12 Chapter 12: The Weakening

The conversation of Terlan and Ilara after Naera left.

"I didn't know you had a helper here."

"Well, it wasn't something utterly important to tell you because every time we write to each other, you only ever want to talk about business or personal matters. We hardly ever talk about things the way we used to. I remember we would tell each other even the most trivial things that happened in our day."

Terlan sighed at her statement.

"I know, Ilara. But, times have changed and that was years ago before we ever had to worry about the responsibilities we have to face every day. "

Ilara sighed as well. He was right. Times have changed, and yet at times she felt like she wanted to be a child again. A happy, selfish child that desperately clung to the memories and ways of old that they used to have.

"You said that you needed my help convincing. But, knowing him, we both know that I wouldn't be of much help. I'm sorry, Terlan. But I'm afraid that I won't be if much help to you on this matter."

"Ilara, please. You have to help me convince him. He's just not listening to me." Ilara gave him a deep and heavy sigh.

"As would any king if anyone mentioned that their greatest protection will soon fail, Terlan. If you were a king and someone told you that the thing you were told your whole life to be indestructible is soon to fall, then of course you aren't going to believe them so easily!"

"But, Ilara I am his son! He has to believe me or at least listen to me!" Ilara gave him a deeply sad look.

"Then as his son, you know more than anyone that he wouldn't."

Terlan felt like she just stabbed him in the chest but he knew she was right. He can't even get angry at her for saying that. It was the truth, and the truth is often painful and bitter to hear out loud.

Noticing his expression she sighed and with her eyebrows furrowed, she gave him an apologetic look.

"I'm sorry, Terlan. I truly am. I wish I could be of help to you but I cannot help you, not on this."

"Ilara, please. I am begging you. You have to help me on this. As you've said, I know my father. And I know that I can't make him listen on my own. Ilara, our whole kingdom will be doomed if I can't convince him to listen. I've studied this for months and I have all the proof I need. I even ventured to all 5 walls just to make sure that I was right. Ilara....all 5 walls have been greatly weakened. I don't know for sure exactly why but my theory is that the walls magic have weakened due to it's age and the 5 wizards are long dead. Please..."

Ilara clenched her hands into a fist and avoided looking Terlan in the eyes. She can't resist his pleas if she does. Suddenly, Terlan took both her hands and with a serious expression, asked her once more.

"Ilara. Please. We could be the kingdoms only hope if my father is too stubborn to hear reason."

She gave out a sigh in defeat.

"Fine. I'll try to help you. But, remember what I said. I'm not sure if I will be of much help to you."

"Then that is all I need. We must prepare for your journey to the palace."

"Not so fast, Terlan. The king may need convincing, but I need to be convinced as well. Tell me what you know so far."