Willow dropped to one knee and placed a comforting hand upon Serna's shoulder, "Because I can think of no one better to protect my sister-in-law than the one who has protected me all these many months. This is who you are, Serna, you are a protector of the innocent and a defender of the weak. There is evil that lurks these halls, an evil that would do harm to my cause by harming my kin. You have protected me well with your bravery, your cunning and your shield. All I ask is that you do the same for her. Understand?"

"I guess," Serna replied uncertainly before she turned towards Liliandra, "That is, if you will have me, your Highness?"

"I welcome your protection young one, as well as the help of the 'kitten.' When we find out any information regarding the Ancient wards beneath the capital, we will join Prince Willow for the final battle and the defense of my king's land."

"Okay!" Serna replied with a warm smile, "Then you can count us in as your protector." The Shield Maiden looked down at the cat, "Unless, of course, you have any objections, Caliaphy? Well, don't just sit their purring, say something."

The kitten gave the shield maiden the biggest anime eyes full of sparkles and replied, "Mew!"

"Mew?" Serna asked with a raised eyebrow.

"I'm afraid Caliaphy is unable to speak when she's like that, child but I'm sure you will find that this particular kurori is full of surprises." The bronze man told Serna.

"Tell me about it." Serna laughed as she gently stroked her friend.

"Willow, since Lord Irzen is going with Captain Andaerean's company, are we to accompany you?" Alyson asked the ranger.

"If you don't mind," The Prince replied to the Elementalist, "Any assistance both you and Lazheros can offer would be greatly appreciated. Although, I would much prefer Lazheros to join Captain Irzen and Captain Andaerean's company than remain with us. Both Captains are going to be in the thick of the fighting against the horde and both of them will no doubt need the services of a Healer. Lazheros can not only serve as Healer to that calvary unit but also fight alongside them. That is, if you will give your consent to this, Lazheros?"

"I would surmise that you will be staying in the valley region then, Captain Mandur?" The bronze man inquired.

"Aye! It will be up to my kin and I to slow down the advance of the horde as much as possible and will only fall back to the capital when we have no other choice." The hill dwarf champion tugged his beard.

"Then I will summon the JUGGERNAUT to assist you and your kin, Captain Mandur when we are well outside of the city walls. The Elder Earth elemental will add to the defenses of both your company and to the capital." The elementalist clenched her fist.

The princess turned to everyone, "Safe journey everyone. Westfall and those who have stayed will remain until you send for us, Willow. I hope that my husband recovers enough to join you for the great battle ahead. For now, Serna and the kurori can help me in the great library in the old crypts."

"Okay!" Serna smiled as she began to follow the Princess, "Of the crypts we go."

"That makes sense I suppose," The elementalist glanced to the bronze man next to her and then back at the ranger, "So, with both captains keeping the horde busy, you believe that would give us a short window of riding to the capital?"

"Yes!" The Prince replied flatly, "Any delay they can secure us will give us more time to arrive at the capital. Hopefully we can reach it unattacked and unmolested."

Lazheros walked away from the group and motioned the ranger over, "I will go and assist the riders, Prince Willow and I trust you will do what is right with Alyson by your side on your journey to capital."

"I have always done what is right by Alyson," Willow responded honestly, "Even during those times when she did not see that herself. But I make you this promise as both a Prince and a Ranger, Lazheros, I will do everything in my power to make sure that you will see your love whole again."

*******

Captains Mandur and Andaerean bowed before Princess Liliandra and Prince Willow followed by the Swordsman heading to the stables.

Irzen gave a curt bow to both the Prince and the Princess as he followed Mandur and Andaerean.

When they reached the stables, orders were sent to mount up and intercept the advancing horde. They would be joined by the heavy cavalry also.

Irzen prepared his wargoat for what he knew would be a long and hard fight.

*******

Princess Liliandra led Serna with the kitten down into the inner most center of the city itself through a vast archway into the ancient library of the people of Northaven. Sprites and pixies flitted about excitedly between the rows of bookshelves. Most in pristine condition and some so large that it took an Ent to hold. The tree creature blinked slowly with its amber eyes inquiring about the princess's guests, "Whooooo, arrree you?"

"Hello!" Serna replied seemingly unphased, "I am Serna the Shield Maiden. And this is my friend Caliaphy. We're here to help the Princess find some knowledge that she is seeking. Who are you?"