. Cassandra has put in a good amount of time while Jared has done much more including working out of his own collection just to make this work. I could not send either of them with financial support because they are hosting the event and this needs to work without any interference from another government. I can however send my daughter and son with gifts to show our support for the event and the difficulties their empire is having. What ever Talistad's fate is we will show we were willing to lend aid which will help things in the future, even if things go wrong showing support will go in our favor. I am not willing to commit to long term loans, plans, or support. It was made clear and agreed that Jared and Cassandra running this event would be the extent of our nations involvement. Nessandra and Alexander will be going separate from their event it would be expected of Nessandra to help her twin in any way and bringing a gift would show it. This would also be Alexander's first time leaving the empire, in fact his first time leaving the palace on his own with out family, even if he is escorting his sister, I would think Minister Turkin would want to show him their nation and how things work as apposed to what he has been taught. Alex will bring a gift showing his appreciation for such actions and show his gratitude. If Talistad regains its feet then we will have a strong tie of support if it's ever needed. While if things go worse we can easily step away since we have already given our full support in allowing this event. If the worst happens and the government fails I will have to carefully consider what needs to be done at that time." Jared felt his whole body and soul shiver from his sudden thoughts which caused Cassie to react in surprise feeling them as well. If Talistad fell then a new leader or government would be needed to step in otherwise there might end up being a war between Nareim and others trying to gain land and power. Could a strong willed female ferret make a prophecy come true?

"So what was that about?!" Nessandra demanded hours later when the two of them were standing outside the door of Cassandra's apartments.

"What do you mean?" Jared answered.

Nessandra moved closer hugging the ferret, "You and Cass spaced out at dinner for a moment then started arguing. I had to nudge you to get you back and thankfully that was just before you had to answer. Cass has been trying to tell me to drop it," She suddenly squeezed tighter, "No secrets Jared. I'm not asking for you to tell me everything just let me know what happened tonight."

Cassie shrugged and wiggled breaking her sister's grip pushing her a step away, "Come inside."

Nessandra quickly looked up and down the hallway "Mother.." / "Won't matter." Jared interrupted. "You can hear what I have to say then leave."

A few seconds later the door clicked closed and Cassandra started. "We realized no matter what we do Talistad will fail. What they need is beyond what our event can make. Oh we will save them for a while," she paused and let Jared take over. "At least long enough for our daughter to step in and take back what is left of the forest and the surrounding areas." Nessandra's eyes grew wide staring. "Nareim will likely be a problem but I think she will be able to handle them, enough to force the return of the lands that will belong to her. I don't know exactly how far this is going to go but I have to ask you one question Ness. Do you think our daughter should be straight forward, honest, and strong or do you wish that she is deceptive, sly, and able to do anything she felt was necessary to reach her goals?"

It was a full minute of silence when suddenly Nessandra jumped forward grabbing tightly onto the ferret pressing her head under his chin with her muzzle to the side of his neck. "Think on it, we can talk later." He stated holding her close.

"I can't... I can't see our daughter, my daughter causing people to suffer. Better to fight outright and kill than to have people starving and dieing in agony." Jared swayed trying to fight off a sudden flash of his daughter in her teens taking on half a dozen men and skillfully holding them back. 'Cass!' He called out trying to fight off another flash that started. Just like that she was there with him holding him up and some how helping to block out image and pushing it back. Nessandra tightened her grip on Jared helping as well to keep him upright as the twins together seemed to help him not just pull back from the visions but push them away. Jared took a deep shaking breath before letting it out slowly, "The decision is made." He stated quietly.

Nessandra left the apartments a short time later looking over the five guards that now stood in the hall. "Everything is fine! I just helped my betrothed to bed and got a few kisses. And if mother asks you can tell her that my clothes never left my body and Jared still had most of his on." She walked away with three of the guards following while she tried keeping her smirk hidden feeling her twin starting to enjoy Jared. She also had to keep a giggle suppressed as she thought back on how excited Jared got from just from her hand rubbing against his chest.

"Do you even remember your agreement with your father?!" Nessandra stopped suddenly hearing the voice cut across her as Nea walked up from the side hall she had just passed.

"I know what I can do."

"Do you! You're probably very close to going into season." Nessandra looked over the older vixen as she spoke and for the first time felt like it didn't even matter what the other thought.

"Don't think you're the only one who can sense things anymore. Jared and Cass have grow quite strong." She did have a slight smirk as the other frowned. "Don't worry though, Jared and I will marry in a year or so and our daughter will be born a few years later."

"Child you have no idea what's going on!" Nea started with a scowl that should have made any member of the family very wary or at least very worried.

That was why it was a complete shock as the second princess to reach out and pat her shoulder. "Everything will be fine. Our family is not in danger from the prophecy because we won't let her harm the family or our country."

Nea stumbled back using a paw on the wall to steady herself as the princess strode away. She struggled for a moment to read the young vixen realizing the strength and power that she had felt was far more than the second princess normally had, more than she should have. Not being able to sense much of anything else her frown deepened. It took several moments for Nea to steady herself wondering what exactly was going on and what she needed to do to regain control. The elderly vixen wondered if her charge knew anything of what his daughters were planning. She took one last look at Nessandra before readying herself and turned around staring down the hall and pushed her senses as far as she could: Confrontation... Slight Danger... Definite Chaos... and a Concealing Cloud.

Her face was a cross between irritation and thoughtfulness, perhaps what she really needed to do was put all three of them together and do a true reading, it seemed this prophecy was far more real than she had been willing to accept. Obviously her charges wife deserved a little more credit, not that she would give it though.

It was ten days later and Jared was seated in the High Lord's study going over some details while discussing some last minute issues before he left the next morning. He was taking four days to reach Talistad going through Mystalane then through Hytallin before he would be able to cut across and go under part of the Atloma mountains before the final days slow ride through Talistad. The truth was he might have been able to push it to three if it weren't for all the extra security measures and checks that were going to be performed.

"Alexander has done a wonderful job setting up plans and getting things together. He's done much more than I anticipated. It seems he didn't ignore everything he was taught. My only change to his plans was to have them wait two days after the auction so you can all go home together." Lord Marverath stated.

"Yes High Lord. He needed a chance to show both you and himself that he is capable, but just to warn you she has asked for the first dance from me at dinner tonight." It was Cassie who had spoken for Jared and both wondered how the High Lord was going to react.

The tod didn't answer right away and when he did he changed the subject again, something that had gone on several times during the meeting, "I see. I suppose I should thank you for how you handled Nessandra."

"Cassandra High Lord, it was Cass not me." Jared quickly put in. Several days ago Jared had to change while Cassie struggled with her naked twin as she clung and humped up against her sister.

"I was not expecting my daughter to do something like that especially..." The tod stopped staring at the ferret.

"You have all of our oaths and my assurances. We won't get pregnant until after we're married, well Nessandra won't get pregnant." He added in feeling stupid.

The High Lord quickly stood glaring over the table, "Your oath! I think you're more than capable of getting around that and Nea believes you have plans that will likely disrupt the empire!"

"Father!" Cassie barked out changer her head making the tod back up. "I swear to you, on my family, my country, and yes even on the Purelight. Jared and Nessandra will marry and it will be more than a year before they have a daughter."

"A girl?" Lord Marverath asked quietly as he slowly took his seat. Cassie had already backed off feeling foolish for saying so much leaving Jared wearing a worried look. It took minutes before he finally spoke and the tod seemed to be more than ready to wait him out.

"Ness told us that you told her she couldn't get pregnant for a while. Well she took that to mean you didn't have an issue with us actually being together, physically." Jared hunched slightly expecting.. something but the tod waited, listening. "When I woke up the next morning I was assaulted by visions, more than I could keep up with. I do know the first few were very clear, one was our wedding and another was the birth of my daughter. Nessandra was there and she didn't look more than a few years older. The rest of what I saw I swore to never tell anyone, but Nessandra has other ideas. The night before we marry she wants to hear everything, there will be no secrets between us. She also told me I have to tell Drake everything that she feels is important."

The High Lord leaned back and studied Jared even going so far as to begin frowning. "Prophecies are very troublesome. How many times have you seen visions?"

"Just once." He answered before adding, "The second time when it started happening Cassie and Ness helped me to block them."

His answer caused the tod to scowl and lean forward looking angered, "Why a second time?! What were the three of you doing?!"

"We are keeping up decencies Father!" Cassie nearly spit out, "The three of us have been together less than a pawful of times AND we are very careful. It happened after Jared asked Ness if she wanted their daughter to be direct or cunning."

Lord Marverath let out a light sigh before leaning back, "Flesh or Famine, which did you choose?"

Jared answered slowly, "Nessandra does not wish to see our daughter cause suffering. The vision was to show a path had been chosen. The first time it happened it was hours showing me two separate paths that her life could take. The second time might have shown more if Cass and Ness hadn't helped stop them and to be honest I didn't want to go through it all again."

"Jared," The High Lord spoke his name our for the first time during their meeting instead of just addressing him causing the ferret to sit up, "Visions are a difficult responsibility, one that should not be given up lightly. So why Drake?" The ferret sat confused for a moment trying to figure out the question before the High Lord added, "Why does Ness want you to speak with Drake and not me?"

He gave a small shiver closing his eyes desperately trying to think, "Because she is my daughter... and can't be part of the Reylexion line. I will ask she be removed from your succession and line if possible, you see she is a ferret."

"I see, you hide things well. Probably much better than an average person should, whether it comes naturally to you or my daughter I doubt it matters. You ended up giving me something that I would be forced to consider while avoiding the question entirely. Nea has suggested she needs to put the three of you together so that she can try and read your future as a whole. She knows you have some form of a plan laid out and that it will effect the empire. It is not easy to be a ruler, you must always be listening to what is said and unsaid even by those you trust. Nea is getting old, no she IS old and allowing her to force a reading will endanger her health, possibly her life, but she feels it is worth it because of how the three of you are acting. She believes we need to find a way to control you. I on the other hand realize that a prophecy can not be controlled, only guided and I see the three of you are guiding things very well, pieces are falling together how you wish them or are being nudged the way you need them to go. You both must understand prophecies are guided, but to do that successfully you need to accept that every action or non action will likely end up being an influence."

"Drake will be High Lord." Cassie blurted out during her father's intake of breath. Jared was shocked in both feelings and looks as he slowly closed his mouth feeling a massive recoil of feeling from his other half.

"Interesting..." The High Lord stated as he stood an moved around the desk waving for the ferret to stand. "Change." he told them simply waiting and watching as the pair morphed and his daughter's head dropped. With one paw he lifted her chin up and gave a slight kiss on the cheek. "I do not fear the future nor do I worry about the family. Drake will be a fine High Lord when the time comes." He pulled his daughter to him holding her tight as she started to cry. "This is troubling, but not surprising. Nea told me long ago that she would see the end of my rule, however it would not be what was expected. I have ended up wondering about that many many times." Smiling he lifted her head wiping away tears. "Tell me, does Drake become High Lord before or after she is born?"

"Before." She choked out.

"Good, then I have a secret just for you. I will live to see the first of my grand children start to grow up." Cassie gripped her father tighter while Jared tried to point out how that might be possible. "Visions and prophecy are never easy Cass and even when we believe we know what they mean often times we can be very wrong. I was told once when I was young that I would be a grandfather looking over three young boys no older than eight and that one of them would rule as High Lord. Now I realize that they might not even be my grandchildren, just that I would be a grandfather myself, however there are no young boys left right now beside Nicholas* there are a few that might be born soon so I know I have several years left at least, but when I heard that prophecy I believed that none of my children would rule and that I was sure to rule a long time but Nea was the first to break that illusion. Do not worry about the future, all you'll do is worry and ache over what could be. If his vision is true and Drake is the High Lord then I'll be satisfied. I know he is fully capable of ruling Mystalane."

Lord Marverath was still holding his daughter a while later when a knock came on the door. "Princess Nessandra and Alexandria." The guard at the door stated. With the tod's nod Nessandra entered leaving the other vulpine outside.

"Alex wants to wait outside." Ness stated heading straight for her twin hugging her tight as her father backed away.

"Ness, I'm guessing you understand how dangerous your previous actions were."

"Sorry Father, I have no excuse." She replied while moving to her sister's side still holding but loosely as they began to change.

"You did, but giving into your urges during season is unacceptable. Worse is magicing your guards and sneaking through the palace naked. There are others you could have come across and in that state you would not have been able to refuse them." The older tod ended up lecturing.

"I'm truly sorry Father. I was difficult feeling Cass and knowing he was so close." She stated quietly.

"Then next time he will have to be far away." Lord Marverath stated firmly while staring at Jared watching as she hugged him tighter.

"Or we could be together." The ferret suggested. "You will allow us to speak our vows and as long as we use magic to prevent Ness from getting pregnant, it shouldn't be a, problem." It was difficult for Jared to finish with the High Lord glaring at him but Nessandra was happy to try and dive in to help.

"Please stop it Father, you already know we marry now and that we will have a kit. You only told me I couldn't get pregnant."

"We _will_discuss this later." The High Lord got out struggling not to growl. It took several seconds but he seemed to switch, suddenly focusing on Jared. "You are correct, if she is a ferret then I can remove her from the family but it will mean that she won't be allowed to live here. When you return we will start training you more on how to run your own lands and make sure you know all of your duties. It would be better if she is raised at Stone Gates and separate from the Reylexion line if she is to follow the prophecy."

Jared glanced at Nessandra for several seconds before turning back giving her a light squeeze before answering. "When she was young I saw her growing up and learning here, but later on I saw places I didn't recognize, that was before she was a teen. Also I need Lorran to help to train her, she will grow up knowing the sword and learning magic."

"Remember Jared, every action and inaction can influence." Lord Marverath cautioned.

"I know that raising a child is no easy task, especially when its complicated." The ferret stated loudly while pointing to the study's door reminding everyone of the young vixen on the other side. "But she will have two mothers and a father to help her grow. I will give her everything I can to help her succeed, although I am not above asking for advice or even help if you can give it. Talistad will fall. Our job right now is to give them as many years as possible, hopefully about twenty."

The tod shook his head slowly as he stared at the pair, he let out a heavy breath and moved back around his desk sitting down. "How much are you giving exactly?"

"Twenty four pieces total which includes a quarter of my third vault, and at most I'm taking fifty percent of the auction price, some a good deal less. Everything goes towards the commission and total for the event. Several of the contributors are upset over the fifteen percent commission from any sale but it's the only way I can get enough funds. It should be enough, ten years at least hopefully many more." Jared stated.

"Nea has no clue how far you've gone, I will refuse her request to do a reading but in return I ask that you do include Drake in everything. Lorran is already your guard and I'm sure you'll be able to work something out. Above all you need to remember the path this prophecy takes. Most of Talistad was once under Ferrondance rule and a serious chunk of Nareim which will include its forests. That means everyone you meet will either end up dead or your enemy, none of them will favor your daughter as apposed to one of their own."

"We know, whether Alexander realizes or not, this trip is going to be all about gathering knowledge for the future. Who has power, who has money, and who has both." Cassie spoke out making her father frown slightly. With a true sigh he settled deeper into his chair.

"It seems I can't really help you with out getting in the way. Be careful all of you, don't push anything to hard and inform me or Drake if you feel or notice anything connected to our country or family. Remember the two of you were attacked in the palace," Lord Marverath said focusing on Jared, "The main reason why I'm set against you two speaking your vows is that will make Nessandra a serious target. Not because anyone knows the possible truth to the prophecy but because she will become the quickest way to get at both of you. The entire change to having all of you come back together is to make sure you all make it here. The Prime Minister has voiced several questions as to why the guard I'm sending with everyone is so large. He has assured me several times how much protection they can offer to each of you but I'm most worried about your trip home."

"High Lord," Jared paused wondering if he should actually say anything, "Nessandra has been teaching Cass a little magic, not much, but I think together we can come up with a few surprises if needed. We will be careful on the journey back."

His words caused the tod to break out in a big smile, "The Mage's Council is against Jared learning even the most basic magics, however nothing has been mentioned about my daughter. You two will keep such practices discrete and perhaps if Jared gets to tour Stone Gates soon a suitable private teacher can be found for Cassandra in Jared's off time." He studied both Jared and Nessandra for a moment before finishing, "Both of you are to be announced at dinner. It is not the going away party you both deserve but a smaller affair will work better."

After all of them had made polite end farewells they picked up Alexander and headed for Nessandra's apartments. Jared had hoped to have a few minutes alone but Ness held the door open allowing her sister to walk in behind them. The moment the door closed Alex threw herself at Jared hugging him tight, "I love you."

"ALEX!" Jared shouted trying to push her away.

"Jared stop and listen to her now!" Nessandra's voice was full of command making the pair pause.

Slowly the young vixen started, "Cass said that you felt like I was a sister, brother, and friend and that you do have feelings for me right?" He stood there unwilling to answer or even move except to turn his head and look at Nessandra who pointedly walked away into her bedroom. "Jared I need to know. Give me a hug and one kiss, Please!"

'Ness wants you to help her.' ~ 'Help? How? Kiss her?'

"Cassandra shouldn't interfere!" Alexandria stated firmly. "I want you to show me you love me."

"Alex, it's not like that."

Her response came with a tightening hug, "Jared show me! How do you love me?" Reluctantly the ferret raised his arms holding her as she pressed her cheek against his chest. A moment later she raised her head looking for his eyes.

He fully planned on giving a simple short kiss but was met with a ravenous need, her body molding against him as she drew their lips together gripping his head forcing them together until Jared finally broke away. He tried to figure out the full look she had staring into his eyes as she spoke, "You are more than a brother, more than a friend! I understand I can't be with you, all I ask is that you accept that I do love you. Take my arm sometimes and escort me, dance with me when you can, and please just once in a while give me a kiss, a real kiss."

It took only a few seconds for Jared to decide, she wasn't begging him to be with her in body this time and if this was the compromise they would make then he could accept that. This time he leaned in and gave her a kiss worthy of true bed mates tipping his muzzle and drawing in her tongue in against his taking in her essence as he gave his own and leaving her quaking when they finally separated.

"I said once before that I would not leave my twin lacking." Nessandra stated from the bedroom doorway. "She deserves love as much as either of us. For now, in private, I won't say anything but I do hope you find someone of your own Alex. You are right, he is mine, but I don't like seeing you suffer."

"My first dance, then maybe one later. Believe me if things were different then yes I would probably accept you as a lover but not because of your messed up body. I do love the beautiful tender soul I see behind it." The light kiss he left on her muzzle made her shiver.

When Nessandra came over to hug them both either expected her to say. "Someday my bed may have more than three bodies on it, and that would be truly... Interesting!"