The Vessel

By Michael Alexander

On the happiest day of her life, Xela's world falls apart thanks to the actions of her brother Fael. Her fiance and father are dead and now she only harbors vengeance in her heart. But in her quest to exact revenge for her lost loved ones, she will be ensnared into a plot that threatens to resurrect an Old God and cast the world into darkness.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Michael Alexander
• Release date: Aug 14, 2012
• ISBN: 9781476123905

Michael Alexander

Michael Alexander lives with his husband on the west coast of Florida and enjoys the beach, reading and writing.

Book preview

The Vessel

Book 1 of the Machinations Series

Michael Alexander

© 2012 Michael Alexander

Smashwords Edition

Smashwords License Statement

This ebook is licensed for your personal use only. This ebook may not be resold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you're reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to Smashwords.com and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

This novel is a work of fiction. All names, characters, places, and events are the product of the author's imagination and are used fictitiously. All references to actual events and places, or descriptions of persons living or dead are used fictitiously.

Cover Art by Amanda L. Matthews at AMDesign Studios

Table of Contents

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Epilogue

Acknowledgements

About the Author

Chapter One

"By your grace Goddess,

Where trespassers may tread / Divert me from their path.

When evil may approach / Shield me from their blows.

Where sin threatens to lure me in / Grant me strength.

By your grace oh Goddess / I am saved."

- Prayer of Protection

Her mother’s murder was a shock to everyone. Her brother killed their mother with his own hands. Nothing had ever felt the same since.

Xela gently glided her thumb over the ring on her left index finger, the smooth ruby stone giving her a brief moment of calm. This small remnant was all that she had left of her mother. Mother, I wish you could be here with me. You would know exactly what to say. Her mother was proud that Xela chose to marry for love, not status. The man she was promised to on the other side of Sol, on the other side of the world, would have to find another bride.

Xela fidgeted with her dress, hoping to preoccupy her mind. Her dress had been made especially for her, made from the finest of silks the village had to offer. The dress showed her figure, tightly cinched at the waist and bosom, with a flowing skirt of many layers. Around her neck lay an amulet, an iron replica of the goddess Airato’s insignia. Her fiancé Raynor had given it to her as a wedding present. Everything seemed perfect.

So why am I so nervous? Xela thought to herself. How can a wedding make me so anxious when slavers don’t make me flinch? Xela urged to string her bow, if only to force herself back into her comfort zone. She tugged again on her gown, feeling naked and exposed despite being suffocated with expensive fabric.

It was not every day the High Priest's daughter was to wed. Thus, the entire village of Laedon was invited to the celebration. With the wooden pews crammed to capacity, many were left to stand against the gray stone walls, tightly wedged shoulder to shoulder. The excited whispers of the congregation ricocheted off of the high domed ceiling, filling the room with an unceasing buzz. Even the bridesmaids couldn’t contain their excitement. Though it was a cool spring day, Xela felt like she was on fire, the room and the chatter within it like a boiling teakettle whistling its high-pitched song.

What’s wrong Xela? Gabryelle asked, gently stroking the bride’s arm.

I’m no good at this Gabryelle, you know that. When was the last time you saw me in a dress?

Gabryelle grinned wryly. Never actually. As a matter of fact, I’ve never seen you without your bow either.

Can you keep a secret? Promise you won’t say anything. Gabryelle leaned in closer. I stashed it behind the altar. Gabryelle gasped, quickly covering her mouth. Xela frowned. Don’t look at me like that. Just knowing it’s there makes me feel a little less anxious.

Expecting a raiding party? Gabryelle taunted. Xela crossed her arms. She didn’t expect Gabryelle to understand. A warrior without a weapon was a like a blacksmith without his hammer.

You’re not having second thoughts are you? You love Raynor.

I do, I do. But I can’t shake this feeling. Ever since Mother died, this sense of dread has been hanging over me, like I’m being watched. And the dreams...

Grabbing her shoulders forcefully, Gabryelle pulled Xela in closer, leaving an inch of space between the tips of their noses. Xela, having nerves before the ceremony is normal. Relax. Nothing bad is going to happen.

The bells chimed in a low tone, silencing the congregation and cuing the wedding party to scramble into positions. Breathe, Gabryelle assured. This is your day. With a smile, she stepped into line. Despite the pep talk, Xela didn't feel any better.

A harp played its sweeping melody, cuing the procession to begin. According to tradition, all the bridesmaids carried orbs of pure light in the palms of their hands. Upon reaching the altar, the bridesmaids carefully placed the orbs of light in a circle on the purple carpet and scurried to their positions. Xela’s father, the High Priest, followed the bridesmaids in the processional. His robes were so pure white he seemed to be shining. His age showed as he walked down the aisle, a slight limp in his left leg, forced to use the ceremonial staff as a cane.

At last it came Xela's turn to walk. The congregation rose from their seats as soon as she entered the chamber, their faces filled with joy and adoration. She blushed as she felt every eye in the room bear down on her. Feeling lightheaded, she took a deep breath and made the first step toward the altar, her bare feet sinking into the plush carpet draping the floor.

Xela looked up at the bronze sculpture of the goddess Airato, arms raised, casting her grace on all who entered and silently, she thanked Airato for blessing her with everything she had. She marveled at all of the embellishments added for the ceremony. Tapestries of purple hung from the ceiling, carpets of gold lined the floors, lit candles glowed from the walls, and powder blue flowers bloomed from every corner. Light sprinkled in from the side windows as the clouds outside dispersed. Her father stood smiling at her, his eyes shimmering with unshed tears.

And she gazed upon Raynor, standing proud upon the altar. She barely recognized him in the blue matrimonial robes, his long auburn hair draping from his crown. Examining his hazel eyes, he looked as uncomfortable in his attire as she felt in hers, fidgeting with his elaborate dressings with subtle movements of his hands. Raynor was a mill worker, a man accustomed to wearing trousers and tunics, not heavy robes decorated with stones. Xela stepped up to the altar beside him, taking in another deep breath. She took his rough hands and smiled, hoping to conceal her nervousness.

Are you ok? he mouthed to her. Nodding, she gave his hands a squeeze to reassure him.

It was time for the protection ring. The orbs of light surrounding them glowed even brighter, the energy from each orb branching out, extending like longing arms. The arcs of pure energy intertwined with each other, linking the orbs as one light source. The result formed a sphere of light around the couple, much like a woven basket, a netting. Xela felt the warmth of the light around her, grazing her skin.

Despite holding Raynor’s hands, feeling the sphere's protection, and knowing her bow was within reach, Xela couldn’t overcome the feeling of dread in the pit of her stomach.

Brothers and sisters, Xela’s father began, we gather on this holy day to officially bind together Xela and Raynor under Airato’s holy gaze. Let us bow our heads and pray. As Xela’s father lifted his arms, palms open, the congregation lowered their heads. Xela prayed earnestly to Airato, praying her life with Raynor would be full of blessings, praying that she would overcome any obstacles in her path, and praying her children would be blessed with Airato’s light.

Goddess, may your blessing descend on these young lovers and procure a bright future full of happiness. He lowered his hands. Now, if anyone here objects to this union, step forward and speak now or take it to the grave.

The wooden doors at the back of the temple burst open, accompanied by a gust of wind. The act sent everyone’s attention away from the couple to the figure that stood tall at the entrance, head hoisted while he stared down the aisle directly at Xela and Raynor. His eyes were the darkest brown, his hair jet black, and skin pale white. His crooked grin sent a chill up Xela's spine and spread a fire through her heart. Hatred burned fiercely within her as she stared into his eyes.

Xela, my sister, how could you be so hurtful as to not invite me to your wedding? he sneered. When I heard you were getting married, I anxiously awaited the courier that would hand-deliver the invitation. But no one came. I thought we were closer than that. He smiled, revealing a set of teeth that resembled fangs. He came with darker intentions than he was leading on. The congregation leaned away from him, nervous by his very presence. The entire village knew of his dark deeds.

How dare you interrupt my wedding, Xela said. She took one step forward before Raynor gently placed his hand on her arm, pulling her back to his side. She shook with anger and even Raynor’s angelic touch wouldn’t calm her.

Please leave Fael, Raynor said. If you harbor any love for Xela, you will leave now.

Oh, looks like big sis found herself a prince to come to her aid, Fael taunted. Has all of Father's training been for nothing? Tell me Xela, how does it feel having a man do your fighting for you?

Watch your tongue brother! You know very well I would take great pleasure in cutting it out. Leave now before I put an arrow through your heart.

You shouldn’t be here my son, her father said. We can never forgive you for what you did to Seelah. Leave. Now.

Father, how cold. Sending me away without a lick of affection. Mother's death certainly has hardened you. With a flick of his wrist, Fael lifted their father off of his feet, dangling him above the ground though an invisible force. He struggled in the air, kicking his feet hoping to reconnect with a solid surface. Let’s see if we can soften you up. With a push, Fael sent him flying through the air, smashing his spine against the unforgiving stone wall behind him. Airato's statue shook when her father made impact. Xela left the protection sphere and rushed to her father’s aid, bending down to check his condition. He was unconscious, but still breathing. Barely.

Pitiful. Fael spat on the ground, daring to desecrate Airato’s house of worship. I still find it enthralling that Mother could love a man as weak as him.

You have no right to speak of our mother, Xela shot back. There is no excuse for what you did to her.

Misunderstandings, sister. Misunderstandings.

Misunderstandings? You murdered her. Your own mother.

Mother had her purpose, Fael said bluntly. Her role was merely fulfilled.

I have already told you once to leave, Xela said. Xela grabbed her bow from behind the altar, thankful her anxiety actually had purpose, and planted herself between Raynor and her brother. Readying an arrow, she aimed directly for her brother’s heart. The entire populace within the temple held their breaths. A display of violence within Airato's house was sacrilege, but her brother only responded to violence. Don’t make me tell you again. You know I don’t miss. Xela’s hands held steady, but her mind and heart were racing with panic and confusion. During their years of training, Fael never once exhibited supernatural powers such as this. Why did these powers wait until now to manifest?

Magic was not common in Laedon. In fact there hadn’t been a commissioned mage in town at least since Xela was born. The town had in the past had its share of herbalists and salve-makers, but nothing in the mystic sense. Despite never experiencing the work of a mage first-hand, Xela learned from her parents that magic was a gift meant to help others and not for selfish practice. The magic Fael now wielded seemed positively evil.

Now my dear sister, certainly you would let me present you with a wedding gift before you strike me down? Fael extended his hand toward his sister, his long fingers like daggers looking to dig into flesh.

What sort of gift could you possibly present to me other than pain and misery?

Xela, you know me too well.

Fael clapped his hands above his head, creating a cloud of black smoke that spiraled down, enveloping him in a vortex. The candles in the temple blew out, cowering in fear of the dark powers that he possessed. Xela released her arrow, sending her missile flying down the central aisle of the temple. The arrow passed clean through the cloud of smog, hitting one of the doors at the entrance.

That was a good shot Xela, Fael said, his voice disembodied. I would certainly be dead. Now, my turn. The black smoke charged forward like a bull, knocking Xela to the side. Xela tumbled to the floor, prompting her bridesmaids to come to her aid but she was back on her feet by the time they reached her. The smoke pierced the protection sphere that surrounded Raynor and gathered behind him. Fael's figure materialized from the dark smog. He had an evil grin on his face and clutched his right hand around Raynor's throat.

Get away from him! Xela screamed as her bridesmaids pulled her away from the altar. Forcing them off of her, she armed her bow once again. Her eyes welled with tears. She aimed for Fael’s head, but she knew she could never take the shot. There was too strong a chance of striking Raynor instead. Fael certainly knew this. Only a coward hid behind a human shield.

Such a handsome specimen Xela, Fael said to the shocked congregation, their emotions mounting past nervousness and ascending to panic as they sunk lower into the pews and closer to the walls. No one dared to breathe. Such a shame he has to die. He ran the tip of his finger across Raynor’s cheek, taunting Xela with his absolute control. Raynor shuddered at Fael’s touch, his eyes trying to tell Xela that everything was going to be ok. He was always a poor liar.

What have you become? Xela asked. You are a swordsman. Never in training did you ever learn to throw men across a room without laying a finger on them.

You can thank Mother for that.

Xela’s anger boiled within her. What the hell does that mean? Why did you kill her? She was my mother too.

I loved her, Fael answered in a sweet voice. It's what she would have wanted. She always thought I would blossom to exceed even Father's expectations. I held her in my arms as the life drained out of her. My potential is limitless.

Xela’s grip tightened on her bow, her palms starting to moisten with sweat. Why now? Why today? Was taking our mother’s life not enough to satisfy you? Tell me.

Fael caressed Raynor’s skin, his hand slithering across Raynor’s chin. My actions transcend everything you know. Oh Xela, you don’t understand now, but one day, you will understand completely. To explain now would serve no end. Raynor struggled under Fael’s grasp, making every effort to break free. But Fael was too strong now with darkness fueling his actions.

If you kill him, I'll slit your throat myself, Xela warned. Her anger was manifesting physically, causing her hands to quiver slightly.

Fael cackled, a sound that seemed to shake the foundation of the temple. I would love to see you try. Fael twirled his finger in the air, gathering the black smoke around his finger like thread. Then the smoke descended into Raynor’s throat. Instantly, Raynor turned ghostly white, his eyes opening wide in shock gazing to the heavens, his mouth gasping for air. The congregation, including Xela’s bridesmaids, quickly succumbed to fear and ran out of the temple. Screams echoed off the walls as the flood of people ran, bursting through the back doors into the quiet morning. Raynor's body gave and collapsed to the floor. Xela kept her arrow strung, maintaining her focus on her brother.

Block out everything but your target, her father had taught her. Focus your energy on the goal. The rest of the world is a distraction. Even with those wise words, Xela knew her father never envisioned a scenario such as this. All Xela saw was the tip of her arrow in direct line to Fael’s heart, refusing to look at Raynor’s body at her brother’s feet. Discipline was her only haven.

I know what you are thinking, sister, Fael began. How could I kill the love of your life on this most blessed day? Would you like him back? Fael kicked Raynor’s corpse with his boot, rolling the body down the short steps from the altar. Xela’s focus broke. From the corner of her eye, she zoomed in on Raynor, his face retaining the shock of his death. No, Xela thought. He’s not dead. He’s not dead. Fael has already taken my mother. He can’t have Raynor too.

My, my, for once you are speechless. Answer my question Xela. Do you want him back? Xela said nothing, trying to refocus on her brother. But the longer Raynor’s death loomed in the air, the more her focus waned. Lowering her bow, she felt her muscles cramp up, her breath feeling short and difficult.

Raynor, she whispered as she clutched the amulet he had given her. Her emotions took over as her eyes jumped to Fael. You are dead! She readied her bow and was ready to release the arrow when suddenly she froze, her muscles ignoring her will.

I can feel fear coursing through you sister, Fael said. And I feed on fear.

I’m not afraid, Xela said. But it was a lie. She was very much afraid of Fael’s new, uninhibited abilities. Of knowing she would be forced to live her life without Raynor’s support. Of what Fael had in store for her.

Why are you lying to me? He pushed Xela back with another thrust of his palm, sending her to the floor. Even the soft carpet failed to cushion much of the impact. Pain stabbed at her lower spine and the back of her head. Sit back and relax. The show is just getting started.

Fael took a knife from his back and cut deeply into his palm. Tipping his hand slightly, Fael’s blood dripped onto Raynor's body, sinking into his skin. Xela shivered at what she witnessed. This was unnatural. Unholy. Evil. Why could Airato allow such a travesty to occur in her house?

Fael raised his hands over the body, whispering under his breath in a language Xela didn’t understand. Raynor's body stirred, convulsing violently as Fael's chanting accelerated. Then the convulsions stopped and Raynor’s body quieted.

Rise, Fael said. Upon command, Raynor sat up and tilted his head, setting his gaze upon Xela. But his eyes were different. They were the eyes of a stranger, not the loving, brave man she loved. This was not Raynor no matter the face it wore.

He was so beautiful, but flawed. Now he is perfect. Handsome and bathed in death. You see Xela, it was too easy to kill your little boy toy. So easy in fact that I decided to think of a way to make my little scheme more interesting. Fael handed the bloodied dagger to Raynor, placing it delicately in his hands. Its crude craftsmanship suited its dark purpose. Raynor held the dagger firmly, examining its blade with a great satisfaction, sliding his fingers along the dagger’s flat edge.

I searched my soul for something that would be worse than killing your husband. And my, did I find it! Not only will you watch him die, you will kill him yourself.

You are delusional if you think I would kill my own husband!

You won't have a choice. What greater gift could you receive besides a hatred for me? Hatred in yourself. Happy wedding day, dear sister. With a wave of his hand, he was enveloped in smoke and he was gone, dissipating into thin air. Xela was released from whatever control Fael held over her, lowering her bow, but still wary. Raynor stood still, pointing the dagger in Xela's direction. His eyes had one mad intention. Bloodshed.

Raynor, can you hear me? Xela said. If there was any trace of the man she loved in this walking zombie, she had to try to reach him. Raynor, please don't do this. It's me, Xela. You love me remember? She reached her hand to him, but he did not respond kindly. He stared her down, gripping the dagger with great force while snarling at her like a mindless animal.

Xela felt her heart go numb, forcing herself to subdue her feelings for this man. Or the husk that remained of him. It was the only way she could do what must be done. She lifted the bow and made aim, never shedding a