Heirs of War, Crown of Flames

By Mara Valderran

Weeks have passed since Ariana and Alec escaped from Kellen's dungeon, but danger isn't far behind them. The guilt of his past weighs heavily on Alec's shoulders, and his secrets only push Ariana further away. As they travel through unknown lands and encounter multiple threats, their biggest challenge might be trusting one another.

The world appears to be going on regardless of the risks Ariana faces. The Duillaine insist that they are doing everything they can to find Ariana, but their actions betray that claim. Despite the danger and the war closing in around them, all of Anscombe seems to be more interested in the upcoming Imbolc festival and Terrena's betrothal than rescuing Ariana.

Well...not everyone.

Tired of waiting for the Duillaine to help her twin, Zelene starts plotting on her own and finds a surprising ally in Rhaya, even as the Cynewards prepare to make a move of their own. But Zelene's plans go awry when she finds herself with a new ability, a mysterious new friend, and more enemies within the walls of Anscombe than she thought.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Mara Valderran
• Release date: Oct 13, 2014
• ISBN: 9781310471773

Mara Valderran

Mara Valderran is an author of young adult and new adult books, but she's more than just a madwoman with a writing box. She is an avid reader and fan of all things sci-fi and fantasy. She loves roller skating and movies, though typically not together. She lives in Las Vegas with her husband and demanding cat. She hopes to one day meet Daniel Jackson from SG1, or at least the actor who played him. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, playing video games, or counting down the days until DragonCon.

Book preview

Heirs of War, Crown of Flames

Book Two

Mara Valderran

Copyright © 2014 Marie Scoggins

All rights reserved

The characters and events portrayed in this book are fictitious. Any similarity to real persons, living or dead, is coincidental and not intended by the author.

No part of this book may be reproduced, or stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without express written permission of the publisher.

To Lorin, who helped me to realize my dreams of being an author. Thank you for all of the support, inspiration, and encouragement you gave me over the years.

Contents

Title Page

Copyright

Dedication

The Prophecy

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Epilogue

Heirs of War Series

Acknowledgement

About The Author

Find Mara Online

The Prophecy

"...And the fifth shall be marked by the powers.

When the blood of the five is shed,

A new power will be bestowed upon them,

A power none have witnessed before.

The mark of the five shall complete the circle

And their blood will be the sacrifice

In which a new era is born

Uniting all worlds as one..."

Chapter 1

The screams came again, echoing through her mind as they were torn from a throat that didn't belong to her. She could feel them, though. Her voice was hoarse, and her chest ached from bawling endlessly for days and days. And the despair of losing count of those days.

The same dreams had been visiting Ariana almost from the first night she and Alec had escaped Kellen's dungeons. Always, the tortured cries. Always witnessing horrors beyond her worst nightmares. And always through someone else's eyes.

She wasn't sure how she understood this new perspective with such certainty, but she did. She knew the hands clawing at the ground to get away from her tormentors did not belong to her. Some nights the same whimpers would escape her lips, but the voice was never her own.

Most nights, Alec would wake her before her dreams reached their conclusion. This time was different; she could feel it. The dream dragged on and on, as if she was locked in the mind of this pitiful person.

The sound of a chain grinding against a metal hook only echoed the way her bones felt as her arms stretched above her head, the chains forcing her up and up until her toes dangled across a floor slick with her own blood. She cried out in agony when her shoulder slipped from its socket.

Please, she heaved, her breaths ragged with the effort it took to speak through her cracked lips. Please, I can't. I don't know why. I've tried, I swear.

I know why. A shadow moved from the corner of the room, stepping into view. Kellen's long blonde hair reflected the light from the torches, giving the mistaken impression of a halo. She approached her victim with knowing green eyes. She looked into the girl's face and cupped a hand against her cheek. Are you watching, child? Do you see how you have forced my hand? Return to me, Ariana, and this will all end.

Ariana's eyes flew open as she inhaled sharply. She looked around the cave she and Alec had taken refuge in—the third since their escape weeks ago—but he was nowhere to be seen. She pulled her knees to her chest, waiting for him to come back and willing her heart to slow its beating.

It was just a nightmare. Just a nightmare, she told herself, but she couldn't shake thoughts of the poor soul trapped in Kellen's dungeons.

Maybe because, not too long ago, Ariana was that poor soul. And she could still hear the crack of the whip and the wet sounds of flesh being ripped from her feet on its impact. She'd never felt so powerless as she had when Kellen tortured her. At seventeen, Ariana had suddenly become aware of her own mortality and how fragile it truly was. Kellen had torn her apart, inside and out.

But Kellen had also awoken something inside Ariana. She reminded herself of this and adjusted herself into a cross-legged position, then held out her hand. In the blink of an eye, a flame appeared just above the skin of her palm. She tilted her hand as she examined it, felt the heat licking at her flesh, but in a comforting way. She knew this fire would never harm her. It was hers to command.

I thought we agreed that you weren't going to do that, Alec said from the mouth of the cave. He had a sack slung over his shoulder and wore a dark blue shirt made of what looked like burlap over the lean muscles Ariana had been trying not to admire over the past few shirtless weeks on the run. He brushed his wavy brown hair out of his face, his gray eyes narrowed at the flame in Ariana's palm.

"No, you told me not to do it. I didn't agree to anything."

What if you had lost control while I was gone? You could be dead. Do you not understand that?

She curled her hand into a fist, snuffing out the flame. I'm not an idiot, Alec. I started small. I've got to learn how to do this since I'm destined to rule the worlds, or whatever.

Alec shifted his weight from foot to foot, a sign he was losing patience, before responding. You have no idea what you are doing, Ariana. People here learn how to manipulate the elements practically from birth. You will have tutors in Anscombe to help you understand and use your power. It's too dangerous for you to try on your own.

What do you expect me to do, Alec? she demanded heatedly, fear from her all-too-realistic nightmares shifting to anger. Do you expect me to cower in this cave while you run around having all the fun? What if someone had found me? I need to know how to defend myself.

He conceded her point with a nod. First of all, I was getting supplies, which I would hardly call fun on the best of days. Second, if you feel it is necessary to defend yourself, then I should teach you how to fight.

I know how to fight, she retorted.

He dropped the sack on the ground at the mouth of the cave and walked over to where she stood, crossing his arms behind his back. Very well. Hit me.

The smugness fell from her face. What?

Hit me, he repeated. As hard as you can.

Don't be ridiculous. I don't want to hurt you.

I've been with Kellen since I was eleven, Ariana. I assure you that I have been through far worse than what you could inflict on me. Come now, I'm sure you've wanted to hit me plenty of times since we've met.

She fumed at the accusation. I have not!

You know, your eyes only get that large when you're lying. You claim that you know how to fight. I don't believe you. He leaned forward when she matched his stance, his smooth voice full of teasing as he dropped it to a whisper. Prove me wrong and hit me like you've been longing to do since I dragged you into this disgusting cave.

Fine, but don't say I didn't warn you. My Dad's best friend really did teach me how to fight. It was only a little bit of a lie since she had never really paid much attention. Varrick had grumbled something about bullies and how he wanted her to know how to defend herself, but she had never dealt with bullies in her entire life so she had dismissed his concerns. She squared her shoulders, trying to remember what he taught her. She balled up her fist and threw it into Alec's stomach.

Alec didn't flinch but lifted a brow as though he was unsure whether or not she had actually made contact with him. Would you like to know what you're doing wrong? When she responded with only a glare, he took that as the closest thing he would get to a yes. He took her fist into his hand, adjusting it accordingly. First, your thumb should be here, he said, tapping the area in between her first two knuckles. Not tucked away inside your fist. Don't lock your wrist. Let it bend just slightly so you don't cause yourself more harm than the person you're trying to hurt. Let it straighten when your fist connects so that your knuckles here are hitting your opponent. He stepped behind her, pulling her arm back into the proper position, then closed his hand around her fist and guided her through the motion of the punch. How did that feel?

Good, she admitted and tried it again on her own. But if this turns into some 80s movie training montage, I'm leaving.

He blinked at the back of her dark head. I don't understand what you mean.

She glanced at the ceiling, remembering once more how different this world was. It's a Dhara thing, I guess. So, what's next?

He walked back over to the sack and pulled out a dark purple burlap dress and a black cincher. Now you get changed and we hit the road.

She turned her nose up at the offered clothes but took them anyway. Haven't you people heard of jeans and t-shirts?

No, he answered honestly, not catching that it was more of a complaint than a question. Is that another 'Dhara thing,' as you call it?

Ariana exhaled loudly. Yeah, it is. I've got to say that from what I've seen of your world, it sucks by comparison.

He shrugged. I suggest you get used to it. We have to blend in if we are going to get to the tairseach without raising any suspicions and that will be difficult enough since we are both so young and I am accompanying you.

What do you mean? she asked and motioned for him to turn around.

He turned his back to give her the privacy to change, speaking to her over his shoulder. Well, we are too young to be on our own individually, for starters. We could try posing as a newly married couple, but given our ages that might be a bit of a stretch. We can only hope that people don't ask too many questions.

Can't we pose as brother and sister then?

I'm afraid that would raise even more questions. In our worlds, children stay with their parents until they are wed or until they are taken in as an apprentice. It is unheard of for someone our age to be traveling alone.

Okay, she said, dragging out the word to show her displeasure at that idea. She had been looking forward to being able to pull the 'I'm eighteen and officially an adult' card on her parents with her birthday right around the corner. She paused, realizing she wasn't sure if her birthday had passed or not yet. What about orphans?

They are placed in the care of relatives or local families. No one is ever on their own here.

I thought you said that kids were sent away to apprentice or whatever at a young age. How does that fit in with what you just said?

While studying in their apprenticeship, they are under the care and supervision of their masters. Most return to their homes, back under the roofs of their parents or family members, by the age of twenty in order to be married. Others aren't so lucky and stay under the command of their masters.

Like you? she asked softly and touched his shoulder.

He turned around, taking the cincher she held in her hands. That raises yet another problem. My being with you will cause suspicion if I am recognized for what I am.

And what are you? Ariana asked as she looked up at him from under her lashes.

He swallowed hard, avoiding her gaze. Not someone you should be seen with. Turn around.

She did as he asked, lifting her dark hair out of the way when he wrapped the cincher around her waist and began to tighten it. So, what are we going to do? We can't pose as siblings and if people recognize you for whatever it is that you are, we're in trouble. Sounds pretty hopeless.

My kind doesn't originate from Cahira, which I believe is where we are. We live mostly in Estridia, so I am hoping that the people here won't be able to recognize my race since they are not accustomed to seeing my kind here, he explained while he tied the strings of the cincher together. There, all done.

She turned around to him, their faces inches apart. You keep saying your 'kind' like it's a bad thing. I think you're too hard on yourself. You don't seem so different to me.

He stepped out of the intimate space between them. There's much you don't know. We should get going. If my estimates are correct, we have an extremely long journey ahead of us to get to the tairseach.

How long exactly?

His shoulders drooped and his gray eyes lifted heavily to hers. Months. From what I have been able to gather about Cahira over the years, it has a very distinct and broad geography, much like Estridia. There are mainly mountains to the north and deserts to the south. The east is made up of flat planes—mostly farmlands—and the west is primarily dense forests where all manner of creatures live. Unfortunately, that is also where the tairseach is.

And we're northeast, aren't we? she concluded, thinking back to their surroundings and the hilly terrain they had trekked to get here.

We'll follow the river north for now. I found another cave half a day's journey from here when I was scouting. We can take shelter for the night.

Great, another cave, she muttered, once more missing the comfort of her own bed. After you, she said sardonically and gestured to the mouth of the cave. She impatiently shifted her weight to her other hip when he motioned for her to wait.

I have something that might cheer you up, he said and dug around in the pack. He sported a bright and proud grin when he pulled a stick out and offered it to her.

Ariana looked quizzically at the offered stick. It had a soft edge, almost like a fan of fibers, but other than that it just looked like a twig to her. How thoughtful of you...you got me a stick.

It's for your teeth, he explained, wounded by her lack of enthusiasm. You were complaining before about not having a way to clean your teeth.

She brightened significantly at this. After their first night on the run, she had started to feel the dirt and grime of the cave. She had used the river water to rinse out her mouth and try to clean herself off the best she could, but she would hardly be satisfied until she had a proper shower. Even still, she was very touched that he had thought of it when gathering supplies. Thank you, Alec. That's very sweet of you.

He beamed at the appreciation in her voice. It's my pleasure.

I don't suppose you found any toothpaste, did you?

◆◆◆

Sylvanna paced the floors of Isauria's room in the leigheas, the clicking of her soles against the wooden floors grating on Bianca's nerves. The eldest Duillaine didn't speak a word to acknowledge anything the paion told her, but Bianca refused to repeat herself. It was bad enough that Sylvanna was there at all, demanding reports from her. Being a spy was not in her job description. She was a healer. And she was also positively fuming after Sylvanna quite literally yanked her from Isauria's mind, breaking their connection in such an abrupt and violent way.

Tell me again what he said.

Bianca clenched her jaw, her ire running high. He described the land to Ariana, laying out their route to the tairseach in the west. Which, as I understand, is not where the tairseach on Cahira is located.

And how would you know that, paion?

Bianca's green eyes darkened significantly. You are well aware of my motivations in learning anything I can about the Cahirans. Their world is not so big as this one, and I dreamt quite often of sneaking in undetected and crossing the deserts from the tairseach to the beaches where their central city is located. I don't believe I need to tell you what would happen next. Or that this world they are in is not, in fact, Cahira.

No, I am aware. As you said, the tairseach is located in the middle of their deserts. There are also no mountains on Cahira at all, Sylvanna explained. She resumed pacing the floor next to the bed, the worry lines on her forehead became increasingly prominent.

Surely this is good news. You weren't able to rescue Ariana before because you risked elevating the war if you invaded Cahira with even the smallest of forces.

How can this be good, paion? We have no idea where she is or if we can even trust this boy she is with.

Alec helped her escape, Banair Sylvanna. He has risked a great deal to get her to freedom. I believe he will do everything he can to deliver her safely to Anscombe.

Sylvanna seemed to be thinking this over. Find out what you can about the boy. I want to know who exactly it is that we're dealing with. Then I will decide if we can trust him or not.

Bianca nodded her understanding, knowing full well her certainties about Alec's character would not be taken into consideration. Would you like for me to pass my report on to the treior? Perhaps they might be able to locate the land this boy speaks of. With Ariana in a constant state of fear, her Cyneward will easily be able to track her once he sets foot on the same world. She offered this as a suggestion, but the anger that flashed through Sylvanna's eyes told her that she had taken it for the challenge it truly was.

Sylvanna stared at her levelly before responding. Do not speak of this to anyone. I will inform those I deem necessary of this new development.

As you wish, my lady, Bianca said with a slight bow. If that is all, I should get back to my patient. It isn't safe to leave her unmonitored for too long. She bit the inside of her cheek when Sylvanna waved her off dismissively but made no move to leave. It requires intense concentration to join my mind with hers, Banair Sylvanna. Privacy is of utmost importance.

Very well. Solanna will relieve Isauria this afternoon. I expect a full report when she does. Sylvanna turned and breezed out the room, not giving Bianca time to respond or protest.

Bianca felt the tension leave her shoulders and turned back to her patient. Noticing that some of Isauria's ginger hair was in her face, she lightly brushed it away. Content that Isauria was comfortable, she lowered herself onto the bed beside her and intertwined their fingers together. She closed her eyes, concentrating on the familiar feel of Isauria's hand in her own as she tried to enter her mind. She did this with ease, having gained much practice with the controversial method in the weeks since Isauria's arrival, and quickly found the link between Isauria and Ariana she needed to follow.

You're back, Isauria said with relief before her face lined with worry. What happened?

Bianca stalked over beside her in the ethereal world they occupied. Sylvanna is what happened. She was shaking me awake.

Is that bad?

I don't know, she retorted with exasperation before calming her voice. And if I don't know, I can guarantee that she doesn't either. She stepped closer. What we are doing is not only unprecedented but also frowned upon. The idea of invading someone else's mind . . .

But you aren't an invasion. You're keeping me safe, and sane. You're my friend. I mean, right? We are friends, aren't we?

Bianca couldn't stand to see Isauria look so vulnerable. She knew she should tell her no, as it was also unprecedented to have anyone of her station assume such a close relationship with the Duillaine. The words would simply not come while she looked into Isauria's pleading gray-blue eyes. Of course we are. The Duillaine are right to be wary of our connection, though. I mean, our mental connection, of course, she clarified. She licked her lips to regain her composure. The mind is a sensitive place to go traipsing around in. They have no way of knowing whether or not I am planting ill thoughts in your mind. As much as I hate to admit it, Sylvanna is correct to not trust Alec. She wants us to find out everything we can about him.

What did she say when you told her about what he said? About where they are and the portal thingy?

Sylvanna says that isn't the layout of Cahira, Bianca answered. I believe they are attempting to find out where exactly she is but this might take time.

You're lying. I can tell.

The paion opened her mouth to protest but shut it. You can't possibly know that.

Isauria gave her a half-smile. You and I spend pretty much the entire day together, every day, for weeks, and you think I don't pick up on your little quirks? You always purse your lips like that when you lie. It's cute, she insisted with a stifled giggle, almost like you don't approve of your own lies. She turned serious and shifted their conversation back to the matter at hand. What did she say?

She didn't say much as I am neither a noble nor part of the council. Sylvanna is not one to let you forget your place. She ordered me not to tell anyone what I've learned. She said she will decide who needs to know and will inform them herself. She's more concerned with the boy, as well she should be.

Why would you say that? Alec nearly died trying to save Ariana. I told you about that.

Yes, and that was very honorable. . . but he didn't die. He miraculously recovered. She turned to the boy in question, watching while he talked and flirted with Ariana in their cave. They've become quite close, and in an awfully short amount of time. They barely know each other.

Isauria touched Bianca's arm, turning her attention back to her. That doesn't mean anything. Sometimes you just have an instant connection. We haven't known each other any longer than they have, and I completely trust you.

Bianca patted Isauria's hand, touched by the sentiment. You're right. Their bond could be natural. However, in case it is some sort of trick, we should keep a close eye on him.

It isn't right. Look at her, Bianca. Isauria glanced back to her little sister with anguish. She's on her own out here. And they're just going to leave her like that...

We don't know that, Bianca argued, her voice soft.

It's been over a month since they kidnapped her. Weeks since they escaped. How much longer are they going to give it before they do something? Because the longer they wait, the more likely Kellen is to get her first. And I can't watch that happen.

You won't have to, Izzy. We'll find her, I promise. We're doing everything we can.

"We are, she amended. But are they?"

Bianca let out a sad sigh and turned back to the youngest Duillaine. I don't know. But I'm not sure what else we can do.

Chapter 2

Z elene, would you stop fussing? Ellowyn chastised.

Zelene flopped her arms, encased in huge bell sleeves. I look like a friggin' bird, Ell. This is ridiculous. Why can't I just wear my normal clothes?

Ellowyn put her hands on her hips. Because all you ever wear anymore is the uniform of the Tainted, and I doubt the Duillaine would be very pleased with you if you showed up to the first family dinner like that.

Zelene didn't care. The first family dinner came a little late, if you asked her. After all, the Duillaine waited until now to introduce them to their supposed family. Their delay spoke volumes of their priorities in Zelene's mind. The girls weren't family to them, only pawns.

Yeah, but it would definitely make a statement if I showed up dressed like the Tainted.

Yes, and then you'd never be able to use your disguise again. I suggest you make up your mind as to which is more important to you: Moving around unseen, or pitching a fit.

Zelene deflated. I hate it when you make sense at me. She let out a cough when Ellowyn tightened the strings of her bodice roughly. Ow! Sorry, okay?

There, Ellowyn said and turned Zelene around so she could get a better look at her. She beamed with pride at her work. Zelene's auburn hair was pulled up into an elaborate crown of braids and curls, and the ruby-colored dress contrasted with her pale skin and made her brown eyes pop. Now you look like a proper princess. Just like a fairy tale.

I hate fairy tales. It's never about the princess rescuing herself; some prince always comes in and sweeps her off her feet and away from her troubles.

I like fairy tales, Ellowyn said quietly. They're about having hope when all hope is lost. That's what the Prophecy is about, really.

I guess, Zelene huffed. Are you sure you can't come with me to this thing?

Oh, that would be much better. Instead of dressing like the Tainted, bring one to a formal dinner with the Duillaine. Ellowyn pushed Zelene towards the door. Go, before you get us both into trouble.

Zelene greeted her brother in the hallway. What's up, Nolan?

Nolan looked momentarily confused before catching on. That phrase always throws me. I came to escort you to dinner. The Duillaine await. He glanced over her shoulder and brightly addressed Ellowyn. Are you coming, Ellowyn?

No, my lord, I don't think the Duillaine will be needing my services tonight, Ellowyn responded with a curtsy.

He reached out and touched the edge of her long, dark brown hair. I noticed you weren't wearing your wrappings anymore. I'm glad.

Ellowyn shied away from his touch. Zelene ordered me not to.

Hey! Way to throw me under the bus, Ell. Geez. Zelene rolled her eyes at the awkward air building around them. You can relax, Ellowyn. He's trying to give you a compliment. Right, Nolan?

Nolan bowed his head in agreement. Yes. I was saying that I am glad you are no longer wearing the wrappings. You look quite lovely with your hair down. It suits you much better.

Thank you, my lord, Ellowyn mumbled and rushed off.

Zelene watched her wide-eyed friend disappear around the corner and then glanced wryly at her brother. Way to make her head spin, Nolan.

What did I do?

She's probably never received a compliment in her life. Ease her into the flirting. She patted his shoulder. Come on.

I'm glad we get this time, however little it is, to speak, Nolan said. I'm going away in a few days. There's been talk of some illegal fighting in Baileton, and I'm being sent to investigate.

Zelene stared furiously ahead. Great. First the Duillaine send our father away and now you. At least you're saying goodbye.

Yes, I still find it odd that our father left on such short notice without a word to either of us. He was so happy to have you back, and looking forward to spending time together as a family. He paused, troubled by his own thoughts.

Do you even know where Dear-Ol-Dad went? Any idea if he plans on returning anytime soon? She tried to mask her hurt with anger, but from the sympathetic glance Nolan gave her, she could tell she failed. Don't look at me like that. He's the one who swoops in all 'Luke, I am your father' and then disappears. Not exactly earning him points.

Blessed mother, sometimes I feel like you speak another language, he said with a rueful head shake. He's on an assignment from the Duillaine, but that's all I've been told. It's not all that uncommon for them to order someone away without explanation to even the Council.

Zelene twisted her hands together. She'd been asking about her father since he stole off into the night on his super-secret mission weeks ago, but no one seemed to know anything.

They drifted into silence, each thinking this over while they walked to the top floor of the main building of Anscombe. Tate always corrected her when she referred to it that way, reminding her repeatedly that the building was referred to as Anamlar, roughly translating to Spirit Center. Each building was like that. Their names always referred to the Elemental power seated there. The building she lived in was called Tinalar, but she just called it the Fire Building.

Zelene's anxiety spiked once they reached the elaborate wooden doors leading to the ballroom where her extensive family waited. She was content to keep her family narrowed down to the new siblings and father she had discovered last month. Throwing aunts and uncles and cousins into the mix seemed like it might push her already-complicated family tree over the edge into complete chaos.

You'll be fine, Zelene. They'll absolutely love you. You're well mannered, levelheaded, easy-tempered, compassionate, and witty. What's not to love? He smirked when she stopped and glowered at him. Two out of five isn't bad.

You aren't making me feel any better.

Perhaps the others were a reminder of how you're expected to be. You're already dressed the part, why not embrace the role?

You mean roll over and accept all the backwards customs like none of it matters? She could feel her chest flushing just thinking about all the terrible things she'd witnessed in this world. Despised servants, arranged marriages, no electricity, and no real way to function without magic—this world was about as backwards as they come, as far as Zelene was concerned. And her role as some supposed princess, or whatever, was right at the top of the list of backwards things she'd discovered.

Nolan wasn't bothered by her attitude. You don't have to roll over and do anything, but you can't change things overnight simply because you will it to be so. If you truly want to make a difference instead of simply ranting about all of these injustices, then you should stop skipping lessons and learn how to work within the system.

Is that what you do? Work within the system?

Yes, as our mother did, and as our father does even still.

Zelene didn't want to hear about the great things her parents had done for their people. Especially since giving her up was probably on that list, and not a choice she agreed with at all. She impatiently gestured to the door they now stood in front of. Why are we still standing here? Can't we go in?

Nolan shook his head. No, we have to wait until your turn. Terrena and Rhaya go first. Isauria would be next, announced by me or our father, but I was told she refused to be pried away from her duties with Ariana.

Lucky her. Zelene tapped her foot on the stone floor, then traced the circular pattern carved into each tile with the toe of her shoe. When do I get announced?

After Terrena and Rhaya are announced and have had enough time to greet each member of the Duillaine personally.

To hell with that. Zelene threw open the doors and marched inside. All eyes were on her, which gave her pause. The ballroom was so large that she began to wonder how many new family members she'd be introduced to that night.

The room must have taken up most of the top floor of Anamlar, and it was the largest building in Anscombe center. Chandeliers sparkled above her; elaborate candelabras and sconces lit the room. Ceilings arched high and large murals depicting the Duillaine throughout history adorned the walls. One wall in particular stood out to her, which was the one reenacting the moment the Great Mother spread her power to her four daughters. It showed an elderly and beautiful woman with silver hair and glowing eyes floating high over the four girls, her arms spread out like she welcomed the embrace of the universe. Zelene shook herself from her awe, realizing everyone still watched her expectantly. Several long oak tables lined the walls, with one set on a raised platform for the Duillaine. They stood in front of the platform, along with Terrena. The Cynewards were already present, lining the walls and standing identically with their hands clasped behind their backs. Zelene wasn't used to seeing the Duillaine's Cynewards—they melted into the shadows better than Varrick and his comrades.

Sylvanna let out an exasperated sigh. Zelene, it is customary for a family member to announce you.

Nolan came to her side casually. Allow me to announce my sister, the Ainnir Zelene. As their brother, I formally apologize for the absence of my sisters Ainnir Isauria and Ainnir Ariana.

Did you seriously just apologize for Ariana's absence? Zelene hissed to her brother.

It's customary, he whispered politely.

Meridel stepped forward. Please forgive the absence of my sister, Banair Nandalia.

All is forgiven, Sylvanna said.

Zelene couldn't believe her ears. Apologizing for Ariana and Isauria was one thing, but for her mother's death? Like her murder had inconvenienced them all? It was too much. Did you just forgive my mother for being dead?

Zelene, Terrena chided.

No, she argued and jerked away when Nolan tried to pull her to the side. She turned back to the Duillaine with disgust. Let's get something straight. My mother isn't here because she was murdered when she tried to rescue us. Isauria isn't here because she's too busy doing your job for you and trying to find Ariana. Ariana isn't here because she got captured, all because you guys failed to protect us the way you should have. So if anyone needs to be asking forgiveness, it's you.

You're right, Solanna surprised her by saying. She stepped forward and took Zelene's hands in her own. I loved my sister dearly. She was my best friend. But you are right. We failed her, as we have failed Ariana. We beg your forgiveness, Zelene. Please.

Zelene didn't expect anyone to actually apologize. Sure, she stuttered. Yeah. I forgive you.

Solanna pulled her into a brief hug and drew back with a genuine smile. I can't wait for you to meet my daughter, Zelene.

Your daughter? Zelene glanced questioningly to Nolan, who shook his head discretely in answer to her unspoken confusion. She'd heard about Solanna's firstborn—and still felt the guilt weighing on her chest over Solanna's loss. After all, it was clear that either she or Ariana had been the target. She covered the question with some platitude about looking forward to meeting her. Zelene barely listened to her own words, lost in thought as she took her place beside Terrena.

Is it impossible for you to do as you are told? Terrena asked in her British accent, making the accusation sound nicer than Zelene thought it was meant it to be.

Zelene shrugged. I think it is, honestly.

Rhaya came in next, guided by one of the men from the so-called review a few weeks ago. Zelene realized he must be Rhaya and Terrena's father, which explained why Rhaya looked so pissed off. The empath had been less than impressed with her father's attitude during the review, and it also didn't help that she hadn't even met him up until that point.

I present my daughter, Ainnir Rhaya, to the Duillaine, the man said.

Zelene thought his name was Leo, or Leroy, or something like that. She had a hard time keeping track and knew it was about to get harder as she waited for the rest of her family to join them.

Thank you, Leone. We greet you Ainnir Rhaya, and welcome you back into the embrace of our family, Sylvanna said with formality.

Rhaya gave an awkward half-curtsy and then rushed to her place between Zelene and Terrena.

You don't have to be an empath to tell that you're pissed, Zelene whispered to her cousin.

Nothing gets by you, Rhaya responded darkly.

I take it your Dad still isn't living up to expectations.

"My Dad has been told to wait by the door like a dog with the Duillaine's Cynewards, Rhaya said through gritted teeth. My father is still