Free The Named by Marianne Curley Page B

rule.’
    Isabel’s eyes open wide. ‘She wants to take over the world? You mean like a government?’
    ‘The Order’s ultimate aim is to destroy everything that we know is good, including human nature.’
    I quietly watch Isabel for her reaction to this news. It’s a lot to comprehend in one hit.
    ‘They’ve already made two attempts to win control,’ Arkarian explains. ‘The third will be the final conflict.’
    ‘Good will win, won’t it?’ Isabel asks for confirmation.
    ‘The problem is that though the Guard is prophesied to win, Chaos works hard to change that.’
    ‘That’s why they tamper with history,’ I add to the explanation. ‘By changing certain past events, they can alter what we know as the present, creating havoc and destruction –’
    ‘Which feeds their armies,’ Isabel finishes.
    Arkarian nods. ‘They mean to create an environment that nurtures their growth and success, and they aregrowing now at an alarming rate.’
    ‘So you’re saying Chaos creates things like disease and war?’ Isabel asks.
    ‘Widespread diseases like plagues,’ I explain, helping her to understand. ‘Where there is disaster, it’s usually at the hand of the Order of Chaos.’
    ‘Unbelievable! But this conflict, it’s not planned to happen for a long time, is it?’ she asks hopefully. ‘I mean, like way, way after we’ve been and gone, right?’
    Arkarian avoids answering. Isabel isn’t ready to hear this yet. It will just freak her out. Instead he moves us all back to the holographic sphere of London and the goings-on inside Westminster Palace, explaining my mission: to ensure that the young Prince Richard, son of the Black Prince, grandson of King Edward III, becomes King of England. His father has already died, about a year previously in France, and soon his grandfather will join him.
    ‘There are plans to twist the minds of the council, but that’s not your concern, Ethan. I believe an attempt on the future king’s life will be made in the next twenty-four hours. It’s going to be your duty to protect him and thwart this assassination attempt.’
    ‘When do we leave?’ I ask.
    Arkarian straightens and looks at us both in turn. ‘Tonight.’
    ‘ Tonight ? But it hasn’t even been two weeks! Isabel’s not ready.’
    Isabel has her own ideas. ‘What are you talking about? After the things you just told me, of course I’m ready. I’m ready to do anything!’
    Arkarian grins, looking pleased at her enthusiasm, and everyone’s mood lightens. But I’m Isabel’s Trainer,and enthusiasm is not enough. There are so many things I haven’t explained yet, like the transition that occurs in the Citadel for starters.
    Arkarian, knowing my inner thoughts, as I haven’t bothered to shelter them, taps my shoulder. ‘Remember, Isabel is to be an observer only tonight.’
    ‘Sure, but there’s still so much to learn. Physically, Isabel’s ready for just about anything –’
    ‘Thanks,’ she says with a smile.
    ‘But what of her other skill? We don’t even know what that is.’
    Arkarian waves my fears away. ‘You’re a talented guard, Ethan. Have some faith. Now go and instruct your Apprentice on how to prepare for her first journey. Her safe transportation is ultimately your responsibility.’

Chapter Fourteen
    Ethan
    As we walk down from the mountain, I try explaining what Isabel needs to know. ‘Your journey into the past will happen while you sleep in your own bed.’
    ‘Isn’t that a bit risky? I mean, why can’t the transfer take place –’ she shrugs – ‘in Arkarian’s chambers?’
    ‘I guess the transfer can take place anywhere, but it’s essential that your body and mind are in a peaceful, relaxed state. This is something that’s usually achieved when we sleep.’
    ‘OK, so we have to be in an unconscious state?’
    ‘Yeah, sort of. And while you’re home and in your own bed, sleeping, it’s unlikely anyone’s going to notice anything unusual happening to you. You