Shadows of The Moon

Shadows of the Moon

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Riane Lasair

The Orlaine Chronicles

Shadows of the Moon By

Raine Lasair Triskelion Publishing www.triskelionpublishing.com

Triskelion Publishing 15508 W. Bell Road #101, PMB 502 Surprise, AZ 85374 Copyright 2004 Raine Lasair

All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means, including photocopying, recording or by any information retrieval and storage system without permission of the publisher except, where permitted by law. ISBN 1-933471-76-X Publisher’s Note. This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, and places and incidents are a product of the author’s imagination. Any resemblance to a person or persons, living or dead, business establishments, events or locales is purely coincidental.

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Acknowledgements To all those who helped me get to where I am today. To Nikita and Nicole who were always there to listen to me when I needed help, you ladies are the best.

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Chapter One “Men! They are not worth the trouble you are going through.” The snarled words coming from the Amazon guard leaning against the wall caused several of the twittering servants to flinch at the venom in her words and sent them scurrying over to the opposite side of the tower room. “They are worth nothing in this world.” Anya patiently looked over at the woman, who had been her friend since childhood, with an arched brow and leaned over to pick up her robe. “Michelle, you would do well to mind your tongue.” “Why should I?” the warrior woman glared at Anya with disgust. “You, more than anyone here, should know what you are getting into.” “I know exactly what I am doing.” She tied the sash to keep the robe closed over her naked body. “The princes are here for a reading only. You would do well to remember your place here. I am merely a Seer, while you are a warrior of the Order. If you seek to harm the princes, I will sound the call.” “They are the princes to the throne after all.” She moved across the room, ignoring her servants. Taking the heavy garment from its place hanging by the fire, she draped the ceremonial robe on the bed. As Seer of the Empire she was highly sought and many attempts had been made to abduct her—even her chambers were not the haven they should be. The Seers of the Order are prizes, highly sought by many lords and princes throughout the empire. Anya sat before the mirror and motioned to her servants. Silently they took up brushes and began to brush her long tresses dry. Soon her hair shone with highlights, deep fire reflected in her burgundy locks. Her green eyes grew serene as she allowed herself to slip into a state of neither awake, nor dreaming. Michelle’s next comment froze her. “They merely want your body and your powers next to them. As the heir to the throne of the Empire you would be the ultimate prize to them. Think of that as you do your reading, Seer.” It is true, Anya thought, picking up her necklace of office. Many princes had tried to woo her away from her Order to service them solely. So far the Mother Superior had yet to accept any formal requests. But, if the princes of the Empire were to specifically request her, the Mother Superior would be likely to accept their offer. She stared at Michelle for a few moments, through their reflections of the mirror, before turning around and facing her friend. “My duties are clear, Michelle. Many of the empire come to me seeking answers to their questions. As Seer of the Order, my duty is to assist them in finding those answers. I can do no more nor less. And, if the Mother Superior deems it necessary for me to assist the princes, then I shall.” Anya stood and released her robe, allowing it to pool around her as she put on her necklace. Wearing nothing but the necklace she stood bare in the center of the room, graceful and proud. Her breasts were high and firm, her waist tapered without one blemish. Her stomach was firm but soft–a testament to her station. The hair, which had once covered her mound, had long since been shaved and, with help from special herbs mixed in the Order’s lotion, had

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not grown back. Her legs were long and slim, not muscular as the warrior caste but supple and graceful as was the rest of her. A servant reached around her waist, placing a delicate chain around her then fastening it at her hips. The delicate chain glinted in the light from the fire and the sun, shining through her window, glowed in a rich gold hue against the smooth creamy complexion of her skin. The necklace and chain were all she wore as she pulled the ceremonial robe off the bed, slipping it over her shoulders. Michelle watched the display with hot eyes, secretly yearning for Anya to touch her, to pleasure her as she often did herself. Her eyes traced Anya’s form from her hair to her hips, and down her legs to finish at her toes. Many times, when they were alone, Anya would allow Michelle to play with her hair, or kiss her skin. The warrior longed for Anya to return the caresses given to the Seer, but Anya had made it plain that, while she was a Seer and loved to be touched, she was not attracted to women. So Michelle let it be, Anya was not meant for her. She was content to be the honored friend, the protector, until the day the Seer found her heart’s bond. It was no secret that Michelle loved women more than men, which was one of the reasons she had been chosen to guard Anya in her private chambers. None of the male guards within the Order could be trusted around such a powerful woman and, despite the oaths taken by males when they entered the Order; Mother Superior would not about to take and chances around her Seers. The men were there for the defense of the orders wall, the land around them. They were not trusted to guard the Seer’s themselves but the walls that surrounded them. Anya slipped her flat sandals on her delicate feet, allowing a small smile to grace her lips as she tilted her head up slightly, looking through her lashes at the blond warrior goddess. Michelle stood straighter as their eyes met and Anya noticed the slight shiver running through the muscled frame. “Its time,” Anya sighed. No time for playing today; though, technically, still a virgin, she enjoyed Michelle touching her body, kissing her skin, and whispering sweet words in her ears. It was sometimes surprising to her that her guard could wax poetically when she had a mind to. But she had a more burning desires—rough male hands and a hot male mouth touching every inch of her sensitive skin, sucking on her yearning clit, or licking her eager nipples As she walked lightly down the stairs, her escort of guards surrounding her, she shifted her mind to focus on the session to come, instead of the pleasures Michelle could offer. The princes to the Empire would be waiting and word was that the Ruler of the Universe and his lady, the heir’s mother, would be accompanying them. A solar week had passed since the Mother Superior had called Anya into her private quarters to inform her of the impending visit from the ruling family of the Empire. ***** “The princes’ request an audience with the Seer of Orlaine,” the Mother Superior stated softly, her usual calm in place but her eyes filled with pride. “I see.” Anya lowered herself into the chair before prodding the Mother Superior to continue. “And…?”

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“They have requested a session with you, my dear.” Anya sat up straighter at this telling bit of news. “Word has spread throughout the empire of your powers, and the princes of the Empire wish to see you.” “Any that pass through the doors of the Order may seek audience with the Seer of Orlaine,” she responded. “It is my duty, as Seer, to meet with the princes of the Empire.” “You have no reservations?” the Mother Superior asked. Many Seers had been known to enter into sessions ill prepared for what was to come, and she wanted Anya to be sure of her decision. But Anya was eager to see, and experience, all this session might offer. She knew this was a great honor being bestowed upon their select Order, and hurried to placate the Mother Superior. “If you feel the need then a warrior may accompany me. I shall take Michelle and she can guard me during the session.” Anya answered, watching the Mother Superior closely. What was wrong? The woman was squirming in her chair as if sitting on pins. “Why do you ask? Is there something I should know? Would they seek to harm me?” No one had ever sought to harm a Seer, not during, or even after, a session. It was unthinkable that the princes of the Empire, so well known throughout their system, would even contemplate harming one, knowing the devastating repercussions. “No more than any other male seeking a session with the Seer of Orlaine.” The Mother Superior had shrugged “I will assign Michelle to be with you during the session as the princes are known far and wide for their appetites.” “Appetites…?” It is rumored that the princes of the Empire are honorable men but hot-blooded, as are most men I have encountered, bent on personal gratification and lust.” Her eyes had grown cold at that statement, but her voice had remained calm and serene. “Michelle will see that you come to no harm.” ***** Now, a week later, standing before the large ornate doors to the Seeing Chamber, the conversation played itself out in her mind. Surely, with the Ruler of the universe and his lady wife in view, they would attempt nothing with her. With so many witnesses, surely she would be safe. “Anya?” Michelle had stopped before the main room. She shook herself and lifted her chin, ignoring the itchy feeling between her shoulder blades. “I am ready.” “You will accompany me into the chamber, my friend.” She raised her hand, waiting for her escort to guide her into the chamber. As Michelle guided Anya through the huge doors they both paused for a moment, for inside the great room waited the royal family and a select number of their royal guards. King Anginus and Queen Asperial sat on stately thrones, backed by their guardsmen. They made a striking couple, but it was their sons who took her breath away. Kneeling before the altar, the three males remained motionless, statues of divine proportion Bare-chested; they were dressed in simple pants, as was decreed by the traditions of the ceremony. Anyone could clearly see that these three future rulers of the Empire radiated strength, beauty, and utter maleness.

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One, thick black hair tapping his shoulders, had eyes closed in what resembled prayer. His lips moved silently while muscular arms, crossed over an impressive chest, glistened with sweat even though the room was slightly chilled with the windows thrown open. Anya frowned at the touch of the nippy breeze and called to an observing novice. “Close the windows and stoke the fires.” Assured her demand would be taken care of, her gaze moved to the second son. Equally impressive, the same muscular build as his brothers; his hair was longer, hanging down his back in pale white curls. His eyes were also closed, his lips moving in time with his brothers’. The altar all but hid him from view. If the size of his arms were any indication, the girth of his legs would be equally impressive. The third brother, as gorgeous as his two brothers, maintained the identical kneeling position but his eyes were open, staring at her with heat that sent shivers down her spine. Glowing green eyes, as dark as the Orlaine seas, watched her as she moved forward. The details of his features were hidden by the room’s shadows but she could see his hair, a wild mass of midnight curls falling in disarray down his back. “Welcome to the Halls of Orlaine,” Anya bowed in greeting before moving toward the altar. The Ruler of the Universe, King Anginus stood, stepping forward slightly and bowing with solemn regard. “Thank you, Seer. We are pleased to be here.” “Once the session begins, no one will speak. This is imperative for the safety of all concerned.” Turning, she motioned towards Michelle. “Michelle is my guard, as the Mother Superior guards we who are sacred. She shall watch over me during the course of this seeing. As the subtle warning was issued, Anya had the feeling that her charted course in the universe was soon to be forever altered. And that these three men would be directly tied to that change.

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Chapter Two “Its time, Lady.” Michelle took her position behind Anya, her arms crossed over her chest as she stared at the royal family with a warning glare. “Light the incense.” Anya called and, within seconds, a pungent aroma filled the room, the whirls of smoke moving around the altar. In preparation for that which was to come, she unfastened her robe, hands of waiting novices dragging it gently off her shoulders. Several gasps could be heard as her glowing nakedness was revealed, but she was beyond hearing. Kneeling on a pillow at the altar, she raised her hands in supplication. “Those who seek the Seer, place their hand on hers,” she intoned, eyes closed, waiting. She was unsure which brother was there to seek the truth. As she felt three hands touch her hand, she threw her head back, the power flowing through her body in a rush, their minds opening to hers. It was a heady experience It had taken years for her to gather enough strength and knowledge to control with the surges, but this was unlike anything she had ever felt before. Thoughts and feelings flooded through her being as she opened herself to their touch she stood, never losing her footing, and her open eyes stared sightlessly at the three men standing in front of her. Her eyes turned milky green, the color of soft jade. The flickers from the torches shimmered their reflection as she stared at what only she could see. “You fight darkness, Tralas.” As she spoke, her head tilted towards the middle brother. “It beats at you, trying to break your bonds with your brothers. Be comforted. Your strength will overcome.” She moved through his mind, showing him the warning signs and helping him see the darkness for what it was. “You will now recognize the signs, Tralas. But you must learn to harness your power, for it is strong. The darkness will seek to turn it against you. Do not let it.” She jerked as a different power fluctuated within her and in her mind she felt darkness reaching out, its tentacles moving, closing in around them. “Be gone from this man!” she hissed, pushing her power into the dark cloud. She felt the men jerk but their unified power kept them tightly bound as one. Anya pushed her free hand behind her, searching for her warrior. “Michelle?” The instant she felt her hand, she quickly dragged the unsuspecting woman into the vision. “See the darkness.” The men jerked at the sudden and unexpected addition of another into their circle but Anya’s soothing voice calmed them. In their minds’ eye they watched Michelle track the darkness through the mists of their thoughts, a vicious growl emanating from her throat as she defended the ceremony from its unwanted intrusion. With the encroaching evil otherwise occupied, Anya tilted her head towards the youngest brother. “Genis, lover of music, and of air, I sense much in you. You will be great alone, apart from your brothers but, as a significant part of the whole, you are powerful. Do not let your heart feel empty, Genis, for you are worthy of your gifts and shall prove yourself when the time is right.” She let her power caress his mind, soothing his spirit and lightening his soul.

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The last brother, the elder of the three, seemed to stiffen as she seemed closer to him, without ever moving. “Adaineas,” she purred, her voice buffeting against his psyche and his heart in a heated breeze. “Such power I feel from you. The warrior in you fights for its prize but you sense something more within. You are right to feel the signs for you seek to aide your brothers in all things. In order to protect the realm, your brothers, and your parents you must be prepared. I know you sensed the darkness in Tralas, and you have searched for ways to help him in his need. Continue this path to its end, my prince.” Their eyes followed her as she looked above them, to the orb hanging high above the altar, spinning without support. “The time is coming that will test your bonds. Do not let them break, Princes of the Empire. For you must hold fast to that unity. Strengthen your resolve, for I see many things to come that will test both you, and the Empire.” The orb spun faster and a force pushed her head suddenly back, causing her to cry out in pain. She felt the hands on hers tighten, holding her fast and upright. “Your lines will be strong if you will it so. Do not break your bond for it will hold you in good stead for what is to come.” With these words she released their hands and collapsed onto the altar in what seemed to be a faint, but which was actually a deep sleep, as their combined power left her as suddenly as it had locked them as one. Michelle stopped her fall as, like flowing water, she slipped off the altar to lie on the floor in a boneless heap. The Mother Superior rushed into the room, followed closely by two novice seers and knelt by her fallen Seer’s side. Gathering Anya against her she gently rocked the slumbering figure. “She will be fine,” she crooned, checking her to see there were no injuries. Looking up at Michelle she ordered, “Carry Anya to her room and see she is taken care of. And stay with her.” Michelle picked up Anya and sped down the silent corridor, shaken by what she had seen within the vision. Never before had she mind-walked with Anya and it had been a startling experience. She caressed the cold bare shoulder as she gently moved up the stairs to the tower room, carrying her charge as gently as she could, trying not to jar her and awaken her from her deep sleep. But the Mother Superior wasn’t done with her commands. “Ward the doors and the windows,” she barked. “Our majesties must be protected within the walls of Orlaine.” “It will be done, Mother Superior,” the younger of the Seers promised, bowing before rushing to drag her sisters to do as ordered. “Anya has foreseen your powers, princes to the Empire,” the Mother Superior pronounced. “And her visions are never wrong.” Watching the brothers closely as the sat on the floor where they had dropped, panting with sheens of sweat covering their skin, their hair wet and limp, the Mother Superior strongly suggested, “Go and rest. We shall… discuss all at supper.” Remnants of their combined power remained with them and they looked at one another in silent communication. Turning to face the Mother Superior, they nodded as one.

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“She will come to the Capitol,” Adaineas rumbled, his voice gritty as if asleep for a long night. His eyes burned with fatigue as he leaned against his brothers, each one still panting, trying to regain breath that had been lost to them. Reeling from the session, and feeling the Seer in his mind, his body was tight, fighting the potent throbbing heat running through his veins. He would have this Seer for his own; he vowed silently, his eyes heated as he watched the now empty doorway.

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Chapter Three Long after the sun had begun its descent into the mountains, Anya lay covered with thick quilts. Patting Anya’s hand with a gentle touch, Michelle watched as her mistress tossed and turned with tormenting dreams that seemed to always follow a harsh session. Anya never spoke of her sessions, not around Michelle or anyone else for that matter, but never seemed to suffer this much from any of her other visions. But this one was quite different. Michelle had witnessed first hand the evil stalking the princes of the Empire—had felt the helpless frustration of the brothers. But Anya had foretold they would defeat the darkness and come into the light. And she was never wrong. Michelle ran her fingers softly over the smooth skin, kneading the still palm, wishing there was more she could do to ease the suffering her friend was enduring. Anya’s thrashing slowly waned and the silent warrior watched as she awoke, long lashes blinking in slow movements. Pushing off the enveloping coverings, she looked at Michelle, still sleep-bemused. “How long was I sleeping?” she asked, rubbing her eye with her free hand like a young child. Michelle did not release the delicate hand, playing with long fingers as she answered “For several hours. Mother Superior ordered wards placed on all the doors and windows to protect the royals and the novices have been in prayer most of the afternoon.” Michelle’s lips quirked slightly, her eyes dancing with mischief as she rose from the side of the bed, knowing Anya would see the humor in her next words. “She demands you dine with them tonight and, it seems, I will be accompanying you as guard, once again.” I am sure that will make their night. A warrior watching their every move… Anya stretched and pushed back the coverings. The fire was roaring and the room was almost too warm from the flames. “I had better get dressed if we are to dine with the royal family.” She opened her closet and viewed her simple gowns. Those who had the power to see were determined by the touch, not by material wealth, and every once in a while a merchant would come to have a session and, luckily for the Order, make payment with bolts of material. “Wear the berry color. It flatters your hair and skin.” Michelle watched the still naked Anya rifle through the gowns, muttering over her meager choices. “There have been whispers, heard through the servants, that an offer will be made for you this night,” she mentioned absently, her mind wandering to more pleasant pursuits as she watched Anya bend over to find the perfect shift within the chest sitting beside to the closet. Pausing in her search Anya looked over her shoulder at the staring Michelle, frowning slightly. Her eyes darkened with the memory of the harsh session. “Will be? Has been? What does that matter? My path was set within the session. You were there. I felt you were meant to see the darkness, to help fight this battle. You have the skills we will need to track this evil. If I am called to go to the Capitol then you, as my guard, will definitely be accompanying me.” A shudder moved through Michelle at the memory of the darkness what a nasty piece of work. “I felt the darkness but the direction it came from is unknown to me. It seems that Tralas is doing a fair job of fighting this formless presence on his own though.”

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“Aye. So far. But I feel they will need whatever help we have to offer.” Anya murmured as she pulled a dress over her head, fastening its closures. With quick strokes of her brush she tamed her hair. “I sense a fierce power in each of the brothers though the eldest, Adaineas, is the strongest, as it should be. It seemed as if the very earth itself flowed through his hand into me. But I am surprised that they have received no formal training from the citadel’s mages.” “To be sure they have, Anya. Don’t be foolish,” Michelle snapped. “For, if they had not been guided by the mages, their power would have spun out of control. You can call it, shape it, and use it, but they harness it within themselves. I have seen this for myself.” Weary of the conversation, she grumbled, “Hurry up. I am hungry.” Anya smiled and followed her friend out of the room. She had a feeling, hinted at when touching the princes’ minds, that they had not been tutored in the use of their power and still had no idea of the vast power they would be able to wield. Eventually. Feeling stronger after her rest, she moved swiftly down the stairs to the private rooms of the Mother Superior, her feet practically skipping. She quickly sobered when she saw the King’s guard lining the hall to her teacher’s apartments. They stood at attention as she walked past them at a more sedate pace, looking to be gazing straight ahead. But she could feel their eyes following her, watching her as she drew closer to the door. As she entered the spacious chambers, and Michelle closed the door securely behind them, her eyes swept over all assembled in the room. Her training had taught her to memorize details, whether they be faces, heights, and identifying markings, or events and landscapes. The two women’s stomachs echoed growls at the smells coming from the feast spread out on the table in the main room. Mother Superior noticed their entry and motioned them to come to her side. “Michelle…? Relax, warrior, the room is warded and the king’s guards stand just outside my chamber doors. Let us sit and eat. Be at peace.” As everyone moved to the table and did as the Mother Superior suggested, Anya covertly watched each of the brothers. Adaineas seemed to have closed himself off from everyone around him, after the session, and his moody eyes kept close watch, untrusting and wary. Tralas, his silvery hair now bound in a woven gilded rope, sat equally silent but his eyes seemed sad as he watched his elder brother being so cautious. Genis stayed silent as well, his natural exuberance dimmed by the solemn visages of his elder brothers, though twinkling laugher lit his eyes as if seeking the right moment to escape. Each magnificently male sat brooding in their own way and, seated as she was across the table from them, she felt each breath they took, could hear their hearts beat as if in unison. A familiar voice brought her out of her dark study, pulling her attention back to their guests. “Anya?” Mother Superior asked softly, waiting until the Seer’s eyes moved to hers before continuing. “The King has requested that you assume the position as Seer for the royal family, and desires that you reside in the capitol. Is this your wish?” The wise teacher sat

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back in her chair, sipping from her goblet as she watched the young Seer contemplate what was being asked of her. Anya sipped her own drink, holding the gaze of each heir’s eyes while her thoughts tumbled about in her head, seeking the right path. “You never have been trained, have you?” she questioned quietly, prodding for verification. Realization struck harshly, causing quivers of shock to run through her soul, as puzzled looks chased across the princes’ faces. “You honestly do not know the extent of the power residing within your souls, do you?” She shivered as she remembered touching each of their minds and feeling the power explode, the special strength each housed in their bodies. “Such power...” A power they would need to control before it destroyed them. The darkness she saw in their minds would not easily let them slip away. Each male needed to harness that force which they possessed in order to fight the evil threatening their kingdom. “I will go, if for no other reason than they need to find their true power and learn to channel it. As their Seer I will be able to help them, guide them.” Smiling, she nodded her head in agreement toward King Anginus, Ruler of the Universe. “You honor me with your request. And, if it pleases my lord, Michelle will be joining us as well. As my personal guard,” Anya murmured, her eyes staring directly into Adaineas’ green ones. “I assure you she is much needed.” ***** The princes glared at her words and Adaineas grew angrier as a satisfied smirk seemed to play upon those lush, rosy lips She is treating us as if we are mere lads, still wet behind the ears. Who does this little Seer think she is, speaking of us like we are invisible, and treating us like idiots? And if she thinks that woman will stop me from… Aye, the Seer was beautiful and, from what he had witnessed at the session, powerful. But he knew for a fact she was a virgin, as were all Seers at the Order. Seers, who were contracted out to work in remote areas or great houses, were given the benefit of lying with whom they chose. The Order only required that those within the Order stay pure. There would be much temptation when the little Seer left the walls of the Order and joined their household. And, once she was outside the Orders’ walls and within his…well that might be another story. The image of his hands on her body in hers caused his heart to accelerate, pounding harder, forcing blood to his lower extremities. He could be patient…when he had to. ***** Once the royal family had retired to their rooms, Anya sought more details regarding the upcoming trip. “When should we be ready to leave, Mother?” “Three days should give you enough time to complete all your preparations. Will you wish to take a personal servant, perhaps someone familiar to your ways?” “Not particularly,” Anya shrugged, not really seeing the need. The servants she had were kind-hearted but gossipy, loving nothing more than to chitter like magpies and it often made her head ache. Dreading the continuation of the same, Anya thought it best to do without. She had before, in the past, with no great loss to her personal comfort

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“And, if I need something, I am sure that Michelle will be able to find me someone suitable for service at the citadel. We understand one another.” Michelle coughed loudly behind her hand at the dryly-toned comment, her eyes twinkling. She knew, far too well, that the chattering of the females, who tried to serve her Anya, often tempted her to knock their heads together for a bit of silence. “You must remember to take your books and scrolls, Anya. They may serve you well in the days to come.” Mother Superior reminded her, standing to embrace the child she had come to love like a daughter. “You will surely see me again before you leave.” Patting Anya’s back, she pushed the now drooping girl towards the door. “Go to bed and get some well deserved rest. This day was trying.” Michelle reassured the Mother Superior that all would be ready when the time came for their departure and bid them both good night. An exhausted Anya also bid the Mother Superior good night and walked back to her room. Behind closed doors she shut her eyes, quaking with the knowledge that she would soon be beyond the walls of the Order and once again out in the world. The last time she had been outside the high walls was as a young child, still mourning the loss of her family. The thought brought back feelings of terror of the unknown and excitement at the prospect of being Seer to the royal family. She hugged herself as she sat on the edge of her bed, thinking back on each of the gorgeous princes she would be counseling. Each man gave her a thrill—each different, and unique. Some of the rumors regarding the royal princes were apparently true. They did run hot when the urge was upon them. And she had felt the heat rising off each of them all during their dinner But the strongest feelings had come from Adaineas. His eyes had burned into hers all during their meal, almost as if she were the banquet he would have preferred dining from. Remembering his heated gaze caused a tingle to run through her body and wetness to coat her thighs. Anya smiled to herself and removed her clothing, smoothing her hand down her naked thighs. The prospect of taking one of them to her bed was…exciting Donning her night shift and settling beneath the covers of her bed, she rolled onto her side and looked out at the night sky beyond her window. Stars twinkled brightly as she let slumber overtake her and thoughts of the days to come slid away as she fell into a dreamless sleep.

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Chapter Four Over the next two days, Anya kept busy making sure all of her supplies and books were packed away carefully. She knew that many of the herbs she used would not be available in the capitol, so she made sure that the seedlings were boxed carefully. It was an enormous step she was taking and she wanted to be sure the move went smoothly, but her worries over the smallest details were taking its toll. Taking a break from packing, she strolled into the Order’s gardens, watching the younger novices and village children playing together in the garden. It always made her smile, their joyful antics often tempting to one who was supposed to be past such things. Seeing her enter the gardens many broke away from their games to swarm around her like buzzing bees begging for attention. She took time to smile at each one, gently touching the top of a small head or back or tenderly kissing a soft cheek. Hearing the crunch of fallen leaves she looked up and saw the youngest heir, Genis, walking slowly through the garden. His head was bent and he seemed lost in his thoughts, oblivious of the two guards shadowing his every move, ever watchful for potential danger even in their peaceful sanctuary. With soft spoken words she shooed away the novices and children before quietly calling his name. “My lord Genis?” As his head turned in her direction he smiled softly, his sensual lips curving in welcome, but she noticed the shadows beneath his eyes, telling her of his sleepless nights. “Please sit beside me. We are blessed that the sun in shining so brightly on this beautiful day.” “Lady Anya.” He bowed gallantly as she motioned to the seat beside her. Easing his weight down on the bench, he motioned to his guards to move further away. The wind gently teased his hair, which he had left unbound, and she allowed her eyes to wander over his beautiful face as he sat hunched over his knees, clasping his hands together to stare in pensive silence at the grass beneath his boots. She slowly placed a gentle hand on his arm so as not to startle him. When his eyes moved to hers she gently cupped his cheek before asking softly, “What causes you so much pain that you would lose your precious sleep?” He closed his eyes, savoring the cool touch of her hand. Leaning into the softness he allowed her soothing calm to slip under his skin, and into his mind. Peace, a feeling that had become elusive these past few years, was a welcome relief. His gaze seemed clearer, more focused, when his eyes next met hers. “Thank you for your boon, Lady.” She looked at him for a moment, seeing deep within his soul. There was a need she had not previously noticed. Calling out to a passing novice she asked, “Please find the other brothers and ask them to come to the garden pond. And let it be known that it is occupied, so we shall not be disturbed.” The novice sped off to carry out the Seer’s request Within moments the messenger returned with several novices, some carrying pillows and blankets, one carrying an obviously heavy lunch basket. At Anya’s questioning glance, the basket-toting novice whispered, “From the Mother Superior. With a note.” Anya nodded her head, accepting the paper.

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She waited until the basket and other items were placed on the ground before turning her attention to the waiting guards. “Guards, please inform King Anginus where his sons may be found, so he is not concerned?” They bowed to the Seer in unison before leaving her to her designs. Curious, she unfolded her note: Anya, child What you do is far more important and you are released from evening prayers. Use the private garden, taking all the time you think is needed to make the princes more at ease. ~M~. She smiled softly at the note. The Mother Superior always did seem to know what was needed, to predict what she was planning often before Anya did herself. Picking up the basket, she gestured towards the pillows and blankets. “Genis, if you would take those… and follow me…” Curious to see what the young Seer was up to, he gathered up the cushions and coverings, following her through the winding garden paths. Hearing footsteps coming from a crossing pathway he paused, waiting for his brothers and their guards to catch up. He shoved some pillows at one brother, and threw a cover to the other, as they hurried to catch up to their mysterious Seer, curious to see where she might lead them. Opening a hidden gate to the sanctuary’s private garden, she called out, “Thru here, my lords.” The soft tinkling of the fountain of Orlaine beckoned them to draw closer, offering peace and tranquility beyond the vine-entwined gates and tall walls. As the three princes entered the gates, she stopped the guards, ordered to follow their charges wherever they might go “I assure you that this garden has been warded from above, as well as below and around, and no harm shall come to any within these walls.” The guards promised to stay near and closed the four within the garden walls. Once she heard the click of the gate’s latch, she neared the brothers, who had dropped their bundles heedlessly on the ground, fascinated by the calmness of their surroundings. She was saddened by the shadows haunting each of their eyes and was determined to ease their sorrow and pain, if only for an afternoon. Blankets were spread near the fountain so they could enjoy the soothing music of nature while being shaded by the huge branching trees, their leaves thick enough to block the sun’s ray but sparse enough to watch the clouds drift by. Pillows tossed haphazardly made a cozy nest. Calling out to the brothers she invited them to sit and make themselves comfortable while she finished unpacking their repast. Dropping elegantly onto the blankets, to loll against cushy cushions, the princes watched the Seer spread out a huge luncheon from the seemingly bottomless basket until their curiosity got the best of them. “Why have you summoned us here, Seer?” Adaineas’ asked gruffly. She ignored the demanding question until she had each item set out to her liking, and had sat beside them, her back comfortably settled against one of the fluffy pillows. “After seeing the shadows shading Genis’ face I knew that chances were that none of you have been sleeping well and the Mother Superior must have felt that as well. It is often the case after difficult sessions.” Piling a plate high with food, she passed it to Genis, gently chiding him, “You have not been eating enough and you will need your strength.” Her eyes

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were intent as she waited, watching him take that first bite, then grinning when he sighed in delight as the flavors flooded his mouth. She served Adaineas and Tralas, waiting until all three had begun eating before filling her own plate. She watched them carefully making sure they each had plenty to fill their bellies. Seers had been taught that it was often as important to feed one’s stomach as it was to feed one’s soul, especially after such a traumatic session as the princes had experienced. Nibbling on a succulent piece of fruit she continued, “Today you must relax and take time to find peace of mind. This is one place where the burdens of your thoughts will be lifted, if only for a short time. You should rest and be at peace, for nothing may harm you here, in this most sacred and private of gardens within our sanctuary. I do not know what life is like at the capitol, but our session was particularly draining. I seldom have problems sleeping and night visions have chased away even my peaceful sleep. So…today you will relax.” She paused, grinning with delight as the trio devoured the food, the noise of clinking silverware the only sounds until the prince’s fought over the last morsel with good-natured camaraderie. She thought they had probably wrestled much the same when they had been children. She watched the tension leave each in turn, draining with each male chuckle, pounded out by rough pummeling. With one last shove, the three weary princes collapsed on their backs, strong arms tucked beneath their heads, the cool winds and warm sun lulling them into a dozing stupor. Anya silently sighed, wondering how it would feel to have one of those strong arms wrapped tightly around her before shaking away her distracting thoughts. This day was for the princes to indulge in daydreams, not her. Others might say that, as Seer of the Order, she should be ashamed of such thoughts. But she was not, for she was still a woman, with feelings and desires like any other. Her head began to itch, confined in its tight topknot, a part of her daily uniform. Pulling out pins, she released her hair, allowing the soft breezes to tease the strands, curling them around her shoulders in play. Noticing the three male heads had turned to watch her actions, rosy cheeks pinked, blushing under their close perusal. “It is simply too warm.” Turning her back to the three sets of considering eyes, she clumsily brushed the crumbs from their dining table before walking over to wash her hands in the fountain. “Of course.” Tralas’s tone was dry, though his green-grass eyes twinkled in delight. He was happy to see the Seer was able to relax herself, from time to time. Perhaps having her in their home would not be such a trial after all. ***** Adaineas lay watching the colors swirl under his closed lids Hearing a whisper of gown behind his head, and feeling the touch of a knee against his skull, he lazily cracked one slumberous green eye. As fingers rubbed his temples he jumped slightly, not expecting the soft touch. A whispered, “Shh,” quieted him and firm hands pushed him back against the pillows. “Relax.” Her dulcet tones drew him into a dream. “Hear the wind pass around you, blowing away the past… listen to the water flow, washing away cares… the earth will restore your strength as you are held in its arms.” With each word her fingers pressed slightly against his temples, massaging the tight tension from his scalp. As her hands moved in soothing

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circles, his body sank further into the earth’s welcoming embrace, turning boneless with the release of the last his tension, allowing him to fall into a restful slumber. Moving to Genis she repeated her actions, massaging his worries away until he fell asleep. But his repose was deeper—had arrived faster—for his hard-fought exhaustion had finally taking its toll. Reaching Tralas’s side determined that all three would rest; she found he had already drifted off, a peaceful smile playing around his lips. Leaving the three men sleeping deeply, at ease with their surroundings, she moved to the edge of the blankets and sat her back straight as she looked towards the afternoon sun, and chanted her daily prayers. Her prayer song floated gently in the breeze, barely stirring the men sleeping around her, so soundly did they rest. She prayed for their courage, their safety and their bond, infusing her power into the song. From a distance she heard voices join hers, felt the power of their joined voices rise up. Novices within the garden echoed her prayer, carrying the melodious song into the halls, to be picked up in all corners of the sanctuary. The song resonated through every stone, though its volume barely rose above hers, lending a harmonious closing to the day. ***** Inside the Mother Superior sat with the King, and his Queen, and smiled, Anya’s prayer flowing through every room of the sanctuary. Gently squeezing the concerned mother’s hand she shared the message of the evening chant. “They are praying for your sons.” She patted the pampered hand as royal eyes brimmed with tears. “Do not fear. For they are safe, resting and gathering strength for the fight that is to come.” “Any peace they get from Orlaine is an honor to my house, Mother Superior. I thank the Goddess for our decision to come here.” Asperial gripped her husband’s hand as the voices rose within, and without, the walls. “Anya is our best and her powers surpass many of the past Seers I have guided. You must trust her in all things when it comes to the sons of your Empire. “ ***** Quietly opening the gates to the garden, she gestured to the princes’ personal guardsmen. Pointing to the sleeping princes, resting peacefully, she ordered, “Allow them sleep as long as they will. There is much to be done in the coming days and they will need every portion of their wits and strength in the days to come. They are not to be disturbed.” Anya rushed through the sanctuary gardens, knowing the time was short until her own departure. Passing by the older novices in the garden, she asked that they see to the remnants of their repast after the princes awakened. At their nods of agreement she sped into the hall and up the stairs to her rooms, suddenly realizing that she would miss each and every person residing within the Order. But it seemed the direction of her calling was to be a place other than nurturing hallways and comforting scenery. She was being pushed her to explore other places, other worlds. All this she would do, as was her duty. Arriving at her rooms Anya could see that Michelle had been hard at work, but the room was empty of her presence. Most of her belongings had already been boxed up and carried to the waiting craft. Even the ratty rug she had made so many years before was packed, leaving the floor barren, feeling cold.

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Wandering around her room she touched the post of her bed as she moved to the window. Turning she looked at her room and the remaining pieces of furniture. Her bed and wardrobe looked lost in the large expanse of the empty room. She knew she would come to miss the calm serenity within the walls of the Order, but her soul cried out for adventure. To be going to the Capitol! Laughing lightly she moved about the room, memories of when she had just arrived at the Order flooding her mind. At the tender age of eight she had been lost and alone, soon to be found and loved. A flood had destroyed her village, causing her to lose both her parents and her sisters. Her parents, lost to the water, and her sisters, taken away from her in the chaos that followed the flood. Though a child herself, her kind heart had broken as she had seen the injured. That was when her power had revealed itself. She had healed several villagers before the local healers could arrive and, once they had seen what she had done, brought her to the Order, one of the elders having recognized a potential power. She remembered crying herself to sleep for the first few months, feeling the loss of her parents deeply and crying out for sisters who could not be found. It had taken years for her to finally admit she would never find her sisters, at least not alive. The Order had finally ceased the search, fearing that the flood had carried the bodies away when none of her family could be found. There were times she would give anything to be able to reach out, through time and space, and find her sisters and, at the beginning, she had closed herself away from the Sisters of the Order. It had taken time for her pain to ease, allowing her to open her eyes to the new world that was being offered to her with open hearts, and hands. As the sun began its descent into the mountains, she heard the novices entering the dining hall below for the evening meal. Laying out her traveling dress so it would be ready in the morning she ran down the stairs. Her time was limited to spend time with the sisters of her heart and she wasn’t willing to waste one second. She had just reached the foot of the stairs when she noticed the side door, leading to the stables, opening with a shove. She must of gasped in surprise for the panicked man, pushing through the doorway, rushed forward to kneel at her feet, trembling as he tightly grasped her hand. Placing her hand upon his shivering shoulder, she gently queried, “Granfeld, what brings you out on this eve?” Her soothing voice calmed him as nothing else could and his tormented eyes met her calming gaze, a tear sliding down his filthy face. “We were attacked, Lady.” He whispered harshly. “No warning was given they just attacked. My family…you must come, Lady. Please!” Burying his face in his hands as he sobbed as if his heart was being torn from his chest. She felt his pain, heart rending, cutting deeper than any blade. His mind was leaning towards vengeance, eating away at his soul like a poison. She stiffened, her breath trapped with his pain and anger, her visions showing an evil without name. “Orlaine to me!” she cried, her voice echoing through the halls. Mother Superior hurried out from the Great Hall, followed closely by the king’s armed guards, and curious novices. “What has happened? Granfeld, my old friend, what causes you such pain?” “An attack on the village of Olanth.” Anya hissed, still vibrating with Granfeld’s need for revenge against the harm done the villagers. “It was unprovoked and unwarranted. They

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have need of our assistance, for many are injured, near dying if not already there.” She called for Michelle as she ran out the door, knowing there might still be need for a strong arm and sure blade. Her sisters would be following, knowing their healing arts would be needed by many…perhaps too many. And time was of the essence. The wind began to rise as she ran to the horses that Granfeld had tethered outside the stable doors. She could see the fierce fires burning from the hill by the stables, fires taking another life with each minute that passed. Anya whirled her steed with quick reflexes, leaping over ditches in her intent. She must reach the village before others perished. ***** Houses lay in ruin as she leapt off her mount, seeing many calling out, searching for survivors. “Where is your Magi?” she shouted to one of the staggering villagers, the flames continuing to engulf nearby homes, the roar of the winds deafening. The man pointed to the hill that lay just beyond, a hill where once stood their main hall. She walked as quickly as she could through the debris, watching her feet and the flying embers from the fires that burned. She found the Mage, and several elders, standing in stupefied shock, staring at the devastation of their charred home, ashes of scrolls and tomes flittering in the tormenting wind. Touching the arm of the Mage, she was surprised to see his face blank with shock, blind to all. “Magi, you know me. It’s Anya, the Seer of Orlaine.” Moving him to one side, further from the fire, she shook him, needing information only he would be able to give. “Where are the wounded? My sisters are not far behind me” Her lungs burned as she pulled in smoke and the heat from the fires with each breath. “We have housed those without severe wounds in the tents beyond the fire line.” The old man pointed to the hill set far from the immediate fires. “Any assistance you might be able to offer would be most kind, Lady Anya.” The magi’s shoulders were stooped, weighted with the destruction of the villagers. “There are several missing and we have no way to locate them.” “We will do what we can. That is what is decreed,” she promised. “My sisters are gathering supplies and will be here shortly. Please guide them to a safe place where they might treat the injured, or bless the dead.” Turning away from the old man, she knelt and placed her hand firmly against the earth, opening herself to its power, allowing it to fill her... Stretching her senses she found several of the villagers buried under the rubble. Calling out the locations to the searchers she lost track of time until a massive headache began blooming behind her eyes. The strain of finding so many dead, or dying, beneath the charred remains of the homes made her soul ache. Each time she mentally reached one of the injured, she would ‘push’ her power, sharing it, willing them to live until help arrived. And she was oblivious to it when it finally did. The first hint was that she started to feel stronger, more focused. The unified chanting penetrated her weary mind, infusing her with strength. Several novices, kneeling a distance behind her and intent on tending the survivors, shared their strength as they had been trained. Rallying, she pushed the power wider than she had before; searching for any she might have missed earlier. Further, and deeper, she sent her touch, seeking, but not finding until…

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She felt evil. Slithering and cold as it twisted in the ground, pushing at her touch, trying to break through her barriers. She could hear it hissing in her mind as it searched, poking and prodding, looking for any weakness to exploit. Anya gathered her inner power, focusing and strengthening her bonds with the earth. You cannot protect them, it hissed in her mind and she swayed under the darkness’ onslaught. I will have them all and then they will serve me. It was a trick! The attack was simple trick—a ruse… And they had left the brothers vulnerable. Her eyes flew open in shock and horror. Whatever this was, it had attacked this village for the sole purpose of drawing the sisters from the sanctuary of the Order. She answered its claim, choosing her words carefully. You will not have them. As Seer of Orlaine, I protect those who reside here. Be gone this night, darkness! You cannot harm us further this night. Begone! She pushed her power to its very limits, shoving the darkness so harshly it shrieked. She needed to find a way to stop it, or at least slow it down. The brothers were not ready to fight this. Not quite yet. And, if they realize the darkness was here, they will want to try. Everyone stared as a dark, malignant cloud rose from the hottest, brightest flames, darkening the sky from even the fires’ lights, and moved a distance from the Seer. Turning to the novices, Anya whispered harshly under her breath, “I must go back to the sanctuary. Tell Michelle to do what needs to be done. The brothers are in need.” She shivered at the thought of Adaineas unprotected from this evil. She must reach the walls of Orlaine in time! That one thought ran through her head as she spurred a fresh mount towards the sanctuary, racing the darkness. She knew it would not take long for it to realize she was no longer there. “Fly, my friend. Fly like the fleetest of birds.” Hooves pounded the road as she hung tightly onto the pommel, her body weakening as she pulled away her sisters, trembling as she felt the darkness racing her back to the walls of the Order. She must be the first to reach their destination. Only a handful had stayed behind, mostly the young and old of the Order. They would not sense the darkness in time to protect the royals. She must warn them before it was too late. She must make it within the walls. The others were needed in the village and the brothers…well, they would need more protection than what their personal guards were going to be able to offer. That alone spurred her to urge her horse to a faster pace. I must get to Adaineas. The hooves echoed the beating of her heart as she pushed the horse to go faster, and faster. Leaning over his neck, she could make out the spires of the towers and her heart leapt as she saw her goal in sight.

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Behind her she could hear the screech of the darkness. With renewed energy, she began her chant, her power rising at her command. Her words echoed through the valley as her power grew, seeming to roar over the winds, striking at the evil. As she neared the gates she felt a sharp pain, the darkness retaliating, attacking in hopes of slowing her flight. Glancing down she noticed a pool of blood staining her sleeve, her life’s blood running down her arm to drip off the reins tightly clenched in her fist. Regardless of the agony she could not stop, for she could not fail Failure was not an option. ***** The alarm instantly sounded through the sanctuary as Anya ran through the great doors, shouting for the novices to bar the doors behind her, urgency coloring her every word. The royal guards rushed to help the novices drop the large bar across the great doors as she shouted further instructions, gesturing to the remaining novices to gather around her. “We must ward the doors!” Raising her hand, flinching as pain shot down her injured arm, she asked her sisters to gather closer. Standing at her back they intoned a powerful ‘peace binding’, the runes covering the doors glowing hotly, changing colors as further chants layered the ‘light binding’ over every surface. Light to block the darkness, forcing it from their sanctuary. Peace would barricade them from the anger she had felt rolling off the dark cloud. For added security Anya chanted the most powerful binding she knew as a last resort, to protect those within. Seldom used, only a small number knew its power. Canting from an ancient language while drawing a secret symbol on the doors, she intoned, “I bind you with the love in my heart. None under my care will be harmed by you.” The wood flared brightly before dimming. A heavy silence descended on the groups standing mutely in the great hall, shivering at the force of Anya’s focused power. The doors shook with the force of the attack and the shriek from the other side of the door was loud, angry at being banned from access. As the wails grew in force Anya stood ready, her uninjured hand palm out, facing the door as if to push the evil further from them, ready to stop whatever might try to enter with her last breath. It continued to batter against their protective seals, seeking for a chink in their shields. She was determined that whatever this darkness was, it would not gain access to this holy place. After a while the battering at the door slowed, then stopped altogether. Anya watched, waiting, not trusting the silence. As it continued she sighed, lowering her hand, and her head, in sudden overwhelming exhaustion as the last of her energy leeched from her being. For the time being it seemed they were safe. She could sense the darkness had fled, frustrated with the knowledge that, for this night, it had been denied its quarry. The royal family stood motionless, surrounded by their watchful guards, as Anya sank to the floor, grimacing at the pain of her wound. Rolling up her sleeve she grimaced when she saw the seeping gash, her blood gluing itself to the material. She would require stitches for sure to close the wound.

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It was not that she was vain about her looks or even scars on her skin, but it would take time to heal. Time they might not have. “Lady Anya?” A young voice brought her head up sharply. “Mother Superior has checked and says that our wards will hold, so perhaps you should rest?” the young woman suggested in a nervous stutter. “Thank you, Alys that sounds like wise advice.” She tried to rise from the floor her energy levels taxed almost to the limit. “The healers are all at Olanth so we must do what we must. Go find some cloth to bind my arm, and then help me to my room,” she ordered, laying down and lowering her head to rest on the cool stones beneath her body. When strong arms lift her from the floor, she opened her eyes and looked up into Adaineas stern face. She watched his muscles flexing and bunching in his jaw as he carried her over to a bench, calling for needle and thread. His jaw was clenched to stop the scathing words he felt at her disregard for her own safety. His heart had almost ceased pounding at the sight of her flying through the great doors, the blood running down her arm. The thought had him holding her tighter, trying to ease his tremors and stop himself from shaking her. She was injured and he would protect her with his last breath. “What happened, Seer?” Queen Asperial asked watching one of the novices try and staunch the flowing blood while another returned with the demanded needle and thread. “It was a trick,” Anya hissed at the bite of the needle in her arm, drawing a centering breath before continuing. As the novice sewed the wound on her arm Adaineas grasped Anya’s small fist, gently prying her fingers open until he could hold her hand. His anger seethed as he listened to the words that followed. “There will be many dead this night because I did not see the signs. I should have been ready after our session, realizing that it would not give up on the princes so easily. It attacked the village below while many were still inside their homes and I think it was hoping to lure the majority of the healers to their aid, leaving the sanctuary vulnerable. But we have prevailed. For the moment.” Anger bubbled up as she blamed herself for not keeping watch, as she had been trained, and she clenched the hand of her uninjured arm in helpless rage. Adaineas took a clean cloth from the stack that had been brought and soaked it in clear, clean water. Gently wiping blood from Anya’s hand he could see no further seeping from the neat stitches. He held out his hand to his youngest brother, Genis, motioning for a roll of nearby bandages. Trying not to jar her arm any more than he had to, he wound the cloth snuggly around her arm, fastening it securely. “The wards should hold, but I strongly suggest that we get you,” Anya said, while looking directly at the Ruler, “to the Maji in the Capitol. They can perform far stronger wards than we. This evil cannot be destroyed until it is discovered exactly what it is, and who has sent it.” “Why would we assume that someone is behind this attack?” Queen Asperial demanded, the terror that had first filled her eyes after the young Seer had ran through the door was slowly draining away, replaced by a mother’s righteous ire at the thought of someone wanting to harm her family

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“Because it spoke to me,” Anya explained, closing her eyes and sighing tiredly. “That was how I knew the fire had been a mere trick to lure us away from you, separate us so that you would be alone, with no one but your guards. Most evil is not simply there. It has been given a direction, a reason for being. It is not a formless entity. It has been made by someone seeking to do you, and your family, the most harm possible. It wants to destroy you. Someone is conjuring it, leading it, feeding it.” “We are fine for now, but I do not have the power, or strength, to fight it alone. The combined strength of your mages may.” Absently brushing her fingers back and forth along the back of Adaineas’ hand, she thought of the options. “I think it might be a good idea if we leave first thing in the morning, or as soon as possible.” “I agree,” the King stated, his eyes darting to the doors bowing to the young Seer he expressed his gratitude for her quick thinking. “I owe you a great debt, my lady, for you saved us from possible death with your speed and courage.” His eyes, the same deep green of his sons’, gazed somberly into hers. Anya struggled to stand with Andaines’ help. ““My lord, what is going on has gone beyond just your sons.” She looked around at each royal, looking them directly in their eyes so they would understand the gravity of the situation. “The darkness, by your own admission, began over a year ago which means that whomever is behind this knows your routine. They will need to be someone very close to you, as they realized you seeking guidance from our Order. They must be powerful in their own right, or know someone who is.” King Anginus’ shoulders slumped at the knowledge that someone so close to his family could be behind all their misery. “Then we are no closer to a solution than when we first started.” “I would not say that, my Lord,” stated the Mother Superior. “Anya will be able to uncover the true nature of your threat once you reach the capitol. Then it can be dealt with accordingly. But, for now, I suggest we finish our cold dinner and have an early night if you are leaving at first light.” Adaineas lifted Anya her seat and carried her to the benches by the dining table. Servants rushed to replenish trays, replacing the cold food with warm while everyone remained silent, as if the silence would help them ignore what had happened. Anya felt Adaineas’ hand grip hers under the cover of the table, and she slowly, tiredly, moved her eyes to meet his. She returned the pressure of his hand, squeezing it tightly, letting him know without words that she was fine. She held her breath at the heat burning in the depths of his green eyes. Like emerald fires, those eyes seemed to singe her being, infusing her with energy. ***** As Adaineas watched Anya still straighter, digging heartily into her long-awaited meal, he thought back on the events from earlier that evening. They had been waiting for word about the attack when the Seer had stormed through the doors, her hair matted and wild around her face, her eyes glowing with a light of purpose. He had tried to reach her as she had shouted her orders, thinking to lend his strength to her bidding, when he had smacked into the wards which had been set when the majority of the sisters had left to help care for the villagers.

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Mother Superior had felt it wise to ward the sanctuary, adding to the security of their guards, until the rest of the Order could return. The wards, which blocked the royals from being reached through the shield, had stopped him from reaching his Seer. The sight of Anya, chanting and funneling power into the bracings on the door, had caused a dreaded clenching around his heart. He couldn’t remember anyone ever caring so much about what might happen to another, especially one of the royal family. The ones who supposedly cared about their safety, other than their loyal guardsmen, seemed to always have other agendas—seeking to garner favors and position rather than doing so from genuine care or true honor. This little Seer cared about what happened to them as human beings, not for what she could gain from them, or their association. The young Seer had seen from the first what was in each one of them, as both men and princes, and he had begun to feel more at peace than he had in over a year—ever since the darkness had first started to affect his brother, Tralas. He fondly remembered the time before all of this started, when they had been close, almost inseparable. But, when Tralas had started keeping more and more to himself, distancing him from his family so he could protect them, the two brothers had become distant. The past few days at the Order’s sanctuary had been a blessing, drawing all three brothers into a much closer unity. And the Seer continued to surprise him at every turn—something that did not happen to him often. The sight of her firm, high breasts, naked and lush, during the Session, had almost sent him over the edge despite the power that had flowed through their joined hands. Later, in the secret garden, he had been hard-pressed not to touch her when her delicate fingers had run through his hair He had wanted to grab her, roll her under his body. He wanted his hands on her skin, spreading her thighs and opening her to his sight. The thoughts of thrusting into her over and over again, while her cries of excitement rang in his ears made his cock dance. Anya was a contradiction. At times a temptress, innocently bare but enticing in the power of her femininity, and at others shy and gentle, drawing him under her spell, as she had in the garden. Now she had proven herself the bravest of warriors, a soldier in her own right He marveled still as, with bated breath he had watched the fireball of womanhood fight the encroaching evil, protecting all from sure destruction. ***** All within the confines of the sanctuary had eaten and drank, waiting eagerly for news from the sisters who had been left behind in the village. Were they safe? Had the darkness retaliated when it found no entrance into the sanctuary? Each was as worried as the next, though none would dare mention the thoughts in their minds. When they heard a loud pounding at the great door, echoing through the empty hall, the novices closest to the doors approached them with great caution. Opening low, secret windows to check who had arrived at their doors, they were delighted to see their sisters leaning upon one another, seeming whole and uninjured, though tired to the bone. Hurrying they lowered the wards, allowing the now weary sisters entrance. Those inside offered assistance to those who were injured, or too weary to continue.

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Hot and weary, dirt and soot covering their faces and clothes, they staggered through the doors, having done their best for the injured and dying. They had felt the wards being applied to protect the sanctuary and wondered what had transpired. They had been unaware of any attack by the darkness, busily helping where they could in the village. Stopping briefly to wash their faces and hands in basins of fresh water, they moved to the table, glad to see warm food ready, questions bubbling from the lips. After a brief explanation of the events that had transpired, the Mother Superior ordered them to eat quickly and not tarry. They would all need their rest for there was much to be done if the royals, and the others, were going to be able to depart the next day. Many mumbled replies were heard as many fell asleep at their places, their exhaustion taking its toll as a few were seen to have dropped their heads beside their plates, their food remaining untouched. “I saw Michelle only briefly. Where did she go? She needs to eat as well.” Anya’s voice was soft as she leaned closer to the Mother Superior. “I caught her at the door and told her of the proposed plan and she is making certain all is ready for your departure tomorrow,” the Mother Superior replied, shaking her head at the warrior’s stubbornness. “I tried to get her to at least eat before diving into the fray but she insisted that she was the only one who could properly oversee the packing and provisions. You know that she would want to be certain that everything was taken care of.” The Mother Superior’s voice sounded as tired as Anya suddenly felt, her brief infusion of energy dissipating. “I have heard that many were wounded this evening, but only three are dead. It is a blessing that more lives were not lost. Unfortunately their crops were destroyed. I have sent reserves from our stores to help, but I fear it will be a hard winter if they cannot rebuild before the snows come.” King Anginus pounded his fist, rattling the stacked empty dishes. “I will send builders to Olanth and have their buildings up before the winter comes. And whoever is found responsible will pay for this destruction.” Anya saw the anger burning in his gaze, felt it roll off his skin. It seemed all the males of the royal household were hot blooded, reacting first and thinking second. “My lord, your anger is justified. But, please pause before you take any rash action. Olanth can be rebuilt, and their people will survive. But it is your sons’ survival that must be your primary concern for now. We are safe, for the moment, residing behind the runes of protection,” she warned. “I would suggest planning your next move carefully for, until you are sure of whom you may trust, you might prefer to limit your plans to your immediate family.” Her eyes were calm as she watched the king’s anger dissipate and calm reason return. Bidding the gathered group a ‘good night’ she limped off to bed. For tomorrow would arrive soon enough and they would need to be ready for what ever was to come.

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Chapter Five The next day began with sounds of laughter rising through Anya’s window, a far cry from the events of the day before. The laughter of the youngest novices, playing in the gardens, and the older ones, performing their duties within the hallways of the sanctuary, echoed the joy of a bright new day Anya smiled to hear her sisters enjoying the bright light of the sun after the chaos and darkness of the day before. Rolling over with a low moan, feeling every bruise and scrape, Anya eased out of bed and began her morning ablutions. Gazing out the window she saw it was far past the dawn of the new day and much would need to be done before they would be able to depart. Frowning she pulled on her gown, knowing their time was short. Packing the last of her clothes into her case, she paused to brush her hair. Glancing at the room through the mirror she saw it that it was empty, waiting as if for its next occupant. Sighing, knowing the chances of her staying in this the room again were slim, she eased onto the bench set just below the window. Watching the water beating against the shore, a wave of sadness flowed over her at the thought of leaving this place, the only real home she had ever known. She had trained to be a Seer, a mystical and powerful being within these walls. Her sisters would continue their training without her guidance, many would find another to emulate, and soon she would be forgotten. Still, if the path led her away from her home, she knew she must follow where it led. Green waves crashed against the shoreline, less than a mile from the Order Its soothing rhythm lulled her, basking in the sunlight, breathing in the salt spray of early morning air. She turned from the breathtaking view as a brisk knock sounded at her door. “Yes?” Michelle stomped into the room, her usual brash style evident as she grunted a welcome to Anya. Never one to enjoy any type of early morning risings, she stooped to pick up the remaining chest setting by the door with a warning to Anya to make herself ready for their trip. “Better get a move on. The Royal family is waiting for you downstairs, eager to be home.” Promising Michelle that she would be just another moment she paused and smoothed her hand over the sill of the window, feeling each nick in the wood. Lifting her head bravely she took one last look around her room before squaring her shoulders. Pulling her cloak around her in the cool morning light, she sighed. She was leaving all she knew behind. Determined to embrace whatever life had to offer in the next few weeks, she moved briskly down the stairs, ignoring the pain throbbing her heart at the thought of leaving the only home she had ever really known. The Mother Superior waited at the foot of the stairs, watching Anya make her way down. Seeing the small frown covering the youthful face she realized that sometimes knowing change was necessary, did not make it less difficult “We felt we should let you sleep as long as possible after last night. How are you feeling this morn?” she asked, pulling Anya into a warm, motherly embrace. “I shall miss you, my heart’s child. You have been my most precious and inquisitive pupil.” Her voice was rough with unshed tears, her elderly arms

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squeezing tight as if to hold onto the moment, knowing she would miss the young Seer’s presence. “I will be fine, Mother.” Anya returned the embrace, affection for the woman who had guided her lessons, who had tried to be the mother she had never known. The Mother Superior had been her one constant, allowing her the freedom of discovering her own path, encouraging her to become a strong and independent woman, able to stand on her own two feet and defend herself. “Where my path leads, I must follow; to do otherwise would be to turn my back on my calling, on all your training” Closing her eyes she savored the loving acceptance she had come to rely on these many years. “Of course, Anya.” The Mother Superior sniffed once and straightened briskly, all pomp and prissiness in the face of what her young charge was to face in the weeks, or months, to come. Pulling Anya along the hall she chided motherly, “Allow this old woman her memories.” Anya laughingly looped her arm through the Mother Superior’s as they walked down the hall towards the rest of the group waiting impatiently in the great hall. “I will always hold the memories of my time here close to my heart. But now is the time for new memories. Don’t you agree?” she added, brimming with excitement as they walked closer to the great doors All manners of new experiences and worlds were going to be at her disposal and she was eager to experience it all. Mother Superior threw back her head and laughed heartily, looking younger than her years. Her eyes twinkled merrily as she leaned closer and conceded, “And I am sure that the attentions of a young heir do not come amiss either,” she teased. Anya blushed at the observant comment, lowering her eyes as she had been trained, not wanting to openly admit to the enticement of Prince Adaineas. “Randy, I have heard. Hot blooded, just like their father.” Mother Superior added. “Ahhh…to be thirty years younger.” After all, she was a woman first and foremost, with memories of passionate encounters of her own But none had been as gorgeous, and powerful, as the princes of the Empire. “They are easy on the eyes, aren’t they?” Anya purred, surprised to feel comfortable discussing such delicate matters with her superior. Sending the trio a heated glance she added, “I shall have to keep my wits about me with them around so they do not see that they have my favor.” As they neared the doors Anya smoothed her expression, seeming calm and serene. It would never do for the others to know what the two women had been discussing, in their brief moment of bonding. “If you have need of anything, anything at all,” the Mother Superior reminded, embracing her one last time, “you must contact me at once. Promise me this.” “I vow I shall do as you ask.” Anya bent her head and kissed the Mother Superior’s ring in reverence for her station. “I will contact you if the need arises. Please be assured that you have not trained me to be foolish. And I will ask for help…if it is needed.” Climbing on the back of her horse, she waved to her sisters hanging out windows and doors. Promising to stay safe, and wishing them the same, she turned her horse to follow Michelle to the great ships. After spending her life within the walls of the Order, or visiting nearby villages, she had been cloistered from space travel technology. Though she had heard

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about it, she had never been near, much less on, one of the great ships. Reaching the loading platform, she was surprised at the immense size of the metal ship that would take them from Orlaine to the Capitol. How could it lift off, carrying all she could see being put inside, without falling out of the sky? She had seen the birds fly, but this was a vessel made from metal; much heavier than any feather she had ever seen. She had heard the guards say the trip would normally take a few days but the advances in ‘space travel’ would have them arriving at the Capitol in a much shorter time than that The thought of boarding the large metal ship was daunting. “Come…we have rooms ready for you for the short trip, my Lady.” King Anginus announced, moving gracefully up the narrow metal ramp “They are our finest rooms and I am sure you will be very comfortable until we reach the Capitol.” “I am s-s-sure they will be fine, my Lord,” she stuttered, her eyes darting nervously around the endless hallways as they moved through the flying ship. Taking it all in boggled her mind. The lights, and sounds, within the ship were overwhelming as she followed King Anginus and his family into the private section of the ship ― set aside for the royals’ and their guests. “This is one of our smaller ships, Anya,” Prince Genis explained gently, moving up to walk beside her. “Most of our military ships are much bigger.” Bigger than this?” She was awed at the thought. As they stopped in front of one of the ornate doors it slid open with a quiet ‘whoosh’, revealing one of the most pleasant rooms Anya had ever seen, whether on a metal ship or in the finest house. “Here we are, my Lady. We hope you will be comfortable during our short trip.” King Anginus motioned her through the door. Looking around the room, almost three times the size of her tower room, Anya felt her eyes grow large. “It is huge,” she whispered, shocked that anyone could build such a beautiful room within a metal ship. She vaguely heard the royals bidding them a well-earned rest before leaving for their own rooms. It was a short time before Anya felt the ship’s vibrations as it powered up its engines. Drawn to wall of windows she watched the ground fall away, growing smaller with every minute She stepped away from the windows as the scenery changed, growing darker as they moved from the planet into the dark atmosphere of cold space. “Sit down and eat your breakfast.” Michelle’s voice brought her out of her reflections, her mind lost on what was to come. “You haven’t eaten anything this morning, for I watched. And you will need to conserve your energy.” Anya grabbed Michelle’s hand and clung tightly. “Is the ship is truly safe? It will not tumble to the ground, falling from the sky with its great weight?” she wondered softly, not able to stop her fear of the unknown as the stars grew brighter, close enough to almost touch. A chuckling Michelle guided her towards the table. “We will be fine, Anya. There is nothing to worry about. This ship is sturdy and strong, and will carry us safely to our destination. You need to eat and not worry about the ship.” With a gentle shove she pushed Anya into a chair and handed her a fork. “Eat.”

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Anya couldn’t keep her eyes from trailing back to the view of the windows. Where once there had been blue sky, blackness of space dominated the scene. Her stomach clenched in fear of the unknown before she could completely control her response. Seeing delicate skin pale as she looked around at the ship shook with the pressure of space, Michelle attempted to soothe Anya’s fears. “We are perfectly fine…I would not lie to you…Have I ever before?” Sitting next to Anya, close enough to touch if need be, she picked up her fork, showing there was nothing to fear. “I forgot that you used to live on one of these, didn’t you?” Anya prodded, trying to find something else to talk about, attempting to ignore her fears. “If I remember you once told me that your father was a ship’s captain, wasn’t he?” Michelle nodded her mouth full of food. Even if the Seer was not hungry, Michelle certainly was. Swallowing she cleared her throat, “Aye. Most of the time his trade route was from Orlaine to the capitol; goods and food shipments transported to the colonies along the coast.” “What is the Capitol like?” Anya asked, leaning forward, forgetting about her fear of flying in her curiosity about Banish 5. She knew, from reading books in the sanctuary’s library, that the capitol had been created more than a millennia past by the first kings of the Empire. Many believed they had built the Capitol on Banish 5 due to the hot springs and healing vibrations. Caves, hidden in the hills outside the capitol, were rumored to hold power. It was said to be where the spirits of the greatest Seers ever born rested, waiting until they were called back into service by their liege. “I never saw much. The capitol city is vast It is estimated that more than 5 million people live within the walls…last I heard” Preferring to rely on her own eyes and senses rather than what others told her, Michelle often discounted rumor. “But you will be able to see for yourself soon enough.” “I never realized how cut off from the rest of the Universe the Order is.” Finishing her light meal Anya watched the stars move by the ship. “I never even saw a ship before today. I wonder what other surprises await me?” she wondered as she looked towards the windows. “You will see soon enough,” Michelle promised, picking up their empty plates and placing them into a transport cabinet on the counter. Eying Anya, sitting still as a statue watching the stars fly by the large windows, she coaxed. “I can see that you’re still tired. Last night had to have worn you out and I think it would be best for you to take it easy today. There is plenty of time for you to start your duties once we reach the Capitol.” “You are right that it might be a very good idea for me to get some rest but I feel the need to pray before I rest.” Shaking her head at the stubbornness of her charge, Michelle informed her that the guards should be able to point her in the right direction for the temple, as she was going to get some sleep like any wise person. Gathering her courage, Anya strode out of her room, her head held high, and found guards lining the junctions in the corridors. Approaching the nearest soldier, she looked up at his stern face. “Is there a temple onboard and where would I find it?” The guard nodded “This way, Lady.” He moved precisely down the corridor, leading her deeper into the bowels of the ship. With a swish of silent doors they entered a large room with many windows looking out into the dark, framing stars like small jewels of light. Nodding her thanks to the guard she dismissed him from her mind and moved further into the room.

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There were several crewmembers sitting, or lounging, on plush pillows set beside low tables scattered around the room. The lights were dim, softly highlighting the altar, standing in solitary grace. Ignoring the hushed whispers traveling at the speed of sound as the crew realized the identity of their visitor; she knelt in front of the altar and bowed her head, silently mouthing prayers of peace and safety. Even in the vastness of space, she felt the power call to her, surrounding her, protecting her. It was a welcoming rush that flowed through her when she began her chant. The power gently rippled out of her, flowing through the room and rising to weave through the high beams of the metal rafters. Conversations ceased as all were pulled into her song, shivering as they felt her power move through them, around them. The melody spoke to their souls, rang with words of healing and of joy, of peace and unity. Though none understood the ancient words she sang, they reveled in the essence of the power she generated. Time and surroundings were lost to her as she sang, drawing runes of protection on the ship walls, the symbols glowing with every movement. Peace filled her soul as she sang to her goddess, performing age-old rituals. She bowed and swayed gracefully, dancing to inner music as she sang, her arms rising towards the rafters as her voice rose, celebrating life. She was ignorant of awed gazes or smiles filling rapt faces. The room began to fill as more were called by the power as she prayed. Sighs of peace flowed around the room as the watchers were bathed in love and life’s energy. Adaineas stood to one side of the room and felt his insides clench, reacting involuntarily to the lithe body, undulating and moving to a tune only she could hear. His blood heated, engorging his cock as she moved her arms The bodice of her dress cupped her, lifting her breasts higher, holding them as tight as he would, if his hands could replace the sheer material. He remembered the feel of her lithe form in his arms the night before, as he carried her to the bench. Her body had felt firm in some places, soft in others, as he had held her close. Though she had been covered by cloth from head to foot, he had felt her flat stomach and slender legs—slender legs he had dreamed wrapped around his waist while her head had been thrown back in ecstasy. Remembering those dreams had his cock hardening even further as he watched her graceful movements, all the more enticing and seductive as she was oblivious of her draw, her attraction. He had heard her song and had been drawn, as had the rest of his crew. Through thick metal walls, along long, winding corridors, he had heard her chant and felt her power. It had called to him, touching him in the innermost corners of his being, and he had left his family without a word, moving unerringly through the halls to find her. For her voice was the beacon, calling him to her. Making his body throb with hunger. Slowly her dance wound down, ending at the altar. Bowing her head she finished her prayer, drawing a closing blessing sign in the air above the altar. When a gentle breeze flowed through the room everyone gasped as the mesmerized watchers began trickling from the crowded room, whispered discussions regarding individual

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interpretations of her dance and song. For each had heard a different message, though all agreed it carried love and unity. As the room cleared Adaineas could see how tired she was, leaning against the altar with her eyes closed. A fine sheen of sweat glistened on her face and he could see she was trying to slow her breathing, struggling to make each inhale even while she drew in shaky breathes. He approached her as if nearing a panicked doe, “Seer…my Lady…we are blessed to have you on our vessel but…please…go to your rooms and rest. We were hoping to see your smiling face gracing our dinner table this evening.” Anya had felt the fire in his eyes dance over her skin as she had chanted her prayer, and was surprised to feel less exhausted and more rejuvenated by his nearness. “Thank you, my Lord, for the compliment. Then it seems I will see you later at the table.” Walking back to her rooms she wondered how the evening would go. Michelle had already mentioned an old friend she had been looking forward to dining with, so that meant Anya would be on her own with the royals. Under normal circumstances not an issue. But, during her dance she had felt Adaineas’ power touching hers as she had gloried the goddess, praying for protection and guidance. She had felt his pull and had fought her own urgings, for her body had wanted nothing more than to cease the song and throw itself into his massive arms, her lips had burned to feel his. She’d had to clench her thighs together, attempting to ease the throbbing as shivers of passionate intent flowed from his body to hers. So now…she wasn’t so sure she would not be the dinner… ***** Dinner was a more informal affair than Anya would have suspected. The royal family seemed close as they sat around the table, the brothers quibbling goodnaturedly as brothers will do. The king chuckled at their antics, as fathers are wont to do, while the queen told them to mind their manners now that their guest had arrived. Feeling far more refreshed by her short rest, Anya was made comfortable, her ever need met almost before she could voice it. Adaineas sat directly across the table and she wondered what he would do, with his family sitting all around the table, if she decided to test his will power. Her dreams had been filled by sensuous scenes. Hands touching her body and stroking her until she felt she would burst into flames. She had awoken feeling itchy, her breath uneven and harsh; her body thrumming with passion unfulfilled. Toeing off a shoe, she ran her toes up his strong thigh. When Adaineas flinched, her foot rose higher. Moving her foot to the inside of his thigh, she moved it closer to the hard ridge barely contained by the breeches he wore. Adaineas’ eyes began to glow hotly as he watched her play so innocently with the rim of her goblet while answering his mother’s questions about the sanctuary and the novices who resided within its walls. He was sure he felt each toe on her tiny foot as it moved closer and closer to his cock. Swelling even more beneath the pressure of her foot, he took a quick drink of ale, trying to

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breathe deeply, smoothly. Slowly, but deliberately, he curled one hand around her foot, easing it off the pressure of his cock straining the seams of his pants. Setting down his goblet of wine, his other hand joined its partner and began kneading her sole, watching as it was her turn to attempt to control her breathing. His heart was gladdened to see he was not the only one affected by their by-play. He watched as, slowly, a blush of heat filled her face. But she maintained eye contact, her toes curling at the pleasure of his touch as he massaged her foot firmly, but gently. She betrayed no other emotion as he continued to pleasure her foot beneath the table. “My son, you are not eating. Is the food not to your liking?” Never had a mother’s concern come at a more inopportune time. Discovering he did indeed need both hands to continue his meal, as hungry for the sweet Seer as the delicious food on his plate, he conceded, offering her a momentary reprise by releasing her foot. Anya’s breathing started to calm, showing her that the man had far more influence over her body than she might like. Perhaps this was not such a wise move after all… Once they had finished their meal and were finishing their wine, the Queen mentioned Anya’s earlier song, blessing the ship and its inhabitants. “We thank you, Seer, for placing marks of protection on our vessel. Though we do not have anything to fear on our voyages, it is always better to be safe than sorry. We have heard from many of the crew that it was a celebration they would never forget. You have conquered many who might have doubted your power.” Anya blushed and thanked the Queen for her kind words, unsuccessfully avoiding the hungry gaze of the devastating prince who remembered her dance quite well himself. When the Queen mentioned retiring for the night, Anya jumped at the chance to be able to leave for her own rooms, and excused herself from the table. Not wanting to arouse his parents’ suspicion, Adaineas offered to gallantly escort her back to her room. Once in the hallway he turned and lifted her into eager arms before striding purposefully down the long corridor, weaving through one, and then another. Her eyes stayed firmly closed She had no idea where he was taking her. And didn’t really care. The harsh sound of his breath as he hurried down the hallways, and the feel of arms surrounding her like vices, were the only things that pierced her senses. Moving her body slightly she was able to tuck her head in the crook of his shoulder, as if the spot had been designed for that purpose. With her nose pressed against his skin she inhaled his scent, clean with a hint of the woods that grew around the sanctuary. When he chuckled deeply at the tickling of her breath she explained, “You smell of Orlaine” She felt him pause for just a second before increasing his pace, his arms tightening unconsciously at her words. Her arms clutched his neck, her hands funneling through his hair, as her body heated with his vibrating intent. “Where are you taking us?” she finally asked, her curiosity getting the better of her. When he didn’t answer, she lifted her head from his shoulder and looked up His jaw clenched even tighter, the muscles flexing as he approached a set of ornate doors, which opened, then closed silently behind them. As they closed, he turned and pushed a switch with his elbow, locking them in and all disturbances out.

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She had a split second before his mouth descended on hers, his arms tightening as his lips crushed hers in a searing kiss. Tilting his head he used his tongue to force her mouth open and sealed his mouth over hers. She stiffened for one second before the maelstrom of feelings flowed through her body — hot and cold, shivering and trembling. All the feelings seemed to strike straight at her center, causing her juices to flow. Anya felt hands roaming over her back, gripping and smoothing her gown, inching the material up. Gripping her thighs, he shifted her legs around his waist to automatically lock at his back. Her hands gripped his head, tangling in his hair, and her moans echoed in her ears as his lips moved along her throat, trailing over the tops of breasts revealed by her low cut neckline. Allowing her head to fall back, she savored the feeling of his hot lips and eager hands roaming her body, seeming to burn away the material covering her skin. She didn’t think the sensations could get any more intense. Cupping her buttocks, Adaineas held her close and walked across the room, lowering them onto the lounge settee. Anya’s head hit the pillow at the same time she felt a large hand at her ankle, inching slowly up her leg, seeming to touch every centimeter of skin along the way. He growled at the silken feel of her calf under his hand. He paused on route to his final destination to play with the sensitive skin at the back of her knee before moving with deliberation up the inside of her thigh The small flinch was telling as he touched her lower lips, glistening with her arousal. Her head fell back as a strangled whimper escaped her throat and he delighted in the wetness coating her thighs as she shuddered, closing her eyes at what must be an unfamiliar touch before opening them once again to meet his own, confusion and hunger battling for supremacy. She is so wet—hot and silky. Adaineas ran his middle finger slowly between her folds, tweaking that sensitive nugget. Her hips arched high and a soft wail escaped her lips as she tightened her legs around his body and lips twisted in a slight smile as his body reacted immediately to the loss of her control. Grabbing her hand, he molded it over the ridge of his cock, still encased in his breeches. “Feel what you do to me, little Seer,” he growled out, moving his finger against her clit, the liquid gushing from between her nether lips, wetting and welcoming. Her shudders increased with each masculine touch against her aching body. Not even Michelle had ever made her feel these intense feelings when they had played in her dormer rooms. She moved her hand against his erection, feeling the hard ridge of flesh Wanting to feel more, but unsure how to release his breeches, she was about to ask when all thoughts about his pleasure flew out of her head. Her womb clenched, and her breath stopped, each time his finger completed its circle around the entrance of her vagina, never entering, teasing just at the rim. Until he thrust his long finger high into her. Arching, she broke apart, jerking and crying in complete abandon at the intense feelings flowing through her. “Adaineas!” As she cried out through her waves of pleasure, her hand clenched around his erection, encased in rough cloth. He choked back a cry of his own as he ground his thumb against her clit, making her convulse tight and high against him. Her legs were locked around his waist as her back

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arched. Her head thrown back, tears seeping from the corners of her eyes, was a wondrous sight. He slowly brought her back to her senses, stroking and soothing her. His face was buried in her neck as he inhaled her scent. Shaking at the need rolling through him, the urge to drive his cock into her, hard and fast, he kissed away her tears. Whispering, “Shhh, little Seer,” he held her tightly. His voice, raising goose bumps over her skin, caused her hands to tighten in his hair and Anya was amazed her that her dress was still whole, and intact. She kept her eyes closed, trying to regulate her breathing as well as the fast rhythm of her heart, beating so heavily against her breast as if seeking freedom from being confined. “What did you do to me?” she moaned trying to regain control. Opening her eyes, to stare wide-eyed into his, her body called out for more. But more of what she didn’t exactly know. Feeling his hard cock throbbing against her thigh, she had a fairly good notion of what she, and he, needed and clenched her thighs tightly around his flanks. “For days now I have been fighting myself,” he growled, lowering dry lips to her shoulder. “Fighting not to touch you, to hold you. Seeing you in the temple, I could bear it no more. Your power calls to me even when I sleep and I have dreamed nothing but this for the past few days.” He sounded pained, his features tightening as he pulled her close. She could feel his hunger and the feelings seeping through her were strange and frightening, sensations she was not familiar with. He claimed her power called to him. But there had been others there that night. She had felt them. But his power had been the strongest, calling to hers. Anya frowned, thinking of the implications and was afraid to know the truth. “I must go,” the tremors in her voice alerting him that his evening might not go as he had planned. “You have been seduced by the power. I have heard of this but never seen…” “No,” he interrupted, moving quickly to stop her from leaving the lounger. “Your power calls…but not enough to cause this.” He waved his hand in the air between them. “Do not doubt my words, little Seer, when I vow that eventually, I will have you.” His body seemed to trap her within the cushion. Scooting from beneath him, she rose from the lounger, swallowing loudly in the quiet as she stood, backing away from the suddenly irate male one step at a time, her eyes never leaving his until she reached the door. It was like waiting for an angry leopard to leap and take a bite out of her. Running for the safety of her own room, tears filled her eyes and her thoughts scattered, as leaves in the wind, as she tried to make sense of Prince Adaineas’ comments. Why would he want her? She was just a Seer—nothing as special as a princess of the Empire. She would bring nothing to a joining, if that was what he sought. Entering her room she paced before flinging herself onto her bed, holding her head as she tried to calm her chaotic thoughts. Michelle, having watched her friend blast into their rooms as if her dress were on fire and then try to bounce off the hard walls as she had walked back and forth, sat down beside Anya on the bed, touching her shoulder in concern. When Anya flinched, as if her skin was tender to the touch, Michelle could not stop the questions from tumbling from her lips.

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“What has happened, Anya? What has you in such a state? Are you ill?” she touched Anya’s shoulder in concern. “Adaineas,” Anya gulped, barely managing to utter his name. She closed her eyes as shudders ran through her body, her core clenching at the memory of his hands touching her body. “He said he would have me. Why?” she turned her head, her gaze pleading for a logical explanation since she could find none. The warrior grinned, her hand smoothing Anya’s tresses away from her face before tweaking her nose in playful affection. “Is it so strange a man would want you? You are beautiful, your body sublime,” her voice lowered as she moved her hand to cup Anya’s cheek. “There have been many days I have touched your skin, felt your passion. Knowing my desire for you, is it so strange that the prince would want you as well? I have seen how all three males look at you, have felt their desire, so I am not surprised that Adaineas was the first to make his move.” “They are princes!” Anya cried, “I am not special. I can bring them nothing!” “You bring them your pleasure. Isn’t that the way it is between heart-bonds? The pleasure between a man and a woman, your touch bringing him ecstasy, as well as his to you.” Michelle laughed at the expressions dancing over her friend’s face and stood, walking back to the window. “For years I have been dreaming of a heart-mate, though it is true I prefer women far more than I do men I am sure he is out there. One man, who can make my blood boil, my muscles clench. There is no shame in this.” Anya sighed heavily as she rolled over onto her back, a pillow clasped to her breast. “Men are so confusing. I will never understand them…plus I am not special. Heart-bonds happen between special people and it is only my power that makes me different from the rest of the Empire. So why should Adaineas want me?” Frustrated at Anya’s inability to see her special light, to see herself the way others could, Michelle growled. “For now just know that at least one of the princes has feelings for you. It is not something strange, or even unnatural. It just is.” “It is strange,” Anya muttered, her mouth turning down into a pout. “But I will let it go for now.” She yawned prettily, covering her mouth with her hand. “I am tired of thinking on this.” Michelle dimmed the lights, muttering something about waking her when they arrived, before storming out of the room as Anya settled further against her pillows, allowing exhaustion to pull her into the oblivion of sleep.

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Chapter Six Sights and sounds assaulted Anya as they walked down the ramp onto the landing pad outside the Capitol. She could hear, as well as feel, the people’s joy as they greeted the royal family on their return to their beloved city. The city stretched out before them and the lights from the buildings blazed in the skyline. In the distance Anya saw the Royal House towering, its spires and towers blending in with the night sky. She imagined that, during the day, the stones must be blinding white against a blue sky. Looking to the south she caught a vague glimpse of the ocean behind the ship and could smell the salt in the air as the breeze wafted around them. Chaos reigned as the crew pulled pallets of supplies from the great ship, people bustling to and fro with their work and royal family were bundled into waiting vehicles. Soldiers hustled the two women into a separate, secured car, Anya wanting nothing more than silence and solitude. “Is it always this way?” Anya motioned vaguely at the window of their transport. “So much noise, many emotions pressing in—” she broke off, her body shaking. She shuddered, wrapping her arms around herself, her eyes bruised with the pressure she felt from the mass of people, and emotions, bombarding her senses. At the Order all was peace and calm and there were none of the turmoil Anya experienced from the massive outpouring of emotion from the royals’ subjects. The painful pressure of the tens of thousands of minds within the first few miles around the landing pad was devastating and she was hard-pressed not to cry out. Michelle gathered Anya close and wrapped an arm around her, comforting her in the midst of the chaotic rabble. “It will be calmer once we have entered the royal house. Just relax and close your eyes.” She smoothed her hand gently through Anya’s hair, kneading her scalp, trying to relieve the pressure of so many emotions and minds pressing in. It only took moments for the transports to reach the royal house but seemed to last forever as more and more people lined the streets, cheering and waving madly at their rulers’ return. Michelle glared, her protective instincts rising up for her charge. Anya had been unconsciously moaning, her eyes closed and her body trembling with her agony. Gathering her close, a little too roughly, Michelle all but jerked her out of the transport when it opened. Anya closed her eyes, clenching her fists and praying for control. Joy overshadowed most of the other emotions, but, with so many emotions running together, her stomach churned. There, in the darkest corners, she had felt the anger, hate and rage directed at the Royal family. The dark thoughts overloaded her senses, causing a more intense pain and she tried to send sense the direction of the evil, pinpoint its location. But the added crush of emotions was too much. Michelle carried Anya up the stairs, pushing bodies out of their way. She ignored the royal family, standing dumbfound as she dragged her charge into the quiet of the building, intent on getting her to a place of silence within the royal house where wards would provide a calm barrier to the emotions battering Anya’s senses.

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They were supposed to have come in under an umbrella of silence. No one should have realized they had arrived until morning. But someone had obviously leaked the information. It seemed as if every citizen over childhood age lined the streets, cheering their rulers’ return. Michelle spat out her displeasure... “This couldn’t be a simple return… oh, goddess, no. They had to announce it to the whole damned city.” “Don’t blame them, Michelle,” Anya gasped, her head rolling against the firm shoulder. “I suspect that someone knew we were coming. It is obvious someone wishes us harm…perhaps the same one…who seeks to harm the royal family…” She moaned with relief as the first set of doors closed behind them, the pounding pain overwhelming her. “You there!” Michelle shouted at a wide-eyed servant, standing dumbfound it the middle of the huge hall. She wincing as Anya flinched at the volume of her voice, lowering her tome to a more reasonable level. “Direct me to the Seers’ quarters.” The servant continued to stand frozen, as if no one had ever told him to go and do anything before. Michelle heard the doors open behind her and turned to blast the fool who would dare follow them, stopping her words when the royal family stood briefly in the doorway before quickly slamming the doors closed behind them. Concerned with the speed in which Michelle had pushed through the crowd with the Seer, they converged on the duo. “What is wrong with her?” Queen Asperial fussed; gently grasping Anya’s limp, dangling hand. “Who announced our arrival?” Michelle growled, wanting nothing more than to bite someone’s head off. “Michelle,” Anya warned. “Calm yourself. It was a simple ploy and they will not succeed in frightening us away. It will merely take us longer than we had planned.” She closed her eyes and sighed, finally beginning to relax in the blessed silence. “Fine. Whatever. Where may I take Anya?” she muttered, trying hard to control her anger. “This way.” Queen Asperial turned, leading the way to the stairs. “Should we call a healer?” she asked, casting a worried glance at the pale figure lying unmoving in Michelle’s arms. “No. What initially caused this is being blocked by wards. When the crowd rushed to greet you Anya was overcome by all the emotions.” “What?” King Anginus frowned, clearly not understanding. “Anya is not just a Seer, my lord,” Michelle growled, ignoring Anya’s warning hand as it tightened around her neck. “Anya is also an empath. She feels the emotions of others flowing around her. If there are just a few she does not have a problem, or if they are familiar to her.” Michelle shrugged, ignoring the younger males, standing with their mouths hanging open in amazement. “But a whole city…cheering their king…bombarded her shields, pressing in on her until she could not stand it no longer.” She stomped up the stairs, sensing their confusion. “Imagine if you are alone…in a room with no walls, only a ceiling and floor. Then, suddenly, there are thousands of people standing outside your room, yelling and screaming, banging on the walls. “The noise would beat at your ears until you would feel as if your head was going to blow apart.” She rolled her eyes expressively. “This is what Anya feels when she is thrust into

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a city without notice or preparation. The thousands of people, cheering, happy at your return, were just too much to handle.” The group stopped as one when Queen Asperial opened a door along the landing, stepping back to allow Michelle to carry Anya into the dim quiet. “We were to arrive under the cover of darkness, and no one was to know of our return until tomorrow.” Michelle turned her head, glaring at the men. “Who would have informed the city of your return?” Queen Asperial shook her head, “I don’t know.” Drawing herself up, she remained calm, even though she understood and shared Michelle’s frustration at the betrayal. “But I will find out. To harm the Royal Seer is treasonous.” The windows, large and airy, were covered in thick velvet curtains of deep green. The fire was stoked, and blazed in a hearth placed across the room from a large four-poster bed, dominating the far wall. A thick carpet cushioned their steps as Michelle moved across the room, depositing Anya gently on the bed. “Michelle, calm yourself. I am feeling much better,” Anya promised, though her smile was weak. “We knew it was a possibility that there would be a leak. All I need is a good night’s rest, and some food.” Michelle could see that her eyes were still shadowed, but her skin color was improving. She lit several of the lights around the room, but kept them dim. “My lord.” Anya called to King Anginus. She propped herself on the fluffy pillows while the royal couple approached the bed, the faces concerned at her grave tone. “Your princes must learn personal protection spells as I felt a deep overwhelming hatred beneath all joy of your return.” She waved her hand towards the outside wall. “It is here, the evil we met before. Whoever is controlling it is also here, within the walls of your city. Your wards, put on these walls by your magi, are enough to protect the family as long as they stay within your palace. But I seriously doubt your sons will wish to spend their days within the walls of your royal house.” Her voice was weak, but she pushed on. “I will require more than one session with your princes, both in a group and on an individual basis.” Turning to the princes she warned, “Please go nowhere without your personal weapons and guards. Even you, my King, are in grave danger. Do not let your guard down for an instant.” “Rest for this evening, Lady,” Queen Asperial placed her hand on Anya’s shoulder, easing her back to the bed. “We will speak of this tomorrow when you have rested, and are feeling stronger. Your things are being moved into your dressing chamber as we speak and tomorrow is time enough to get started. Do you not agree?” Anya sighed, allowing her weight to fall fully into the down comforter “You are right, my queen, but I fear there are trying times to come.” Her eyes suddenly closed and she was asleep. Michelle motioned for the group to move outside the room. “She will be out for the rest of tonight and possibly tomorrow so I would not count on seeing her again until then.” “If you require anything I have assigned these maids to her rooms. Both are trustworthy and have been with us for years.” Asperial motioned for two young women, standing in the hallway, to come forward. “This is Angie and Beatrice. They have volunteered to serve the Seer.” Both bobbed in half-curtsies, cringing slightly under Michelle’s harsh stare. Michelle warned them, her tone promising dire consequences if her orders were not followed to the letter, “Do not disturb her. When she wakes I am sure she will want to

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supervise the unpacking of her things so, until that time, you can sit out here and wait for all I care.” She shut the door on their faces, moving to undress the Seer so her rest would be more comfortable. The Asperial shook her head over the rough manner of the warrior, but realized that, male or female, they were all alike.

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Chapter Seven Anya sniffed at the morning air appreciatively and stretched with a great yawn. Warmth was in the air that wasn’t there a few days ago and she could smell the summer air wafting through the open windows. A smile curved her lips as she rolled onto her side under the covers and opened her eyes. The sun was high in the sky and she knew it was past time for prayers, but still she lingered under the blankets covering her body. Slowly pushing off the blankets she stood and stretched, her naked body flushed pink with sleep. Yawning, she padded over to the window and looked out over the city. Even here, this high up, she could see many of people out on the streets going about their daily routine. She heard the door behind her open and shut but her eyes remained on the scene outside. Michelle had seen her naked many times she felt no need to cover her body. There was a frozen silence, then the harsh sound of the inhaling of more than one male. Turning she arched a brow and saw Adaineas and Tralas, standing in frozen wonder. There was a teasing lilt to her voice as she arched one brow, turning away from the window to place a delicate hand on the curve of a small hip. “I have always been under the impression that it is simply courtesy for one to knock on one’s door before entering someone’s room?” Adaineas’ gut clenched at the site of her naked form framed in the light of the open window. He thought she might be asking him a question, even saw her lips move, but for the life of him he couldn’t hear it over the roaring in his ears. Their reaction amused Anya, but she kept her feelings hidden. Her face was calm as she moved closer. Gently rising on her toes she first kissed Tralas’ cheek with a, “Good morning, my lord,” and then did the same to Adaineas. She admitted to herself that she had kissed him far closer to his lips in order to savor the heady flavor of his skin, a taste she was becoming addicted to. Her deep red hair flowed down her back, sparkling in the afternoon sun as she moved to her trunks and gracefully pulled out her favorite robe. She was slipping it on as Genis barreled into the room, freezing in mid-step next to his brothers, his mouth hanging like a fish out of water. “Good morning, my lord.” She grinned impishly, walking over to give him the identical early greeting as his brothers. “Do not tell me you have never seen the female form before now?” Genis cleared his throat, his voice cracking as he tried to recover his composure, “Never to such perfection.” She giggled, sounding young and innocent, but the smoldering in her eyes told a different story. “At the Order we are taught from an early age that the male and female form were created by the Goddess, thus cannot be bad or ugly. I have found most other people tend to think of the human form as something to be hidden away, only to be brought out behind closed doors, away from prying eyes.” Finishing pulling on her robe, she tied the sash and walked to the table in the corner, where her books had been laid out. “Was there something you needed, my lords?” she peeked at them from under lowered lashes, aware of the ridges of flesh each sported in the front of their breeches. A sultry smile curved her lips as she trailed her hands through her hair to push the mass over her shoulders.

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She saw Tralas swallow visibly while Adaineas stood statue-still, watching her as if she were a banquet after a long fast. Poor Genis tried to look anywhere but at her and was failing miserably. Clearly they were uncomfortable and she wished to put them at ease. With a sigh she sat down at her chair, motioning for them to sit. “Clearly there is something troubling you, for you to disturb my rest so early in the day.” She shifted to draw her legs beside her on the chair. “What can I do for you this morn?” “You … you…” Tralas looked to his brothers, who nodded in encouragement. “You have personal protection spells for us. We…that is…I thought it would be easier to show us all at once, rather than seeing us separately.” He finished, almost stammering. She watched them for a moment and the silence thickened. When she smiled with impish delight, the brothers froze. Tralas and Genis blushed like untried youths. Adaineas watched her, his eyes glowing as if waiting to pounce, like a cat on a mouse. “Be at ease, my lords.” She stood and moved over to the large crate that held her books and scrolls. “There are several things that can help you with personal protection; it depends on what you are comfortable with.” As she bent over the crate and began pulling out books, all three sets of males eyes were drawn to her taunt backside outlined in her flimsy robe. “Meaning?” Adaineas’ voice was gruff, as if he didn’t use it very often. Mouth dry with the view, he reached for the jug of cold water, drinking deeply, not bothering to use a mug. Anya moved to another crate, momentarily distracted by Adaineas’ voice. She kept her back to them to hide the fact that her nipples were hard, pointing against her robe. “Well…” she paused. “Where a voice spell might work for one of you, a talisman may work better for one of the others. There are also mediations that would work as well. We must see which is better for each of you before I continue.” She dropped the heavy books on her chair and then, using the back of the chair, dragged it closer to where the men sat. “First we shall see what form of shielding we can use to better protect each of you. Tralas?” she held out her hand. He moved forward eagerly. Standing in front of her he fidgeted a bit as if eager to know, but fearful at the same time. Taking his hand she closed her eyes and drew on their combined energy. “Be at peace, Tralas. You find peace within in the waters reflection.” Her eyes had glazed to a milky jade. His voice responded in a deep rumble “I like the water…yes...” Anya felt his power and she smiled as it tickled, traveling up her arm. She knew at once what was needed for this water-lover. Releasing his hand she moved her palm to his forehead. His eyes closed as she spoke mind to mind: Hear me, Tralas of the water. I give you a word spell known only by you. Each morning you will speak it at the fountain in the garden, after which you will mediate for no less than one hour, so that your mind remains clear of all burdens, allowing you to see clearly those who bear you and yours ill will. Removing her hand from his forehead she shook off the residual power. A soft laugh escaped her as the three men each looked at her, questioning the humor of their teacher. She shook her head; laughing in wry humor at the power the three men would soon be capable of generating. “You three carry an energy which will be overwhelming once you have harnessed its power.”

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She paused a moment to catch her breath before motioning to Genis to take his brother’s place. Simply by touching his wrist her head fell back as the power flowed up her arm. Her eyes flashed as her touch firmed, and she gripped his hand tightly. Wind is yours to call. Her voice was a howl in his mind. I give you your word spell to do with as instructed. For a split second the winds calmed between them and, at that moment in time, she planted his word, burning it into his mind. There is a garden overlooking the sea. Do you know this place? Genis nodded; sweat glistening his face as he tightened his hold on her hand. He could feel her sharp nails digging into his palm as she tried to control the almost overwhelming conduit that flowed between them. You must meditate in this garden every morning as the sun rises over the mountains. Listen to the winds as they speak to you, for they will warn you of things to come: what to guard against and whom to protect. She released his hand with a cry and almost fell to the floor, reaching her chair instead. As she struggled to sit up several hands reached out to assist her, only to receive unpleasant shocks. A mischievous grin broke out and she allowed her laughter to bubble over at their expressions as they rubbed their hands against their pants, not sure of what had just happened. “The touch of strong magic is not as new to me as it is to you.” She took a deep breath and focused herself. “You have your words of strength. Tell no one what they are for they are yours alone. For the next three days it is extremely important that you follow my instructions. Be sure that you meditate each morning for this will help strengthen your bond with your power. “ “What about Adaineas?” Genis asked, his voice betraying his wariness of these odd directions. As the youngest he was still a bit wary about magic, not completing trusting it to do what needed done. He tended to trust his weapons more. He watched his older brother stand, ready to face whatever task the Seer might ask of him. “I have something else for him. As yours was spoken privately, so must his. We have three days, my lords.” Her eyes began to harden as she looked to the window. “And then we must find this threat to the royal house.” The two brothers left, leaving Anya and Adaineas standing at opposite sides of the room. He watched as she collected herself, readying herself for a third contact with powers he still did not understand. And wasn’t sure he cared to. Every since that first day, at the session, he had remained in a constant state of arousal, and he was almost at his breaking point. Seeing her body unveiled, naked and open to his eyes in the morning light had caused his blood to heat, pumping faster and faster through his body. He wanted to throw her onto the bed and thrust his cock into her tight channel, relieve the pressure he had building to a boiling point. He wanted to hear her cries at his touch, feel her shiver as he moved inside her. Closing his eyes he centered himself, knowing that once this threat was dealt with, he would be free to pursue the little Seer. Until then he needed to remain under control. “My Lord Adaineas.” Her voice cut through his musings. “Come. We have much work to do.” Anya motioned to the chair sitting next to a table where she had set a spire. It stood only twelve inches in height, with an iron spiral design. Glass filled the areas where the

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iron separated, causing a kaleidoscope of color. He could see she held something hidden in her hands. Once he has sat she asked, “Do you know what this is, my lord?” She pulled the cloth off the object, holding it gingerly between her hands so that light refracted off its edges. “I thought the sphere was lost.” His voice lowered in awe as he watched the orb glow in her hand. “This is not the Sphere of the Ancients.” She smiled. “Every Seer, upon gaining her powers, is given the task of creating her own sphere. It taps into her power, allowing her to see things that are unknown, unclear. We, you and I, are both of earth magic. Can you sense this?” she watched him quietly. “I…” he shrugged, suddenly feeling impatient with his lack of knowledge around this wise woman. “I feel things sometimes.” He suddenly felt uncomfortable in his own skin. Under her stare he felt as if his soul was bared, and he was not comfortable with the feelings she aroused. “Yes. As your brothers are of each air and water while you are of earth. The goddess sees fit to grant these abilities to so few of our kin that you are doubly blessed. A word spell is far too weak for you to use with great success so we will look into the sphere and see what must be done.” After placing the sphere on top of the spire she took a step back. They watched as it magically hovered a few inches above the point, floating in place. Misty clouds of colors began swirling inside the sphere as Anya sat in the chair opposite Adaineas. She placed her hands, palm up on the table on either side of the spire, waiting. “Take my hands, Adaineas,” she commanded, looking directly into his intense gaze. As their hands clasped a light flared in her eyes. “Look deeply into the sphere, feel its power.” Once his gaze had followed hers to the glowing, pulsing sphere, he was unable to move it away. Even the jolting tingle that flickered between their gripped hands was not enough to distract him as he was sucked into the depths of the whirling colors. “Be calm” He was wary, but comforted as they stood standing side by side inside their vision. Voices, both male and female, blended, chanting words that had no meaning but which flowed in the mist surrounding them, flowed. Anya gripped Adaineas’ hands tighter as they moved deeper into the swirling fog. There was a sense of urgency he did not understand. She understood the words, recognizing the chant, and quiet dread filled her soul. The evil, which had attacked them, was far more powerful than she had initially believed. She had allowed herself to be deluded into thinking they were safe in the Capitol and berated herself for being so lax. She could feel the hatred behind the chant, their unseen enemy working against her efforts to protect the princes. Adaineas held a special place in her heart, making it all the more critical for their shared enemy to thwart her efforts. If they were successful the chant could turn his energies against her, using brute force, anger, rage. He could so easily be swayed to destroying her with his bare hands and be totally unaware until the deed was done. She must turn his attention away from the chant, catch him in another snare, one more easily understood given the attraction between them.

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“Do you feel it?” She could feel the darkness searching and knew their time was growing short to do what they needed. Releasing his hands she splayed them across his chest, running them up the fabric covering them, wanting to rip the cloth away and feel hot skin, firm muscles. She felt the growl building inside him, more than saw it, as he tightened his hold on her hand. His hands grew hot as if heated through the skin almost burning her with the energy. His eyes smoldered as he looked down into her face. “Mine,” he growled, crushing his lips on hers. The unexpected pressure caused her to gasp and he pierced her mouth with his tongue, tangling hers in a frantic dance. Angling his head, he ran his tongue along the sides of her cheeks and her teeth, before sucking her tongue into his mouth so that she could play the same game. Heat filled her as she tried to catch her breath. She wrapped eager arms around his neck, pulling him closer as if she might crawl into his body, wrap herself around his heart. The intense pounding of her own heart felt as if it might jump out of her chest at any moment. With a gentle move he tripped her, following her down to lie on the misty ground. His large hands moved down to her leg, pushing her robe out of the way before traveling higher to her thighs. He gripped them with a determined motion, bordering on violence, wrenching them apart. Hungry eyes caressed her core while insistent fingers found her clit, gently circling the small nub before rubbing. Moving to her folds, and the juices that flowed out, he coated her thighs as he speared a finger deep into her channel. The sucking wet noises of his finger moving in and out of her inner core had her moaning hotly against his mouth. She had but a moment of respite, the freedom to breathe again until she began to feel his mouth and tongue moving along her neck. She tried twisting closer, her fingers clutched at his head. His breath stole hers as, hot against her skin, he moved down to her breasts, heaving with each breath she took, her nipples crying out for his touch. He wrenched her robe open and latched onto her breast. “Mine, mine, mine.” His guttural tones grew harsher as he licked and nibbled on one breast, before adding strong suction, dragging as much of her nipple and breast into his mouth as possible. “You are mine.” He moved back to look into her eyes. In a moment of clarity, seeing the reflection of the green fire that sought to consume her, he cried out. He would not take her like a beast, but as a man. Sudden awareness returned and they found themselves back in her room. The sphere pulsed with a deep red fire and chimed a tone that few could hear. Anya gasped as she was pulled up from the chair and into Adaineas arms. “No more,” he rasped, moving quickly to the bed. Lowering her onto the covers, he jerked his clothes off with impatient movements, buttons from his shirt flying in all directions. His breeches were shoved off with his boots, thrown across the room as he knelt on the bed between her thighs. Anya watched him as he lowered his body between her thighs, his hands bruising the pale flesh as he lifted her thighs wide, pulling her legs around his waist. She could feel his cock against her thigh, hot and heavy as he pushed her into the bedding, the dampness running down her thighs as her own body begged for relief. She stared wide-eyed at the passion in his gaze, never having seen such emotion in anyone’s gaze before nor had it directed at her.

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Adaineas felt as if his entire body was on fire. Blood pounded in his veins as he wrapped her legs around his flanks. Only one thought in his head remained. She is mine. He lowered his mouth to hers as he gripped her head to keep her still, her mewling cries begging as he moved insistently against her. Wrenching her head to the side, she dug her nails into his shoulders and cried out, “Adaineas!” Passion clouded her thinking, tightening inside her as she fought to get closer to something she had never experienced before. Her nipples brushed against the hair that swirled on his chest, dark and tight around his nipples. She could feel his lips moving on her neck, his teeth nipping at her shoulder as she fought to get closer. Moving down her body he left no piece of her untouched by his hands, or mouth. Lips sucked at her nipples, his tongue laved her skin, as his hot breath urged her higher. His hands rubbed, and molded her body. Finally his hands and mouth reached the same destination, settling on her core. Gentle fingers separated her folds as lips and tongue slowly savored, tasting the wet evidence of her desire. Cream coated her thighs heavily as he lapped and sucked at her, and she cried out. Her hips arched off the bed, pushing her higher against his mouth. He held her tighter as he kept up his movements, driving her higher and higher. As she reached her peak, he could feel her contracting muscles, more cream flowing as she moved restlessly in his embrace. Adaineas quickly moved up her body, gripping her shoulders as he speared her with his cock. Feeling, and seeing, the flinch as she tried to move away had him freezing in shock. At first he couldn’t believe what had just happened but, seeing the tear seep out of the corner of her eye, trailing down to the soft curls at her temple, he relaxed his tormented muscles and raised his hand to her face. Gently wiping her tears away he sighed contritely. “You should have explained before now, little Seer.” His voice soothed as he calmed his body’s urgings to push ahead. Everything in him urged him to drive into her, hard and completely. Anya tried to relax, the small pain soon washed away by a tide of her building climax. She tried to look into his eyes, a blush staining her cheeks. “This is not something that usually comes up in gentle conversations,” she said with a shy grin. She whimpered as she tried to move, the itch building, urging her to scratch it. His hips held her so she couldn’t move. Not away or towards him. And she desperately needed to ease the ache that was irritating her clit. “If I had known,” he breathed deep, his chest crushing her breasts, “I would have gone much slower.” Slowly he withdrew until he was completely out of her and then drove, with gentle insistence, back in. Her eyes widened at the sensations bombarding her, her muscles clutching at his manhood, the complete fullness within her as she felt those muscles clamp down. For a long time he continued that torturous driving, slow and even. Anya could see sweat building at his temples, running down his face as the pressure built. She could feel his muscles tremble at his control. Suddenly she didn’t want his control.

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She wanted to feel him, wild and uncontrolled, plunging into her, making her feel like she was flying to the stars. She whimpered as she tried to thrust her hips towards him as he plunged into her, whimpering when he slowed his movements to a slow glide. “More.” She begged, her eyes wild. “Please?” The pleasure was building, overpowering every thought until she was writhing, reaching for him with grasping hands, curling into his shoulders, her nails biting into his skin leaving light crescent marks where they dug in. Adaineas watched as her eyes began to shift to a deep emerald he continued his rocking motion, faster and faster. He saw colors sparkling, coloring his vision as he watched her face, realizing that his eyes had shifted colors, matching hers. Something, or someone, was calling him. It was more of a feeling, a yearning. He could distinguish no words but everything in him was being pulled towards something. “Adaineas,” she purred through him, causing his balls tighten as he felt her voice. His movements became faster, more forceful, as if he could no longer fight the feelings of his cock moving within her tight channel. He could feel the tremors moving through her as she raced with him towards oblivion. Anya felt as if a lightening storm had broken out throughout her body, her body was racing for that peak, ready for the crest, her inner muscles clamping down hard on his cock as she milked him. She threw her head back and screamed as the power rolled through her from her climax. She dimly heard Adaineas shout and felt his arms tighten convulsively around her as he came inside her. Her arms fell to her sides, limp and boneless, and her eyes rolled back in her head as Adaineas dropped his head to rest in the curve of her neck, his hot breath tickling her sensitive skin as they both trembled, gathering themselves back into their own skins. The breeze, coming through the window, blew over their overheated skin, drying the sweat that had gathered, making their skin feel sticky and itchy. Anya tried to move, but Adaineas stopped her with a heavy hand to her shoulder. He remained tucked against her neck and she felt his lips barely move as he spoke, not having the energy to lift his head. “You should rest for a moment.” “Yes...” She panted, not having the breath for more words. She tried to relax but felt uncomfortable with her position, lying beneath like a downy mattress, sprawled beneath him. “My lord?” she touched the unmoving shoulder. Surely he had not fallen asleep. “This is not the time to be napping, my lord.” She prodded his side insistently, praying he was playing. “There is much to be done.” She tried to turn her head away, a blush staining her cheeks at the carnality in his gaze, when his head raised and he looked into her eyes with a distinctive leer. “I know, though I wish…” Raising a shaky hand he gently smoothed it over her cheek. Interspersed with gentle kisses he said, “You need to get some rest, my little Seer. I have behaved like a rutting beast and you deserved a gentler loving.” He bent closer and gently took her lips in a kiss, his words more a caress than statement. As she shifted, trying to scoot from beneath him, his cock rose with surprising strength. She had not expected this rapid of a recovery, having heard from others in the Order that men normally took a long time to recover from bed sport, proving this man was truly remarkable. “We have no time for this” With much maneuvering she managed to wriggle out from under him and stumbled to the bowl of water on the stand. She rinsed his seed, and the stain

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of blood from her taking, from her thighs. Grimacing slightly at her aches, she pulled a clean shift from her trunk and dressed quickly, very aware of male eyes following her every move. Said male reclined on the bed, his nakedness open for anyone to see. His cock lay semi erect against his thigh as he folded his arms under his head and half smiled at her rushed movements. She was not expecting him to approach their earlier conversation. “It has been said that the Seers of the Order lay with whom they choose so why is it you have not done so before now?” the question was voiced softly. She froze for a split second before turning to him. “While it is true those outside the Order may lay with anyone they choose, those within the walls of the Order are forbidden. I have not left the Order’s walls since coming to them when I was eight summers.” She blushed at his naked display, wanting nothing more than to crawl back onto the bed, and turned away to search for her hairbrush. “How old are you now?” he moved with grace, like a cat stalking a mouse, as he walked slowly towards her. “Twenty four summers,” she mumbled, ducking her head. His rumbling laughter had her jerking her head up, a glare in her eyes ready to snap his head off his shoulders but the look on his face showed honest confusion and not ridicule. “Why reside so long with the Order, little Seer?” “I have had no reason to leave, my lord,” she shrugged. “Many lords within the Empire wanted us as status symbols, merely to say ‘I have her, therefore I’m better than you.’ That is not our way. By coming here, as the Royal Seer, I am able to help all within your city without having to worry about the fights that would erupt between houses.” She fastened the buttons on her dress and moved to the windows, opening her senses to the city a small measure at a time. The darkness was still there, contained it seemed in the light of day. A frown pulled at her eyes at a sudden thought. “Come. I need to speak to all of you.” She had an idea but it was risky. She needed to think it through, work out all the details. But she would need the royals’ help to make it work. “The darkness is contained for now, but I fear it will move soon. I am not sure we have much time.” Adaineas’ eyes followed her as he pulled on his breeches. He moved to the window and, using his newly discovered power, felt the pull of something vile and dark. He was frustrated that he was not yet strong enough to sense which section of the city it hid. “Do you feel it?” her voice soothed his tension as she leaned into him, wrapping her hands around his arm. “A slight pressure…right about…here?” she moved one hand to press on his forehead. He nodded absently as he kept his focus on the area below them. “What you are feeling is the darkness. It beats at us all constantly but those without our powers cannot feel it even though it affects them in many ways. It causes them to become moody, or act erratically, without rhyme or reason.” Tugging on his arm, she moved him away from the window and towards the bed. “Finish dressing. We must gather the others.” Adaineas showed her the way to the dining hall where those that lived and worked in the castle, had gathered for the afternoon meal. The group looked up as one curious to see the two enter the room together. Anya pulled on Adaineas’ arm, Gesturing for him to move

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closer, she whispered, “We must meet with your family but it needs to happen away from this crowd. We do not know yet whom we can trust.” Waiting by the doors she watched Adaineas quickly bend his head to quietly speak with each member of his family. After a brief exchange, they stood as one and followed her out the door.

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Chapter Eight “I have met with your sons,” she began, pacing, too tense to sit still. “Their meditations will aid them but we need to bring your enemies to the forefront. This hiding within the shadows, putting up barriers against them, will not last.” She frowned, her thoughts moving with the clarity of necessity. “I will need your permission, My Lord before continuing with the next step in my plan.” She faltered, looking at Michelle. “You better not be thinking what I think you are thinking, Anya.” Michelle glowered. Anya glowered back, “You know it’s the only way. And it must be done quickly.” “What?” Asperial leaned forward, watching them growl at each other like two mad dogs. “What must be done?” Anya settled into an empty chair. Leaning forward her eyes intense she spoke, “There is a way to bring them out into the open, to force them to show themselves before all. It is risky but I think I have come up with a way to do it safely.” “Explain.” King Anginus snapped, tired of Anya’s wavering and Michelle’s gnashing teeth. “You can’t do it alone,” Michelle ranted. “You will be cut down!” “Of course I won’t be doing it alone.” Anya snapped, angry energy crackling around her as her eyes blazed “Do you really think I’m that stupid?!” Michelle stood behind the irate Seer, wrapping her arms over Anya’s chest. “Calm yourself, Anya. I am sorry I am sure you have figured it all out.” Anya closed her eyes and leaned her head back against Michelle’s arm. “There is a way, within the sacred scriptures of the Seer, to find a hidden enemy but it is not easy, nor always safe. It is called the Chant of the Unveiling. This chant forces the unseen to reveal themselves to any whom are around it. “It takes some time and preparation but, with all the Maji within the city as well as the other Seers, I believe we can make it work. Your guards can be stationed through out the city and be ready to act once the chant takes effect.” “But the only way to start the chant,” Michelle grumbled, “is from the streets, with no protection. She would need to start at the main gates and I cannot be around her once the chant starts.” Michelle grimaced, not comfortable knowing she would not be able to protect her charge. . “But the princes could.” Anya retorted. “The chant will not affect them and, with them surrounding me, it will be as if we are simply taking a stroll through town, nothing more sinister than that. Once we have reached the gardens we will be safe.” The king pondered her words. It seemed reasonable but he kept feeling that she had left something out. “What are the risks?” he asked, watching both women carefully. “I refuse to use my sons as any type of bait.” “They will not be the bait. I will.” Anya scowled “Your enemies are hiding and do not keep watch during the day. It is at night when they are strongest, most active. Your sons are all powerful in their own right with their magic and their weapons. I trust them by my side as I would Michelle. The only risk is to me.

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“Once I start the chant…” She sighed. This was the hardest part to explain. “Once I start the chant, your enemies will sense my magic. And…once I start…I cannot stop until we are all gathered, and the ceremony begins. The only danger is between the gates and the garden. But, by then it will be too late to stop us.” “What do you think?” he asked his sons, still not comfortable with the secret magic of the Order. There were many mysteries man would never understand. “Can you guard her while she does this?” “Father,” Genis shifted forward in his chair. “We can protect the Seer.” His gaze was intense as he moved his eyes from Anya to his father, anger filling his face “We have fought this for more than a year and it grows and grows within us. For the last few days, since meeting the Seer, we have felt the darkness leave us in peace.” He struggled to explain, at loss for the right words. Tralas gently grabbed him by the arm and spoke for them all. “It is past time that we act against this. We cannot sit back when there is a possibility to fight it, and win.” His voice had a calming effect on his younger brother. Adaineas stepped forward, his eyes glowing, his temper strained. “Allow us to do this Father,” He growled. “I was not raised to hide away hoping this thing would leave us. We are tied together as brothers, the little Seer…” his eyes softening as he rested them on Anya, “…the Seer has lightened our burden for a time but, if we have the chance to defeat it completely, we must act now.” “My king,” Anya said softly, waiting till he moved his attention to her. “You brought me here to find the darkness and force it out. Allow me to do this. Call your Elder Maji here and we can form a plan. In three days, when your sons have done as instructed, we can act.” King Anginus called for the Maji and the minutes crawled by as they waited for the Elder Maji to arrive. Hearing the doors open, Anya turned and watched the elder mage shuffle across the room. His power was great and she felt it roll over the room in waves. Bowing deeply to him she greeted him with a soft smile of remembrance, Elder Donash thank you for coming to see us”, before assisting him onto a soft chair. “Anya of Orlaine,” He replied, his voice husky with age as he grasped her hand. “It is has been many years since we last spoke, my child.” His eyes twinkled in remembrance. “Elder Donash, you honor me with your words.” She bowed her head. “We have a plan to defeat the threat against the royal family…with your aid.” “What ever the Maji can offer is given freely, Seer of Orlaine.” He spoke gruffly, his voice deepening as he thought of the last year. “The threat to the royal family has effected all within the capitol. What is your plan?” “The Chant of Unveiling,” Anya said softly but clearly. Donash thought for a moment before beaming at her, “You were always my most prized pupil my child.” He cackled hugging her. “You are exactly right! It may very well work. With all the Maji and Seers in the capitol for the solstice it may very well work. But who will guard you? It cannot be Michelle?” “You know that would be impossible until we reach the ceremonial cite. No. It will need to be someone of power.” Anya smiled, knowing her next words would shock her old

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mentor. “The sons of the Empire will guard me. And I am surprised at you, Donash, for not testing them.” “Test them? Test whom? The princes?” he looked blankly at her before staring at each of the men in turn. “Great Goddess!” he exclaimed after opening his senses, buffeted by the unfocused power pouring off them. “We had no idea!” “It is of no matter at this point,” Anya shrugged. “But once the threat is contained, they must be tested and trained.” Bowing to the Mage, she directed, “I will insist on it.” “It will be as you say, Seer of Orlaine.” He nodded, feeling foolish that such an obvious source of power had escaped their notice. “I will need to prepare the Maji, inform them that all must stay. I will contrive some obscure reason, so that no one is aware of the truth behind their stay. What should be done about the Seers within the capitol?” he asked. “They will realize what is occurring and come to our aid once the chant begins, Donash. I will need you to assemble all the Maji within the ceremonial garden, at the appointed time. Once the suns reach their zenith we must all be assembled. How long it will take us to reach the gardens?” “For the walk?” Donash asked, frowning in concentration “One hour, no more than that. The pacing in the chant is exact and will be very precise, as you know.” Anya nodded. “Good I will begin preparations at dawn, in two days time. No one must be made aware of our plans until we are ready. “Donash, make sure of your Maji. We cannot afford any mistakes.” “Understood.” He nodded, not taking offense at the meaning behind her words. “All will be arranged.”

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Chapter Nine For the next two days, Michelle and Anya moved quickly, preparing everything to the last detail. A special cloth was brought in for the Ceremonial gown that no one was allowed to see it, as per tradition. No one, that is, but Anya and Michelle. Anya had laid out her ceremonial jewelry on the table, blessing them each morning. She had felt the two brothers meditating each morning at dawn, training with their words but had not seen Adaineas for the last two days. When she had asked his brothers about his whereabouts, she had been informed that he too was meditating and training, keeping their link as brothers firm and connected. On the third day she rose well before dawn. Pulling on her exercise tunic she rushed to the gardens. Its loose fit, and thigh length, allowed for ease of flowing movements. As the sun rose high in the sky, her movement’s fluidity allowed her mind to sink into deep meditation. In a series of kicks and arm slashes, her focus was complete as she moved through the motions, one into the next. The three brothers entered the garden on silent feet, moving into place around her. They unerringly matched her tone, their deeper voices blending with hers. When she dropped to the grass, they followed, imitating her every movement. When she crossed her legs, bending one over the other, so did they. As her hands rested lightly, palms up on each thigh, as did theirs. She had blocked everything but the needed preparations for the chant. She became aware of the suns rays bathing her face as she slowly ended her mediation. She took a cleansing breath, her thoughts centered and her mind clear of unwanted emotion. Opening her eyes she looked at the three peaceful faces, each sitting still in their own meditation. Silently and swiftly she rose and moved from the garden to her rooms. Walking down the corridors she thought on what was ahead of her. Michelle would be waiting, a bath ready and everything else was prepared for the ceremony. The Mother Superior had contacted her, which had helped cement her resolve. Always positive, the Mother Superior had assured Anya that all would be well and that the Order was sending positive energy to her in preparation of her success. It was a hard thing to live up to other’s expectations. Sometimes she felt as if her shoulders could not hold up under the responsibilities placed upon them, and then other days it seemed as if she could take on the world. Today the burden felt the heaviest it had ever been. Walking into her rooms she saw Michelle pacing like a tiger with its tail caught under a chair. Anya couldn’t help noticing her edgy look as she stomped around the chamber. “Adaineas was looking for you earlier,” she snapped at Anya as she entered the room. “Oh? I left the princes in the gardens meditating and didn’t want to disturb them, as our time grows short. Come…we must finish with the preparations. Is the ritual bath ready?” “Of course.” Michelle smiled knowingly. Anya did not have time to waste thinking about that muscled prince. “In you get.” Michelle pushed her gently towards the pool of special herbs and flowers, mixed with fragrant oils for the ritual. “I brought you a tray so that you can eat

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before getting dressed. Donash arrived this morning with several of his Maji council and wanted me to tell you that all is ready with their sect.” Anya lowered herself into the steaming waters and sighed with relief. “Good,” she murmured “They know their places and the chant will come easy to them. Donash has said that several of his most trusted Maji have volunteered assist the guards, if necessary.” She began to wash her hair with the ritual herb mixture, Michelle rinsing her long hair until it shone. Next came the creamy soap gliding over her skin as she worked it into her arms and legs, breasts and stomach, while Michelle scrubbed her back. The room smelled like a garden by the time they were finished and Anya rose from the pool, pink and glistening. Wrapping a towel around her hair, and another around her body, she stepped from the pool and sat in front of the fire, working lotion into her skin while Michelle worked on her long tresses. Michelle grabbed a brush, along with several bands, and quickly twisted Anya’s hair into long plaits. While the hair was wet she braided intricate designs made up of ribbons and beads, added at regular intervals to create a canvas of color. Almost an hour later Anya pulled the ceremonial gown over her head. The fitted bodice cupped her breasts lovingly in dramatic colors of green and gold. The lightweight skirt was made up of panels: one in front, one in back, and three smaller panels on each side. As she walked the strips at her sides writhed and caressed against her skin. Slipping on her shoes she sat and applied a touch of frost to her eyes after lining them with dark kohl. She carefully painted her lips a deep ruby red, the look dramatic when she stood to get the full effect. Michelle grabbed the ceremonial necklace that would fit like a collar along her neck. While Michelle secured it around her neck, Anya affixed bracelets, in the same gold pattern, to her ankles and wrists, along with bands that encircled her upper arms. The straps of the gown allowed for no sleeves and the early morning breezes caused bumps to rise on her arms. Seeing her shiver, Michelle stoked the fire to raise the heat in the room and closed the windows. “Almost ready?” Michelle asked, looking at the clock. It read ten o’clock—only an hour to go before they needed to be at the gates. “Where is the staff?” Anya asked, looking around. The five-foot staff was made of special ore, mined only on Orlaine, and its gleaming surface was the color of silver mixed with gold. A master smith had assisted Anya in the making of the staff, claiming it held powerful magic. The runes she had applied, while in the smithing process, ensured its user complete protection from any blade; magic, on the other hand, was another matter all together. That is why the brothers would be guarding her. “It’s on the bed there,” Michelle motioned, holding up Anya’s cloak. “It’s time for the final preparations in the main hall.” Anya allowed Michelle to cover her from head to toe. No one would see her until she stood at the gates and began the chant. She planned to follow the ritual to the letter. Grabbing her staff she followed Michelle out the door. Sounds assaulted her as they reached the stairs leading down to the main hall. The Maji were assembled, standing near the royal family who were flanked by their royal guard. Donash moved forward as they moved into view.

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“The Seer of Orlaine.” His voice boomed through the hall causing the noise level to die down. “Elder Maji Donash, I greet you with my thanks.” Anya’s voice was deeper as her power flow over the room. Colors filled the room, brightening every corner, and the Maji bowed as one as she stepped off the stairs. “Is everything arranged?” She asked from the depths of her hood. “Yes, Seer Anya. I have instructed the princes as to their role in the procession and they will not fail you. The Maji will be at the ceremonial garden as directed. These men are the volunteers who will be posted throughout the city with the royal guard.” Anya looked at the Maji in the room. As her power touched each, they sighed at the caress. “Thank you for your sacrifice, Maji of the Empire. You honor me with your presence this day.” Looking towards the doors leading to the city, Anya steeled herself and moved with resolve. They would draw out this evil threat against the Empire, discovering who was behind this insidious plot, and defeat them. “Donash, I want two Maji to remain with our ruler and his lady at all times; you’re most trusted men.” She stressed. “Already done.” He kissed her hand before releasing it. “We will meet again at the garden.” He bowed to her before motioning to his Maji. Adaineas, Tralas, and Genis met her outside the ornate doors, following her in silence to the waiting transport, which would take them directly to the main gates. She felt their calm energy soothing her. The day was warm with no clouds marring the beauty of the blue skies above them. Anya breathed deep and slow, centering her thoughts on the ceremony to come. Once the chant began she could not stop until they reached the gardens. She watched the people as they moved through the city assured that no one would know what was happening until the Chant of Unveiling started. She looked towards the gardens in the center of the city, seeing guards lining every avenue and entrance The Maji had assembled on one side of the main path, ready for her procession. She knew that the elder Magi would have the king and his empress standing at the grand fountain, surrounded by Maji and guards. Michelle has assured her that she would also be by their side, ready to draw her sword if it was needed. They would not fail, she vowed, ready to see her decision through to the end. “All is ready.” She murmured. The time had come.

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Chapter Ten At precisely eleven o’clock Anya stepped out of the transport, followed closely by her three escorts. She looked up into the sky and noted the position of the twin suns. Stepping into the center of the road she untied her cloak, and let it fall to the ground. Gripping her staff tightly in her hand, she raised it over her head. Her voice seemed to echo in the sudden stillness around her. “Gomaine Alavadar Somek,” her voice boomed, beginning the chant. Her words were unknown to any who heard them, the ancient language echoing through the city as she walked calmly, never stopping. As they moved down the street, doors opened and people filed out, standing on the edges of the streets. Visiting Seers stepped out from the houses, joining the procession, their voices joining in unison. Lords and ladies of the court began to follow, curious to see where the solemn group was leading, until they saw the princes. . Adaineas felt the power of her call, and her words. The unknown language seemed to pull at something within him as he paced behind Anya, watching everything around them, as did his brothers. Never settling in one spot, his eyes searched for any possible danger as they moved onward, towards the ceremonial gardens. His sword gleamed in the sunlight, ready to defend the Royal Seer at the first sign of trouble. The chant, filled with power, rose over everything and everyone until it could be heard everywhere. Children that had been playing by the street’s edges ceased their laughter as the Seers passed, stopping to stare at the wondrous sight. Anya seemed to glide as she kept her staff effortlessly raised over her head, her stride even as she moved along the streets. Her sisters’ powers called to hers until they melded, moving from one another in harmony, their adding to her strength and power as she called the chant. As they approached the Gardens the tone of the chant changed slightly as the Maji joined in. The power of their unity voices turned elemental, as if drums sounded in the distance, raw and untamed. Anya felt the call on a base level, her hips swaying more as she walked, the panels of her dress swinging wildly with her movements. Slowly the Seer women merged, intermingling with the Maji men lined on the sides of the walkway leading to the large fountain in the center of the gardens. Once everyone was inside the garden the metal doors swung shut on all sides, enclosing everyone inside a protective field. Anya felt a click, as if the locks protected them alongside the runes, which had been placed on all sides earlier by the Maji. This protective barrier would ban all magic other than theirs. Silence descended as the chant ended. This was the moment of truth. She felt the earth beneath her feet call out to her, the winds above caressing her in joy. Lowering her staff, she knelt on the ground, ignoring the biting pain of the stone beneath her knees. “Goddess of all, hear me,” her voice echoed in the silence. “Protect those within this circle. Winds protect us this day.” The sudden gust around them caused many of the guards to shift uneasily.

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She moved away from everyone to standing on a nearby stone platform, raised closer to the sky and the menacing form. The Seers formed lines in front of her, standing before the platform, their backs to her, their shoulders straight, heads high, five women deep, ten wide. The Maji moved between the lines of women as Anya recited the final verses of the Chant of Unveiling. At first nothing happened. Her voice once again rose this time in a different verse, the other Seer and Maji changing to blend with her voice. King Anginus and Queen Asperial, as well as the soldiers, watched as she chanted, the Seer and the Maji standing in front of her reinforcing, adding to her strength, feeding her power. The skies above began suddenly grow dark as a large cloud moved towards them, slowly writhing like a snake caught in a trap. Anya watched it move closer as she continued chanting, the ancient words welling up from her soul. She could not fail her people, or her ruler, but, even more than that, she could not fail Adaineas. She felt his power behind her like a wall protecting her, even with the space separating them. Unknowing his power began to heat the air around them, heat against her back as if from a bonfire. She could also feel a kick in the wind but pushed those thoughts away. “You will not!” the hiss, a single voice but it echoed from all around as if the entity, what ever it was, came from all around. Anya continued to chant while the cloud became form and a shadow demon floated before them. Its form seeming to tower over them, even as she used her powers to lock it to the ground. Still she chanted for, until the last word was spoken, the spell could still be broken. And, if that occurred, there would be chaos. Sweat beaded her face and arms as she trembled under the strain. Her voice had become hoarse and she forced herself to continue. The mass continued to hiss and roll, advancing towards the Seers and the Maji, only to be stopped short of its goal when it hit the invisible wall of protection surrounding them. Gathering more power around her, Anya pushed harder, her chant gaining in intensity as the mass screeched so loud that the guards raised their hands and covered their ears. A loud clap of thunder sounded and the mass stilled, hovering just beyond their power wall. Anya slowly lowered her staff and sent a silent ‘thank you’ to the goddess for her aid. “Now you will answer my questions, darkness,” Anya demanded. She saw, out of the corner of her eyes, the Maji and the Seers behind her move to encircle the mass, which floated just above the ground, a black tainted thing, trying to escape from the magic closing in on it. “I will answer, Seer.” The voice from the mass was quiet, subdued by the unexpected power. “Who summoned you?” Silence met her question and she waited only a moment before shouting, “Who summoned you?!” The power of her voice cracked the marble stone beneath her feet. “The Obsidis,” it cried as her power forced it to answer. “The Obsidi are dead,” she hissed in reply. It could not be, she thought to herself in a moment of panic. The thought of the Obsidi returning brought a chill to her very soul. The evil that they could amass could be enough to destroy their very universe. The mass shifted

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but remained silent and she thought for a moment before asking, “Why does the Obsidi send you to attack Prince Tralas?” “I do not know.” It paused as if thinking about the reasons it was summoned. “I was asleep.” It’s voice had changed as thought back to the time of its calling. “I was asleep for so long and then they came.” The voice trembled as it remembered “My kind had gone to our home long ago. So I slept, waiting for their return. The Obsidi came and bound me ― I could not fight their hold. Now they send me where they will and I must obey. I have hidden myself from human eyes, ordered so by the Obsidis to never to show my true self. But I must obey the Seer of Orlaine.” Grief and terror warred in that dark voice. Anya watched the mass as it sank to the ground, huddled in a small ball like a frightened animal. She didn’t want to be moved by the grief she heard but the chant forced the darkness into truth, it was unable to lie to them. “How long did you sleep, darkness?” She crooned, moving from her broken stones to kneel on the ground where she could watch it more closely. “So long was I asleep, that time ceased to have meaning. We used to travel among the stars.” The voice seemed to fade. “Before humans, and their machines, filled the darkness of space, we traveled between worlds, between spaces, and watched. We were watchers, never interfering with the matters of humans. When they began to enter space we decided to sleep, but many of us went beyond. Few of us remained behind. The Obsidi came and called me.” The voice trembled. “Seer of Orlaine, know I cannot lie to you. We saw your coming. We were foretold of your coming, and the good you would do. The Obsidis know of you now I cannot fight their call and you have bound me here, to this place. If I am released they will only call me back. I beg you,” it wailed, writhing on the ground “Release me! Destroy me so that I may pass on. I can do no harm to you if you release me from my bonds.” “Then this is not your true form?” Anya asked, feeling a morsel of pity for the poor creature, trapped by decisions not it’s own. “No, Seer of Orlaine. The Obsidi bound me into this form, unable to show my true self, unable to break their bonds. And I am unable to free myself.” Anya stood and walked over to Donash, standing staunchly by the Royal family. “What say you, Elder Donash?” she murmured “Is it possible that the Obsidi have regained their ranks? Do they truly have the power to perform this kind of dark magic?” Donash looked at the pitiful creature, wailing it plight, and sighed. “All things are possible, Anya. To bind such a being is unheard of in our Orders as such things are forbidden. We are banned from harming any being without the Counsel’s final decision. During the last magic wars the Maji and Seers formed an alliance to defeat the Obsidi, forcing them outside the boundaries of our space. If they are indeed reforming their sect, true dark times are at hand.” “I agree.” Anya closed her eyes and called on her spirit guardian for advice. Each Seer had an ancient guardian, one who resided in-between space, who guided them in times of great need. They communicated without words, using the power of their individual connections. Her guardian, whom she could feel within her, answered her questions in wise whispers.

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“I am told that we must break this bond holding this being, releasing it so it may have its true form so that it might aid us in our time of need.” “If that is your command, we must do so.” Donash nodded, his eyes turning solemn as he pondered the best way to break the binding. As a Maji he knew many ways that might work but, because Anya was asked by name to break the binding, he was unsure how to proceed. Reports were coming from guards posted through out the city. Only one group had attacked the royal guards and the Maji had been able to stop them before any real damage had been done. Anya listened with half an ear to what was being said. Murmuring absently, her mind on their current dilemma, she suggested that the Maji erect containment wards around the group. “If they are agents of the Obsidi they will be able to get out without anyone seeing if you do not.” Donash pulled the messenger aside and the message was immediately sent to the Magi guards. Anya looked up into the sky and sifted through what she had learned. “Darkness,” she called, turning to face the abject creature. “What is there to prevent you from harming any of us once I break the binding which has been placed upon you? My vows prevent me from binding you to me but that does not mean I will break your bonds so you are free to wreak havoc.” “In my true form I am unable to harm any life. Like you, my kind is unable to harm another. Because of this binding, I am forced to do their bidding Once it is broken, I will be happy to revert back to my true form I vow you are safe from further harm.” The dark mass lay still, waiting on her final judgment. Anya looked to Donash for advice. “What do you think, my friend?” When Donash shrugged, unable to come up with a feasible solution, she turned to the King and asked, “And what are your thoughts, my lord? The King shook his head, unsure of what answer the Seer was seeking. “I see only two options. I can break the bonds and help it to regain its true form, in which we would have an ally against the Obsidi, or I can release its life force, allowing it to pass on to the next realm. My guide tells me that it can be a great ally but the decision is not mine alone to make. “And it must atone for the harm caused to the princes.” Asperial placed a hand on her husband’s arm and whispered in his ear. Her words made him smile and he nodded to her in agreement. “Break the bonds that tie the creature to our enemy and ally it to our side. Its punishment will be to serve my sons until this threat has passed, and we are free of the Obsidi presence.” Donash nodded. “That is a wise choice, my lord. Our teachings tell us that there were ancients long before we began the first war against the Obsidi, remaining in the background. They did not take sides but watched the outcome of our battles. It has offered us an alliance and it does not concern us if it is only to revenge itself on the Obsidi for the binding. But we shall not be the ones to harm it.” “Release it and allow it to show us its true form, “ came the royal edict. Anya walked back to the pile of broken stones, not daring to look at Adaineas for fear of him noticing the rising passion in her eyes. During the ritual she had felt him close, as if he constantly touching her. She needed this to be over so that she could throw herself into his

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embrace She wanted to shut out the world, absorb his strength, feel his arms wrapped around her, his hands touching her body. With the amount of power she had expended this day she would be running on a ‘magical high’ by the time the suns set. The drawback of using such a vast quantity of energy, as any Seer was aware, was that their emotions ran as high as their hunger for the touch of another’s body. In the past Michelle sated that hunger adequately but she had a more substantial relief in mind. Her body craved Adaineas’. She could feel her core growing wetter with each passing moment, her juices coating her thighs Her body’s tremors had little to do with the power flowing through her body as it yearned for his touch, for sexual release. Seeing Sister Alma nearby, she gestured to the older Seer. She had been a long and trusted friend to Anya before leaving the Order’s walls and taking residence in the household of a high lord. Alma smiled, returning Anya’s warm embrace, her eyes opaque from the power the continued to shift around them. “I feel how you have grown in power and am not surprised. But be careful, Anya dear,” she whispered. “Your surges of energy betray your body’s hunger.” Alma looked to Adaineas and smirked. “Though he is a prime piece isn’t he. Too bad I’m not a few years younger.” Anya blushed at her words before grinning back. “You always were blunt with your observations, my friend,” she murmured, determined to focus on the issue at hand, and not the gorgeous man standing so near. Her friend waved a careless hand towards the cowering creature, still as stone. “Well, what was the decision? Are we releasing the poor creature, or sending it to meet its brethren on the other side?” “We will break its binding. It is an innocent pawn in this battle we are going to be forced into fighting. As a Seer, more adept at performing similar rituals before the wars, do you have any insight to impart?” Alma thought for a moment “There are several that may work but all will expel extremely obscene amounts of energy.” Frowning at Anya, she added,” It will be surprising if one man, even such as he, will satisfy your hungers this night.” Anya growled in frustration, looking over her shoulder at Adaineas, being joined by his brothers. His eyes stared holes in her back, watching her every move. “No one knows…so, lower your voice, if you will,” she hissed. Alma’s eyes widened in shocked amazement, and she looked at the three handsome men gathered a short distance away. “You didn’t explain?!” Glancing behind her once more, Anya saw the brothers were curious about their conversation, and wished her old friend had lowered her voice…just a tad. Alma turned to the elder Maji and shouted, “Donash! Get over here right now! We need to talk.” As her old friend moved closer, she grabbed him by his arm and pulled him into their circle. Muttering about the stupidity of youth she hissed, “This one didn’t explain the consequences of using this much magic. You know there is now way she had time to prepare for the recoil that will occur when she breaks the binding.”

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Donash eyed Anya closely, noticing the telling twitching around her eyes and her body’s increased trembling. He could feel the tingling of the heat she generated simply by standing near her. “It is no problem for me to arrange several Maji to service you tonight.” Anya growled in sudden heat, grinding her teeth in frustration. “I want Adaineas.” She shivered hard as she tried to focus. “Your talking about it isn’t going to make it any better, you two. The breaking of the creature’s binding must be done, and I must be the one to do it. I will not consider the resulting consequences until after it is done. Explain it to them if you want, or even can. But, when this is over, I will be lucky if I can stand upright, much less walk.” Both nodded at her harsh words, understanding it was the urge of release speaking and not their sweet Seer. Donash motioned to the three princes to follow him, distancing Adaineas from her immediate location. As they moved away Anya found she could think clearer. The weight of her lover’s stare, and his presence being so near, had nearly been unbearable. Sighing with relief she turned back to Alma. “Now what are my options, for we must finish this quickly.” She gripped her friend’s hand tightly, using her for a much-needed anchor as they debated her courses of action. ***** On the other side of the fountain, Donash leaned against his staff as he intently eyed the three royal sons. He was not surfer what the reaction would be and only hoped that he presented the situation in the proper fashion. There needed to be a calm leader, the voice of reason. Not that the three males had ever been reasonable in all their lives… “What I am about to tell you is very important, crucial to the health of your Seer. Anya has expended more energy than she would normally be able to control, and far more than would be allowed in any session I can think of.” He glanced at the young woman leaning heavily on her staff, her eyes closed as she listened closely to Alma fussing at her like a mother hen. He turned back to the muttering princes, watching Adaineas’ face closely. “I need to be sure you are aware of the consequences that might occur from generating this much energy in such a short period of time. There is danger if it is not dissipated correctly.” “What are you blathering about, old one? Speak, Maji,” Adaineas snapped, his patience growing thin. He had not been able to remove his eyes from Anya and could see the rivulets of sweat running down her temples. The tremors of her power touched him even from this distance and he grew concerned as the elderly Maji seemed to dawdle with his explanations. “There are consequences to using magic, my lords. Trade-off that must be made.” His carefully worded explanation brought all three pairs of eyes to his. “The Maji have the ability to channel this residue into sparring but a Seer has…” he shook his head, leaning closer to share the well-guarded secrets of their sect. “…limits to the options offered her, simply by being female. Expending large amounts of power, such as Anya has done today, causes fluctuations within her body, upsetting the delicate balance of her hormones. These feeling in any woman are hard to deny once they have been incited but, in a Seer, they can be deadly. “In the past there have been ‘servers’ who are able to assist a Seer in dispersing her accumulated energy, for once she has completed her ‘rituals’ she enters…well…the best way to describe it is ‘the heat’. Because she has performed this powerful actions here, and not on

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Orlaine, she may have problems. “Many Seers have mates, or men within their contracted households, who will satisfy them this evening.” Adaineas was tired of this beating around the bush, used to more straight talk. “Please speak more plainly, Donash,” he growled, eager to go to his lover’s side. “We do not need to innuendoes, but facts.” His brothers, standing at his side, growl their own displeasure, wanting to know what the elderly Maji was hinting at. “Anya has no one, is not mated, and her contract with the royal house does not permit her to lay with the head of that house. Once this day is done,” Donash sighed, closing his eyes against the need to explain further, “Anya will enter an intense mating heat, a need that she will have to fill as soon as she is able. She will be more animal than human. One minute snarling at everything in her path, the next ripping clothes off of herself, and anyone nearby. She will not care who it is, or where she is. “I will tell you this, Prince Adaineas. If you, and possibly your brothers, do not agree to help Anya this night, she will bed your servants, guardsmen, or even Maji residing within the walls of the Royal house before she is sated. Since I doubt you want her touching another male in such a fashion, I suggest you be ready.” All three males blinked at the Maji’s blunt words. It seemed hard to believe that one small woman could do all that Donash had mentioned but, as they turned to face Anya, she turned her head towards them. They shivered to see her eyes changing from brilliant green to glowing red, then back again. Donash glowered as he noticed her changing as well, “We could have waited until tomorrow do handle this but Anya does not have that time. With the Obsidi seeming to be growing in ranks we need for her to perform this last ritual, gaining us a powerful ally.” “Wouldn’t any sensualist do?” Genis asked, his eyes shifting between Adaineas and Anya, then back again, knowing his brother had already made his intentions abundantly clear to both he and Tralas. Donash leaned towards the young prince until they were practically nose-to-nose. “Anya would literally drain the life force from them, drain any person dry. And, yes, I said person. She will be seeking satisfaction and it can come from anyone, not just a male.” Genis stepped back, shivering at the thought of dried husks laying about their home. “You three host a tremendous amount of power, though still not yet tested. You would be able to withstand the strain of close contact. Oh…you will be weak after it’s all over for maybe a day or two…but that is all.” “Or would you rather her sleep with a trained sensualist, have another give her what you will not?” he asked dryly, his eyes focusing on Adaineas’ dark countenance at the thought of someone else’s hand touching that pale skin “Could you stand the thought of allowing her to drain the innocent life from a human being when you could do intervene? For, if she did, it would surely break her heart. I think she would destroy herself before doing that as destroying another goes against everything she believes. “ Adaineas was beginning to understand what tremendous pressure Anya was under as a Seer of Orlaine. Over the last days he had witnessed her push herself to save lives and to help those who were not family, who meant nothing to her life. She brought joy even when she was exhausted, as she had in their ship, and kept pushing herself beyond her physical boundaries.

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To see her like this, Adaineas felt his heart being ripped apart. “You have explained yourself well, Donash. We understand what needs to be done.” His voice was strained as he focused on Anya, trying not to dwell on the pain she had to be enduring so another creature, one which had been intent on destroying his family, might live. Tralas moved as if to speak, but Adaineas placed a hand on his arm. Looking in his eyes he reassured his younger brother of his choice. “We will do what is needed, my brother. We will be ready when her time is here.” ***** Heat suffused Anya as she gathered more and more power from those around her, weaving a web of power to help her touch its mind, and unlock its binding. Once the bindings were broken the creature would be free of the Obsisi grasp, its true form revealed, and she prayed she was not making a huge mistake. She was not sure she would have the energy to destroy it if they were betrayed. She could feel her legs tremble as she listened to the last of Alma’s instructions. “Make sure you get this right, Anya,” Alma repeated for what seemed to be the hundredth time. “We can’t afford to waste any energy. Get as close as possible, right up next to it, and blanket it with your power. Be very careful you do not tarry before you make contact with its mind, and, for the Goddess’ sake, don’t siphon any more energy than you have to off from the others. I believe we will be tapped out one you begin.” “I know, Alma,” She acceded wearily “But be sure you get the others back the minute I make contact with the creature. I will have to tap directly into its mind and the backlash will be too great if any are still too close.” “Agreed.” Alma softened her voice to a soothing whisper, placing her hands gently on Anya’s shoulders before bending close to her ear. “Be careful, my sister. I will miss you if you departed this plane onto the next before your time, and I have a feeling that one young prince would most unhappy as well.” A soft teasing smile edged her mouth as she moved back. “Adaineas has not said as such.” Anya dismissed her friend’s words, her mind focused more on what was to come than the passionate prince “It is too soon for such emotions to be involved.” “I wouldn’t be too sure, my dear,” Alma chuckled softly. “The way he watches you, never glancing away this past hour, has not been with a brotherly look. That is plain for any to see.” She hoped that she had shifted Anya’s focus enough so the young Seer would remember there were those who would miss her if she acted in haste. Anya sighed wearily as she shrugged off Alma’s touch and stepped closer to the darkness It lay still, unmoving, contained by both the protection spell and its respect for the Seer’s power. “Are you ready?” she asked softly. “With the breaking of the binding I will gladly pledge my loyalty to you and yours, Seer.” The darkness sounded resigned to what ever was to come. Anya stepped forward and merged with the darkness. Closing her eyes, she opened her mind stretching her power, searching for the lock to release the Obsidis’ binding, and began the spell: Mind to mind, my will complete. Goddess, I beg. Show me the way to break these shackles binding this innocent from your grace.

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Release this creature so that it may be free to fight the encroaching darkness wishing to dim your light. Goddess, I implore you to guide me in your wisdom, in this time of need. As she said the final words a blinding light enclosed both forms, hiding them from the watchers. Seeing the brightness light the sky, Alma shouted for everyone to move further back. She had never seen a light quite that brilliant, and could feel Anya’s energy spiking. Adaineas watched as the blinding light flow over the pair, their forms obliterated from sight, and he felt his heart cease beating. The brightness pulsed with an ancient rhythm, slowly fading into a soft glow. There were sighs of relief when the watchers saw Anya’s delicate form kneeling, covering what was once the darkness. Soft sobbing could be heard coming from beneath Anya’s body. “Thank you, thank you, thank you.” The words were garbled, forced out between hiccups and quiet sniffling. Anya slowly sat back on her heels, staring at that which had frightened so many. The watchers watched a small being no more than four feet in height, with long blinding yellow-gold hair, stand on shaky legs. The flowing mass, tossed behind bird-like shoulders, had covered almond-shaped, blue eyes. Creeping closer, still wary of what could occur, the younger Seers giggled to see the pointed tips on the small ears while the Maji stared at the perfection of the miniscule female body The tiny being raised watery eyes to meet Anya’s, tears of joy flowing down her face. Flinging small arms tightly around her savior’s neck she announced for all to hear, “You have released me, Seer of Orlaine, and I pledge my life to you from this day forward. From this day forward my life is forfeit to protect yours.” Anya fought to catch her breath from her exertions and tumbled to the ground as the small woman threw her arms around her neck. A breathless giggle escaped her as she felt her power stutter within her being, before the heat began to build. “What name to you go by so that I might introduce you to our royal family?” “I was named Rasafiel when I was young,” the small female sniffled. Looking down she noticed she was naked and squeaked in feminine shock, trying to cover her small body with smaller hands. Turning to her dear friend, having the courage to stand closer to Anya then the others, she asked, “Alma, do we have a cloth to give cover our new ally so that she might cover herself?” Attempting to stand, she weaved with weariness, fighting her inner turbulence. Adaineas moved forward, showing no emotion as he gently helped her to stand upright, holding her steady within his strong arms. Looking down he watched the tiny female peeking out from behind Anya’s skirts. He blinked as if assure himself she was not a figment of his imagination. Alma hurried forward with a length of cloth taken from another’s cloak, gently dropping it around Rasafiel’s shivering shoulders. “That should do you until something else can be found, small one.” Alma said, speaking softly so as not to startle the small creature. After a quiet ‘thank you’ and wrapping the cloth securely around her diminutive body, Rasafiel turned her eyes to the royal family.

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Anya gently held out her hand and, with Adaineas to assist her, moved towards the King, his wife, and their two sons. “My lord,” she said, still breathless from her ordeal. “I present you Rasafiel, sworn to serve us as our ally, if that is your wish.” King Anginus’ face seemed as if carved from stone as he nodded regally, hearing the Seer’s words but having a difficult time forgiven the injuries done to his family, even though they could see the well of sadness at what she had been forced to do. It would take time to absolve the small being of what it had done, just because it had been bound to another. . Donash moved forward and eyed the small female critically. “You are Gordaine,” he whispered in a tone that reached many ears, surprised at the unusual discovery. Rasafiel looked into the Maji’s face and smiled at his words, delighted he remembered her kind. “Yes. And you are the Great Donash. We sang songs of your courage during the last wars, Maji. Our magic keepers watched you closely, ever since your childhood, and were pleased to see you had become all that had been foretold.” The elder blinked, astonished that such an older race would know of him. “I am honored to have this opportunity to meet an old one, Lady Rasafiel.” Turning to the royal family he noticed their puzzled looks, and hurried to explain. “The Gordaine are truly an ancient race, my lord. They are weavers of music and dreams, truly harmless in their true form. They are magic folk, muses of the gifted, keepers of all lore. It is a blessed omen to have one such as Lady Rasafiel on our side.” The Empress pulled her husband’s down and whispered in his ear. Nodding in response, the King decided her suggestion had good merit. For, as long as this new ally remained beneath their roof, they might have some control over her action. “Guards,” King Anginus called out. “Escort this Lady to a room near the Seer.” Looking down at the small woman standing regally before him, he warned, “I will send someone to attend you, Rasafiel, and bring you attire more suite to a person of your station but, until we have more time to sort through what has transpired, I cannot allow you to roam freely about our Royal House.” Rasafiel nodded in understanding. “Ruler of the Universe, great King Anginus, if I were in your position I would do the same. I cannot fault you for your caution but know this to be true. My word as a Gordaine is binding in itself.” She knelt at his feet. “I give you my vow that no further injury shall ever come to you, or your family, from me. My knowledge and craft are yours to command. Order me and, in all things, it shall be done. Though I am pledged to the Seer Anya, I shall be loyal to you, and yours, as her liege.” Her voice deepened as her vow rang through the gardens. “The Gordaine are unable to lie without great physical discomfort, my lord,” Donash added. “Her vow, once given, cannot be taken back unless released by those it was given to. You can feel secure that she will harm none. I do, however, ask your permission to attend her myself until Anya is back on her feet…” Anya felt her body quickly coming undone with the force of her rising inner heat. Soon she would be out of control and silently sent a plea to the Goddess that she maintain her composure until she could manage to get to her rooms. Trying to tug her hand free from Adaineas firm grasp she finally gave up and asked to be excused, knowing her time was running short. Rasafiel looked noticed the signs of ‘power overload’ and felt for the young Seer.” I am sorry…I should have realized that you are nearing your flash point. Know you have my

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eternal thanks, my friend, and that I am in your debt. Whatever you ask of me shall be so.” She bowed, clutching her makeshift robe close to her body. Urging Anya to find some rest in her room, the King turned and gave Donash his permission to attend the Lady Rasafiel. As the odd trio ― Donash, Rasafiel, and the stoic guard—walked slowly towards the royal residence, King Anginus pondered on the amazing events that had taken place that day. They were sure to be discussed for many years to come

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Chapter Eleven Anya felt the burning haze on oncoming loss of control filling her mind. Jerking her hand from Adaineas’ she moved quickly towards the transport that had been designated to take her back to the Royal house. In her inner discomfort she failed to notice the three brothers silently following her into the transport. Once she was sure the doors had closed, she relaxed the stoic rein she had been holding on her body. Her hands curled into tight fists as she pounded on the walls, as if to beat out her inner frustration and heat on the metal sides. She was oblivious to the presence of the others until Adaineas grabbed one hand and Tralas the other, so as to stop her from harming herself. “My apologies my lords,” she panted “I am unable to control this reaction and do not know how far it will take me this night.” Tears filled her eyes, as feelings of helplessness overwhelmed her. Genis patted her shoulder, trying to comfort her while his brothers held tightly to her shaking limbs. As they moved swiftly through the streets towards the Royal house, Anya alternated between crying and snarling obscenities, fighting the grasps of the men holding her and begging forgiveness for her behavior. As the transport stopped at the bottom of the stairs, Adaineas shoved open the door with a kick of his foot. Turning, he plucked her out of the carriage and flung her over his shoulder. The tightly packed group moved quickly through the main hall, speeding up the stairs to the tower room, bypassing her rooms altogether. As they had sent word ahead, having come up with the best plan of attack from Donash’s suggestions, they found a fragrant hot bath ready. Adaineas ripped her ceremonial dress from her body and threw her into the water, where she fought like a mad woman. The trio took turns submerging her body in the water, she as slippery as any eel, trying to scrub her clean of the grime and sweat of the day. They soon grew as wet as she, their tempers matching hers as she railed at them to let her be. Genis yelped, almost losing his grip, as sharp nails shredded his arm through his jerkin. Growling his displeasure at being so mistreated he snarled, “Adaineas, I know she is yours…but, damn it, I will not take much more of this abuse.” “Agreed, brother.” Tralas rumbled, dodging a flailing fist.” She is like a wildcat with the residue of the power riding her.” Adaineas knew something had to be done before his two brothers took matters in their own hands, and drowned the vicious Seer. As she opened her mouth to heap vile threats on their heads for the hundredth time, he sealed her mouth with his, thrusting his tongue deep. The beginning of an outraged yell soon became a strangled moan of sensual delight as she moved her mouth under his, nipping at his tongue and lips. Somehow she managed to wrap her dripping arms tightly around his neck, fisting her hands in his hair and pulling him as close as she could while still immersed in the water. Moving gracefully from beneath grasping hands, she turned until she could kneel, her breasts gleaming in the subdued lighting. Releasing his lips she pulled him close and bit his neck. The flavor of his skin raised a primal force within her and her eyes glowed with a green fire as she snarled, “Mine” and pulled his lips back to hers. His wet shirt plastered his chest as she fought

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to get closer to him and she howled, tearing his shirt off his body in a violent motion, like an unleashed and ferocious animal. His brothers snickered, watching the shirt fastenings flying all over the room as she attacked him, her mouth covering every inch it could reach of his chest, her hands roaming where they would, tucking themselves down the backs of his pants. He did not hear his brothers teasing laughter over the roaring in his ears. When she fell against him, arching her breasts against his chest, her hands pinching and scratching his sensitive skin, all his blood left his brain at a speed that would have made his head spin, if he had cared. His cock was so hard he felt as if it would burst the seams of his pants without any effort on his part. It grew even harder when frantic whimpers escaped her throat as she searched for relief from the heat burning her inside out. When Genis moved forward to help his brother, her hand shot out and latched onto his shirt, her talon nails shredding the fine material. He gave a startled gasp as she yanked him towards them. As his eyes met hers, he fell into that mesmerizing gaze, frozen as if a bunny in the stare of a cobra. Her eyes followed her hand as it left his front, trailing down over the outside of his pants, cupping his cock, that was happy to stand at attention, eager for a firmer touch. As she moved her hand up and down the hard ridge of flesh, while blowing on his chest exposed by his torn shirt, tingles ran up his spine. His head fell back as she squeezed his tender balls gently and he trembled with sudden lust for this luscious female, the scent of her touch hardening every muscle in his body. Adaineas turned her face to his, arms wrapping around her waist and pulling her back to his chest, causing her to release his smitten brother. As he gently nipped at her shoulder, Anya turned her head to inhale his musky scent, licking the damp arousal from his skin. Glancing over his shoulder she saw Tralas watching, out of reach of temptation. Each male was so different, yet so much alike, and she was eager to see where this would lead. She had past the point where she felt any embarrassment, seeking only relief to the heat building inside her, raging to be released. The spicy scent of unrequited lust swirled in the air as Adaineas lifted her from the cooling bath and carried her to the large bed. Laying her down, her body open to their eyes, each man saw, in her, a fantasy come to life. Hair tousled, reminding them of hot, passionate nights. Her breasts were peaked, begging for a touch, a taste. . Her thighs quivered, inviting entrance to warm places. When she arched her back, whimpering for attention, and each man saw his desire reflected in her eyes. Adaineas’ eyes met hers before moving down her body, taking in the sight of her, damp and willing. Her eyes widened momentarily as his gaze touched each breast, her quivering abdomen and yearning thighs. Bending over her body, he held her torso still as his tongue flicked lightly against a perky nipple before biting into flesh The pain was nothing compared to the pleasure and her body arched, writhing while he nibbled his way across her body. She closed her eyes, reveling in the pleasure arcing through her body, and wished for more…and more. Her heat was rising and she needed to feel flesh touching flesh. His hands kneaded her skin, never settling long in one spot before moving to the next

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Tralas and Genis had stood watching Adaineas pleasure Anya, waiting for the right moment. When she cried out her need, begging for more they looked at each other in silent agreement, shedding their clothing as they neared the bed. Adaineas sensed when his brothers joined them on the bed, moving so that Tralas could take his place. Leaving his brother tasting her skin, he moved off the bed. Anya’s desperate outcry, at the loss of Adaineas’ touch, was smothered by Tralas’ lips. Genis crawled up on the bed, molding his hands over her breasts. When Anya pulled herself up on her elbows, to better reach Tralas’ teasing lips with her own, Genis took the opportunity to slide beneath her, cupping her hands like a man-made brassiere, twisting her nipples. His cock was in ecstasy, nestled in the groove of her buttocks. Every time she moved to bite, or suck Tralas’ lips, her buttocks rubbed his shaft When her curious hand reached behind, inciting further friction of its own by rubbing her hand up and down it substantial length as if memorizing every ridge and bump, his breath strangled in his throat. Genis’ ‘thinking’ head felt as it might explode from the excruciating pressure building at his cock’s base. Adaineas was watching the trio on the bed, his blood heating up to match that of his Seer’s. Needing no encouragement, he stripped off what was left of his clothing, releasing his cock from the tight confines of his breeches. Tralas’ rough breathing, and the look of ‘I-coulddie-happy’ ecstasy on Genis’ face, had him striding purposefully to the bed and shoving his brothers aside. Jerking Anya into his arms, he rolled her under his body, his weight settling her firmly in the perfect position for ultimate penetration. “Ad-ain-ea-s...” her voice was a wail of longing. Her eyes teared as she held him closer, wiggling to find that which she sought. “In me…now….ple-ase....” she panted urgently. “Make it stop.” In a lightening fast move he speared her, sinking into her channel to his hilt, her long moan of pleasure a welcome sound to his ears. His eyes locked with hers, bringing all she was to focus on his hard, and unrelenting, face. Fire ignited his blood as his cock twitched within the walls of her vagina. Her muscles clamped down around his cock, whether in surprise or satisfaction, he did not care, milking him. Her eyes fluttered closed, her body swallowing his fullness. “Yessssssss,” she hissed, throwing her head back as his tongue touched the base of her neck, licking the moisture at that which had pooled there. Tralas moved along one side, Genis the other, and they ran their hands over her breasts and thighs, touching anywhere the brother did not. Adaineas curved his hands around and gripped her shoulders, using them as leverage to pound into her more forcibly. With each savage thrust up he pulled her body towards his, relaxing and allowing her body to fall back to the bed with each downward pull. The rocking motion had her inner muscles fluttering in their search for that final plateau, still so far away. Anya’s hands reached out, seeking an anchor in the pleasure rolling through her body, and encountered furry flesh, male shin, hot and firm. Her fingers dug in, not caring what portion of their anatomies she grabbed onto. The left hand found Tralas’ cock, curling covetous fingers tightly around such its prize. As she moved in a melodic rhythm, liquid pearls dripped down from the tip of the engorged head, lubricating the shaft. Tralas threw his head back, growling his pleasure at her touch.

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The right hand had found purchase around Genis’ neck, bringing his face close so that her mouth could take his in the hottest of kisses. Her mouth devoured his as Adaineas watched, never ceasing his rhythmic thrusts. Genis buried his lips into hers, his tongue matching the cadence of Adainea’s cock Releasing his mouth she turned her head to the left and pulled Tralas’ cock closer to her wet lips, urging him into her greedy mouth. Her tongue curled round the bulbous head, crimson with his ardor. She sucked him like he was a sweet treat, licking and tasting his essence. Raising her eyes to his, she allowed them to turn opaque as she swallowed the fluid that beaded from the tip while pulling as much of his cock as she could into her throat. Tralas moved his hips in time with her suction, soon pushing forward and pulling back faster and faster His breath grew short as she laved her tongue on the underside of his cock. Blood pumped harder through his veins and he felt his orgasm building. When he exploded in her mouth, her tongue collected every drop. While her throat swallowed his life force with ease. Though his body seemed weightless, he noticed it hummed with a low energy in the aftershocks of his pleasure. He was surprised he did not feel the lack of energy that Donash claimed would occur. Maybe that would come. In time. Releasing the softened cock, Anya smiled at the spent Tralas, floundering against the headboard before sliding down to lay on the bed. The tremors started first at the base of her spine and then moved up her back into they reached her skull. Her inner fire was burning hotter as she reached for the cusp, the end of her pleasurable torment. Her womb clenched hard around Adianeas’ cock, seeming to squeeze the very life force from it She threw her head back and howled as her climax gripped her, uncaring of if Adaineas had the same end. Then something happened that she had not expected. As her body calmed she felt her heart open. Invisible threads, seen only in her mind’s eye, flowed from her body, reaching for what, she did not know. As she continued to watch, the silver threads entered Adaineas’ body, weaving a tapestry around his heart with ancient symbols of unity, binding them together as one, before leaving his heart and enacting the same ritual on hers, but as a golden thread. Adaineas was determined to bring her to completion once more before he allowed his seed to release in her body. He swore that there would be no questions of whose babe she ever carried in her womb. But, her body clenched around his cock, catching it in a very pleasurable vice, was his undoing. The force of their mutual release shook the bed away from the wall. He tumbled over the cliff exultingly, knowing that the fact that he could bring her that powerful a release was almost enough satisfaction in itself. His body was sated, his soul at rest, when he felt the breeze of power, a memory of that which he thought banked for the moment. Opening his senses, he saw the same as Anya; first a thread of silver, then one of gold—linking their hearts, making them one. Anya opened her mind and felt his driving needs, stubborn determination and infinite patience to finish whatever he set out to accomplish, and it seemed that her compete satiation was at the top of his list. “Adaineas,” she whispered, testing a theory.

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She smiled as his eyes widened, feeling his surprise at hearing her words without seeing her lips move. But she also felt his determination to see her physical fire momentarily quenched, which far outweighed his curiosity about was happening between them on a more mental level Her eyes fluttered closed as the next wave began building and her moans increased as sensual pleasure rippled down her nerve endings. Adaineas felt her call his name, a fact that shocked him a bit. He was not used to someone wandering in and out of his psyche. He was more surprised to find that he felt her every emotion, want and need, understanding better the agony she had endured when she focused so much power earlier in the day. He felt her heart beating in perfect sync with his and held her close, vowing she would never endure such pain again. “Mine.” He whispered, testing his end of their mind link. It seemed to echo between them as he gripped her tighter, reverberating in a type of echo through the room, an unseen bevel in the air affecting even Tralas and Genis The two younger brothers had ‘sensed’ the moment of their bonding and were envious that their elder brother had bonded had found his perfect mate. To be one with such a powerful woman as the Seer was a one in a lifetime event, and they could only pray to the Goddess for a similar match, a ‘heart’ connection. Anya was consumed by another climax, and screamed as the intensity built. Her sensations were doubled as she felt Adaineas’ climax in tandem with her own, and their senses were momentarily overloaded with the echoed pleasure. Adaineas collapsed, falling over Anya, burying his head in her neck, inhaling their mingled scents. As they fell back to the bed, Anya turned her head and faced the two brothers’, sensing each needing a mate of their own. “Tralas, I see a special person coming into your life and your patience will bring this reward. Genis, my young brother,” she whispered, “Fear not for a time will come when your bond mates will cross each of your paths. Until that day know that I am here for you. Though Adaineas owns my heart, you are brothers to Adaineas, therefore precious to me.” Her arms curved around both Genis and Tralas, pulling them to lay curled around the exhausted pair. The four talked about things to come until they fell into a deep sleep, tightly wrapped around one another, cementing their connection. Several times, during the night, Adaineas and Anya woke, pleasuring each other through well into the following day, tightening their heart bonds. Time had no meaning as they slept in a tightly woven knot of limbs, locked away in a private world, loving and sleeping until their powers had rejuvenated, undisturbed by the others in the Royal house.

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Chapter Twelve Anya sensed Tralas and Genis quietly leaving the room, too comfortable to even crack one eye. She was comforted knowing they no longer felt left out of the bond between Adaineas and her, but felt they were brothers of her heart, connected. “My little Seer,” Adaineas growled in her ear, spooned against her. She felt the hardness of his cock prod insistently against her buttocks as she shifted, peeking over her shoulder. “The day is half done, and we need to eat.” It was a weak excuse but it was the only thing he could come up with as he gazed into her slumberous eyes. He was not completely comfortable with the bond they shared and was seeking a way to distance himself until he could come to terms with his turbulent feelings. Anya was not quite sure of how she felt about their bonding, conflicting emotions of joy, that the bond had been made, as well as guilt that she had not told him it was even a possibility to begin with. Not many people knew about the ‘heart-bond’, as it only happened when two people, the only two halves of a whole in the universe, found that one special connection. “I am sorry I did not tell you this could happen. I could have foreseen it and warned you that the bond was possible,” she admitted softly, shifting her eyes away from his piercing gaze. “You have to know I would not have ever trapped you deliberately.” “Do not feel guilty, Anya.” He kissed her neck, inhaling the musky scent from their marathon pleasure bout. “You could not have known.” His warm chuckled vibrated around and through her, “Of anyone in this house, you are the least likely to deliberately trap or harm anyone. If it was destined to be, nothing you could have said would have stopped this.” His arms tightened around her, pulling her against him. “I do not regret this, but it will take time to get used to it. Time we may not have.” They lay there, wrapped up in each other until he muttered, “We must get up for I imagine my father is eager to discuss what the next move should be.” His reluctance was plain and her sigh echoed it. When she moved, as if to get up, his arms tightened around her waist, refusing to let her go so easily. Pealing his hands from around her waist, tempted to crawl back into his arms, she said, “I do not want to leave this bed either, my love. But needs must. Plus, we need to find Rasafiel, so she might join us. She can be of great use to us as she knows where the Obsidi are hiding.” “Surely, once the binding was broken,” he frowned, not happy about releasing her but knowing he must, “they will were alerted. By the time we get there they will have moved their base to another location.” “There is a slight chance they did not feel the break and I think it is one we must take. Even if they have moved I may still be able to sense the residue of their departure once we get there.” She sat on the side of the bed, her hair tangled around her head in snarls and knots. But she felt glorious. Stretching her arms above her, she arched her back in a delicate stretch to work the kinks out of her back, which had been contorted by some of their more adventurous maneuvers. Adaineas watched her with an indulgent smile. Placing a soft kiss on her lower back, he was rewarded for his tenderness by the sight of shivers rippling under her skin as he moved

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along her spine to her neck, his lips and tongue meandering, taking their time to map every crevice and crease. His arms snaked around her waist and spread her thighs, opening her core to his gentle. One hand played with her clit while the other speared two fingers into her wet channel. “I can think of other things in which we could partake of at this moment, my little Seer, than fighting,” he rumbled, his lips brushing the base of her neck while slowly rubbed her clit. The flame was building in her body and she arched and whimpered, falling back against his chest, her head landing on his shoulder. “Adaineas!” she moaned hotly. “What?” he whispered against her ear, his tone innocent of the devilment of his touch. Nibbling her tiny lobe, his hands continued their controlled forays. “What do you want?” Anya could not form a coherent thought as his wicked hands continued their play, her own hands limp along her sides, useless under his tender onslaught. One thought was prevalent as she felt her own dampness. “Make love to me,” she moaned. “Fill me.” His chuckle was her only answer as he moved his hands to her waist, shifting her as he would Lifting her leg he pulled it over his thighs, opening her further, wider. His cock pulsed between her wet, glistening thighs before plunging into her cunt. She cried out, changing the angle of her body to take all of him, her flesh gripping him tightly as he thrust evenly, at a controlled pace. She wanted him as wild as she felt at this moment, wanted him to plunder her, ravish her. Her nails bit into his arm, wrapped firmly around her waist, while his hand moved up and captured one breast. The sensitive nipple poked his palm, eager for play. Adaineas reveled in her response to him and tweaked her nipple between his thumb and finger, tugging until it stood proud and erect. His control was thin, ready to snap at any second. Sweat covered his brow as he sought to bring her to fulfillment before he took his own. Her response to him was driving him wild He wanted nothing more than to plunge into her hard, to be a wild animal, totally letting go. A thin wail came from her as she thrashed on the bed, pushing against him. “Adaineas! Fuck me!” She tried to move faster against him, her wildness growing as he maintained his control over her movements. She dug her nails into his arm and he grunted. . In retaliation he lowered his mouth to her shoulder and bit down sharply. “Sheath your claws, little witch,” he growled, increasing his rhythm slightly, pushing harder. “Then fuck me, Adaineas! Stop playing with me,” she demanded, her voice heated with her frustration. His tenuous control snapped at her words He pushed her so she lay on her stomach, pulling her hips off the bed and arching her ass in the air, plunging harder and faster with the force of his penetration. His hands bit into her hips as he held her immobile, even as she tried to push against him. Her back arched as she cried out, lost in total abandon, and her hands curled into the blankets as she pushed her body towards his next thrust. Crying out at every thrust, she felt her muscles bunch and release, the inner walls of her wet channel sucking at his cock. Feeling her inner pulsing, he thrust even harder, ramming into her so hard that she bumped her head into the carved headboard. She ignored the slight pain and growled at him, a fine sheen of sweat covering her back as she arched and writhed against him. The orgasm she reached for was so close, almost

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within her grasp and his pants, between the sounds of flesh colliding against flesh, urged her on. Noticing the telltale signs of her oncoming orgasm, Adaineas slowed his strokes, pulling his cock out until only the tip of the head barely entered her channel He paused teasingly. As she froze in a moment pf panic, tricked into thinking he was stopping their enjoyable play, he slowly the length drive back in until he could go no further. Even though she mewled her pleasure, urging him to move faster so she could gain completion, he ignored her, closing his eyes to focus on he bombardment of feelings as the walls of her channel closed tight around him. Anya went wild, clawing at the sheets, crying out her frustration as he slowly fucked her, her eyes glazing over as she fell into delirium. She could hear him muttering but the words were intelligible, her own mind splintering in the sensual haze that enveloped her whole being, far too busy feeling to listen. “Mine, mine, mine,” he insensibly chanted with each hard thrust. His eyes blazed as his hands stroked her flanks, pulling her in slow motions as he slowly thrust. The pleasure arcing between them was almost too much to bear and Adaineas bent over her, sliding his hand over her stomach and lower, to the pearl now swollen and hard, emerging from its hood. With one soft touch she shattered. Her back bowed as she screamed her satisfaction to any who might hear. She felt the studder between them, then it was as if the were bound together, tighter than before. In that instant she felt his cock erupt inside her, filling her womb with his seed, setting off her second orgasm. His arms held her close as he emptied his essence. Both trembling, and jerking, in the aftermath of their meltdown, it took several minutes for them to sink back into their individual minds, to have the ability to move. Adaineas pulled his limp cock from her body and gently lowered her to lie on her stomach before slumping down on the covers beside her. Both panted as they tried to regain their breathing. Still lost in the euphoria of their orgasm, Anya couldn’t find the strength to move. It seemed she had no muscles to even turn over onto her back. She was content to just lay there, eyes closed as she waited for the world to right itself. Hearing a knock at the door Adaineas barely lifted his head, tossing a portion of the sheet over Anya’s limp body as Tralas unlocked the door. One look was all it took and he smiled gently at his brother and Anya, still trying to catch their breath while he set two trays on the nearby table. “Genis is coming in behind me,” he thought to mention, not looking directly at the couple sprawled over the bed. Adaineas’ answer was a simple grunt as he turned to pull his Seer into his arms, too tired to do more than that. Genis walked into the room without knocking, knowing Tralas was already there. He shut the door with one foot and placed another tray holding a pitcher and mugs beside the others on the table. “Mother and Father have been asking about you two.” He ignored the groans coming from Adaineas, moving from his comfortable cuddle to lean against the side of the bed and put on his pants and boots. His eyes moved over Anya’s lax form before he

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walked to the table. He poured a drink from the pitcher and grimaced at the taste of fruit juice. Glaring at Genis, who merely smiled innocently, simply irritated him. “No ale?” “I thought we might need clearer heads this day,” Genis shrugged before picking up his own glass and drinking deeply. “And I didn’t know if Anya was up to anything harder than this at this time of day.” “Has there been any word as of yet?” Adaineas asked, speaking quietly in difference to Anya, who had yet to move more than one small foot. He could see her trying to gather her energy. He grinned as she rolled on her back, her eyes remaining closed, ignoring the conversations going on around her. When the door opened again, Adaineas had to bite back a sound of aggravation when Michelle stormed into the room and glared at the three men as if they were something that had crawled out from under a rock. Kneeling by the bed, she whispered into Anya’s ear. Turning over to face Michelle, with a small, sly smile on her face, Anya heard, “A courier has arrived for you from the Order. Should I send her in?” “Yes.” Anya sighed, sitting up and dragging the sheet along with her. Michelle helped her get comfortable with gentle hands, glaring once more at the men. “It will be as you say.” She bowed to Anya before storming out the room, and all three males had the good sense to stay silent. Anya stood and dropped her sheet, pulling on her robe that someone had thoughtfully provided for her. She had just picked up her brush when the door opened again. The messenger pulled a package out of her bag and placed it in Anya’s waiting hand. Anya opened it and froze as a ring fell into her hand. The mark of her house was stamped on its face: a circle of red firestones surrounding a single black pearl. “Where was this found?” Her voice was cold and her tone hard as her eyes blazed at the paling courier. “I need to know everything…” “Magaire Pass, on Delta 6. There are already trackers on the way there, my lady. We should know more in the next few days.” Thank you, Lissa,” she hugged the messenger tightly, contrite to have berated the one person who had brought her this long-awaited inkling of hope. “Please forgive me if I am short but this is—” “We are close right?” Lissa interrupted, excited to be the one to bring their Seer such joyful news. “This is the first sign in over three years so do not lose faith now, my lady.” Begging their leave she bowed to the gathering and sped out the door. She knew that the sooner she left, the sooner she could send information back. Anya stood looking at the ring before closing it tightly in her fist. Moving over to a large chest, sitting beside the window, she opened it and retrieved a portrait of a man, with a woman and three girls, and a small box. Closing the chest, she tilted the portrait on the top of the chest, leaning it against the wall. Adaineas could see her turmoil and stood behind her, hugging her back to his chest. “What is it, Anya,” he murmured. “This is the ring of my father’s house.” She studied the ring, offering an explanation absently. “All was lost before I entered the care of the Order, or so I had thought.”

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Recognizing the emblems on the ring as part of the ruling house he mentioned, “I did not realize you came from the echelon.” She continued to surprise him as he pulled her life’s story from her piece by piece. “Please tell me…?” he beseeched, smoothly easing her into a chair, ring in one hand, the small box in the other. She sighed, thinking back on those bright days, before darkness had first touched her life. “Our house was the ruling house of Delta 6.” She looked up at Adaineas, tears welling in her eyes. “My father and mother were lost, long ago in a flood.” A sad smile touched her mouth as she opened her tightly clenched fist, staring at the ring. “I was eight summers and remember that Delta 6 had been through a harsh, but short, winter. When the early spring thawed the ice, packed in the mountains, a devastating flood destroyed our village and most of the people were lost. Everything was in chaos. I remember people screaming, while others searched for survivors. It was a long time until we realized that my father and mother were among the dead. They were found in the wreckage of one of the houses. I had been on a retreat with the Seers, part of a select few taken for training, and had returned home after. My powers, already hinting at what I would some day be, had been connected to them and I remember feeling their life forces leave their bodies. “It was my screams of horror, and pain, which alerted the Seers to the disaster and we rushed home. But we arrived too late to be of much help.” Genia handed her a mug brimming with cool juice, his heart breaking as her painful tears flowed down her face. Before continuing, she sipped, wetting parched lips, soothing her dry throat. “It took them days to account for everyone, only to find two missing. All traces had been wiped clean of my sisters, Kallie and Vespa, and it was thought that they had been swept away by the waters. Trackers spent days searching the countryside, looking for any signs that they lived. But there has been nothing. “Over the years we have sent scouts periodically searching the countryside for any information but they found nothing. No sign. No hint. Nothing…” she sobbed, “until today.” She held up the ring and it glittered in the morning light. “Vespa is the eldest, and was so proud of this ring. She had just had her ninth birthday and Papa had just given it to her as a gift. I remember she was wearing it the night before the flood, refusing to put it away as mother told her. “With the finding of this ring, I believe that Vespa survived and, perhaps, this will bring us some news of Kallie as well…” She opened the small box and placed the long lost treasure with the other the family jewels that had survived, which the Mother Superior had given to her when she had turned twenty-one years. “Do you think I am a fool to have lived on hope this long?” she asked, tilting her head back so she could look at Adaineas’ face. He knelt before her, taking the box from her hands and placing it on the table “As long as you are alive, and there has been no definite word as to whether they are alive, or dead, you always have hope.” He pulled her into his arms and sat in the chair, pulling her onto his lap. “There is always hope,” he murmured, his face buried in her hair. Anya leaned against his chest and closed her eyes, breathing deeply of his scent, finding comfort in his strong arms about her. “Yes…there is always hope.” Later, as they ate, the brothers noticed that while Anya picked at her food, her eyes stared at portrait. Adaineas cut sweet morsels, attempting to persuade her to eat, but she pushed his hand away. “Leave me be. I promise to eat in a moment, but I cannot stop looking

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at my family. We were so happy.” She smiled as she thought on her parents, and how they would have heartily approved of her bond with Adaineas. “Tell us about them,” Genis encouraged, eager to find out more about their Seer’s life Anya laughed, thinking Genis would have fallen head over heels for her younger sister “My little sister, Kallie…she is the one standing to my right…she took after our mother. I was so proud of her. She was always weaving tapestries and could make the most beautiful clothes out of virtually anything. She and I would sit for hours, talking about anything, or nothing at all. She could weave the most intricate designs and often made Vespa and I special cloths for our dolls. “She was a year younger than I but so smart, eager to learn more about her chosen craft. She had already been accepted as apprentice to the village weaver and we never doubted she would become a great craftswoman. “Vespa, at nine, was far more active, never wanting to sit still for more than a moment.” She smiled, remembering Vespa’s hardheadedness and stubbornness “Our parents had decided that Vespa would be the heir to their holdings and she had been proving her worth. I remember her teachers speaking to our parents, saying she was skillful in her studies, quickly learning than anyone else they had previously taught. But I am not so sure that wasn’t simply to flatter my father,” she added, with a grin of a younger sister. “She excelled in sports, loving to run, often faster than the boys. She was the first to learn how to ride. I learned to ride, but she was far better. She practically lived on her horse, riding whenever she could. I know my father was often at his wits’ end every time he had to argue with her to come in, and act more feminine. “Our parents thought, since I had shown an aptitude for ‘seeing’, that the Order would be my place and I was happy to have a place to go, a refuge after their deaths I was comforted to be with those who I knew me, and loved me already.” “It sounds just like us.” Tralas smiled “Always supporting each other, never very far apart.” “Yes.” She squeezed Tralas’ hand quickly in agreement. “I was lost when they were taken from me. It was Mother Superior who said that if no body was found there was still a chance they were alive. Now that we have a lead on Vespa’s whereabouts, I pray Kallie survived as well.” Adaineas kept silent, lending this strength to her, and stroking her hair away from her face. He did not wanting to burst her bubble of hope. It had been so long since the sisters had disappeared that the chances of them being found alive were slim. But hope always springs eternal.

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Chapter Thirteen They finished their meal and escorted Anya to her rooms. Explaining to the waiting Michelle that she did not want to take time to have a bath prepared, she bathed in a basin of warm water. While she washed they discussed her package, and the courier’s news. “What do you think, Michelle?” Anya asked quietly, her mood somber as she dried her body before sprinkling scented powder over her skin. “For once the man is right.” Anya assumed by the grunt that she was referring to Adaineas. “As long as you have hope, anything is possible. The ring is proof that Vespa is alive, or that someone knows what happened to her.” Michelle quickly braided Anya’s hair while Anya dressed. Fastening her buttons Anya asked after Rasafiel. “And how is she doing? Have you checked on her? I haven’t been in much shape to talk to her before now.” “I knew you would ask, so I stopped by last night. They haven’t let her out of her rooms, keeping her locked in. After they posted guards at her door the Maji even warded her windows so there would be no chance of her ‘escape’, regardless of her promises. The King still wants to question her but decided it might be best to wait until you were ‘feeling better’.” This last was said with a distinct smirk on Michelle’s lips. With a giggle, and a smack on her friend’s arm, Anya checked herself one last time in the ornate mirror hanging on the wall. Ready to face whatever the day might bring, she smoothed her gown and turned to the door. “Well…let’s go get our new ally, and see what she can tell us.” Stepping out of her room she could see guards standing in front of a nearby door and walked towards them, a jaunty hitch in her step. “Good day, gentlemen,” she said with a glowing smile. The guards stood at rigid attention, staring straight ahead at the wall across the hallway, ignoring her and Michelle. “I have come to escort Rasafiel to the King.” “We have orders that no one is to enter or leave this room without our Captain’s written permission,” one of the guards snapped, not taking care to see whom he addressed. The second guard, having recognized the petite Seer, watched her champion’s approach with a sick feeling in his throat, realizing the immediate error of his partner’s words. Anya drew in a calming breath, praying for patience. The warrior woman stomped up and set Anya gently out of harm’s way, blood in her eyes at someone daring to speak to her Seer with such irreverent attitude. “Open the door, boy, before I open it with your heads,” she snarled, baring her sharp teeth. Both men flinched and sharply moved out of her way, each facing the other as they moved to the middle of the hall. With a wave of her hand, Michelle bowed to the Seer, saying, “Seer Anya, please feel free to enter,” taking great delight in seeing the two men pale further as Anya opened the door without ever touching it. As they walked past, the two men broke out in an icy sweat, praying that the Goddess would forgive them for their grave error in judgment. Anya was delighted to see that the room was bright, and the fire cheerful and warm. She smiled at the sight of Rasafiel, dressed neatly in a pair of tiny breeches and a long shirt, both the color of forest trees. Seated on a bright cushion, her eyes were peacefully closed as she

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meditated, humming a mantra. Gently clearing her throat, not wanting to jolt the Gordaine out of her meditation too quickly, Anya waited patiently. Merely moments passed before the tiny woman felt their presence, and she blinked her bright blue eyes a few times, as if to clear the midst of her visions. Bowing her head to Anya in subservience as they moved closer, Rasafiel said, “Good day, my lady.” “I am pleased to see you are looking better then when we last met, Rasafiel,” Anya chuckled, remembering the quick wrapping of the small naked body. “Would you like to get out of this room for a while? We are going to meet with the King, and others, to discuss the Obsidis, and could use your wisdom.” Rasafiel’s face lit up with opportunity to leave her room. Not that it was a bad room, as rooms go, but she was eager to see what the rest of the Royal house was like. She had been trapped form so long that it would be good to simply stretch her legs. “Anything to help you, my lady,” Rasafiel smiled widely. “I have wanted to explore the garden. I have not had the chance to see be at one with nature in such a very long time.” Glancing yearningly outside she tentatively asked, “Do you think they will let me?” Anya understood her need for, to be apart from plants and flowers, with the gardens so temptingly nearby, would be painful to one normally so close to nature as the Gordianes. She wondered how the sprite had survived, bound as she had been by the Obsidis. . “I will speak with the King. I do not see any reason why we cannot take you outside once our business has been completed. We can’t have you staying locked up in here all day, now can we?” Rasafiel took Anya by the hand and pulled her from the room. Michelle followed, walking closely behind them, acting as guard to the two women. The two women watched Rasafiel, half child, bouncing around with an unprecedented exuberant, and half woman, her petite form lithe and flowing as she walked with an inner rhythm. As the three women walked down the stairs they saw several servants tending the hall; some sweeping, others polishing When Rasafiel saw two of the women arranging flowers, she rushed across the floor to inhale the sweet scents Anya took note of the look in the woman’s eyes before she closed them, burying her face in the bright, fragrant blooms. Looping her arm through Michelle’s, they watched Rasafiel for a moment, both women caught by her melancholy. “Do you think we could get some flowers for her room?” she asked Michelle quietly, so no one could overhear. Michelle nodded as tinkling laughter echoed through the hallways. “Such wonders have come since I was asleep,” Rasafiel chimed, spinning in place. “Colors are more vibrant. And the flowers are…more fragrant as I have ever smelled. I must see them for myself. Please…please, tell me I may go to your gardens later today?” she rushed forward, hands wringing as she pleaded her case. “I will be good. I promise.” She worried her lip suddenly “Do you think the King will forbid it? Even though I have sworn my oath to him, and to you, I do not think he trusts me. And possibly he has good reason. But I would not break it.” Her face was heartbreakingly full of hope. “Please speak to him for me?” Her words tumbled over themselves as she tried to be brave in the face of possible denial. Anya laid her hand on Rasafiel’s cheek, soothing without words. “I am sure we can manage an hour or two in the gardens. Do not fret, Rasafiel. Instead let us go to the meeting so that we might see a way to defeat our mutual enemies. You are seeing darkness where

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there is none. The King is not a harsh ruler, who would deny your request to visit his gardens. He is merely cautious, as you would be if one of your family had been treated as his was.” There was no condemnation in her voice at what had transpired in the past, no hatred but just simple statement of the facts. With a huge sigh that seemed to come from her toes, Rasafiel said, “I understand, my Lady, I do. I will just have to prove myself worth.” With a decisive nod she pulled her courage about her. “Let us go and plan our attack.” They moved through the main hall, then the dining area. They passed guards but were not stopped as they made their way to the King’s private meeting rooms. The carpet, lush and thick, muffled their footsteps as they neared the door and the King’s guards opened the doors before Anya could say a word, for they were expected. Heads turned as the three women moved into the room and the door shut behind them. Greeting the King with a low bow, Anya walked towards the huge table where a map had been laid out. Michelle started to follow and realized that she had lost Rasafiel. Her head had not stopped twisting about to see everything she could since the doors had shut behind them, and she was paying little attention to the people gathered in the room. Spying the wide windows she sped towards them, intent on being as close to the garden as possible, just in case the King decided to deny her access. Anya seeing the dilemma smiled and pointed to the chairs closest to the cracked windows, the fragrance of the sweet flowers filling the room with their perfume, and called out, “Rasafiel...” “My lady?” the yellow-gold head reluctantly turned to face her. “Come…sit here …but pay attention” A finger flicked the small nose, warning her to bring her wandering attention back to the more important matters at hand, as the tiny female jumped up and sat as prim as she knew. Glumly glancing one last time at the rows and rows of bright blossoms so far from reach, she turned her attention to the more boring matters of state Peeking over the edge of the table she watched, and listened. Michelle, not trusting the Gordaine to pay head Anya’s words with the gardens so close, took up sentry in a hard chair next to Rasafiel, a silent living statue, and, as Rasafiel glanced at her stone face, she perceived that paying attention to what was being said was a far better fate than being locked back in her room. And this woman looked to have few qualms about seeing that she behaved. “I trust you are fully recovered, Anya?” Donash gently teased, smiling with understanding over her plight from the day before. Seeing her blush he took pity and motioned her to come join the others seated around the table. “Thank you for asking after my health, Donash.” She was not willing to discuss the events of the past days and sought to change the focus of the conversation. “King Anginus, Rasafiel would like to visit the gardens later today, if that is acceptable. The Gordaines have always been guardians of nature and I believe it would be beneficial to allow her some daily access to the gardens. Under guard of course.” The king watched Rasafiel for moment, seeing the hopeful glances she gave the garden, oblivious at what was going on around her. He hid a smile when he saw Michelle poke the thin sides with a blunt finger, bringing the crystal blue eyes back to the inside of room, instead of the outside, where they obviously preferred. “I will agree with your recommendation Seer,

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as long as a guard accompanies her.” He couldn’t stop his smile when he heard the muffled squeal of joy. He was oddly satisfied to be able to offer so much happiness for doing so little, and dreaded the decisions he would have to soon make, as ruler of his empire. “Let us get down to business. Reports are beginning to come in from all over the. There are definite signs of the mysterious Obsidis.” He motioned to the city map, spread to one side of the table, markers placed where the rooms had been found. “The Obsidis are not mysterious,” Rasafiel advised the room. “They are ancient, as old as the Maji and Seers whom they fought bitterly against in the last wars. We believed that they were eradicated during those times.” Turning to Anya she mentioned, “Your Mother Superior took part in the wars, Lady Anya. She could give you details about the Obsidis as she was there, in the thick of it, to the end.” Anya studied the map. There was much ground to cover, and less time as every minute passed. “Perhaps we should contact those who took part in the last wars. Their thoughts regarding our current threat would be invaluable and it is very possible they would be able to guide us in planning our next move. It would be good to know where they initially formed their band.” “That’s easy.” Rasafiel said. “Your planet, Seer…Delta 6.” Stunned silence met her innocent reply. “Are you positive?” Anya choked out in a whisper. Rasafiel nodded “Aye, for that’s where I was sleeping when I was so rudely awakened. When we few chose to stay behind we each chose our place to sleep, forming hives of communities on various planets in your system, and others. If your system ended, due to some major calamity, there would still be some safe on distant planets. But, since the wars were over, we saw no need to watch. The others, who went ahead, had promised to come back and awaken us. We chose to spend our time on Delta 6, deep under a mountain in the Magaire Pass. A group of us slept in the caverns below the mountain ranges, with ample heat and moisture to keep our bedchamber safe and snug. When I was discovered by the Obsidis…” she paused to wipe her nose, her eyes brimming with unshed tears, “…and awoken, all of my family were gone, their chambers destroyed. I do not know why the others have not returned, but there will be much grieving for our loss.” “If this is true, King,” Donash spoke up, “then it would be in our best interests to find as many of these hives as we can, and awaken them We must stop Rasafiel’s binding from happening to another. I have a suggestion, however. I’ve known Anya since she was young and her home was originally on Delta 6. Perhaps she could assist in the scouting, as she is more familiar with the terrain than we would be. The fact that she was a child when last there should have no bearing as children often see what we do not.”“ Anya looked at him with wide eyes. To go back to Delta 6, after being away so long... “It has been a long time since I was last on Delta 6 and I do not think I would remember much of it anymore,” she hedged, ambivalence ricocheting through her. What if it had all change so much she was lost? Tugging on Donash’s sleeve she decided to share her news. “Today a courier came...” She shuddered before continuing, not sure she still believed. “They sent me Vespa’s ring.” She lowered her head to hide her sudden tears of joy. Donash knew

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how long she had been waiting for any morsel of news and sighed, knowing that further discovery might break her heart. “Perhaps this is another sign that you are needed on Delta 6. You could be there, ready to welcome her home. Have you tried to trance, to follow her path?” Anya shook her head “I am too far away. If I am to trance, then I must be on Delta 6. That would optimize my efforts. I would be happy to investigate the Gordaine remains. Rasafiel could help show us the way.” King Anginus rubbed his face. “We must alert the Gordaine to the potential danger to them from the Obsidis. If what Rasafiel says is true, they may not ally with us. Didn’t you say they are watchers? They may refuse to help us, aiding only their kind. But I think Donash is correct. You must go to Delta 6 and see what you can find in the caverns. And we must gather information from those who fought in the last wars to see what knowledge they can share. Beyond that I must wait.” Rasafiel turned suddenly. “If other Gordaines are awakened they will ally with you.” Her eyes burned bright at the thought of what she had seen upon being awakened from her long sleep. “Once it is learned that an entire hive was destroyed, and myself bound to that ancient evil, they will want vengeance. They will ally with you, sire, if only to destroy those who have harmed us. Once, we were watchers and our magic encouraged others to thrive; plants to grow, civilizations to flourish.” She sank back down into her chair but remained tense and the hope for vengeance burning in her eyes. “When we left it was because we felt that we were no longer needed. We thought we had been forgotten. This threat proves that there are those who remember the old ways, and old enemies. I will go with Lady Anya to Delta 6 and show her our caverns, help her in any way possible. I can show you where the other hives, those I know of.” She began crying, delicate hands covering her eyes as she wept, and her silent sobs wracked her tiny body. “They destroyed my family; my sister and five brothers as well as my parents. The Obsidis destroyed all that I am, giving no thought to any preserving life that might threaten theirs. You must go. Warn the other Gordaine, who may know of more spread out beyond this system. They will help you if you tell them all that has happened while they slept.” Silence had descended on the room with her passionate words. The brothers moved to surround Anya and Rasafiel, and Adaineas moved on silently feet to stand behind Anya, one hand on her shoulder, the other around her waist, comforting and solid. He did not care who noticed their closeness. All he cared about was comforting her in this time of heartbreaking sorrow. She leaned into his body, her hand covering his, her eyes wet with tears that refused to fall. Her psyche vibrated with Rasafiel’s devastating pain, her righteous anger, and demand for revenge. “The so it shall be done” King Anginus slammed his hand on the table. “Lady Anya, Seer of the Royal house, will go to Delta 6, along with my sons and Rasafiel. I will send a full contingent of guard with you to assist you in searching the caverns. Rasafiel can give us the locations of the hives she remembers so that we can send ships. Once we awaken any surviving Gordaines, they will be brought here for their protection. With the wards put up by

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the Magi and Seers in residence we will prove to be a formidable fortress.” His determination resonated through the room, firing up the blood of his sons, and Michelle. “We will meet this threat with all available resources. Donash, contact both the Seers and the Maji. I want this done in haste, but do not overlook the dangers. Take no chances. Get what information you can and return with haste.” Motioning to Rasafiel, he asked that she point out those locations she knew. She was of great help, remembering more areas with each new pick. Once the locations had been chosen, the King sent orders with Donash for certain Maji to travel on the ships with his soldiers. These emissaries would be on special transports, to be the first contacts with the Gordaines, teams to bring them to safety. The King also gave strict orders that all Gordaines were to be treated with the utmost respect and caution and the first person firing upon, or injuring them in any way, would be executed on the spot. He was taking no chances. Rasafiel hugged his neck at the decree, causing the older male to blush a rosy pink. Queen Asperial giggled to see her husband so discomfited. Anya thought it wisest to move Rasafiel out of the King’s sight. She was sure he was not used to tiny females, or any females, hugging his neck without thought of royal repercussions. “Rasafiel, let us go to the gardens.” Following the speeding female running through the hallways, searching for a way out to the gardens, Anya thought about what the King had planned. She knew the he would keep his word, and bring the Gordianes to safe harbor. And she would make sure they were never used or harmed again in any way. With the opportunity to go to Delta 6, she had a chance to find her sisters, if they were still alive. She would have her mate by her side, and it seemed almost as if she were following the thread of destiny, being led down the path she was destined to follow. But fate is often fickle. All could change once she arrived on Delta 6, but she knew it was where she needed to go, the place that held the answers to her questions. ***** Anya sat on a bench under a flowering tree in the corner of the garden while Rasafiel flitted from plant to plant, stopping at the water to play with the fish that lazily moved under the surface of water. Her thoughts swirled in her head, spinning and spinning, never offering an answer to her hundreds of questions. What would they find when they reached the caverns? Would they find any signs of Vespa? Kallie? Sensing that she was on longer alone, she glanced over to see Adaineas, standing with Tralas and Genis, at the entrance to the gardens. When his eyes met hers she jumped up off the bench, leaping into his arms. As his arms folded over her back, hers wrapped tightly around his neck. Closing her eyes and breathed in his scent calmed her confusion though her breathing remained shaky as she attempted to suppress her unsubstantiated fears. She felt him move, seating on her bench. Watching Rasafiel tormenting the fish, he propped his chin on the top of her head and listened.

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“Tell me my fears are foolish. Tell me I am being silly and all will be fine. Say anything that will allay my fears of what will come to pass, so they do not consume me.” Tears clogged her voice as she tilted her head up to meet his eyes. Seeing his eyes radiating quiet strength and assurance did much to alleviate her stress. “You know that nothing is ever certain.” His voice was calm and soothing as he ran his hand up and down her back. “We will get through this, Anya. I promise we will not stop till we uncover what happened to your sisters, and stop the Obsidis. Trust that I will allow no harm to come to you.” His arms tightened about her as he closed his eyes, inhaling the perfume of her hair and skin. “This is moving very fast for us. You have faith in your calling, relying much on what you sense and see. I do not need that, having faith in you. But I do require being first in your thoughts. Can you understand this?” “I often have no other thoughts than those about you, Adaineas.” She smiled wickedly, before kissing him softly on his cheek. “You are my heart, bound to me by something far stronger than any magic in either Maji or Seer. It will last until my death, and beyond.” She placed her hand over his heart, feeling it’s strong, even beat, then moved his hand to cover her breast. “This heart is yours.” He closed his eyes and savored the feel of her in his arms, desiring nothing more than to shut out the rest world, memorize every inch of her skin by licking, sucking, and biting every tasty place he could find. He steeled the urge to throw her to the ground and pound into her, making her scream as she came. But there was no time to give in to delicious dreams. His father had decided that they would leave at first light. She knew he wanted to spare her any more pain and disillusionment and all she wanted, at that very moment, was to fall asleep in his arms after making leisurely love. But, for now, they were out of time.

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Chapter Fourteen Anya sat curled up in a comfortable chair, looking out into empty space from the window onboard the war cruiser, Daminth. She had been sitting alone in her rooms since being placed there by a vigilant Michelle earlier that afternoon. Adaineas had yet to show himself, and the last time she seen him had been shortly after she arrived on the ship. Once he was sure she was settled he had left her so he could ‘help prepare the ship’. Since then, Genis had popped his head in the door one or twice, as had Tralas, checking to see if she needed anything, of she was lacking anything. Silly men. Of course she needed something. She needed their brother! She wanted to cry out ‘I need Adaineas!’ but refrained, trying to be a ‘good little soldier’. Michelle had stayed behind at the Capitol. She would be taking the coded messages back and forth between other Elder Maji and Seers, who had taken part in the last war. It would take time and require a great eye for details, something Michelle had always been good at. She had known Michelle wanted more responsibilities and this was her chance. Anya sighed as she watched the stars floating by, feeling morose and out of sorts. Rasafiel had gone straight to her room where she had informed all who would listen that she would not be coming out until they landed. She was afraid of the darkness of space. The fact that she feared the deep darkness, after being a part of it for so long, flummoxed Anya. After listening to her whine about the dark…and space…anything else she found objectionable about the ship, Anya had ordered Rasafiel to get one of the medical technicians to give her a sedative, if only to help her sleep. The next time Anya had peeked in on her, she had seen nothing of Rasafiel except a rounded lump, quivering under heavy covers. It was a pitiful sight to see, the once great Gordaine trembling at the thought of so much space around them. She sighed a dejected sigh as she thought about the time she had left, locked away in this metal box. It would take them hours to jump through the transport gate connected to Delta 6 Thinking she might as well take a nap, since she had nothing else pressing on her agenda, she threw herself against the plush pillows and pulled a woven blanket over her body. Laying there, staring out the window, her soul felt empty. Without Adaineas she felt empty, and lonely. This was one of the worst drawbacks of bonding. He was around, on the bridge or somewhere else on the ship, but, with all the metal surrounding them and vast space around that, she could not sense him. They had bonded so quickly after meeting that it felt as if they had never been apart and the sensation was unsettling, an unusual conundrum for her. She did not bother turning over to see who had entered her rooms when she heard the doors slide open. She knew who it was. Her emptiness vanished in the blink of an eye, his emotions pouring over her, touching her as he whispered through her mind. His tranquil emotions soothed her turbulent ones, and she was grateful.

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“Come, Adaineas, lay with me for a while,” she murmured, closing her eyes, and reaching out her hand behind her. Feeling the mattress dip behind her, she rolled over and put her head in that special spot seeming to be carved out of his shoulder, just for her. As she lay there, listening to his breathing she sighed. “It does not seem possible that in a few hours we will be on Delta 6. I have to say that I do not trust this transport technology.” Adaineas smiled as he closed his eyes, cuddling her close, savoring this precious moment of silence and togetherness. That would be lacking once they reached Delta 6. “It is perfectly safe, Anya. Just go to sleep. Get some rest. I promise I will wake you when we arrive. That way you will be ready to start the journey to these caves Rasafiel told us about, after we pick up out trackers and guide.” Her nimble fingers distracted him from his thoughts as he mentally listed all they needed to do when they landed outside the main citadel. Unbuckling his belt, she eased his breeches open His cock hardened at the heated look in her eyes and he forced himself, much to his own dismay, to give her warning. “You know we don’t have much time before we arrive, Anya.” “We will have more than enough time, Adaineas,” she whispered, grasping his halfmasted cock, bringing out to play. He grunted as she pushed off his stomach and slid between his thighs. She smiled and daintily licked her lower lip, watching his ever-growing cock harden like a stone. Barely wetting her lips, she watched the heat rise in him, the deep rich color blooming on it’s mushroomed head in anticipation. His eyes visually devoured her mouth while hers consumed his cock. He sucked in his breath as she tightened her hold on his balls, his eyes rolling back in his head as he pushed his hips closer to her mouth, begging for her intimate touch. He couldn’t stop the harsh groan from erupting as her hot lips covered the head of his weeping cock. Anya rolled her tongue just under the ridge of flesh and felt him tense. With tight control, she slowly lowered her mouth, swallowing until his cock bumped gently against the back of her throat. She relaxed the muscles in her neck and jaw, attempting to swallow even more of his hot flesh, her throat closing over the head in an automatic reflex. She paused before talking a deep breath, starting and stopping the strong suction, allowing her tongue to drag its way up the underside of his cock like he was a favorite sweet. He shuddered in response and his hands flew to tangle in her hair, his unconscious tugging making her wince. When he muttered ‘sorry’ through clenched teeth, she grinned wickedly, knowing he was about to lose control. With teasing movements she began at his balls, licking and sucking each sac in her mouth, warming them. When she began to hum around them, she thought he would scream out his pleasure, something she had tried to pull from him during their marathon session in the tower room. His thighs started to shake as he attempted to maintain control, his hands clenched in the blankets of the bed as if to shred them with the force of his strength. Licking the length of his cock, she sucked the pearling drops of cum from the slit in its bulbous head. Moving over his body, she nibbled around his cock, tasting his thighs and belly,

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rubbing her face over his skin like a small cat. At his loud groan of frustration she pulled his cock in her mouth and sucked long, hard and deep. He lifted his hips, fucking her mouth, trying to control the movements of her head. His hips thrust against her mouth, driving his cock deeper. As she relaxed, letting him control her movements, she found they were both able to enjoy the sensations in vastly different ways. She, relaxing, was able to pull him further down her throat He, suffering from pure frustration, sought completion. She could hear him muttering and groaning, pushing and pulling, fucking her. When she raised her eyes, she saw his eyes were closed, his mouth moving as if in silent prayer, for she could not make out his words. She was delighted that she had caused him to lose himself with her, and his passion, and she could tell he was close. Placing her tongue along the ridge at the underside of his cock, she flicked back and forth as he thrust. That added motion had him freezing in mid-thrust, his cock twitching and his hips heaving as his precious life force spilled down her throat. She sat back on her heels, swallowing his fluid, bending over to lick the drops of sweat from his thighs. With each small caress his cock jumped, as if rising again, but the rest lay boneless, a relaxed mountain, chest heaving as he tried to pull in breath, which she had snatched from his lungs with her generous gift. Noticing the time, she crawled up his body, teasing him with the brush of her body over his thighs as she lightly kissed his lips. At his satisfied groan she giggled, scooting off the bed to straighten her clothes. She felt a wicked thrill at what she had done for her lover. Some might say she should have taken pleasure for herself but this had been for him, not her, and she would never change any moments they shared. She couldn’t stop her small chuckle when she heard the small sigh as he sat on the side of the bed. Maybe, in his weakened state, she would get some answers. “Have there been any new reports, Adaineas?” she asked softly, turning to face him, preferring a satisfied male, rumpled and still looking in shock, to the unrelenting darkness of space. When she stared into the stars, she felt small and insignificant. He shook his head. “We have heard nothing from our scouts. I want you to stay with either me, or one of my brothers, at all times, Anya, as I don’t know what we will find once we reach the caverns. I don’t want to chance the Obsidis having left someone behind to guard their ‘treasures’. It would be the perfect time for them to take you.” “I understand, Adaineas, and I agree. But I will take no unnecessary risks if you promise me the same. I could not bear if they decided that to destroy you was far more expedient than tormenting your whole family. If your family had waited much longer, Tralas would have been lost to you. And Genis would have been mad with the pain they were inflicting. You, as the eldest and strongest, are a far greater force to be reckoned with.” She did not want to think what might happen if another Gordaine was found by the Obsidis. She shuddered when she thought about what would happen if they bound another. She had barely enough strength to free Rasafiel

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Another would defeat her. Clothes put back together, Adaineas was ready to get this mission over and done with, to take his lady back to their home, and love her until she couldn’t walk for a week. “Let’s go. We will need to be ready to move quickly. Go get Rasafiel and I will meet the two of you in the front corridor. I am off to find Genis and Tralas since we will be taking a small shuttle down to the surface. I don’t want the Daminth landing if we can help it. Staying in orbit, we have the element of surprise and can leave quickly if need be.” Anya went down a hallway a short distance from her rooms and knocked on the door before pushing the lever and sliding it open. Rasafiel lay curled up on the blanket, waiting. Seeing Anya she sat up and pushed her legs over to side of the bed, using her toes to find her shoes so that her feet did not touch the cold metal floors. “We are there yet?” she asked petulantly, shoving her hair out of her face and over her shoulders. “Almost. Adaineas told me to have us meet them in the front corridor, where we cam on the ship… there will be a shuttle taking us down to the planet’s surface.” She smiled, watching the tiny female shrug on her new coat, muttering all the while about stars, and space, and stupid ships. “Getting off this ship cannot come too soon for me,” Rasafiel grouched. “All that dark outside this ship frightens me. I wish to be on solid ground.” Anya pressed her hands together, whispering a quick silent prayer to the Goddess for safe landing. “I have no great love for it either, Rasafiel. All of that space…”she shuddered”… makes me wonder what the Goddess’ plans are for all that space. What does she plan to put there?” Entering the hallway she saw Adaineas and Tralas standing with a quadrant of guards Adaineas looked up from his maps as they came into sight, hip lips turning up in a soft smile as he held out his hand, quickly pulling her to his side. “Where is Genis?” she asked softly, feeling the heavy weight of their gravity shield pushing down on her. “He’s on the way. Some of the equipment needed to be loaded onto the shuttle. We have a few more minutes until we are ready and then we will be planet side before you know it.” “It cannot be too soon for me,” Rasafiel grumbled, but her eyes twinkled with more spirit than she had shown on the entire trip. It was obvious to her that the interaction Adaineas and Anya were growing closer. She could see the invisible bands twining them into one, but said nothing. She smiled when she thought of what they could be, loving and laughter for many years to come. But that would only happen if they accomplished their goal. Genis finally arrived at the dock, and they entered the shuttle. The smaller ship rocked a bit on the trip, causing Rasafiel to do louder muttering Tralas offered her a seat by the main window, so she could look out if she wished, suggesting it might make the flight easier. Glowering, she refused, leaving it for another. When it was offered to Anya, she too refused, wanting nothing more than to remain glued to Adaineas’ side. There was no reason for her to watch the planet grow larger and larger, moving ever closer, and she chose, instead, to press her head against the side of Adaineas’ chest, and pray the flight was over quickly. Rasafiel had curled up in her seat, shielding her eyes with her hands, whimpering the whole way down to the surface while the men quietly discussed their plan of action. Once they

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reached the planet in one piece she would listen but, until then, she tuned them out and concentrated on her breathing, and praying her heart didn’t stop beating from her fear. Anya slowly raised her head to look at Adaineas’ profile while he discussed their plans with his brothers. His green eyes seemed to glow in the dim interior of the shuttle. Only half of his face was lit by the light reflected by the sun shining outside the shuttle, the other half was thrown into shadow. Her gaze caressed his face from his forehead, where his hair fell over in silken curls, down his cheek to his ear, where she studied the whorls of his lobe, before following the line of his jaw to his chin then back up his lips, and along his nose before ending back at his eyes. His voice was soft but rumbly, like he remembered her uncle’s being when she was younger. Deep and mysterious, his voice called to something in her, causing shivers to run down her spine. He mesmerized her, was all she could think of, as she listened to the rumble of his voice, not so much the words but more the tone and pitch. Her life at the Order seemed so far away, but it had only been less than a month since she had departed the walls for her new life. A life, she believed, the Goddess planned for her to spend by this man’s side.

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Chapter Fifteen “We will be landing in five minutes.” Tralas called out. She felt the gravitational pull as the craft entered the atmosphere—Delta 6 having a slightly lighter atmosphere than Banish 5. Because of this they would arrive much sooner than Tralas had anticipated as he carefully navigated the craft through the cloud-filled skies. Anya noticed familiar landmarks as they cleared the cloud cover and approached the Delta 6’s capitol. There were five continents on Delta 6 but only one centralized government that reported directly to the King. She barely remembered her time in the capitol, before she left for Orlaine. Those days had been chaotic, her emotions flying off in too many different directions to pay attention to what had gone on around her. As they landed on the landing pad Rasafiel struggled out of her harness, at the doors before Tralas had a chance to shut off the engines. Anya smiled, understanding her urgency completely. She wanted to do exactly as Rasafiel, but forced herself to sit and wait patiently for the vehicle to come to a complete stop. Michelle had warned her that the shuttle’s had a tendency to bounce when they landed and she had no wish to arrive disheveled or bruised. Peeking through the windows she saw the city’s ambassador, as well as an assortment of dignitaries, waiting to meet the royal princes, and their entourage. As they exited the craft, Anya stood in the back as introductions were made. These people were strangers to her now even though, at one time, they would have been considered her kin, and she silently studied their faces, florid and full, advertising that many had prospered while she had been away. But they seemed different somehow Less gracious than she remembered, but then she had been only a child. Most were unwilling to meet her eyes and shuffled their feet, as if they had other places to be. She couldn’t quite put her finger on what made her uneasy about the assembly, keeping any questions and her thoughts to herself. There was a different air about the city. Instead of pondering its strangeness she turned her attention towards the conversation going on around her. “It’s far too late for you to start out today, my lords,” She heard on of the ambassador’s mention. “I’ve arranged for the supplies you requested, as well as the scouts. And provisions have been made for you stay tonight.” “Good.” Adaineas was pleased that his father’s demands had been met. “Our men will need to be shown where to unload our transport Have arrangements been made for our men, and our lodgings? We will also need rooms for our Seer, and her small friend.” She was surprised that he was being so diplomatic when he was usually more straightforward. He was making the reason for her attendance abundantly clear; as Royal Seer there would be no innuendos over why she, a young female, would be traveling with such a large party of men. “Excuse me, Lady Anya.” A short, rotund gentleman pushed his way between the ambassador and Adaineas. “I do not know if you remember me, but I worked for your father as his majordomo when you were young. I am Reginald. “ He bowed regally to the princes as the ambassador cleared his throat, obviously not appreciating a servant making himself a pest during such a prestigious event.

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A smile lit her face. She remembered him fondly, sneaking them treats from the kitchen. “Reggie! I had thought there would be none who would still remember me. So, you have opened the house, readying it for me and my friends?” He beamed, his ruddy skin pinking at her pleasure in seeing an old friend. “Aye, Lady. Your house is still here in the city. I took the liberty of calling any as many of the old retainers I could locate, to come back and serve the Lady, when I found out you were coming for a visit. “I was not sure if you…they would want to--” he faltered, trying to figure out the best to invite royalty to visit without disgracing himself, or insulting the princes. “Anyway, I had it opened so, if you would care to lodge there during your stay.” He blanched, looking at the princes. “And it is for your pleasure as well, my lords. Anya turned to Adaineas and raised a questioning brow. “My lord Adaineas, what are your thoughts? I am sure that my family home will be a far more comfortable lodging for you, and your brothers, than any other that has been found. And it seems as if Reggie has gone to a lot of trouble. If it is as it was when I was young, I can guarantee there will be food and drink aplenty waiting for our arrival.” Genis, grinning over his eldest brother’s shoulder, liked the sound of good food and drink, especially after such a long journey. Adaineas nodded in agreement, his face solemn when he faced the ambassador, his eyes laughing at her. “Ambassador, I believe we shall take advantage of this kind invitation and spend our time at the Seer’s home. It will be more convenient and there will be ample room for our men. We would not put you out, for I am sure there are others who can use the rooms you have set aside for us.” The ambassador shrugged, as if disinterested in what they did. Feigning congeniality he replied, “Of course, my lord, as you wish. I am sure you know best for you, and your men. I can reassure you that everything you requested will be ready first thing in the morning, and I will send the provisions and guides to the Seer’s home.” Glaring daggers at the interfering servant he bid them to have a good day, with a put-upon sniff, before he waddled away. The brothers chortled quietly as they watched their eager assembly dissolve as the Ambassador stomped down the stairs, shadowed by his court toadies. Rasafiel hid her giggles as commiserating hands reached out, only to be sharply slapped away. As they walked to the transport, Anya looped her arm through Reggie’s. She was curious to know why she sensed such uneasiness from him while they had been near the dignitaries. After a bit of prodding Reggie whispered softly, so only she would hear “Strange occurrences have transpired these past years and I do not trust that man.” He scowled in the direction of the Ambassador. “There have been too many new faces in the capitol, if you know what I mean.” Anya nodded, motioning for him to keep silent for the present. They would talk later, in the privacy of her home. “What is going on? Why the whispers? What does your household have in store for us this evening” Tralas teased the secretive duo as they neared the transport. They had all been wondering about Anya’s relationship with the odd little man. Putting a finger to her lips in a gesture of silence, she pointed to the roof of the transport and then her ear, indicating they might have uninvited eavesdroppers listening to their conversations. Never a good sign.

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“Is Cook there?” she asked softly, wanting to know about those she missed from when she was younger. Out of all her family’s servers, Cook and Reginald had been her favorites. Plus, questions about old friends couldn’t be that interesting, and she hoped their listeners would soon get bored and leave them be. “Aye, Lady,” he beamed “We have been married these last 5 years, taking good care of your home. Have us a young daughter. Named her Anya, after you.” His chest puffed with pride. “You have been missed, my lady. And many will be glad you are home.” As well as many who would not be happy to find out of her return, he thought to himself. He knew that her old retainers were as eager to see her as she them, having waited many years to once again greet their long-lost lady. “That is very sweet of you to say, Reggie,” she smiled with delight. “I have missed many of you as well, and am eager to see who is at the house. She was impatient, even though it took only minutes to load the transports and urged the brothers to hurry the men along. She was eager to see what changes had been made to their house, if any. Knowing Reggie it would look exactly the same as when she left. Their home had been one of the larger homes of the city, set off on the outskirts, away from the noise and bustle. As they drove up she saw the windows had been thrown open and the house seemed to smile to see her again. She heard someone shout out and more bodies than she thought would be in residence rushed out of the house, lining the stairs in two ragged rows “Were you able to find everyone who had ever worked here before, Reggie, and then add to that number?” She laughed to see the ragtag group, sighing in relief as she saw many familiar faces. “Cook has been baking all day, lady,” Reggie said with a telling wink. “All your favorite sweets and treats.” Turning to the brothers, and Rasafiel, he explained. “Nothing was too good for our Lady Anya, my lords.” He laughed when he remembered her tricks, and talents. “Most of the time she was a joy, then others a little demon. The sweetest smile, and a flower picked just because, or she’d be running up and down the stairs at all hours of the day and night, driving us crazy trying to catch her. It seemed her nanny threatened to quit every other week, even after she had been warned by her Mother to be more ladylike.” Anya blushed and swatted him gently on the arm “Hush your talk. You are telling all the family secrets, and they will think I was a spoiled brat, when I was the most angelic of we three.” “Aye.” Reginald laughed, agreeing with her summation of she, and her sisters. “Aye, that you were. Of course your father did most of the spoiling, if I remember correctly.” He face turned somber. He had not meant to bring up the sore subject of her parents’ death. “I’m sorry, lady,” his voice choked, remembering his employer, and friend. “I never did get the chance to tell you how sorry we all were about your father and mother.” Anya patted his arm soothingly, the laughter fading from her face “I understand, Reggie. It was a hard time for us all. But things seem to work out for the best, though we do not think so at the time.” The transport stopped and Anya tumbled out. For a moment she simply stood staring at familiar faces, faces that had aged while she was away. She dropped to her knees and bowed her head, chanting a blessing for those who

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resided in the house, protecting them all, so that no harm should befall them. After drawing a rune of protection in the air, pushing it to be imprinted on the front of the house, Anya allowed Adaineas to help her rise. As she faced the household, the older servers gaped. Many remembered the day she had left, small and delicate, weeping, in shock with her parents’ death. Here, before them, stood a beautiful woman, a powerful Seer, their true Lady of the House. Cook moved forward, carrying her curly haired daughter in her arms. The child, no more than two years, had eyes as big as saucers. “Ahhh, Cook,” Anya smiled, opening her arms wide, inviting a much-needed welcome hug from a woman who had often treated her, and her sisters, like adopted daughters. “Come greet me, you wonderful soul.” “It was a blessing the day my Reginald learned of your coming, little one. Praise this day, when you have come home.” She hugged Anya tightly, the child in her arms squirming between them. “And who have you brought with you?” Cook asked, glancing over Anya’s shoulder at the devastatingly handsome men, and the petite Rasafiel. Releasing one of her favorite people Anya bowed playfully to her guests, standing patiently behind her. “I have the pleasure of introducing the princes of the Empire: Adaineas, Tralas and Genis, as well as the Lady Rasafiel, a new, but dear friend to us all. “ Disbelieving gasps came from most of the assembled staff. Even the older ones were surprised to see royalty lounging nonchalantly on the side of a transport, as if their waiting for an introduction was an every day experience. “You do have room for all of us, I trust?” Anya had to tease just a bit. The house could sleep a vast number of people, and often had in the past, with no problems. She dodged Cook’s playful smack. Reggie grinned, watching the two females act as though little time had passed. “I will make ready our best suites,” he promised. “And I have put you in your parent’s room, as is only right. I will put Lady Rasafiel in your old room, across the hall.” He gestured to some of the younger men to unload their bags. Glancing at the group of guards, who had followed in the second transport he thought for a moment of the rooms they had left. “The guards might have to double up, but we will all fit.” “Anything will be fine, Reggie. Just point us in the directions you need us to go and we will get settled in.” After being informed that he would see to their needs she laughed, happy seeing that things had not changed a bit. The brothers, and Rasafiel, watched Anya tease Reggie, pleased to see her smiling when they knew that, soon, she might not have much of a reason to smile. The staff dispersed, some helping to unload the transports, other returning to their duties. Remembering Reggie’s cryptic words before they had gotten in the transports, Anya suggested they go inside, where curious eyes and ears would not be adapt at finding out the details of their conversations. Knowing the perfect place to discuss sensitive issues, she led them into her father’s most secured room. Behind the sealed doors of the library, which her father had designed especially for such contingencies, she stood, hands on her hips, and demanding an explanation for Reggie’s cryptic warnings.

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He scratched his head and looked around, trying to think of where to start. “About two years ago, several dignitaries up and left without notice, and their sudden replacements was a strange bunch. There have been rumors of secret meetings, sudden disappearances, and even deaths. Then there are the new laws, and the stiff penalties for any infractions. There has even been a curfew set. I have noticed fewer guards patrolling the city as the years have past, until the force that is there would barely cover an uprising in the market. “Yes, I found many of the old staff for your household, but it’s been hard. Daily I am offered replacements, people trying to talk me in to getting younger help. I’ve been making sure we take precautions and have swept the house each day, since your parents’ death, for any type of listening, or monitoring, devices. My lady, I am delighted you remembered this room. It is the only one I know of, in the house, that is completely safe.” Turning to the others he explained. “He had it built for this very purpose. Confidentiality with all dealings, government and personal, was a huge issue even then, and he wanted to be assured of having one specific room that could not be accessed by any devices, or subversive means.” Cook butted into the conversation, adding her own two-cents. “I’ve noticed that strange people in the market, watching our old friends one day, only to have our friends not there the next. Or I will see a servant from another house washing, and the next day she’s suddenly left. When I’ve asked I am told they were let go and moved on. I have yet to seen any signs of anyone leaving…at least no one but those strange trade caravans.” “What about them?” Adaineas asked softly, getting a fairly clear picture of what was happening and not liking the direction his thoughts were taking him. Glancing at his brothers he saw they were all on the same wavelength. “My lord, they leave under the cover of darkness, long after the curfew is in effect. I have never heard of sentries stopping them, of ever questioning their purpose. By mistake one day, while I was leaving the market,” she shared, with a knowing wink, “I entered an alley where one of their wagons had been loaded. There are strange markings on the boxes, a sort of black squiggle design.” She shuddered thinking about the icy cold she had felt as she passed by the doorway beside the wagon. “A few days ago one of the caravans was leaving the city and one of the boxes fell off. One of our maids was slipping through the gate, after meeting her ‘friend’ far past curfew, and stopped to see what would happen, if anyone would come back for it. When no one returned to pick it up, she brought it home. But, when she left mysteriously…well, no one wanted to touch it. Reginald moved it to the basement and covered it in heavy blankets, locking it up tight in the back of wine cellar. None of us wanted to turn it over to the sentries. “How could we? That would have meant explaining how we had it in the first place. When we found it we should have turned it over to the authorities, but we were frightened.” “You did the right thing.” Anya patted her shoulder reassuringly, knowing that there were going to be many dark days to come, days where many would be apt to react with more caution, than right. “No reason to put the whole house in danger over one young girl’s foolish mistake.

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“Reggie, if you would have the maids unpack our things and prepare us baths, I am sure everyone would like a chance to wash off the dust of our travels, and eat some dinner before we take a look at your mysterious box.” The brothers had been silent until this. “I, for one, would be very interested in seeing this box. How long has it been down there?” Tralas was the one best at solving puzzles. Reginald admitted that it had been in the cellar about a week, under lock and key, and that no one, or nothing, had been in or out of the room since. Adaineas asked Anya if she thought it might be a good idea for her to scan it before anyone else got curious and peeked in the box. “I am sure that would be wise, considering what it could b--” At his sharp glance she quickly sealed her lips. They still were not sure who to trust, and with what information. ***** Making sure Reggie was taking good care of the princes, she led Rasafiel to her old room. Making sure she was comfortable, Anya explained how she could not go wandering off alone, especially here. Anya walked slowly down the hallway to her parents’ room, uncertain of her own reaction. Her memories struck hard as she entered her parents’ sanctuary from the outside world. There was the bed she sat on and brushed her mother’s thick hair, or the rug she laid on, laughing with her sisters Tear welled in her eyes as she saw the over-sized chair she often cuddled with her father, her sisters joining them in front of the roaring fire. Her parents had loved one another so much that, perhaps, it was a blessing that they had left the world together. She could be comforted, imagining them walking hand in hand in a field of blossoming flowers. Wiping away a small tear, she gathered a clean robe and fragrant soap, and snuck the door of her room. She walked quietly, wanting some time to gather her thoughts before she met with the others. The steaming bathing rooms her father had built, lay beneath the house would be the perfect haven. Dashing through the corridors, she was surprised when a masculine arm snaked out of the shadows and wrapped itself around her, pulling her back through a doorway. Opening her mouth to scream, she shut it with a snap as her outraged eyes met Adaineas’ laughing ones. “And just where do you think your sneaking off to?” he murmured silkily, holding her with his weight against the door. He lowered his mouth to nibble on her shoulder, waiting impatiently for her answer. “Adaineas,” she sighed, tilting her head to allow easier access to her neck. “I was going to the baths.” She closed her eyes as her inner vibrations began to build. “Baths?” he mentioned absently, concentrating on her delicate curved neck. He nipped with sharp teeth along the satiny skin, pulling his head back to watch her goose bumps. Her hands fisted his hair as he licked the red welts. “Yes,” she gasped, trying to focus on the conversation. “We have heated baths in the lower wing of the house. Umm…” she moaned as his hand cupped her breast, molding and caressing the point through the fabric.

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“There are natural heated springs beneath the rock…my father found them long ago and tapped into them.” Realizing his hands had traveled to the buttons on her gown she wriggled out of his grasp. “No, Adaineas. Stop,” she protested, “I’m filthy, and want a bath.” “Then show me your baths.” He grinned suddenly, finding a way to please them both. “I have a sudden urge to take one myself.” Anya laughed at his innocent look, not believing it for one moment. He is incorrigible. “Fine. But don’t get lose you way. I am not playing escort back to your room,” she said. Adaineas followed close, playing chasing cat to her scurrying mouse. Quickly moving through the house, she led him down the stairs. As they walked through the winding corridors, she asked if their rooms suited, knowing Reggie would have made certain the royals were as comfortable as possible. He claimed the rooms far exceeded their needs, and mentioned that they would have to do something special for the couple when they returned home. The walls, lining the hallways, changed from wood paneling to sturdy marble as they neared the baths. Her father had been wise, using a natural stone to line the walls to prevent warping from the dampness. As she opened the double doors to a gigantic room, they entered a piece of paradise. Glowing columns supported the high ceiling at even intervals throughout the room. Ten tubs, at least six feet square, were sunken in precise lines along the length of the room with a long pool stretching from end to end at the far end of the room. Colorful mosaics tiled the floors, glistening in the damp heat. A variety of blooming trees, both flower and fruit, the set in front of bay windows looking out into a large garden while fragrant planters hung from hooks along the painted ceiling, lending an open feel to the room, as if bathing under blue skies, surrounded by greenery. Carved shelves lined a nearby wall, offering convenient stacks of hand-made soap and jars of fragrant oils to the bathers. On rods, attached to the walls beside various ornate changing screens, hung colorful, absorbent robes for the bathers’ comfort. Stacks of plush bath sheets were being laid out by one Anya had missed seeing when the others had gathered in front of the house Hearing the echo of their voices, followed by their footsteps, the older woman turned to greet them. “Lady Anya, I am so happy you have returned,” Maddy chirped, a welcoming smile lighting her face as she hugged the missed young woman, who had been gone far too long. “Welcome home! I have made certain that all you could wish for is here. Is there anything else I do for you, before I go?” “Thank you, Maddy. It is good to be home, if only for a short time. If you could let the others know we are here, and explain how the way, I will show Prince Adaineas around the baths.” Assuring Anya that she would do as asked, including gathering any clothing that needed attention, she gathered her supply baskets and walked towards the doors. “Everyone that works here seems very content,” Adaineas commented watching the older woman walk away, her arms looped through her empty baskets. He knew that it was not always the case and he wondered how Anya’s father had earned such loyalty His father had argued with the council, about servants’ treatment, on Banish 5 for more than ten years. Many were in the habit of mistreating their servants, feeding them poor

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quality food and paying them pittances. Even in the Royal House it was difficult to find workers who were honest and attentive, and not spies and thieves. “Yes, we have been very blessed to have loyal servants, though many have worked here for more years than I can remember. My father was a firm believer in offering honest pay for honest work. All of our servants were given bonuses at the year’s end if they worked hard and were honest. Unlike most of the surrounding lords, we did not resort to threatening, or beating, our servants for them to perform their jobs. Anyone who has remained here has done so because they want to be here. It is comforting, however, to see that Reggie has kept to my father’s standards.” She moved to one of the tubs and, kicking off a slipper, tested the water’s temperature. “Perfect.” Looking over the shelves of soaps, and varied oils, she asked that he let her know if there was something he needed, but did not find. He had only to say and she would see it delivered. Choosing a small familiar jar for herself she continued talking as she moved towards one of the screens. “Maddy will take our clothes and have them washed while we bathe. There are robes for us to wear in the meantime” She gestured towards the rods hanging on the walls. “Local women make them, and they are very popular. I think you will find the quality acceptable,” she teased, “even for a royal prince.” Sliding behind the ornate screen, she explained the purposes of the two types of pools. “The square ones are for bathing, and are drained twice daily when the bathes are in use. The long pool was installed in order to swim and exercise. The deepest end is sunken to over ten feet so our father could teach us to swim. Mother loved it during the winter months.” She smiled at the memory of her two sisters, one like a slippery eel, the other grousing at every lesson. She removed her clothes and draped them over its top, so that Maddy see them. “Kallie loved the water and Father used to tease her that she was part fish. Vespa, on the other hand, was the most difficult to teach as she hated getting wet. Mother used to say she was like a little cat, all flat ears and ruffled fur. Me…I was a floater…content to stare at the ceiling and dream youthful dreams.” Adaineas stripped off his travel clothes, not bothering with the screen, and left them in a heap next to his chosen tub. He was too used to his own skin, and servants picking up after him, to bother with the niceties. Naked, he sniffed the colorful jars of oils before smelling the soaps, choosing a scent that was more masculine than feminine perfume. His brothers would not let him live it down if he smelled as Anya, thought her scent the only he cared to smell. He slid into the steaming water and didn’t bother disguising his sigh of pure bliss as the water soothed every aching bone. He had not realized how tense he had been until that very moment. Hearing his noises of pleasure, Anya started to giggle. “I can not tell you how many times I have heard that same reaction to those waters. The pools seem to affect everyone in the same manner. Our father spent much time down here when the council was in conference, saying that the peaceful waters centered him for the next round of debates. Many of the other lords had pools of their own built, claiming the waters therapeutic for many ailments. I know

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it helped our injuries, of which there were many when we were young. I have been dreaming of them ever since Reggie mentioned the house was ready.” “I think we should have something similar built once we return home,” Adaineas said with another heart-felt sigh before moving his lethargic body to lean over the side of the pool closest her screen. Propping his arms on the cool tile he decided that as long as he was going to heat his body in these wonderful bathes, he could heat his mind with the wonderful view. Her naked contour was framed, the shadow form teasing his senses as she smoothed her hands down her arms and thighs, pre-applying the body oils Maddy had set out for their use. He almost sobbed when she covered her beautiful nude body with a robe. As she came out from behind the screens he watched her search the shelves, removing a jar of bathing oils then walking to the pool next to his, gliding smoothly across the cool tiles. Adding drops of fragrant oil to the water and stirring it with a small foot, Anya dropped her robe beside the pool and stepped down shallow steps into the water. As she laid back, her robe bundled into a makeshift pillow beneath her head, she took a moment to finally relax. They had been in constant motion for days and she was grateful for some peace and quiet. Hearing footsteps hurrying towards the doors, she cracked one eye. Maddy entered the room first, carrying a tray full of snacks and beverages. She was followed by several of the guards, and a gaping Genis. Anya and Adaineas were too far away to catch more than a word here or there but chuckled as they watched Tralas and Rasafiel, having an intent discussion, both sets of hands emphatic with their gestures as they walked behind the group. At the sight of the pools and the splashes of color, Rasafiel’s mouth stopped moving, and she gasped in wonder. Tralas ran straight into Genis’ back, stopped as he was in the middle of the floor, staring raptly at the artwork on the ceiling. Peeking over his younger brothers’ shoulder, he understood the reasons behind the silence, and stares. “Come and join us,” Anya called out, drawing their attention to the relaxed bathers. “The baths are heated and ready for your use. I do not plan to move from this spot for a long time, and I believe Adaines is feeling the same. There are changing screens over there…”she waved in the general direction, not moving, “and, if you need anything, Maddy has said that she would be happy to find it.” Maddy stood by the shelves, waiting for all to get settled, with ‘oohs’ and ‘aahs’ ringing through the large chamber. A smile lit her face as their heads leaned back, bodies submerged or, as was in Rasafiel’s case, floating. But Maddy’s smile didn’t last. She was worried for her lady, and their guests. She had been in the kitchen gathering the pitcher of drink and glasses when she had overheard some younger servants speaking with the transport drivers. She had not known her lady was planning on traveling in the countryside. These were strange times. There were many more dangers now, more than there had been when she was young. “My lady, might I speak freely…” she asked, not able to hold back her fears. It would not do for them to have their lady return, only to lose her.

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“Of course, Maddy. You must never feel that you need ask my permission before speaking to me. You never have before,” Anya teased before noticing the seriousness on her old friend’s face. “What is wrong? Please tell us how we can help.” The woman shuffled over to the stacks of bath sheets, pulling out five sets and dropping them off with each bather. “It is simply that I am worried about your trip to the mountains.” As the princes started to speak, she interrupted, holding up her hand. “Not that you young men are not large, and powerful, and probably very good fighters, but we are concerned about our ‘girl’. You might remember that Cook and I were the closest of friends, so I know all about your little discussion in your father’s library. There had been some concerns raised.” Pausing, she straightened stacks of soap, which were already in perfect rows. “We are well protected here, safe against anyone wishing to peek at what transpires in this household and can speak freely here. Your father may not have ever said but the stones cause disruptions in any of the ‘machinery’ they try to sneak in, something that caused him to use this particular type of rock. They keep trying to sneak things past Reginald, but it never works. His eyes are as sharp than ever. Plus, these rooms are re-sealed every month by Maji, who remained loyal to your family’s memory. And they are not the only supporters who have continued to honor the memory of your family. We have not forgotten the great things your father did for us, and our world. “My room faces the sentry watch on this side of the city and I am not so old that I do not understand young people’s need to have assignations with their lovers late at night,” she said with a sly smile before returning the seriousness of the situation. “But that is a most dangerous time to be traveling the roads unprotected, and unknowing. Many have disappeared during that midnight hour, vanishing without a trace. At one point I was seeing one of the guardsmen, that was until he disappeared as well.” Genis commented, “That seems strange. Why hasn’t anyone said anything?” Tralas interrupted with, “How long has this been going on?” Maddy thought back on a time when they could move freely about their city, with no worries of crime or threat, and answered that it happened slowly, without warning—little things at first, then hints of more sinister changes. “It had to have been almost two years since the old ambassador disappeared. That was about the time the strangers showed up. All types of new rules and regulations were implemented. Usually servants talk about their masters and the house; simple idle gossip between houses. For some odd reason, the ones living in the new Ambassador’s home remain tightlipped as sealed jars. No matter what is said, or offered, we can not pull any morsels of information from them.” “Adaineas, perhaps this was not a wise decision…we have only been here just a few hours and have already heard about what are probably the smallest fraction of incidents that have occurred since my parents’ death. Do you think we should contact your father and inform him that things may not be as easy as we thought?” Anya shivered in the warm water; thoughts of the evil torment these dark Maji had caused her father’s people making her blood run cold. “No, not yet. Remember, we are only here to gather information, to explore the countryside and reacquaint you with your home world. Nothing more. We will not be doing

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anything that might raise suspicions. If we call him now he will be tempted to send in troops, and I do not see that type of threat defeating whoever is behind this.” Adaineas was so angry hearing that the people of this world were being treated so heartlessly, was so frustrated that their hands were being tied by the tenuous situation, that he found it difficult to speak without snarling “When we return home, with more facts, rather than rumor, about the situation, we can decide then what should be done.” Anya saw the logic behind his plan, though she didn’t like it. These people were her family’s responsibility, and many were dear to her heart, as the princes had been learning. “Please spread the word, to those who need hear, that they are to do nothing to raise suspicion, to go on with their lives and duties as before. No one is to take any unnecessary risks, and that means you, Maddy. I want you to keep out of their way, and out of their business. Are you listening to me, old friend?” “Understood, my lady.” Maddy was obviously unhappy with the indirect order. Muttering, she gathered the piles of travel clothes, dropping robes in their place. “I do not have to like what you ask of me, young one, but I will do as you command. I know you are only thinking of our safety and wellbeing. “These will ready for you tomorrow, before you leave for your ‘journey’“ The last was said with a definite sniff of disdain as she walked swiftly towards the doors. Stopping in front of the royal guardsmen, she shook her finger and quietly fussed, obviously giving them strict orders to watch over their charges. Anya laughed softly, meeting the understanding laughing eyes of the princes. They, too, had old family retainers who often took it upon themselves to take them to task for deeds they thought imprudent. But the princes had also learned much from their counsel, growing wise with their guidance “If the danger worsens we need to evacuate them, for I want them safe from harm.” The princes agreed with Anya completely as they would want to know the people that they cared about were safe from harm. “Promise me that there will be a place for them to go if they need to leave this planet.” Tralas vowed he would have them placed on a ship and transported to the sanctuary of the Order. It had been discussed with the Mother Superior before they had left Banish 5. “But I think we can avoid any confrontations as long as no one discovers the true reason behind our ‘visit’. I was there when Father wrote his note to the Ambassador, informing him that various planets were being considered for the Empire’s new observatory. We are here to scope out the countryside and see if there is a location that might suit.” Anya felt as if a great weight had been lifted from her shoulders. The Mother Superior would care for her old friends as if they were her own. She slowly stood, wrapping a bath sheet haphazardly around her dripping body, her mind whirling on all the things she had learned since their arrival. Having bathed, and explored the room, her damp robe trailing behind her, Rasafiel ran over, offering a piece of fruit she had plucked of a tree, claiming the nectar would brighten Anya’s day. Thanking her for her thoughtfulness, Anya absently ate the small fruit on her walk to her screen, where Maddy had laid out clean garments. Dressed and ravenous, the small piece

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of fruit tempting her appetite to fruition, she walked over to the edges of the bathes, being careful to stay out of reach as Genis played reached out, as if to pull her in. “I suggest you hurry and finish up. Dinner will be soon and, if I know Cook, she’s has been slaving all day to make us a feast we will long remember. And I am starving. So, if you do not hurry, I might eat up all the food.” Anya teased and hurried out the door, hearing splashes of water as the men left their baths, their stomachs having been growling for the past few hours, announcing their hunger. Rasafiel, having nothing else to wear, trailed her now sopping robe behind, the material slapping the tiles as she skipped her way to her taller friend. Grasping Anya’s hand, she chattered about nothing while the two women walked back to their rooms

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Chapter Sixteen Anya was not surprised to see the laden table as she entered the dining room. Platters lined the center of the table: succulent meats, local vegetables, fresh baked breads, sweet butter and condiments, as well as sweets from her childhood. Five place settings were set at the far end of the table and the light globes, and large crackling fire in the massive fireplace, welcomed all who entered. It looked much as she remembered, her parents having designed it both family and social gatherings. She turned to smile as Reginald joined her as she waited for the others to arrive. “My lady, you look well rested.” Hearing steps hurrying down the hallway, he laughed and turned to face the four hungry bodies rushing into the room. “It looks as if the bathes did all of you a world of good. And might I say that you all look famished. Cook will be happy to see healthy appetites at her table once more,” Reginald commented dryly. As everyone agreed the baths had been an appreciated respite from the turbulence of the day, and that their stomachs were indeed growling. Reginald pulled a bottle of wine he had hidden behind his back as they each found their places. Anya questioned, with a raised brow, the huge smile lighting his face and he turned the label to face her, showing her the family’s private label. He presented it to her with a deep bow. “I took the liberty of raiding the cellar for this precious vintage.” Clapping her hands in delight, she exclaimed, “I was not aware that any of the vines had survived, Reggie. Hadn’t they been lost in that last hard freeze, before the flood? “ “We have been blessed and the Goddess smiled on us. They grew back, though not in the abundance they had when you were young. I have the vines picked clean each season, their fruits’ precious juice pressed and bottled. We have been storing them in the sub caverns your father designed in the cellar, hoarding them for all but the most special occasions.” She closed her eyes in memory. Going back to the first, and last time she had been given a sip of the sweet nectar. “My mother was not pleased that Father allowed each of us to have a glass for Vespa’s last birthday. She had felt that even watered down it had a potency that was far too strong for young girls. It did make us a bit dizzy, and silly, but we were young and did not know we should not drink it like juice. Kallie snuck more than she should, and fell asleep under the table. Oh…I remember how Mother fussed.” Tears welled in her eyes as she remembered those happier times. “It was a perfect choice for tonight, Reggie. Thank you for thinking of it.” Reggie opened the bottle and poured her the first glass. The deep ruby color, the subtle scent of berries, all reminded her of those times, long ago. She handed Adaineas his glass and motioned for Reggie to serve the others. Her glass held high, she paused for a moment, watching the light glitter through the dark liquid. “I consider this to be a very special occasion…good food…and family …” She hugged the blushing man, who meant so much to her, with a watery smile,”…and dear friends. The best of all things, all gathered in one place, under this roof.”

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Adaineas drank deep, the flavor bursting over his tongue deep and rich. “This is wonderful,” he murmured “What type of vine do you use? Is it local?” he asked the majordomo. “Kapa berries, my lord.” Adaineas nodded, having heard of the rare fruit but having never tasted any of its bounty. “The Kapa is not a well known berry and is very expensive to purchase; Anya’s father was given starter shoots by a visiting dignitary many years ago. We were able to save several of the vines during the flood and, since there was not much else we could do for Lady Anya, but felt blessed to be able to do something. She had already lost so much and we were not even sure we would ever see her again. So it had to be enough, at the time.” “How many cases are in storage?” Anya asked, enjoying the wine, the taste bringing back memories. She wanted be sure to set aside enough for the workers to enjoy once they left, as well her two sisters’ share, for when they, too, could come home. “Oh…I would say maybe about five-hundred cases…that is an easy figure, young miss.” Reggie estimated, rocking back on his heels as he thought about the size of the stock. “Please see that one-hundred cases are sent to be stored on the ship for the King. I would like to increase the number of vines we have and perhaps send some cuttings as well.” Reggie promised to see that her wishes were carried out. Bidding them a fine evening, he went to have his own dinner with Cook, and their little Anya. “Thank you for thinking of our father, Anya. He will extremely surprised by your generous gift.” Adaineas took her hand and pressed his lips to her palm, silently thanking her for her thoughtfulness. “If the vines transport well, I would love to see if the royal gardener could get them to prosper in our soil. A wine of this excellent caliber would be greatly sought in our court.” Anya continued to amaze him with her generosity and tenderheartedness, though he should no longer be surprised by anything she did. “I would have not thought it good enough for any court’s enjoyment. But I have heard that your father is a lover of the unusual and thought it might bring him pleasure.” Anya felt pride that Adaineas thought so highly of her father’s grapes and wine, and thought it a special gift. She wanted to do so much more, for this man who had won her heart. ***** Later that night, Anya lay under thick bedding and listened to the quiet surrounding the house. She was sure that she would fall asleep the moment her head hit the pillow but, with the lights out and the fire burning low in the fireplace, she stayed restless, feeling on edge as if she were forgetting something important. She went over her mental list. She had promised Rasafiel that they would go out in the garden at dawn and watch the sun kiss the sky. The princes had already promised everything would be set so that they could start out for the mountain pass immediately after. To realistically portray ‘scouts’ they had even brought surveying equipment, and the soldiers were going to act as porters, carrying the supplies so no one would question why they needed such a large group simply to survey for an observatory. But there was something she was missing, something they had talked about earlier…that she just didn’t remember. What was it?

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Reggie and Cook had met them in the library after their meal, and they had discussed their plans for the next few days And Anya had caught an earful from Cook, who had spoken with Maddie over their laundry, about placing herself in possible danger. Since they had no idea what to expect in the mountains didn’t Anya think it wiser to stay behind in case someone needed to contact the King for reinforcements? After all, with all the changes in the city and the mysterious disappearances, they didn’t want her to be the next casualty. Anya, and Adaineas had promised they would take the utmost precautions, receiving mutterings in return as Cook accepted she was not going to change their minds. The only way they could find out the truth, and see what was left of Rasafiel’s home, was to go and uncover the whereabouts of the caves, hidden deep in the mountains. They might still have a chance to discover where the Obsidis had gone, or if they had even left the planet. And Vespa…or Kallie…There was a chance they could discover what had happened there as well. Anya had hoped that messengers would arrive with some news before now… Perhaps they would arrive before they left… Suddenly she remembered. The odd box in the cellar! They had been going to look at it after their meal and everyone had completely forgotten. That was what had been making her toss and turn. Finally! Pushing off her blankets she sped out of bed, pulling on a heavy robe for cover against the midnight air She slid on slippers before speeding through the corridors to Adaineas’ room. There was no time to waste and they would need all the help, or hints, they could get on this perilous quest. Knocking firmly, but quietly, not wanting to wake the rest of the house, she heard a muffled groan followed by eloquent cursing. Biting back a smile she clutched the robe tighter, shifting from one foot to the other. The hallway was nippy and she was impatient for him to open the door. The lock clicked, the door creaked open, and she couldn’t stop her grin, seeing bleary emerald eyes and tousled raven locks peeking cautiously around the edge of the door. “Anya?” he asked sleepily. As he woke a burgeoning leer tilted his lips. “Not now, Adaineas,” she chided. “We forgot about the…thing. You know…the box thingy…the Reggie found. It might have…something…that hint we need to see… Remember? Oh, will you wake up!” She whispered in a low shout, one small foot stomping in irritation. She hated being cryptic but this conversation was not one she thought Adineas would want advertised, even inadvertently. She wanted to giggle, though, at the sight he made, all rumbled and sleep-creased, but didn’t dare. The man definitely did not wake up alert and ready to move. Or perhaps he did only when it was something he had instigated… sex being the most important factor in the status quo, she thought with a wicked grin. “What box thingy are you talking about?” he grumbled, trying to focus on her words, his head foggy from his excess of wine during, and after, dinner.

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“The…box…Reginald stored in the cellar.” She sighed, wondering how long it would take him to realize the importance of her midnight visit. “Remember? The one they put it in the cellar… the one that was found… we were going to look at it after dinner?” She was relieved when his eyes opened wide, her hinting words shocking him into sudden attentiveness. ‘You are right. We should have looked into that before now.” Aware of their ‘listeners’, he whispered back, “It could help us to uncover what is going on. Let’s go.” He turned and pulled on his robe, draped over the chair by his bed. They wasted no time in waking the other brothers and going down to the cellar, located down a set of stairs through the kitchen. Finding the door locked Anya hissed in impatience and left the princes standing guard while she ran to the servants’ wing. Tapping on the door, she woke the sleepy majordomo. Nightshirt flapping around his pin-legs, he returned to his bedroom and quickly dressed. She could hear Cook grumbling about the late hour, asking what was wrong. With assurances that she could go back to sleep, that all was well but that their lady needed his attention for a time, he hurried back Shorts legs following her long strides, he puffed his apology. “I am sorry, my lady. I had forgotten as well.” Unlocking the door, they descended into the dark, dank stone room. The walls and floor were coarse stone, cold and damp with being on the far side of the house, and a distance from the natural heated springs. “I put in here in hopes that if the house was ever searched, no one would think of looking for anything of importance in the cellar.” In the darkest corner of the room, covered in heavy blankets, stood the mystery box. Approximately three feet wide, and three feet long, it was no more than a foot tall. There was a symbol burned into each side, and Reggie mentioned that the same symbol had been seen around the city in various places, but no one knew what it signified. Anya studied the design, tracing over the sign, memorizing it. “This is unfamiliar to me.” Turning to the princes she asked, “Have you seen this before?” As they each shook their head, indicating they had not, she placed her hands on the crate and opened her mind, searching for any indication of the contents. She could feel no nefarious intent from within the box, though she did sense life but it was unclear if it meant them harm. Adaineas, locating a pry bar, began slowly levering open the top of the box. As the lid became free, he held the heavy metal bar ready to kill anything that might slip out and attack them, knowing they needed to be prepared for any contingency. When nothing escaped, he asked Tralas for assistance in removing the heavy lid. They all peeked inside. Mouths gaping in astonishment, they stared at the contents. “Goddess!” Anya whispered, praying for guidance. Inside, cradled in volumes of shredded hay, sat six large eggs. Very large, extremely rare, and potentially dangerous drago eggs. “How in the world did anyone manage to get their hands on these? The mother should have slaughtered anyone the moment they got close,” Genis remarked, awe lighting his face as he touched the rough shell of the closest with a cautious, but entranced finger. Drago’s, small dragon like creatures, had been sold in the underground markets many years past Wealthy lords and traveling merchants had purchased them as exotic novelties and, over the years, the fines had become costly, the breed more rare. Rumor had been that the

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creatures had moved to the most treacherous peaks in order to escape capture, were vicious when cornered, and killed whomever was foolish enough to approach their nests. Anya gently picked one from the straw that cushioned it and found it warm to the touch. With them being stored in the cold cellar, as Reggie had not realized the preciousness of the cargo contained within the box, they were blessed that all seemed to have thrived, protected by the sealed top and the tight packing. “Where did they come from?” Tralas asked, moving to pick up an egg, surprised at the heat it discharged. Genis gently searched the box for any documentation, but found none with the illegality of shipping this type of cargo; it would certainly make it easier to track the shipper. Anya’s eyes grew large as she felt movement within the egg she held close to her chest, tucked as it was within her robe to keep it warm. “We must keep them warm at all costs and this dampness, with the cold temperatures, will be harmful. Perhaps the baths…?” At the pained look, on the four male faces, at the thought of hauling the large, and heavy box, through the house and down another set of stairs, she suggested, “Fine. Let’s take them to my room instead. I left the fire blazing in my room and we will need to watch them closely, keeping them warm. This one is soon to hatch, and I am sure its siblings will soon follow.” They each reached in and pulled out an egg, placing them inside robes and shirts for warmth. Adaineas took two, tucking them carefully in the folds of his robe, knowing the importance of this discovery. The chilly shells proclaimed the drop in their temperatures and, as Anya motioned for them to move more quickly, the princes sped to her rooms. Every life is sacred, but these were more so. Running down the hallways, Anya whispered orders to the panting Reggie. “Bring us the meat from tonight’s meal. I have a feeling we are going to have a few unexpected guests before morning.” As she ran into her room she saw the three men sitting close to the fire, their eggs cradled in their crossed legs, making makeshift nests. Dragging her thick quilt off her bed, she fluffed it in front of the fire. Depositing her own egg in the hurriedly assembled bed, she took each of the eggs from the brothers, nestling them all in one spot and wrapping the quilt tightly around them. They sat watching the eggs, drinking wine that Reginald had brought on a tray with the leftover meat, and discussed their options. Anya had shooed Reginald back to his wife, and warm bed, knowing that the morning was going to come early for them all. The room grew warmer, and their eyes stared drooping, when they were rewarded for their patience. One of the eggs vibrated, moving around the blanket. As they all leaned in close, they jumped back when they heard a chirping sound and scratching noises. The tiny creature was determined to make its way into the world. They are hatching!” Anya whispered in awe. They held their breaths as the shell began to crack. “What have we here?” Rasafiel asked from the doorway where she stood, her feet bare, rubbing her eyes, trying to wake up. The excited vibrations emanating from the Seer’s room had woken her from a deep sleep. With a joyful whoop she ran over and plopped down next to her friends, her nose shoved forward, almost touching the wobbling egg. “Where did the dragos come from?” she cried out in delight.

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“Shhhh…we do not know, Rasafiel,” Anya answered in a whisper, knowing they were in imminent danger of being discovered if there were truly ‘listeners’ in the house. She watched, with jubilation, as the other five eggs began moving around in the confines of the quilt. “They were in the box Reggie had stored in the cellar. The one that fell off the mysterious caravan wagon.” Everyone had large grins lighting their faces, watching the miracle as they sat in awed silence, watching the miracle births. Tralas and Genis lay on the floor, their faces in line with the eggs while Adaineas pulled Anya into his arms, cuddling her close. Rasafiel giggled quietly, doing her best to not shout as first one, and then another began to emerge from their brittle home. It was like a chain reaction. Once the first had started to break free, the others followed suit. “I thought to ever see one of these wonderful creatures. They have been on the preservation lists for over a decade.” Anya’s fingers itched to help the little ones get out of their shells but knew they must do for themselves. Their first instinct would be to attack anything that interrupted their hatching. “Mother has been at the forefront of the Empire’s efforts to bring see them thrive, as well as several other species we have discovered on the brink of extinction,” Tralas murmured, sadness in his eyes as he watched this wonderful event and thought of the small young that would never exist due to man’s greed. “Tralas, you do realize that these creatures will bond instantly with whomever is in this room. They will all size each of us up...” Anya paused, watching the two younger brothers’ faces as she explained, waiting for comprehension of what she was saying sink in. “Once they are out of their shells, they will move with the ‘one’ they have chosen. It is a great honor, as well as a great responsibility, as we will be as responsible for them as they will be of us. These little drago’s will shield their ‘chosens’ with their lives, if needed.” “How do you know so much about so many things,” Genis asked, staring at her in astonishment as he and Tralas sat up, moving so they all sat between the babies and Anya’s bed. “You don’t really think that for the past sixteen years I spent all my time studying to become a Seer, did you?” she grinned, teasing. “I have read books and studied the Order’s scrolls, talked to people who would travel to us. Once I had the opportunity to study with an Animal Healer, who stayed with us for over a year. She had much to share about animals she encountered in her travels and I was a most attentive pupil, keeping record of all she told me. I studied my notes in great detail over the years, wanting to remember all she had said. I did leave the books at the Order, but I am sure the Mother Superior would send them to me if I asked.” One of the eggs was almost cracked in half and they could see the bright iridescent scales peeking through the shell as the baby drago struggled to push it off. They heard a highpitched chirp and watched it slowly push its way out of its confinement. There much humor when they saw it lay upside down in the base of egg and had managed to push the one side off its legs. Hind legs, and spiked tail, whipped around in amusing thrashing movements as it tried to right itself.

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Within a matter of minutes, the first baby drago was joined by its siblings. The entertained group laughed quietly as the babies rolled over each other before settling down on the quilt, basking for a moment in the fire’s bathing warmth. They watched in awe as they stood up and quickly oriented themselves, turning to silently face their nursemaids, judging each of the humans. Anya bowed her head in gratitude to see that each seemed as healthy as the next, and intoned a blessing, warding a protection rune as was customary with any new births witnessed by one of the Order. “Welcome to the world, our honored friends. May your path be a joyous one, free of strife and full of honor.” Each set of bright, and intelligent, eyes watched her movements and as one they bowed to her, causing her to gasp and laugh with delight. Softly chattering among themselves, clicking their tongues and waving their tails as they touched one another, they seemed to be having an intense conversation. Their heads weaved around as they chattered, turning to study each of the dumbstruck humans. One of the larger, its black scales shimmering in the firelight, wove a clumsy path along the quilt towards Tralas. It blinked up at his astounded face before snaking out a long tongue, darting to taste the hand that Tralas had laid on the edge of the quilt. Looking startled, Tralas turned his hand over on the floor and the young drago took a hopping jump into his palm. Curling up in round ball, its tail surrounding his body, it lay its head down and went to sleep, his breath fanning the fine hairs of Tralas’ forearm. It was the first to choose it’s human. . Smiling, Tralas looked up at Anya. “It’s that simple? Just like that?” he asked in wonder, “But how can he tell?” “Ummm,” Anya coughed delicately, a wry grin playing about her mouth. “By the by, that is a girl. She must have seen something in you to warrant the bond.” She laughed at his baffled look. “How can you tell if it’s a female, or male?” Genis questioned, looking intrigued. “Their tails.” Anya pointed. “See? The males have a longer tail, with a larger ridge. The females have smaller ridges that will disappear as they grow older. Also these eggs must be from different litters. Look at their different colors. “The offspring tend to take on the coloring of one, or both parents. There must have been two nests quite close together. Otherwise the eggs would not have hatched so close.” Anya shook her head, disgusted at the ones who would dare steal the babies from their parents. Another female ambled over to Rasafiel, the color of her iridescent scales reminiscent of the inside of a seashell. Her eyes peered up at the Gordaine and she nuzzled a bare leg, chirping impatiently until Rasafiel lowered her hands. Like her sibling, she jumped into the offered hand and curled up, going to sleep. Another seemed to have made up his mind. As he lumbered across the quilt, taking him time, his tail weaved back and forth He made steady progress towards Genis, his red scales glowing in the firelight, and puffed out a breath, emitting a miniature roar upon reaching his destination. While the humans softly chortled at his posturing, he unfurled his wings and flapped them weakly, as if wanting to fly

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into Genis’ lap. When he stumbled, falling in a flailing of legs and tail, Genis gently picked him up and placed him in his lap. Three had chosen and three remained. As the remainder stared at Adaineas and Anya, Anya was heartbroken. It seemed one would be left without a ‘chosen’. “If you would honor us,” Anya bowed her towards the miniscule creatures, “the king and his lady would welcome one of you; protect you always.” The dagos chirped and clicked in a flurry of sound, sounding much like rambunctious children, arguing over a desired toy. After a few minutes they calmed, as if reaching a decision. The lone female made her way slowly to Anya, keeping her eyes on her path until she reached the hand Anya placed on the quilt before her. Her light green scales glittered in the light and, as she unfurled her wings, she stood on her hind legs, her short front legs tucked in close to her body, her tail balancing her from behind. Her eyes met Anya’s and, much to Anya’s wonderment, their minds merged. Whispers, soft and delicate, tickled the edges of her mind. The harder Anya concentrated on their meaning, the less she understood. “Anya?” She felt Adaineas’ touch as if in a dream, his grip firm on her upper arm. His worried voice echoed, as if from a distance and then faded. A vision appeared in her mind’s eye and she watched, as if separated from it altogether, the mists swirl around her, and the small drago. “You are important to us, young Seer,” the drago hissed, her voice soft and whimsical, a musical tone playing through her words. “We foresaw this day, when you would come into our lives and save us from certain death.” “I do not understand,” Anya murmured, caught up her vision, though those around her could hear her words. “You will find what you seek in this place. We pledge our protection to you, and the humans we have chosen.” The dream drago’s tongue flicked, caressing her phantom arm. “You are important in the coming conflict and we will warn you when danger is near.” “What will we find in the mountains?” Anya understood part of what the drago was saying as it was said they had the ability to see many things, both past and future. “You will speak to me again?” she asked, curious to learn if she would be able to speak with them all, if they were all interconnected. This type of connection usually happened over years, seldom as instantly as this. It was the way of the dragos, cementing their bond with their ‘chosen’. Though there was much she knew, or had heard, about the creatures, there was so much more she did not. “We will speak many times in the coming days.” The drago seemed to smile at her, its sharp teeth gleaming. “You are my chosen, just as my brother is your mate’s. He has a good heart, your mate, and is strong of both spirit and mind. Hold strong to him in the coming days for both your strength will be tested in more ways than one.” As suddenly as it began the vision ended, and Anya sat blinking and swaying with sudden fatigue. Her drago had climbed in her arms, curling its tail around her arm for security, while she was otherwise occupied, and was softly snoring. “What happened?” Adaineas demanded harshly, his eyes concerned. He had tried to reach her through their bond but had been blocked. His head ached from the pressure.

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“She spoke to me,” Anya whispered, having difficulty comprehending what has just happened. “She said that we must need proceed with caution, that we would find what we seek in the mountains. That we will find the answers we seek.” She relaxed against Adaineas, having been shifted to one side during her trance, but was careful not to shift her baby too much. Looking at the remaining two dragos she nodded “Which is to be yours, Adaineas? She told me that he will always protect you.” Adaineas looked at the two hatchlings and waited for any type of sign. They both looked into his eyes as if reading him on some mystical level and everyone held their breath as they both moved towards Adaineas. At the edge of the quilt one stopped and sat down, while the other continued. With scales of deep forest green, and a chest colored even a lighter green than his sister’s, his eyes were focused intently on Adaineas as he moved forward. “Put your hand on the quilt,” Anya reminded and Adaineas did as he was instructed. The drago walked up his arm, small talons jabbing his skin, and climbed onto his hand. A soft hissing sigh escaped as he tasted the skin of Adaineas’ arm, and he promptly curled up and took a nap. Anya looked at the remaining drago and bowed her head to him. “You will come with us, won’t you?” It nodded silently in acknowledgement. Rasafiel broke the spell that had been woven during the choosing. Everyone turned to face her as she expressed what they were all thinking, but hadn’t dared voice. “Now that these dragos have chosen us, what do we do? This journey is becoming more and more confusing by each passing day.” Adianeas dictates halted further questions. “We will do as we originally planned. The caves are not far into the mountains, we can reach them in less than a day. Once we find what we need, we can take the dragos back to the Banish 5, and plan our next move. I believe these little guys will be extremely helpful to us. I have heard that dragos can see both the past and the future, so maybe we will learn more as we go. But, for now, we must get some sleep.” Anya stopped them with a whispered command as the three rose, being careful not to waken their charges. “Do not forget to take some of the meat with you when you go. And be sure they eat before you go to sleep. Right now they are exhausted from breaking through their shells. I would think that, within the next hour or town, they will be awake and hungry.” She paused, adding, “I would hate to hear your screams when they decide to make dinner out of your nose, or ears, if you forget.” She and Adianieas laughed at the understanding grimaces. “What shall we call them?” Genis asked softly, running a gentle finger down the back of his drago. “I cannot just call him Drago.” “There is plenty of time to name him, and you might find they have a way of choosing their own names if we do not find one they like.” Anya yawned loudly, her jaw cracking with her exhaustion, and her drago shifted in her arms as if finding a more comfortable position. Adaineas stood, creeping towards the door, not really wanting to leave her side as Tralas muttered to Genis and Rasafiel to ‘hurry up – he was falling asleep on his feet’. “Stay.” Her hand moved to his arm to keep him in the room.

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“Dawn is not far off and I would rather find some comfort in your arms, for what time we have remaining this night. Bring the meat over here and we can put rest on the floor for the hatchlings. They can nest together until we rise.” Turning to look at the solo drago, she gave instructions. “You are sentry this night. Watch the others while we rest” The little male seemed to understand her words and settled in to watch the other two as they slept. Anya moved to her bed and slipped under the covers, holding her hand out to Adaineas in invitation. Wrapping his arms about her, they both fell asleep, lulled by the dying fire, and the quiet squeaks of newborn babes.

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Chapter Seventeen Morning came too soon for the weary group and, as they trooped downstairs, they found everything ready for their journey. Anya had arranged special packs for the hatchlings so they would not be discovered if they were stopped on their trip. The all knew that if the young dragos were discovered, there would an alarm. Anya gave last minute instructions to Reginald and Cook. “If there are any problems, instruct everyone to get to the shuttle. The transport has been instructed to take you directly to the Order, where you will be safe until we can contact you. I do not think we will be stopping back here before we leave.” Anya adjusted her pack holding her personal Drago, as well as the remaining brother. “Make sure everything stays as normal as possible. If any of the city guards come around, asking questions about our destination, take that as a sign that we are being followed and leave immediately. Take no chances with anyone’s safety.” “Do not worry,” Cook smiled. “I will make sure we stay safe and know we can be at the shuttle within a half an hour, if need be.” “Good.” She hugged both Reginald and Cook close, resigned to worry until they were all able to leave this planet. “Please be very careful,” she whispered before climbing on her horse. Laden pack animals were tethered behind each horse, forming a caravan as they moved through quiet streets, and safely past the sentry points. It took the majority of the day to wind their way into the mountains. Rasafiel searched landmarks, calling out if something seemed familiar, or not, reassuring Adaineas that they were headed in the right direction. The sun was high by the time they reached the outskirts of the village where her parents had been killed, and her sisters lost. It was apparent that, over the last sixteen years, the village had prospered and expanded. They could see that many technological advances had been implemented; the most significant was a dam that controlled the flow of water through the village. The banks of the turbulent river had been widened, forming a natural lake where fish were bred for additional food supplies. There was even a landing pad for small craft and it looked big enough for a shuttle to land. Anya pointed this out to Adaineas, as they stopped in the village square. “Adaineas, would it be more efficient if the shuttle landed here for our trip back, instead of traveling back to the city?” Adaineas assessed the landing facility and nodded, agreeing that might be a safer solution for them. He turned to Tralas and requested the coordinates be given to the shuttle, deciding it would be faster to leave from this locale than waste precious time riding back to the city. They all dismounted, taking a moment to stretch their legs while Tralas dug through the packs, radioing the shuttle on a secure frequency. Anya suggested each check on their ‘special packs’ and peeked in her own, asking, “Are you alright, my little friends?” She could see that the two small dragos enjoyed the moment of fresh air. “Are you hungry?”

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She coughed, garnering Adaines’ attention, subtly pointing to the packs. “Adaineas, may we stop for lunch? We are getting hungry.” There was a general consensus from the entire group and it was decided to stop for a meal. “Food would be welcome,” the hatchling spoke to her mind. It was not so much a shock as that initial time and Anya had been receiving small pictures, and thoughts, from the both throughout the day. She was beginning to find it easier to comprehend the baby’s communications with each mind-touch. “I will get some food for all of you.” She sent one of the guards to unpack their rations while Adaineas and the others secured the mounts. Anya thought that one of her cousins had been placed in charge of the village, given the honorary title of ‘mayor’. Citizens were not elected into the sub-government positions but appointed by the ruling faction, staying at their post until it was given to someone else, someone more in favor at the time, or they retired. Her cousin might still be here, unless the family had moved. ***** Several people entered the square as they arrived in the village. Strangers were often far and few between in these times, and Anya immediately recognized her cousin, standing on the stairs of his home. He had not changed much in the past years. She wanted to laugh as he stared, the puzzled look on his face saying he should know her, but did not. When the huge smile lit his face, as he realized who was sitting on the large horse stopped in the middle of the road, she giggled, a tinkling sound of youthful merriment. Though Robert did not know the others, family was always welcome under his roof. “Could this be the little Anya who used to trail me for hours, never giving me peace?” he teased, descending the steps as they dismounted. The princes’ guards, playing their roles, led the horses away, waiting for further instructions. Reaching out his hands he plucked her off the ground and gave her a bone-crushing hug and affectionate kiss, for she had been his favorite of the sisters. “It seems you may have out grown your unladylike behavior and turned into quite a refined young woman.” “I thank you for your kind words, Robert,” she laughed, pinching the tip of his nose. “You always did have a flattering tongue.” Looking around, she missed seeing another dear face and was concerned. “And how is your wife? I do not see Melda here anywhere.” His eyes softened, thinking of his lovely wife and their new babe “Melda is resting at the moment, more tired from this birth than the last. Our fourth child was born only this last week; a son finally, after three gorgeous girls.” He laughed, watching her eyes widen at the number of children. She remembered him saying, when he was much younger, that one would be too many With three young ones, and a babe in arms, no wonder the poor woman was exhausted… Giggling she said, “Then I congratulate you on your son, as well as your daughters. I trust Melda is well? Should I stop in and see her before we leave?” Anya had adored Melda when she was younger and saw no reason for that to change, even though many years had past. “She would love a visitor, especially if it is you. She has mentioned you more times than I can count, and missed you sorely when you went to stay with the Order.” He paused

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for a moment, eyeing the others in her party before casually offering to walk with her to see his wife. As they walked by the banks of the lake, the princes and Rasafiel watched closely, not trusting anyone to take her out of their sights. He quietly asked if she had received his packet, concerned that it had fallen in the wrong hands when the messenger did not return. Anya nodded, her eyes glistening. “Yes. Thank you. It was a great comfort to me. I hope to discover more before leaving here. It was you who found the ring?” “Yes. It was I. I found it a few miles up river, at the entrance to the pass. Strange that your sister would be that far away from town on the day of the flood. If she had been there, she would have been swept down river during the flood, not up.” Shaking his head, he brushed off the momentary thought before looking even more subdued. “There is much we need to discuss, Anya. There have been many changes since you were last here. How well do you trust your companions?” “They are princes to the Empire, and you may trust them as you do me,” she huffed, offended that he would even question her companion’s loyalty, and grinning when his eyes widened as he realized who he had thoughtlessly insulted. “I see.” He looked at the motley, dust-covered group with new eyes. “Then let us go to my home here we can talk in safety.” ***** When they reached his home he announced them by calling out, “Melda! We have visitors.” His smile widened when the noise of tiny feet pounding on the staircase facing the door. “Papa! Papa! Your home early.” A little girl about seven ran into the room, throwing herself into his arms with a piercing squeal. “Sasha, mind your manners…we have guests,” Melda scolded gently, walking carefully down the stairs. Her eyes widened in delight when she saw Anya, immediately recognizing her. “Anya! You have come home!” Anya laughed as Melda hugged her tight, acting in no way as infirm as Robert had led them to believe. Through time men never understood that women did not dissolve after having a baby. “You are a sight to these poor eyes,” Melda sniffed, not letting Anya go far from her touch. “We had received word that you were coming from Reginald but weren’t sure if you be stopping here at all. He said you were here for only a short time” “Melda! It is good to see you are well. And, sadly, I am only here for just a few days I must go back to the Order soon. But we will have some time to catch up on news if you do not mind us staying here this eve. We must be in the mountains by tomorrow.” “Of course you will stay here,” Melda retorted, throwing a dark look at her husband for not thinking of mentioning it to them from the start. “Robert will show you where to wash for dinner…is this all of you?” Nudging Anya, she loudly whispered, “And who are these handsome young men, and beautiful miss, traveling with you?” Robert almost lost his tongue, having his wife speak so freely about the princes of the Empire. Pulling her aside he whispered their identities, swearing her to silence on their children’s lives. As she blushed and stammered out an apology, assuring them that never would anyone hear their secret fall from her lips.

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Anya snickered, her old friend as blunt as ever, while Tralas and Genis preened, as young men will. Rasafiel introduced herself as ‘the Lady Anya’s dearest companion’. Smiling at the bold compliment, Adaineas explained that they had brought a few royal guardsmen, posing as their porters, who would need housing as well. Melda asked Robert where his mind had gone and, when he shrugged his shoulders, she fussed. “After you have shown these good folk where to wash, see those men settled in the barn. I do not understand you sometimes.” As he walked by she smacked him on the back with a loving, but not very pleased, tap. “I will have one of our girls take them food once we have sat down and I’ll have no arguments from anyone,” Melda stated motherly. “Plus, the children must have some time to get to know their cousin. Especially since this seems to be a very quick visit.” Anya smiled at the giggling girls, watching their father spin their mother around and give her a quick kiss before speeding off to do as she ordered. Her eyes misted as she walked into the great room and bent over the cradle sitting by the salon fire. Melda picked the dozing baby from his cradle. Rasafiel stood as close to Anya as possible and, when they saw the round little face, they both sighed and cooed. The baby yawned, stretching out his arms, on the cusp of waking. “Who is this gorgeous boy?” “We called him William, after your father. Your father is greatly missed and we feel as if we have a piece of him with this wee one.” Anya teared up at the honor they had bestowed on this child, knowing her father would have puffed his chest out in pride. “He will live up to his name, I am sure. If you would like I will do a reading for him later tonight. But, as a child born in a family full of such love, he is already blessed.” “Excuse me…Anya…I am thinking that there are others waking up as well,” Genis hinted, the bags at his feet vibrating. He thought to himself that the dragos must sense this was a place of safety to be making such a racket, the chirping growing in volume. Three small girls crept ever closer, watching the moving packs, utterly fascinated about the possibilities. “Oh!” Anya had forgotten. Blushing, she asked for any extra morsels of fish or meat. When asked ‘why’, she admitted they had become caretakers of six drago hatchlings but that the telling of the tale would be made much easier with food in the stomachs. She was sure the younglings were feeling the same way if the kicking and escalating chirping were any indications. The children, hearing there were dragos, begged to see them. After being told that the babies were still every small, the children promised to simply look and not touch. Soon everyone was seated in the kitchen, visiting and watching the interaction between two young species—the baby dragos and the young girls The hatchlings sat at one end, nestled in a heavy blanket Melda had found. It seemed the younglings were as curious about the small girls as the girls were about them. The tale was recounted of the mysterious box, Reginald hiding it, and their midnight discovery. There were many ‘oohs’ and ‘ahhs’ as the drago youngsters peeped and stretched, showing off their colors. Their wings were still delicate and wouldn’t support them though a few tried to lift themselves off the table

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Anya sat rocking William while the princes and Robert watched that the hatchlings, and young girls, behaved themselves. William’s eyes followed her face, blinking with her words and Anya commented that he seemed too attentive to be only a week old. “I was worried at first,” Melda admitted, “as he is so quiet, rarely crying or fussing. But he watches everything, and everyone, around him. It’s almost as if he understands what we say.” Anya listened closely and had an idea about the whys behind the infant’s silence, but wanted to wait until after his reading to confirm it. But she knew her friend need reassurance. “I wouldn’t worry; he is still very young, only a week old. We shall see his path soon enough.” After eating as much as they possibly could, the pot-bellied hatchlings curled up and went to sleep, piled in a heap like playful puppies. Peeking under the table, Tralas softly laughed to see Robert and Melda’s daughters also sleeping, the day’s excitement catching up to them. No one had the heart to wake them so they left them where they all lay and moved to sit in the salon, where their discussions would not bother anyone When Adaineas brought up the subject of the caravans, and the strange changes in the city, asking if they had heard any reports. “Yes, even out here in the mountains we get periodic news from the city. After the last trip we took, Melda refuse to go again. The merchants were rude, ugly to her, and then we were searched, which delayed my report to the Ambassador. And I have to tell that man is very strange I send all my reports electronically now, rather than traveling there.” Robert took a long drink from his mug before continuing. “Then we have the strange orders and memos being sent to all the village leaders. Very odd things going on in the city right now and has been like that for years but has gotten far worse the last few.” “Can you copy your correspondence to a portable datatransport?” Adaineas asked softly He had a feeling this trouble went deeper than simply Delta 6. With hard evidence of what was going on, it might be easier to find a way to stop it from spreading. If this was happening on Delta 6, it could very well be the same on other planets. The idea that they were being sublimely attacked from all sides sent chills down his spine. Anya noticed and reached out and held his hand, silently showing her support. “Already done. I am very careful to keep impeccable records and back up all my data weekly, keeping separate copies in a safe place. The villages are given periodic checks to see that we are following all the government edicts, and the copies help me keep track of their ever-changing rules, and laws.” Robert shifted in the chair to lean his arms on the table “I will have copies sent to your transport. Melda had two young girls, whose parents had remained loyal to Anya’s family, helping her around the house until she was full strength. One was sent out to the stable, with a platter of food, while the other helped serve them a simple fare of fish, bread, fruit, and cheeses. When her sister returned they sat on the floor by the sleeping children, giggling over the awake, and hungry, hatchlings and the gorgeous male visitors. After eating their fill, Anya asked the princes to help move the hatchlings. Each picked their ‘chosen’ and placed it carefully in the makeshift nest Anya had made up in a large box

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Robert had found. Adaineas carefully carried the box upstairs to Robert and Melda’s room, where it had been decided the woman would sleep. Melda asked the other three men to please put the girls to bed. Rasafiel would sleep with them since all were small and would fit in their smaller beds comfortably. The men would bed down in the spare room, luckily lacking furniture as it was meant for baby William, as he grew older. As the only boy, he would have to take what privacy he could find. After the children, and the hatchlings, had been put in their room, Rasafiel asked for some quiet time to mediate. After showing her the children’s room, the two old friends retired to the master bedroom to perform William’s reading. The men stayed downstairs, enjoying the quiet male bonding their host offered. Adaineas thought it might prove a fortuitous time to learn more about what had impacted his Seer’s life, from one who knew her best, and he planned to be very attentive. Not so innocently, he asked Robert what she had been like when she was younger. “When she was young,” Robert said fondly, staring at the flames in the fire, “Anya was a quiet child. She would follow her father around for hours, never saying a word, just listening to those around her. And she read everything her mother could find for her. She was smart, even then. No one really knew what went inside that head of hers until the Maji came to the village one day while they were here visiting, and did a reading on her as well as other children. Her parents decided from their meeting with the Maji that she would go to the Order, learn the Seer craft. I would give much to learn what they were told that day. “And how her mother carried on,” he laughed, “announcing that ‘my little Anya is going to be a Seer.’ William was as proud as punch, I can tell you.” He sighed, remembering the tragedy, their unexpected loss. “After the floods she changed, moved through the rooms of that huge house like a lost shadow. We didn’t need to tell her that her parents were dead. She already knew, and had been the one to bring the group down from the mountains. In one brief moment she lost her family, well…except Melda and me, and some distant cousins we never talk to. Cried her heart out for days.” He shook his head, wiping a stray tear from his as he thought about those dark days. “No one should have to see what she saw. But it gave her resolve to continue her training, in their honor.” Adaineas shifted slightly to watch Robert. “How far outside the village were they? Or were they inside at the time? All Anya said was that they died in the flood.” “The family had come for the annual holiday celebration, and had been staying at the local Magi’s house. Many of the more gifted children had been invited on a special fieldtrip, set up by the regions Magi and Seers, so that they could practice their craft in the mountains. Something about the echoes of power…or some such thing, I don’t remember now. We were told they would be taken to the caves, isolated and forced to concentrate, focus on their assigned tasks. I remember Anya had been looking forward to taking a trip on her own and she was so excited she literally bounced off the walls. “Many of the adults, including William, had been in the fields finishing off the day’s harvest before coming in for the celebration. Time had been running short for us and we needed to have the winter harvest stored as quickly as possible since there had been an early thaw in the mountains. We didn’t want to take a chance of the fields being flooded before we could get everything brought in.

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“When the flood waters hit, the men in the fields ran, hoping to outrun the rush of water and warn the village. But it happened too fast to warn anyone. Some of the people managed to go to the sturdier homes, saving many who would have otherwise perished. Her mother lost hers saving another’s life. We had two healers from the village, not counting Seers and Magi who returned with the children. They worked around the clock, trying to keep those few that were found buried beneath the rubble and earth alive. “Many precious lives were lost, our winter’s harvest, and a fair amount of the village, all of which has slowly been rebuilt over time. We keep praying that her sisters were simply separated from us, not lost to us forever ― and the ring I found bears this out. But if we will ever find them…that is still a mystery…and unknown…” For many minutes the men sat in silence, each lost in their thoughts, staring into the fire. Adaineas thought he had understood strength and bravery, but Anya was proving to be the bravest person he knew, continually surprising him with her generosity of spirit, caring, and love. And he wanted to share the best of those qualities. Tralas and Genis had a better understanding of why she would never allow them to give up, whether on themselves or others. It was because she never had, and she had much to give in to: grief, heartbreak, and hopelessness. But she had let it make her a better person, not a lesser one. They had much to learn from their wise Seer. Anya and Melda entered the room, little William cuddled in Anya’s arms, sound asleep. Walking over, she laid William in Roberts’s arms, and moved to sit beside Adaineas on the sofa “You have a fine son, Robert. He will grow strong and wise, and teach many.” Anya grinned as Adaineas’ arms pulled her close to his heart, her head hearing every beat, and grinned as she watched Robert’s confused face. Anya had refused to divulge all the information she had gathered during the reading to Melda. She had only hinted, claiming she would tell all or none. And smiled when she heard Melda muttering ‘it can’t be true, it can’t be true’. “What in the world did you find out?” Robert asked, almost afraid to know when he saw Melda’s expression of complete bewilderment. “Your son will be a powerful Maji, probably one of the strongest known. The signs are all there. He will need the proper training. But I can see to that once we are back home.” At Anya’s calm shrug Melda groaned, thinking of the mischief that would ensue in the future. “I had a feeling, even before I did his reading and it simply gave me confirmation.” “Then it runs in the family, eh?” Robert laughed nervously, thinking of the challenges that would face them with three beautiful daughters, and a mini-mage. “It looks like it. And it usually happens only on the female side of the family,” Anya teased, winking. Robert’s heart skipped a beat. He was not sure he even wanted to know any details about the three innocent females, sleeping upstairs. As they wandered to their perspective sleeping chambers, Adaineas made sure the guards had posted sentries of their own around the house. They wanted to be sure that they saw whoever was coming long before they arrived. *****

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Everyone rose early, dressed and ate a hearty breakfast. Extra food was packed for their noonday meal with special broiled fishes for the babies. Each small girl was allowed to gently kiss the dragos on the tops of their heads before they were lowered gently in their packs. As they prepared mount, Melda hugged Anya tightly and wished her safe travels. The children were subdued and kissed everyone for luck. Robert rode with them to the edge of the village, showing them the quickest way into the mountains, while Tralas warned them to be on the lookout for renegades, who he had heard had been raiding the cities sentries for supplies. “The renegades have been here for years, Tralas” Anya shrugged, dismissing his concerns. “When we came to visit we would often give them aid, when they would come down from the mountains desperate for food or clothing. We brought extra medicine for their elderly and children, and they provided the village game in payment. With the changes happening in the city I am sure that there have been problems. “ Her pack seemed to grow heavier as they progressed up the steep sides of the mountains, and she slid it higher onto her back, adjusting the straps so they fit more closely to her body. The mountains loomed like granite giants, their snow capped tops providing breathtaking, but dangerous scenery. She wished she a better memory of these mountains but her memories were overshadowed with the grief. Impressions of violence and destruction tickled the edges of her mind and Anya forced herself to move on. She could see that Rasafiel felt them as well, her face paling a shade more each mile they advanced towards the mountains. “We are getting close,” Rasafiel puffed out, as if too frightened to even whisper. Something was wrong The mountains were changing, become less, and more. Even the stalwart little dragos were as still as mice trapped by a large hungry cat.

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Chapter Eighteen The cavern entrance lay just ahead, a black maw, dark and menacing. Having dismounted, they stood in a united cluster, uneasy with the daunting and sudden chill of their surroundings. Rasafiel moved closer to Anya, shivering with the feeling of death, and dead things. “I do not like the feel of this place. There used to be life all around and all feels dead. I feel a presence, but it is not of the earth.” She glanced nervously around them. “Something is out there. Or waiting for us in the cavern.” Adaineas sent soldiers to scout the rocky ledges around, and above. They found nothing but perfect spots to wait, from which to sound an alarm if needed. “If someone is watching us then we need to act quickly, get what we came for then leave.” Anya dismounted and pulled a heavy jacket from her pony’s pack. Addressing all of them, she said, “Make sure your drago is tucked down in your pack. Place the pack inside your jacket, and your body heat will keep him, or her, warm.” Turning to Rasafiel, Adaineas reminded them of the main reason for their excursion. “Make sure you keep your eyes open for the location of your hive so that we can get what readings we need there first. That way if we have to leave quickly, we will have something to show for it.” Genis moved their mounts behind a copse of trees, and secured them tightly so they could not get free unless by knife, or untying. Adaineas was uneasy, wanting to be far from this ominous place well before dark. “We have less time than we thought to get this completed. And I want to be out of here long before night falls.” Tralas agreed, claiming he had a distinct feeling something was telling them to leave. Two guards were posted to watch the horses and the entrance while two were posted in the rocks above their heads, as lookouts. Followed by a group of soldiers, guarding their backs, they moved deeper into the cave. As the light disappeared they lit their lanterns. “This mountain is too quiet, and nothing lives here,” Adaineas answered, peering into the gloom. Water dripped from somewhere deep inside, down in the caverns. “No. That’s what you see. Close your eyes and use your senses. Open your power up to that which is around you.” She touched his mind and connected to his power, guiding him to find his center. No one said a word as they stood in the center of the huge cavern, darkness closing in around them, waiting for some type of ‘sign’. At first Adaineas felt foolish, standing in the middle of a cave with his eyes closed and nothing remarkable happened. He felt Anya’s connection at the back of his mind, resonating like the faintest echo. Then it struck him, as his power found its center and connected with the earth surrounding them, cradling them in its womb. It was devastating, the pain so ferocious he felt ill. The earth wailed at the loss of that which it had guarded, something precious, something sacred. It spoke to him in pictures.

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Emotions, trapped within the layers of sediment, beat at him, whispering of evil things that had passed Screaming out its agony, his mind cried with the mountain as it spoke of dying. Anya’s voice comforted, placating the resounding noise until he only heard her voice in his head. “Can you hear the mountain cry, Adaineas? Did you understand its pain? Something has been siphoning the essence of the mountain, pulling its life force from its very heart. Hear how the earth cries around us. I fear the Obsidis have done this purposefully and, if they have, they are gaining power. We must hurry!” Closing their connection, a shaken Adaineas led them deeper into the shafts leading down into the heart of the mountain. Crystal formations glinted on ceilings, glittering silvery blue in the artificial lights As they passed through each corridor, darkness blacker than deepest space framed each flickering light before absorbing it behind them, leaving no trace of their passing. The steady incline was growing slick with water, trickling through cracks in the rock from the melting snow, and they were forced into paying closer attention to where they placed their feet. The sturdiest climbing boots were hard-pressed to grip the slick rocks. Without warning they came to the end of their journey. The tunnel opened into an enormous chamber, further underground than they had ever planned on traveling. The sight that met their eyes horrified them, and a soldier turned his head and was ill. Adaineas held Anya when she could not stop her sobs of distress, as she empathized with the torment Rasafiel was enduring. The small, fragile female stood weeping silently midst the remains of several gigantic egg shapes, which had been brutally demolished. What once had been clear and glittering, was now dull and lifeless, shattered like the dreams they held. Several delicate skeletons lay scattered on the ground, many half in and half out of their shells. Rasafiel knelt by one, her hand laying gently on the bones. “This was once my mother; so beautiful, so kind. Never a harsh word.” Tears blinded her as she looked around the chamber, remembering that fateful day. “They came in through there.” She pointed at the crumbling wall that led off in another direction, more steep and rough. “When they opened the sealed wall the rocks fell, opening the chambers. They ripped away our protections, leaving us unable to shield ourselves from injury.” Pictures were taken and records made of the inhuman devastation. The few scientists they had brought stored the information on electronic storage devices while Tralas knelt next to Rasafiel, holding her close, rocking her in sympathy. “If you would permit us, we would take these bones back for a proper burial. As is your way.” She choked back a wail at the thought of leaving her mother and father to be further tormented, unable to rest from their untimely and cruel deaths. Turning in his arms, she nestled her face against his neck and nodded her agreement. Tralas motioned to the guards and, with great care and reverence, they began the process of gathering up the bones, placing them into small boxes lined with silks and satins, preserving the honor of those who had fallen before their time.

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Anya began an ancient cant to guide souls who remained far from their final resting place, home. She knew it would be only a patch until proper burial rituals could be performed, but it would help give Rasafiel peace of heart. Rasafiel followed her in ritualistic song, their voices joined in perfect harmony. Light fragrant breezes brushed their heads and faces and Rasafiel allowed a small comforted smile to touch her lips before snuggling back into the pair of strong arms, cradling her so gently. Traveling up the tunnels, back to aboveground, Tralas carried the sleeping Rasafiel, weary to her bones from her bouts of weeping. “We must be sure this cavern is closed and can never be opened again.” Adaineas readily agreed, saying that when the earth had ‘spoken’ to him, claiming it needed time to rejuvenate, to heal the mountain from within. Freedom from the oppressive darkness was so close, through the large cavern and out into fresh, pure air and, as they neared the entrance, they stopped when Anya’s hand shot out, catching Adaineas’ sleeve, preventing him from moving further into the cavern. The vibrations in the air were wrong, out of sync. Danger waited for them. She motioned she did not see the men they had left behind, guarding the entrance. His eyes narrowed in thought and he gestured to the others to be immediately on alert. Edging along the wall of the cave, they cautiously approached the entrance. They found the two guards unconscious, bound back-to-back and Anya’s first thought, as a healer, was to be certain they were not injured. Other than headaches they seemed fine, and, thankfully, due to the chilly climate, whoever had knocked them out had enough heart to leave them dressed in warm breeches, tunics, and boots. “What is your business here, strangers?” a voice echoed around the rocky walls. They heard more than one pair of feet scrambling over the rocks, and wondered how many lay in wait. Adaineas called out that they had simply been searching the caves and tunnels for easier access to the top of the mountain for an observatory that was being considered. As he neared the opening, he hoped whomever was outside could see him better than he could see them, and spread his hands out in a show of peace. “Others came and destroyed the land, killing the living for sport. What is to say you will not do the same?” A vision appeared framed in the afternoon light, blocking their exit, an avenging angel protecting what she considered hers. Long dark brown hair fell almost to her hips, whipping in the wind as she braced her legs, glaring at them with eyes greener than the deepest emerald. “Too many times have strangers come to these mountains, stripping it bare. Why should I believe any of your lies?” Anya laid down her precious pack behind Trala’s legs. Still holding the softly snoring Rasafiel he had stayed further back when then fighting had stared. She stepped forward, studying the shape of the striking face before her. Shadowed by the waning light it seemed somehow familiar. “I am Anya, Seer for the Royal House. You know I cannot lie.” She bowed, her hands pressed together, waiting for any reaction, Adaineas standing close to her back. She knew he was prepared to toss her to the ground and protect her at the first sign of danger.

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They could hear urgent whispers, followed by showers of pebbles, as bodies descended from their hiding places, gathering behind their guardian. They stood close enough to hear what was said, but far enough to remain out of danger. “The king has sent us to determine the strength of the threat from an old enemy. It was said that they have come here, harmed beings sleeping deep within the caverns, watchers of our worlds; innocent of any deeds other than to record history. We have gathered evidence so that we might prove what has happened here, finding a way to stop them.” Her voice was calm and lulling, the truth ringing through the cave like a bell in a church tower. The woman eyed her critically, looking at her from head to toe, sneering at her fine clothing. “You are from here.” It wasn’t a question so Anya chose not to respond, waiting. “What part of this world did you once call home?” she snapped, obviously expecting a timely answer. “I lived in the great city, with my family, and was sent away. Taking up my calling with the Order. Touch my hand if you would see further truth in my words, for those who wish may see do so upon invitation.” Waiting patiently, as if having all the time in the world, Anya stood in the cave, her hand outstretched. She refused to shiver, to show any signs of weakness to the renegade warrior. The woman cautiously approached, her movements reminiscent of a feral cat looking to strike first, and ask questions later. Anya felt rough skin touch her own as her hand was gently grasped. Her mind went blank as their thoughts crashed together, and both women fell to the ground. Shocked cries echoed from both sides but they remained still, connected by locked fingers and palms. Adaineas wanted to wrench Anya away and carry her to safety, but he recognized the connection the Seer had made, having experienced it himself not that long ago. Scenes flashed around the two women as they stood together in a swirling mist. Anya cried out when she saw a much younger version of herself, wailing and calling for her mother and father. “Mama! Papa!” The heartbreaking child sobbed, obviously suffering with the loss of her family. The scenes changed as different ones attempted to comfort the child but she pushed them away, seeking a particular touch, a favorite kiss. “Vespa! Kallie! Where are they? I want my family!” Collapsing into the arms of a thinner, younger Robert, the child screamed out the pain of her grief when she knew they were all gone from her. The picture faded, replacing pats on the back with a fight for one’s life. Dirty arms hugged limbs, tiny determined hands clawed into the hillside as the young girl crawled, slipping back into the water, shivering with the cold as she finally collapsed on the far banks of a raging river. A pitiful whimper was barely heard over the dangerous roar of the churning water vibrating the tenuous earth the small body clung to. Cut and bruised, covered by mud from head to tow, the only light Anya saw was a glint of gold from a ring on one of the filthy hands. Next was of a later time, long after Anya had completed her studies and had been indoctrinated into the Sisterhood of Seers. She remembered it well. Having searched every avenue she could think of, she had continued to run into dead-ends. She had gone to see the Mother Superior, weeping for those she had lost, asking for guidance...

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“I need to know, Mother Superior. They were never found…there had to be some way of finding out what happened. I must know what happened to my sisters.” “I understand, child. We can make inquiries but if no one comes forward…I do not know what to tell you. But do not lose hope. I believe you will find them one day, when you need them the most.” Those words had been more prophetic than Anya knew. It changed again, moving over fields to an old woman standing beside the inert form. “I found you, child, and here you will remain. The earth calls for your strength…those bottom dwellers, living at the base of our mountain, have stopped searching for survivors so you belong to me. There is nothing for you there.” Anya turned face the woman, familiar eyes meeting familiar eyes, and all the pieces of the puzzle fell into place. “Vespa...” she sighed, her power flaring with her hope, barely contained as happiness burst free. “My Vessie!” With her utterance they were thrust from the vision, both knocked to the floor with the sparks of energy Anya emitted. The woman released Anya’s hand and clutched at her head, the pounding pressure a normal side effect from such a union. Anya scrambled up and wrapped her arms tightly around the woman’s waist, weeping and laughing at the same time. “My Vessie,” she whispered between her tears of joy. “I have finally found you.” “Seer Witch!” A vile hiss filled the air and a robed figure slid in around the others, pointing a gnarled finger at the young Seer. “You will not leave this place alive. Kill them all!” Anya covered the other woman’s head, protecting her as they were attacked by Vespa’s mind-warped followers enchanted by the evil Obsidis. Adaineas ordered his men to wound, not kill, pointing to the exception. The strange, cloaked figure scrambled, crab-like, up to the highest peak on the ridge, pulling its hiding hood down before it faced the gathered group. It screeched in unholy madness upon seeing that the Seer lived and disappeared in a whirl of smoky fog. Adaineas ran to the two figures lying close to, but not quite touching, each other. “Anya?” he coaxed, gently picking her up off the cold ground and propping her up against the damp walls of the cavern. He searched her arms and legs for anything resembling a life threatening wound. The other woman remained unconscious and he could a bullet hole high on her right shoulder. Calling Genis over, he asked him to wrap the woman’s arms with a tight bandage until they had a chance to get it seen to, “I am fine, Adaineas,” Anya mumbled, still in shock. “It is really Vespa. I have finally found my sister.” She burst into tears and looked yearningly at the unconscious woman, as if willing her to awaken. The little drago male, that one small drago who had not found his ‘chosen’, had rolled out Anya’s pack when she set it down. A hiss erupted from the hatchling as he spotted the wounded woman. Hissing, “Mine. Mine. My ‘chosen’,” his ferocious growls resonated through Anya’s mind as he stumbled over the rocky terrain, tripping in his haste to reach her sister, Vespa. Curling his tail around her limp arm, he cuddled as close as possible, glaring whenever anyone came close enough to disturb them. “Let us get her to the shuttle as soon as possible. Tralas, radio for the transport to meet us in the village.” Adaineas barked out his orders.

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The little drago muttered and snarled when they quickly bound her arm, so she could travel. It was decided that the two would ride with Tralas, as he the least amount of equipment to carry, His drago would have company and he would be able to hold Vespa easier than anyone, having room for her to sit in the front of his saddle. Anya rode back to the landing pad in a daze. She was having difficulty not watching her sister’s every move, her every breath, trying to reassure herself that Vespa truly existed. Time had no meaning until they reached the shuttle. ***** Back on board the ship Anya had little time to worry about the black space beyond the portal. She cradled both dragos in her lap as she sat up with Vespa, who had yet to awaken. The doctor had said it was because of the combination of blood loss and vision connection. Her body had shut down, protecting itself. He went on to explain that it was possible that when the flood occurred she was swept under and hit her head on the rocks below the surface of the water. That could have resulted in memory loss. Then, when the vision occurred, and in the detail Anya had described, it could have unblocked the memories, the shock of it happening at once rendering her unconscious. The doctor had explained that the deep sleep was a natural way of healing. Adaineas entered the room and saw Anya sitting beside the bed, wearing a lost expression, holding her sister’s hand as if she would never let it go. He knelt down in front of her and took her hand, tremors continuing to shake his massive frame as he realized, once again, how close he had come to losing her. “Anya.” He said softly, waiting until her eyes met his. “You need to get some rest.” “When she opens her eyes and knows me, then I will rest,” Anya argued, not about to leave the bedroom until she, and her sister, got a chance to talk. “I will stay with you, then, to be sure you do not overdo it,” he replied, crossing his arms belligerently. “But you need rest just as much as I, if not more,” she objected. He raised his hand and cupped her cheek. As she leaned into his caress he replied, “I came very close to losing you today and never want to experience that again. My life flashed before me as those bullets were hitting all around you.” He shuddered and wrapped his arm around her, hugging her and pressing his lips to her temple. “No matter what, you must promise me that you will stay by my side until we are old and gray, watching our grand children playing around our feet.” “Nothing will happen to me, Adaineas.” She closed her eyes, basking in the love pouring through her at his words. “I would not leave you for any reason.” “Then you will marry me,” he demanded in a hushed tone, his eyes blazing, “I will not let you leave me. Ever!” The tiny dragos scooted out of her lap as a choked cry erupted from her. Unencumbered, she threw herself in his arms. “I love you.” She choked out. “Oh Adaineas! I do love you.” Her arms clutching him tight, wishing never to let him go. She savored the smell of his skin as he held her safe in his arms. Looking up, her love for him shining in her eyes she basked in his sight.

Riane Lasair

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“And I love you, my little Seer. I promise we will get your sister home just as soon as possible, and get her as good as new. I vow we will continue to search for Kallie. The Obsidis threat grows closer, and more deadly, as they gain power and I would prefer it if you remained home, safe from harm. Where I can make sure you are not in danger. But I do not see that happening anytime soon,” The last was followed by a resigned sigh, knowing her stubborn nature. Anya giggled, knowing the chances of that happening were slim to none. ***** Vespa watched the two lovebirds embrace, the two small dragos sitting on her chest. Her memories had returned with flashes of pictures: their father, mother, small sister, and Anya. Many had been of one hugging another and she now had an ache in her head, as well as her heart. She ached for someone to hold her close and comfort her. The years they had lost as children would be hard-pressed to retrieve, knowledge that grew more painful as she watched her sister, now a grown woman, embraced by someone who seemed to love her with all his heart. Her sister. A powerful woman, in her own right, sat before her. Her mind was still finding difficulty absorbing the information. Confusing memories of the events that placed her on this ship and in this bed, medicated smells permeating her pores. She was normally not one to lack knowledge of how she arrived somewhere, or where she was going. And who was the cloaked figure? She could have sworn there had been more then one. She shifted slightly, suddenly exhausted, and decided that there would be time for answers later. She had a lifetime to get to know her sister. Closing her eyes, whispers of things to come drifting through her mind in gentle, loving, hissing words and pictures, she drifted into a deep, healing sleep. She knew she would have plenty of time to find answers, and was satisfied to let the two lovers revel in life. They would always have time. Always.