Order of Succession

Chapter Two-4

A KNOCK CAME AT THE door. Kaelyn turned as a servant dressed in a white jumpsuit brought in a tray of meat, fruit, and cheese. The petite woman with short blond hair set the table in the alcove at the far end of the room for lunch. The tray was small and held only one glass. Kaelyn frowned and asked, “Walan, am I dining alone today? Where is everyone?”

Walan smiled and said, “The king and queen have gone with Prince Miras to the launch port to see Lord Colton’s son off to the military academy.”

Kaelyn’s heart raced. “Rein is leaving today?”

“Yes, Your Highness,” Walan answered, stopping to stare at Kaelyn.

“What time does the transport leave?” Kaelyn stammered.

“I’m not sure... I believe it was at the top of the hour.”

Kaelyn glanced at the large clock hanging over the fireplace. It was half past the hour.

Kaelyn barked orders as she raced down the corridor past the security desk. “I need my shuttle ready by the time I reach the roof for transport to the military launch port!”

A tall, lanky, uniformed officer followed her into the lift as the second officer sitting behind the desk hurriedly informed her transport. She was pleased to find her small shuttle waiting when she reached the roof. The flight to the skyport was quick, although it felt like hours. They landed on the roof of the building next to Rein’s transport.

She rushed out onto the transport deck as boarding was announced. A line of men and women stood waiting for the transport doors to open. Kaelyn sprinted toward them. “Rein?” she shouted across the rooftop. Where was he? They were all dressed in gray fatigues and caps. Each carried a large duffle bag and huge backpack which masked their stature. She couldn’t find him.

“Rein?” she shouted again as she neared.

One figure near the middle of the line dropped his bag and slipped out of his backpack. It was Rein. He darted from the line and raced toward her. She jumped into his arms and hugged him with all her might.

“I’m so sorry,” she cried through her tears.

“No,” Rein answered, “I’m the one who’s sorry. I was an ass. I had no right to say those things, Kaelyn. Your life is your own. You can take control if you really want it and you’re much stronger than you realize. You do have a choice. You just have to make it.”

“I have,” Kaelyn answered, “I’ve decided to go to University.”

The transport doors opened behind them. “That’s great, Kaelyn! But, I have to go,” he whispered, gazing into her eyes. “It’s only two years.” He kissed her. She wrapped her arms around his neck and returned the kiss. Releasing her, he added hoarsely, “Be strong, Kaelyn. I’ll see you when I get back. Write to me!” he called as he ran back across the platform.

“I will!” Kaelyn called after him.