England was no longer the place they left only a year ago. Winter had not been kind to King Robert and he developed a case of pneumonia. Francis returned from his war-mongering and was taking on much of the Kings’ duties.
With him, Francis brought stories. He spent countless hours with nobles, campaigning to continue the war for the holy land. His soldiers spent their days in the taverns, spinning tales of dark-skinned barbarians conquering Spain. Each story fueled the growing prejudice against the Muslims. Gavin, once again ensconced in the tavern, listened to the stories and felt the growing hostility. He was concerned for Tahir’s safety upon his return.
After King Robert explained Destiny’s absence to his heir, Francis became furious. Despite the King’s request, Francis allowed the sensitive information to be leaked—first to his soldiers, then to the public. In no time, rumors infiltrated every home, spreading from person to person like a plague. And, like a plague, people contaminated by the gossip were sickened; their minds and hearts infected with hatred and fear. Some were skeptical about the story of an evil wizard being released; they had a higher immunity. But, by the time Tahir and his company returned, even those with the strongest immune systems were overcome.
The most visible change, however, was in the sky. Initially, the clouds were barely noticeable. Small grey tufts floating on the horizon. Gradually building, turning dark and heavy. Then the wind: first a light breeze, a welcome in the summer sun, but then it too, strengthened. It blew consistently toward the cloud mass, which maintained its position: hovered over the stone circle.
Women deemed to be witches were dragged from their homes to stand trial. Homes were ransacked and examined for evidence of devil worship or witchcraft. The poor accused souls rarely survived their trials.
It was all Francis' doing. He knew the King was too sick to even be made aware of what was happening. This was his kingdom now, and the time for welcoming magical abominations would soon be over.
The animosity leaked through the castle walls, but Demetrius, Alexander and Kraven were still welcome guests of the King. They would be tolerated while King Robert lived. The three wizards returned as promised and waited patiently in the courtyard for the carriage and its passengers.
The familiar carriage glided into view with Destiny and Tahir leaning out of the windows and waving. Upon landing; they all happily greeted each other, exchanging hugs and compliments.
Demetrius sympathetically informed Destiny of her father’s condition. She immediately rushed to his side, where she spent the following days. Occasionally Tahir, Demetrius, and Meelix would stop in to see if there was anything they could do to comfort either of them, or simply to keep them company. But the King’s condition was discouraging.