The Elemental Trilogy Box Set

By Susan Leigh Noble

The Elemental trilogy Box Set includes Summoned (Book 1), Quietus (Book 2), and Destiny (Book 3).

Summoned:
Lina was born with the power to start fires with a mere thought - a trait which died out long ago. She had no plans to leave her beloved homeland. Then gypsies kidnap her and take her to a foreign land. There a strong urge compels her to travel north.

On her journey, she reluctantly uses her innate Elemental powers as she battles mystical creatures that have not existed for 800 years. When she discovers the shocking truth behind the calling, it will change her life in ways she could never imagine.

Quietus:
In the shadow of Ben Dar fortress, Lina learned she was the center of a thousand-year-old prophecy claiming the rebirth of the Elementals – an ancient race dedicated to caring for the Land.

Now Lina and those with traces of Elemental power train in the mountains of South Point in the hopes that they can defeat this unknown danger to the Land. Will her powers be enough to stop the destruction of her homeland?

Destiny:
Destroying Quietus should have stopped the destruction to the Land. But it hadn’t. Slowly, the barren areas continue to grow destroying everything in their path. None of Lina’s Elemental powers can repair the damage while the Land remains contaminated by magic.

But there is an ancient scepter created by a Learner that may lift this magical barrier. Before Lina can claim it, the scepter is stolen. Now Lina and Val must race to find the scepter and end the destruction to the Land once and for all.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Susan Leigh Noble
• Release date: Dec 11, 2012
• ISBN: 9781301041831

Susan Leigh Noble

Susan Leigh Noble has always loved dragons and magic so it is no wonder that she became an author of fantasy novels. As a cat lover, she also had to throw in a telepathic cat to the mix in her The Elemental Series. Her latest book, The Heir to Alexandria, is her first stand-alone fantasy novel.In addition to writing, Susan spends her days taking care of her two children and husband in Texas.

Book preview

Summoned

Book One of The Elemental

By Susan Leigh Noble

This book is a work of fiction. The names, characters, places and incidents are products of the writer’s imagination. Any resemblances to persons, living or dead, are entirely coincidental.

Original Copyright 1995 by Susan Leigh Noble

First Digital Publication: August 2011

Published by Susan Leigh Noble at Smashwords

Cover design by Donna Casey (www.digitaldonna.com)

Photos used to create the cover were obtained from dreamtime.com

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or retransmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by an information storage and retrieval system -- except by a reviewer who may quote brief passages in a review to be printed in a magazine, newspaper, or on the web -- without expressed written permission in writing from Susan Leigh Noble.

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold 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.

To my husband,

Without you, this book would not exist

1Prologue

His wings beating softly, the golden dragon soared over the rocky mountain. The heat of the sun bore down on him as he stretched out his wings, tilting them to catch the downdraft. He effortlessly glided toward the valley below. The golden dragon glanced over his shoulder, catching sight of three of the five dragonets that flew with him today. As one, they swooped down into the valley and settled on the dusty valley floor. He slowly folded his wings against his back and turned his graying muzzle toward his charges. Two reds, two greens, and a golden dragonet formed a half circle in front of him.

Nix studied each dragonet. He tried to gauge their understanding of the lesson. The five-day trip had taken them over much of the Land. Nix had explained how once the dragons did not only live in the mountains of Phila but everywhere. Then they had lived and worked with man.

The young dragonets did not seem to understand man. Not that Nix could blame them. After all, the dragonets were only two years out of the shell. He sat back on his haunches as he thought of how to explain why they must learn not to hate man for the things man had done to the dragons. He knew through the thoughts and memories of all dragons that had ever lived why this was important but these dragonets had not yet learned to use the power of their minds. They could not yet access all those memories. However, when they came of age next year, they would have all the memories, the good and the bad, of all the dragons. Before then it was important to instill in these young ones the values and beliefs of all dragon kind.

What was it like, Nix? One of the red dragonets rose to ask, his voice eager as it entered Nix’s mind. What was it like before the Great War?

Nix looked at Salis. His mind rushed with memories that were not his own as he had been born after the Great War. How did he explain the fall out between man and dragon? The dragons had done nothing wrong. It was man who had changed.

Man respected us, Nix said, his eyes sweeping over the others. Suddenly, movement caught his eye, and he quickly swung his head. On the cliff above, sat a small dragonet, his black hide gleamed in the sun, his eyes intent on Nix as if he was absorbing every word he spoke. Such an odd one Nix thought. The black dragonet was just out of the shell not more than a couple of months, and already he had taken an intense interest in man. Every time there was a lesson about man, the black dragonet always appeared.

Did man hunt us then?

Nix focused his attention back on his students. He turned to Tre, the other red dragonet, who had asked the question. No. He did not. However, the Great War brought many changes, some good, some bad. He paused. So many changes had happened since man had severed their alliance with the dragons. He shook his mighty head in an attempt to clear his thoughts.

By the time of the Great War, the Elementals were already gone, and the Learners were at their peak. Both the Kings and the Learners wanted power. The common man revolted. They took control and banished the Learners and the Kings. And in that fury, they dissolved our relationship. There was little we could do to make them understand we were different from those who had created us. During that time, man killed many creatures created by the Learners. But they did what they thought was right. They did what they thought they must to bring the Land under better rule. They made it so the Land was ruled with peace, caring, and not the greed of the Kings or the Learners.

But if they hunt us, why can't we hunt them? The green dragonet, Ral, demanded. It is not worth it to trust man. Or to let him live.

Ral!

Nix advanced on the shaking dragonet until he towered over him. The young green dragon stared up at him, his eyes wide.

Man does not respect us. He will not change. It will never be as it once was.

No. It will not be as it once was, Nix agreed, the regret evident in his voice.

If only the Elementals, Salis began.

If only . . . Ral said with a flip of his head. They are no more.

Nix lowered his head until his graying muzzle almost touched the young dragon's muzzle. The Elementals will return. His tone was stern. He thought briefly of the legend which foretold of their return. With their return, the breach between man and dragon might be fixed. Some day the Elementals will be needed, and as they did once, they will come to the rescue of the Land. That, Ral, is why we must learn about man. We must be prepared to help. A threat to this Land will affect man and dragon alike. Some day man and dragon will reunite under the same cause – to save the Land.

Nix stared hard at the little green dragon. He hoped Ral understood. Nix’s bones ached and he knew he didn’t have many years left. He would never see the return of the Elementals. However, Ral and the others might just live that long.

The Elementals will return? The dragonets all spoke at once. Why did we not know this?

When? The black dragonet demanded.

Nix rose up, glancing at the black dragonet before turning away to study the young dragons before him. All I know is a threat will come to the Land and in the days before this threat, a full Elemental will be born to the Land. This Elemental, The Elemental, will be the Lands only hope. And ours, he silently added.

Chapter One

The young woman tossed in her bed, muttering softly. She rolled over, her long honey-colored hair covering her pale face. Her fingers dug into the mattress. She shook her head as she sank deeper into the dream.

The yellow light cut through the dark. Her eyes stayed focused on it as it flickered before her like a hundred candles dancing in a soft summer breeze, growing brighter as she neared. As she walked, her hands reached out, touching the smooth, cold stone wall. That alone should have warned Lina something was not right. Even as her mind called out that this was all wrong, she continued down the hall toward the light and toward whatever was calling her.

No one called out her name. No, the calling was unspoken but strong. The urge to respond to it consumed every part of her. She knew she must obey. What was calling her and why were unimportant to her now. All that mattered was she must go.

As she reached the end of the hall, Lina paused. The bright light hung above a curved stone staircase. She lifted her hand, shielding her eyes. She wished she could block out the light. And the calling. Then she saw the doorway to her right. Without thinking, she opened the door, slipping into the dark room. She heard low voices coming from the adjoining room. She tilted her head as she listened but the words were too soft to understand. She moved toward the room, pausing in the archway. What she saw next made her tremble with fear. Her hand flew to her mouth as the cloaked man before her turned. Suddenly, the floor trembled. The walls began to tumble and the floor collapsed beneath her. She saw her hair swirl around her as she fell. She opened her mouth, a scream on her lips, yet nothing came out. She pressed her eyes closed as she waited for the impact she knew was coming.

As she hit the ground, Lina gasped, her eyes flying open.

Her heart raced. She sat up, breathing fast. She pressed her hands into the soft mattress below her as she looked around. A small table separated her bed from another narrow bed. A dresser and a table with two chairs completed the room’s meager furnishings. The room was vaguely familiar.

Lina? Are you all right?

The gentle voice of Tosh filled her mind. Her eyes quickly scanned the room, stopping on the small grey cat lying on the table. This was not her room. She shook her head slightly trying to clear her mind, trying to piece together what had happened. Then it came back to her. Harmony. The trip with her father. She glanced at the motionless form in the other bed. Good, I did not wake him, she thought.

Tosh’s yellow eyes glowed as he jumped onto her bed, his paws sinking into the thick mattress. Was it the dream again?

"Yes," she answered, silently. And the feeling has increased. I don't know how much longer I will be able to ignore it, Tosh.

Lina shook her head. The feeling, or calling as she had recently begun to call it, grew slightly each time she woke from the dream. Her pounding heart began to return to normal. She tried to recall what scared her, but the dream was already fading from memory. It was like something dangling just out of reach. Now all she could recall was the feeling that she had been falling. She sighed. The dream and the calling had to be linked. They had not only begun at the same time but whenever she had the dream, the feeling drawing her north increased ever so slightly. There must be a connection. But what? She rose from the bed, moving toward the window.

As she and her father had traveled north toward Harmony, the feeling had strengthened. It was as if she was destined to go north. Lina looked out the window at the moonlit street below. She still could not get over the fact the city was made of rock and mortar. So different from home, she thought. Her mind flashed back to her first sight of the capital of her homeland. The grey stones had risen impressively out of the lush green Grasslands. She had seen more of the beautiful countryside on this trip than ever before and her love for her homeland had grown to a new level.

"I can't leave, Tosh." She turned to look at the cat sitting on her bed. This is my home. It is where I belong. But this feeling...I don't know how I will be able to ignore it if it gets any stronger.

There must be a reason for it. Tosh replied calmly. Maybe the answer is even here in the city.

Lina nodded. She hoped he was right, but she feared that the answer wasn’t here. The urge to go north still pulled at her.

She climbed back into the thin bed, listening to her father’s steady breathing. She wished she had not had the dream. Not tonight. It had been at least three days since the strange dream had woken her. Now on her first night in the city, when she was already tired from the trip, she had been robbed of her sleep by the dream. She lay in the bed knowing there was no chance she would get back to sleep now.

Her mind turned to the city and the mere thought of exploring the capital filled her with excitement. She had been ecstatic when a month ago her father suggested she accompany him. He had to attend the Record Keeper's meeting, so why shouldn't she come, he said. Her father felt it would be good for her to visit Harmony, since she would be going to school nearby this coming harvest. They were to visit the school on their way home.

Her mother of course had not approved of her going on the trip. But then again, her mother rarely approved of anything she did. She thought Lina should be searching for a husband like many of the other young women her age. Eighteen years old and she should be settling down, her mother would say. She sighed. Her mother was old fashioned that way. She constantly complained about the soft leggings and white shirt Lina usually chose to wear. A dress is more proper for a young woman her mother would tell her. Her mother did not even like the fact she went by the nickname Lina rather than her full name – Karlina.

So it came as no surprise that her mother also did not think Lina should be going to school to become a Land Keeper. She had certainly never understood her daughter’s desire to explore. But Lina had always wanted to be a Land Keeper. When she had passed the entrance exam, something so few people were able to do, she and her father had been thrilled. Her mother was not. Lina knew this career choice would allow her to travel and explore her homeland and maybe even one day to visit the other Lands. Then why, she thought, does the idea of leaving her homeland to follow the calling seem so wrong. Why, if she wanted to see the other Lands, was she reluctant to go now? She knew the answer. She was scared. But she wasn’t sure of what.

Maybe you are afraid of what is out there. Or maybe you just don't want to go alone.

Lina glared at the cat beside her. "Can't you keep out of my thoughts?"

If you were not thinking so loud, I would be asleep right now.

She pushed away her uncertainty and began thinking about what the next day would bring. Her father did not have a meeting until the following day, and he had promised to show her the city. The glimpses she had seen when they arrived earlier in the evening flashed before her eyes. And her father's warning echoed in her mind. It is very busy this time of year, Lina. Both the High Council and the Record Keepers are meeting now. You must be very careful.

Then when they had reached the city gates, the guards had questioned her father intently and even searched the wagon before allowing them to enter. She knew there must be a reason for these precautions but couldn’t understand who would want to hurt the High Council for that was the reason her father had given for the guards' search.

Lina, even in our time of peace, there are those who disagree with the High Council's rulings. Her father's words echoed in the night. Though her father insisted it was only a precaution, the thought still troubled her.

Lina! Please go to sleep.

She sighed. Sometimes Tosh was as bad as her mother.

***

Lina and her father stood in the middle of the street. The sun was high and heat rose from the paving stones. The market square lay before them. Booth after booth lined the rows. Everything imaginable seemed to be for sale. At the closest booth, women and men crowded around bolts of fabric. They touched and lifted the different bolts of fine velvets, lace and silks under the watchful eye of the large man behind the counter. Women at his side measured and cut the cloth as a tall, thin man haggled with the customers over the price. At the next booth, pots and pan, buckets, tins and many things she could not name were piled. Here too people gathered around, eagerly haggling for the goods. Other booths held meats, fruit, glass items, shoes, saddles and even livestock. The crowd moved swiftly; servants overburdened with packages trailed finely dressed women, tired looking mothers tried to keep track of their children as they pushed their way through the crowd while carrying small children or their purchases.

Lina glanced at her father. He was a well-built man in his mid-fifties. His brown hair had begun to grey in the last few years, and he had begun to put on a little weight. But she still remembered him as he looked when she was a child, a tall man with a closely trimmed brown beard and deep humor-filled brown eyes. Her father turned to her and smiled. Then he grabbed her hand and pulled her into the mayhem. She swung her head from side to side, as she tried to take it all in. A bright blur of color caught her eye, and she turned. A group of men and women, dressed in vivid reds and blues, stood behind several booths. A young woman no older than Lina stood on a wide wooden bench dancing to lively music. Her skirt twirled wildly as she spun. Intrigued, she turned toward the booths.

No, Lina, her father said sternly as he grabbed her arm. "Not that part of the market. I do not even know why the city lets people like them in here. No telling what they are selling. He moved off in the other direction pushing Lina in front of him. Next thing you know they will be selling women and children."

Who are they?

Gypsies. Her father put a certain amount of disgust behind the word.

She stared at him. He had never spoken that way about anyone. Gypsies?

Homeless, traveling men and women who will sell, swindle and do just about anything. You stay away from them. He waited until she nodded before pulling a list from his pocket. He eyed it. Now what did your mother say she wanted?

He turned and almost disappeared into the crowd. Lina hurried after him. She felt odd wearing the long summer dress her mother had packed for her. However, as they went to the first booth, she knew she blended in with everyone else. She watched admiringly as her father expertly haggled for the goods her mother wanted. It didn’t take long for her to understand why Tosh had not wanted to come. Lina loved to walk and explore the Grasslands but Tosh always detested walking great distances. That is what she and her father did all afternoon. They covered the great square at least twice before her father was sure they had everything they needed. Finally, he declared they had everything. He dismissed the man he had hired to carry their purchases back to the inn. The market was no longer busy though a few still argued over the bargains as her father glanced at the sky.

The afternoon is almost over. I should stop by the Head Record Keeper’s office I suppose. Her father considered that as he rubbed his beard. Yes, I should go make sure everything is ready for tomorrow.

They walked toward the center of the city. The buildings became more spaced out. Ornate carvings were etched in both the stones and heavy wooden doors. Finally, they reached the tall two-story building that housed the offices of the Record Keepers. They entered through the huge wooden doors into a large, open room. Evenly spaced thick pillars rose to the high ceiling. Large windows allowed the fading sunlight to light up the room. The room was empty except for a lone person working at a desk near the far wall between two doorways. Wooden benches lay against the front wall. The remaining walls were decorated with vivid pictures of the Grasslands.

Stay here, Lina. I will be right back, her father said and crossed the room, exiting through the doorway on the right.

Lina sat down on one of the benches beside the front door. She watched as men came in carrying large boxes. She guessed they were filled with the records that would be gone over and filed away by the Historians. Her father had brought his records in this morning while she had bathed and dressed.

Quite a bit of time passed before her father returned with another tall, thin man. A dark beard that had begun to grey at the tips covered his youthful-looking face. He stopped before her and nodded as her father introduced her.

Branagan and I have some things to go over. One of the Record Keepers died since our last meeting and the man who replaced him has the records in quite a state. Her father frowned. We'll walk you back to the inn.

The sun was almost set by the time they neared the inn. Her father stopped when it came into sight. We have so much to do. We will leave you here, her father said as he hugged her. He slipped something hard into her hand. Get something to eat and some sleep. I don’t know how long I will be.

Lina watched as he walked down the street with Branagan. They had done so much walking today that she was eager for the chance to sit and rest. She studied the coin her father had given her. The small metal coin gave her a slight thrill. She had never had any money of her own. There never had been a need. Thoughts of a warm meal and the chance to sit down filled her mind, and she eagerly began to walk toward the inn. She had only taken a few steps when a dark object dashed across the street a few yards in front of her.

"Tosh?" She called out silently as the creature slipped between two garbage barrels.

Lina?

She saw two bright eyes staring out at her as she neared. Then as he recognized who she was, Tosh crept out and walked toward her with his tail in the air.

"Where have you been all day?" She knelt down, scratching his head.

Oh, about. He leaned into her scratching. A little lower. Yeah, that's good. He closed his eyes, purring with contentment. Actually, I was trying to find out what might be causing your strange feeling or if there were any other strange occurrences happening.

Lina stopped scratching. And? she said aloud.

Nothing. I found only one other STAC here. Strange. There should be more in a city this size. Anyway, he was old and his thoughts were a bit rambled. He knew nothing. I even listened into several conversations around town and still nothing that will help us.

She sighed. Father and I went by the north gate this afternoon. I had to fight it, Tosh. The feeling got so strong that I almost turned and walked out the gate. She picked him up. What is this? And why me?

I do not know, Lina. But we will figure it out. He rubbed his chin against her face causing her to laugh as his whiskers tickled her nose. We should get out of the evening air.

She set him down and began walking toward the inn. Suddenly, a tall, skinny man stumbled out of the shadows. His clothes were smeared with dirt. He leered at her as the stench of ale assaulted her nose.

Where ya going in such a hurry? He staggered forward, grabbing Lina's arm. He pulled her toward the dark alley behind him.

Let me go!

The man laughed as he used his other hand to pull her close. How 'bout you give me a kiss?

The man lunged for her mouth. Lina turned her head, feeling his lips brush her cheek. She pulled back but the man held her tight.

"Tosh, help me."

What do you want me to do? Bite him?

The man took a step backward, dragging her with him. Lina had had enough of this. Her body began to tingle as she felt the power begin to race through her like adrenaline. She forced herself to calm down and stop struggling. She focused her energy, releasing the heat through her skin. The man jerked away.

They’re burning, he cried. He stared at her with wide eyes and then at his hands.

Lina quickly turned and ran for the inn with Tosh at her feet. She didn’t look back. She could hear the man yelling at her. She dashed inside the inn, slamming the door behind her. She leaned against it, breathing hard. Her father was correct; the city was a dangerous place.

You didn’t really burn him, did you?

"No. It was just a little heat." She picked him up. "You didn't help. I seem to remember you saying you were going to keep me out of trouble."

I did say that. But you handled him pretty well. I didn't see any need for me to jump in and lend a paw. He gave his paw a quick lick. You know that is the first time I have seen you use your powers on another person.

"Yes and I hope I never have to do it again."

Just be careful, Tosh warned. You do not want to call too much attention to yourself. People can be fearful of that which they don’t understand.

Silently, she agreed.

***

Lina never knew when her father came back to the inn. When she awoke the next morning, he had already left for his meeting. He had left a note on the nightstand. Again, he warned her to be careful and to stay on the main roads. He also left a few coins for her to buy breakfast and lunch. She leapt out of the bed and quickly washed her face, ignoring the sting of the cold water. She ran a comb through her long honey-colored hair until it shone. Pushing a strand behind her ear as she glanced at the mirror, her green eyes stared back at her. Her cheeks were flush with excitement. She pulled on the clean shirt and long skirt her mother had packed. As she turned to leave, Tosh rose from his place on the bed.

You don't need to come. Lina reached down and scratched behind his ears.

He looked up at her. I know better than to let you go alone.

She grimaced. If you insist.

Outside, the city was already pulsing with life. Wagons and carriages whisked by. The aroma of baking bread mixed with the strong odor coming from the nearby stables. Children shrieked in play as the last shop owners unlocked their doors. Lina strolled down the main street with Tosh at her heels. She explored the shops closest to the inn, fascinated by the goods they offered. Never had she seen such riches. She went into the next store and then the next. The stores were so huge. Many were larger than her home. She walked down to the main street, stopping at the corner to watch the people bustling about. Before she knew it, the morning slipped away, and she was farther away from the inn than she had meant to travel.

Here the streets were narrower and lined with trash. The few people on the street hurried by with their heads down. Lina noticed a thin man watching her from across the street. Her mind flashed back to the scene last night. Quickly, she turned and walked back the way she had come. A few minutes later, she realized nothing looked familiar. The road had bent and split several times, and she was not sure which way it was back to the inn. She stopped at the corner. She stared at the roads but they all looked the same.

Tosh, I don’t know which way to go.

She glanced down but the grey cat was not beside her. Her eyes quickly looked up and down the street. The tall thin man was a few buildings closer and Tosh was nowhere to be seen. Lina turned down the closest street.

A fat, bald man stepped out from the shadows, blocking her way. A foul stench assaulted her nose, and she took a step back.

Excuse me. I need to get by, she said, her voice shaking slightly.

Now Zack! cried the fat man.

Someone grabbed her from behind. She struggled but strong hands held her. She kicked, her feet hitting something. The man holding her stumbled. She jerked her head backward, hitting something solid. She cried out as pain exploded in her head. Dizziness overwhelmed her. Her feet threatened to slip out from under her but the man roughly held her up. A sweet-smelling cloth was forced over her mouth and nose. As she breathed in, a burning sensation filled her nose and lungs. Before she could even call to Tosh, darkness overcame her.

Chapter Two

Tosh stopped. Raising his head, his nose twitched as the wonderful aroma surrounded him. He eyed the open trash barrel next to the tavern’s door. He sniffed the air again. Fish, it was definitely fish. He looked up at the barrel and then rose onto his two hind feet. Sure enough, two large fish bones with a fair amount of meat still on them lay on top of the barrel. He jumped up and began to eat. It was whitefish, his favorite. He carefully licked up every scrap of meat.

Finally, his belly satisfied, he jumped down and went to catch up with Lina. He reentered the main street. He looked both directions but didn’t see her.

Lina . . . Lina?

No answer. She couldn't be too far away, he thought. He moved down the road, calling to her to no avail. The street split in two. She was nowhere to be seen. Panic set in. He began to run, taking the road that led to the inn. He only hoped she had gone this way. He did not want to think about the fact that he could be running in the exact opposite direction that she had gone. At every alley and side street, he stopped to call for her. The minutes quickly passed and still no Lina. Then he saw two men, one carrying a bundle over his shoulder, emerging from the alley in front of him.

We gotta hurry, Jock, the man with the bundle said. He was a tall, dark-headed man with a large crooked nose. The other man was short and fat with a balding head. Tosh moved closer. Neither of them smelled as if they had taken a bath anytime recently. The fat man almost stepped on Tosh but the cat nimbly jumped out of the way. Then he caught a familiar scent. Lina.

The man placed the bundle carefully in the back of the wagon and then climbed up, grabbing the reins as he did. Without another thought, Tosh leapt into the back of the wagon as it began to move. He crouched next to the bundle, carefully nosing the blanket down to uncover her face.

Lina? He applied a wet nose to her face.

No reaction.

He sniffed Lina’s face, catching the pungent, sweet scent of the drug that had been used on her. Memories, years in the past, flooded back. He recognized the scent and knew Lina wouldn’t stir for quite some time. He turned his attention to the two men at the front of the wagon. They glanced around nervously but no one paid any attention to them. He didn’t dare go for help.

Then the wagon slowed as they neared the city’s east gate. Tosh sat up. This could be his chance. He might be able to meow to draw attention to the wagon. But as the guard shack grew near, Tosh realized the guard was adamantly talking to another man. He was not looking but simply waving people through the gate. The men driving the wagon breathed a sigh of relief as they drove away from the city. Tosh stared as the buildings got smaller and smaller. Soon, he could see nothing of the city. He huddled close to Lina.

About an hour later, Tosh felt the wagon pull off the road and stop. He peered between a gap in the wagon’s boards. Two covered wagons waited beside the road. An old woman, her clothes wild and colorful, sat at the front of one wagon. At the front of the other was a young woman with her long black hair pulled back by a bright-red bandanna. A balding old man wearing plain brown clothes sat huddled beside her.

You get one, Jock? the old woman called from the front seat of the closer wagon.

Yep, a real good one.

The old woman slowly climbed down and shuffled over as Jock removed the blanket from around Lina. Tosh crouched low behind a box.

Not bad. She ought to fetch a decent price. Bind her hands and legs.

The old woman got back in her wagon and took up the reins. Without another word, she flicked the reins and the horses pulled the wagon onto the road. The second wagon fell into line. Zack climbed into the back of the wagon, a rope clutched in his hand. Tosh shrank back into the shadow of the box as Lina’s arms were quickly bound behind her back. Then Zack tied her feet, testing both sets of knots before climbing into the front again. He nodded to Jock, who urged his team to follow the other wagons.

Seeing the coast was clear, Tosh crept near Lina. He curled up beside her.

Lina?

No answer. There was nothing he could do but wait.

***

The ride was bumpy and hot with no sun protection. Tosh only left Lina’s side once and that was to check and see if he could tell which way they were going. They were heading south he decided and focused his attention back on Lina. She did not stir. As the day wore on, he became even more worried. They were getting further and further from the city. Finally, as the sun began to set, the old woman stopped her wagon. She came over to examine Lina.

She ought to be awake by now! The woman put one wrinkled hand on Lina's forehead and then turned toward Zack and Jock. Her blue eyes bore into them. How much of that stuff did you two use?

Just what you told us, Ma. Zack glanced at Jock for agreement and then at Ma.

Ma gave Zack a hard piercing look. Well I think you used too much, she declared. She walked away muttering to herself.

The next morning the old woman took a closer look at Lina as Tosh hid behind one of the boxes. He peered out and watched as the woman felt down her limbs. She peered closely at her face and then let her fingers examine Lina’s head.

What’s this, she muttered. She looked up at Zack and Jock, who were nervously watching her. There is a bump on the back of her head. A pretty nasty bump. I bet that is why she is still unconscious. I told you two to be careful. What good is she to us like this?

Neither man answered. The old woman huffed her disapproval. She climbed back into her wagon muttering about the stupidity of their actions. They continued to travel south all day and Lina still did not so much as stir. Tosh stayed by her side as much as he could. He would dart away when he heard the old woman coming to check on her. She never seemed to notice him hidden behind the sacks and boxes.

At night, he hunted and tried to keep track of which way they were going. He knew they were no longer in the Land of Zena as the tall grass had given way to tree-covered hills. When they entered the forest late the next morning, he knew they were probably in Altron, the Land south of Zena. Lina had begun to show signs of waking but had not yet opened her eyes.

Please wake, Tosh thought looking at the motionless form of Lina. We need to get out of here before we get too far from Zena.

Chapter Three

A tall, thin man cloaked in a dark robe stood hidden in the shadows at the edge of the forest. His light-brown hair was disheveled; his face marred with dirt from the rough trip through the woods. He had been trailing the three wagons for half the day. Now as the sun dipped below the tree line, he peered out at the gypsy camp. The three gypsy wagons formed a half circle. An old man, his brown clothes worn and stained, slowly added wood to the fire, coaxing the flames higher and higher around a pot in the center. Beside him sat an old woman stirring the contents of the pot. She wore a long red skirt with a loose white blouse. A red bandana pulled back and secured her long grey hair. Her actions were short and brisk as she added something to the pot. The tall man’s eyes traveled over the rest of the camp. A tall, thin gypsy with dark hair and a large crooked nose fed the horses as another gypsy, this one short and fat, pulled a box out of one of the wagons. The cloaked man knew two more gypsies were unaccounted for – a boy and a young woman. His eyes scanned the camp again but did not see them.

A rustling sound caught his attention. The tall, dark-headed gypsy now entered the camp carrying a large bundle in his arms. He set it down by one of the wagons some distance from the fire.

What should we do with her, Ma? he yelled.

Leave her over there, the old woman called back and then began to cough. She roughly pushed away the cup the old man offered her. For your sake, I hope she wakes up soon.

The cloaked man peered at the bundle. It appeared to be something wrapped in a grey blanket. He moved closer, hugging the tree line. Long, honey-colored stands spilled out from one end of the blanket. He thought he could detect a slight steady movement from under the blanket.

Whoa! Now what do we have here? he muttered softly to himself. He crept closer but as hard as he tried, he could not get a better look without the risk of being spotted. He turned his attention back to the gypsies as a boy exited one of the covered wagons.

Coy, bring that box here. Ma ordered. Let's see how we did today.

The small, dark-haired boy appeared to be about fifteen years old. He grabbed a long wooden box from the wagon and shuffled over to the fire. He did not look at the woman as he set the box at her feet and stalked away. The old woman glared at him before grabbing the box. She began rummaging through it, pulling out rings and jewels, separating them into different piles. She pulled out a jeweled dagger and set it in front of her. Then the woman pulled out a long sword. The crystal blade glowed red in the firelight. The cloaked man's eyes brightened. He had to fight back the urge to rush into the camp, take the sword and claim what was rightfully his. But he held himself back and waited. It would be night soon enough. Then he would make his move.

***

Lina opened her eyes slowly. Something covered her head. She could feel the rough material against her cheeks. Her head was pounding. She tried to raise her hand to her head but ropes dug into her wrists. She lay on her back with a something sharp pressing into her side. A thick fog clouded her mind, and her mouth was dry. She tried to move to lessen the pain of whatever was jabbing her side but even the small movement seemed to take a lot of effort. She thought she heard Tosh's voice as her mind drifted back into the darkness.

Later when she awoke again, her head was much clearer. She lay on her side, the ground pressing against her cheek. Whatever had been over her face before was gone. She raised her head and caught sight of a dying fire. She heard the rustle of leaves blowing in the night air. She felt movement behind her.

"Tosh?"

Yes. I’m here. I am . . . working on these knots.

Lina moved her hands but the rope constricted her movement. What happened?

Later. We need to get out of here before the gypsies wake up.

The ropes around her hands loosened slightly as Tosh’s whiskers tickled her wrists. Gypsies? I don’t understand. Where are we?

Later, Lina.

She raised her head again, noting several bundles by the fire. Her eyes shifted to the wagons where the moonlight allowed her to make out another person lying in the back of the covered wagon. She glanced back at the fire as movement caught her eye. A cloaked figure bent over a box.

"Tosh, I think one of them is awake." Her eyes darted back to the figure in the wagon. The person was sitting up now, watching the cloaked figure rummage through the box. "Make that two of them."

She felt the ropes loosen a little more. Lina tried not to move, least the gypsies realize she was awake.

"Stand back, Tosh." She focused the power inside her. It coursed through her as she concentrated on the ropes. With a gentle mental push, she burned through the ones binding her hands. As the ropes fell, she saw one of the figures by the fire sit up and grab the cloaked figure’s arm.

Whatcha doin' boy? A woman’s voice cut through the night air.

Taking what is mine. The cloaked man stood up, pulling his hand out of her grip.

The other gypsies leapt to their feet, each with a dagger in their hand. They circled around the man with the sword. Lina sat up, reaching for the ropes that secured her ankles. She felt drained from the small effort of using her power. She quickly began to untie the rope. She glanced again at the gypsy in the back of the wagon. He was watching the others, apparently unconcerned by their actions.

Ya think ya can take that, huh boy? asked an old man as he moved toward the cloaked figure.

There's five of us and only one of you, the tall gypsy sneered.

The cloaked man didn't say a word. The determined look on his face said it all. Before any of the gypsies could make a move, he whirled around, his cloak scattering the dying coals of the fire. The tall gypsy lunged at him. The man ducked low, moving his body into the gypsy’s legs. The tall gypsy fell to the ground, rolling into the fat gypsy. The man jumped nimbly over the fire, brushing past the old man who had leant down to help his fallen comrades. The cloaked man ran straight at Lina. The ropes slid from her feet. She stood up. The man grabbed her arm.

Run!

He pushed her in front of him. She stumbled as her muscles protested at being used after such a long rest. The long skirt she wore tangled around her feet. She grabbed it, hiking it up to free her legs. She ran blindly, ignoring the sting of branches hitting her arms and face. Lina could hear the man right behind her, his breathing loud and fast. Barely thinking, she continued running. She did not know if Tosh followed or not. She stumbled over a root, falling to her knees. The man behind her jerked her to her feet and shoved her forward. She began to run, listening for someone chasing them but heard no one. Suddenly, the trees parted and they entered a clearing.

Stop, the man said. I think this is far enough for now.

Lina stopped, her lungs burned. She gasped for breath, leaning over with her hands on her legs. After a few moments, she turned to look at the man. He leaned against a tree, his breathing fast. He was tall and thin. His hair fell almost into his eyes. The moonlight washed his face in soft light, but she couldn't make out the details. She guessed he was close to her age. Her eyes went to the sword he still gripped in his gloved right hand; the sword he had taken from the gypsy camp. Its long blade glowed in the moonlight.

Lina took a step back. You aren’t one of the gypsies?

The man laughed. No.

Then I guess I should thank you for saving me.

Think nothing of it.

What was I doing in that camp? What could they have wanted with me? The questions tumbled out before Lina could stop them.

Slave trade probably.

Lina gasped. Slave trade?

It isn’t really that uncommon though the High Council does what it can to stop it.

Lina turned away, moving toward the edge of the clearing. Her mind raced as she tried to piece together what had happened. She remembered Harmony. She had been walking through the city. She had got turned around. The face of the fat man who had blocked her way flashed before her eyes, and she could almost smell the cloth over her nose again. She reached up and touched the back of her head, wincing as her fingers found the tender spot. She remembered the pain exploding in her head before everything went black.

She turned back toward the man. What is your name?

Val. And you are?

She paused, noting that he did not give his last name even though it was customary to do so. Odd, she thought as she answered, Karlina Roose but everyone calls me Lina. She silently added, except my mother.

They stood in awkward silence as she looked around. She stared at the trees, their branches blocking out most of the night sky. She knew she was no longer in Zena. Her homeland was completely grassland with no forests. She reasoned that she was either in Carna, the Land to the west of Zena, or Altron, the Land to the south.

Where are we?

This is the Blackwick Forest at the very north part of Altron. Val sounded puzzled. Where are you from?

Zena. Last thing I remember, I was in Harmony. Even though she continued to stare at the trees, her mind went back to her mother's warning of the big city. Do not go wandering off, she had said. At the time, Lina had brushed the comment off as advice she did not need. She could take care of herself. Or so she had thought.

You could have at least waited for me.

Lina rushed over to the small grey cat and scooped him into her arms. Sorry, Tosh.

Who is he? Tosh flicked his head toward Val.

"His name is Val. He didn’t give me a last name." Lina could feel the man staring. She glanced at the surprised look on his face. "Tosh, what happened? How long have I been gone? Father must be so worried."

The gypsies kidnapped you almost three days ago.

"Three days!"

Yes. We need to start back soon, but we need to be careful. The gypsies will probably come looking for you or him.

Lina set the cat back on the ground aware Val’s eyes were still on her. She couldn't believe how long she had been gone. Her father must be panicking. She had to get back to him and quickly.

Once again thank you, Lina said, not looking at him.

Is that a STAC? Val asked, pointing at Tosh.

She turned to face him. She knew he had not heard the conversation. Tosh was too careful for that to happen. He was staring at Tosh. She saw no need to lie to him. Yes, he is.

Does he really talk to you in your mind? He shook his head. I've never seen a STAC. I always believed that telepathic cats were just a tale told to children. He kneeled down as Tosh approached.

How would you know if you have ever seen one before?

Val fell backwards. Lina laughed. He grinned up at her. Did he say that?

Who else?

Val jumped again and she laughed. It takes some getting used to. She moved toward the edge of the clearing. Though she felt oddly calm in Val’s presence, Lina couldn’t wait to return home and reassure her father that she was safe. We really must leave. I have already been gone far too long.

Wait. You should not travel at night. You don't know what is out there.

I can take care of myself.

Sure. Do you want to explain the gypsies to me?

Hush, Tosh, she murmured as she glanced at Val.

He agrees with me, doesn't he? Val smiled. He stepped closer to her. I can't just leave you out here. It wouldn’t be proper. Come back to my house. In the morning, you can head home.

Lina didn't answer. It was dark and late. The gypsies were probably looking for her. She knew it was unwise to wander around a foreign Land in the dark. But to go with someone she had just met went against everything her mother had taught her. On the other hand, she had no idea where she was, and she knew nothing of the dangers the forest might hold. She silently weighted her options. She did not like either choice.

Look my unicorn is over there, he gestured vaguely, and she can get us back to my home in no time. She stiffened slightly at the thought. Val didn’t seem to notice. I'm sure my sister Miya will make sure I behave properly. He held out his hand.

She was dirty and tired. Her head was still pounding. She glanced at Tosh. He seemed unconcerned by Val’s offer. If he felt something was wrong, Lina knew he would tell her. She glanced at Val and quickly made her decision. She did not answer him but moved in the direction he had indicated. She ignored his outstretched hand, hoping she was making the right decision.

***

The three walked in silence; Val walking a step ahead of Lina and Tosh. They followed a narrow, winding path. Lina watched the young man before her. He still held the sword in his right hand. She noticed a scabbard belted on his left side. As they walked, Val kept glancing over his shoulder. The path widened and he slowed until she was beside him. He looked behind them again.

I think we are being followed, he said in a low voice.

By the gypsies? Her head whipped around, her eyes searching the dark forest behind them.

I don't know but I swear someone is back there.

You hear anything, Tosh? Lina asked.

The cat cocked his head. No, not unless they have stopped too.

Lina shook her head at Val. He doesn’t hear anything unusual.

Maybe it is just my imagination, he said, but he didn’t look too convinced.

They walked a few more minutes in silence. Lina glanced over her shoulder a few times. Finally, she could not bear the silence anymore and asked, How did the gypsies get your sword?

Val looked down at his sword. He glanced at her, smiling. It is kind of embarrassing but one of them stole it while I was sleeping.

They stole it from your house?

No. I was napping by a pond. You see I took a ride this afternoon to escape from my sister. It was hot and when I saw this little pond with its cool, clear water, I decided to cool off with a swim. I guess I fell asleep under one of the trees.

The breaking of a twig woke me. I jumped up and looked around. My unicorn was still there, and nothing was disturbed. It took me a few minutes to realize my sword was missing. I couldn't even think of facing my father without it. Then I saw someone running and took off after them. They were fast. By the time I reached the road, I barely saw the wagon. I went back and got my unicorn and followed them until they made camp.

I take it your father would have been upset had you lost it, Lina said.

Dragon’s fire, yes. I would have been in plenty of trouble. You see my father gave me this sword on my twelfth birthday. He smiled at the memory. I was so excited to be finally old enough to receive a weapon. Both my brothers were already well adapted with theirs. I remember he brought it to me after breakfast. It looked so huge. I feared it would be too heavy and that I would have to grow before I could use it, but when I picked it up, I was surprised. It was as light as a feather. Val tossed the sword in the air. He then slid the sword into the scabbard at his waist.

What makes it so light?

Well, he said, pausing to glance at her. My father said it has a spell on it.

A spell? You mean from the Learners?

Val nodded. Supposedly it was crafted by the Learners and given to one of my relatives. We still don’t know what type of metal it is made from. The spell is what makes it light and strong. The blade cannot be broken.

Her mind raced as she tried to figure out whether to believe the sword was enchanted by one of the Learners. If that was true, the blade was old – probably over a thousand years. Lina knew little about the Learners – the men and women who had spent their lives learning magic and passing their knowledge onto their children. They had been banished, many of them killed, during the Great War. Soon after, it was believed, the Learners had died out. The only learned magic left was the street magic, the sleight of hand, optical illusion part of the Learned magic. Even it was uncommon.

I know what you are thinking. If it is true, should I be carrying such a valuable gift around? At first, I didn’t think my father would want me to take it away from the house, but he insisted I carry it like any other sword. A sword is meant to be used, he said, not to hang on a wall to be looked upon. Val sighed. I don’t even know why he chose to give it to me. It should have gone to my older brother Sal as the sword has always been passed down and given to the oldest son. He just said that one day the sword would save what I care about most.

Lina didn’t know what to believe. She was so deep in thought she did not notice as they entered a clearing. The sight of the unicorn snapped her out of her trance. The soft light of the moon made the beast’s white hide seem to glow. Her golden horn shined as she turned to look at them, the wind blowing her long white mane into the night. Lina gasped. She had never seen anything quite so beautiful.

This is Spirit. Val smiled as the unicorn wandered over. I got her about five years ago. He ran his hand down the unicorn's back. He turned toward Lina. We've certainly been through a lot together. I don't mean to brag, but she is the fastest unicorn there is. We have won every race we have entered. The unicorn snorted. Val rubbed the unicorn's muzzle and then picked up the saddle that lay under a nearby tree. I'm the only one who has ever ridden her, but she shouldn't mind the extra weight. He adjusted the saddle on the unicorn's back.

Lina frowned. Extra weight. Something about those words bothered her. She could not decide what it was. Then it dawned on her. He meant for her to ride the unicorn. Lina's stomach tightened and her knees felt weak. She nervously rubbed her palms against her legs. You want me to ride her?

Well it is the quickest way to get to my house. He turned and stared at Lina’s pale face. What’s wrong? You have ridden before, haven’t you?

Her mind raced as she tried to think of something to say. She stared at the unicorn, and her stomach lurched. She swallowed hard. I don’t like to ride.

She turned and walked toward the forest.

Let me talk to her. I'll see what I can do.

She felt the grey cat brush against her leg. She glanced at his bright yellow eyes and then looked away.

It is late. And you need to rest. Not to mention we do not know where we are. The forest holds dangers besides the gypsies. It would be best to get to safety as soon as possible. He paused. Why don't you ride the unicorn?

Tosh, you know why! she snapped. I can't do it. Not after what happened to Jeb.

That was a long time ago. The horse did not kill your brother. It was an accident.

"I know. But . . ."

It is late. Just ride the unicorn tonight, and then you won't ever have to do it again. I will even agree to walk all the way back to Zena.

The tightness in her stomach eased slightly as she laughed softly. Tosh usually complained endlessly when she wanted to explore the Grasslands. He always thought it was too much walking. But Lina knew he was right. She did need to get some rest. Her body felt drained. Her head ached. She turned toward the unicorn. Her stomach tightened again. She thought of the promise she had made so long ago. It had been easy to keep then. There was no need to ride when she could walk. But she was tired. She could feel her reasoning falter. Lina didn't stop to think any more about it as she walked over to where Val was standing.

He took her hand and placed it on a strap at the front of the saddle. Hold on to this and everything will be fine.

Lina gripped the strap, her knuckles turning white from the pressure. Val leaned down and cupped his hands. She took a deep breath and put her foot in his hand. It will be all right, she repeated as she pulled herself up into the saddle. Val quickly picked up