Demiourgos

By Chris Williams

Alethia Rose lives as a sheltered slave in a world shattered by magic. Her mundane life is altered irrevocably when a a young elf helps her unlock the hidden secrets of her mystic heritage. Her freedom won, Rose embarks upon a journey that could mend her dying world or send it further down the spiral of destruction. She and her companions travel through the dangerous sands of her desert home to the majestic forest of the elven people and beyond to the mysterious underground cities and tunnels of the deep dark. They experience first-hand the astral fade, a plane of thought and feeling and the original home of gods dead, dying, and alive. Along the way Rose experiences love and loss and clashes with adversaries that tax her powerful magic and leave her wondering whether she can overcome the spell-titans of old and retain her sanity.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Chris Williams
• Release date: Jun 11, 2014
• ISBN: 9781310009044

Chris Williams

I am many things, an IT Project Manager, Dungeon Master, husband and father. I am a big lover of Fantasy and Sci-Fi among other genres. I have been gaming for going on 22 years now and in all of that time I have learned to spin a good tale. I have a passion for all things fantastical in my stories and in real life. Let me tell you a tale my friends, let me tell you several.

Book preview

Demiourgos

By Chris Williams

© Copyright 1998 Chris Williams

All Rights Reserved. This book or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the author except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.

Smashwords Edition

Smashwords Author Page of Chris Williams

Smashwords Edition, License Notes

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

Table of Contents

From the Journal of Alethia Rose Entry 1

Part I: The Journey

Chapter 1: Trapped

Chapter 2: Escape

Chapter 3: The Price of Freedom

Chapter 4: Deadly Game

Chapter 5: The Quest

From the Journal of Alethia Rose Entry 2

Chapter 6: Into the Maw

Chapter 7: Lost

Chapter 8: Journey

Chapter 9: Prisoner

Part II: The Reckoning

Chapter 10: The City of Blood

From the Journal of Alethia Rose Nalfys Entry 3

Chapter 11: Lost and Found

Chapter 12: The Dark Beyond

Chapter 13: Three if by Sea

Chapter 14: Out to Sea

Chapter 15: Old Gods New Rules

From the Journal of Alethia Rose Nalfys Entry 4

Chapter 16: Astral Journey

Part III: The Wrath

Chapter 17: Betrayal

Chapter 18: Vengance

Chapter 19: Confrontation

Chapter 20: Epilogue

From the Journal of Alethia Rose Nalfys Entry 5

From the Journal of Alethia Rose

For most of my young life, I was a slave. Mayhap that is a little off-putting; it would be simpler to say that I was a servant. The ebb and flow of my beginning years was little more than a minor footnote compared to my journey forward. Though in retrospect I have learned by deed and exploit that my time in the Pasha’s service aided me in that I was more prepared for social interaction and the outside world than I might have thought. I was taught how to sing, dance and entertain my former master’s guests and in doing so I learned how to work a crowd and interact with people. My adopted mother, who was my matron while I was indentured, tried to do all she could for me. But for all the things I learned there were dozens more tidbits that I did not know. Such is life; only the wise person knows they can never know enough.

Being a slave, while demeaning, had its benefits: a palatial home, steady food and water, protection and though I could go on that is more than enough for most people. Our world is harsh and unforgiving. To say that there is danger around every corner is an understatement that many have paid with their lives to prove. My first night of freedom was no exception. If anything it taught me that the old saying about keeping enemies and friends close to you never actually helps you define who, among your acquaintances, fits under which moniker. More times than not it is difficult to hide your surprise when someone you thought you knew changes sides without warning.

Those precious few that stand by your side unwavering as the waves of fate crash upon your proverbial shore are the ones you must hold on to with everything you have. Those that have had the misfortune of standing by my side (My waves are significantly larger than most!) have faithfully given me everything they have and more. Ninanthia was the first; the yellow-haired elf girl that initially taught me how to use rudimentary magic and gave me my freedom. I suppose that is the best way to begin our tale.

I intend this recollection to be more of a reflection of the profound effect I have had on this world and vice versa. My life has the proclivity for extremes: so as such I will spare you the boring details. I escaped my former life without warning and from the lavish life of a pampered pet I was thrust into the world in the same manner a newborn baby is. Kicking, screaming and covered with blood.

Part I: The Journey

Chapter 1: Trapped

It was a dark night and the light of the third moon could be seen clearly through the barred windows of her home. It was the hunter’s moon, red as blood and casting an eerie crimson glow across the bodies scattered among the cushions in the large circular room. Rose sat at the back of the room on her favorite worn blue pillow with her legs crossed and her eyes half-open. She didn’t need the light to see, her people could function perfectly in near-darkness. Her sapphire eyes flecked with gold closed for a brief moment. She was a naarabian, a hybrid mix of feline and jackal that was more than just exotic, her kind was beyond rare. Her fine fur was a golden color and her hair was long and golden-blonde and her skin was a dark dusky gray. Like the other girls in the harem she wore a light white smock that left quite a bit to the imagination. On her nose she wore a golden ring and her ear the same with a thin golden chain stretched between them. Small gems were clipped to the chain and on her fingers and toes she wore matching golden rings.

Rose sighed audibly. There was something in the air this night; a twinge in the back of her mind that told her something was amiss. She could feel her skin crawling and there was a knot in the pit of her stomach. She had a headache that would fell a god. With some effort Rose closed her eyes for the night; unlike the others she did not sleep she merely meditated on the events of the day and entered state of thoughts and dreams. It was an eerie haze of existence dotted with the life forces of those around her and composed of silvery outlines and shadows. When she had been a child it had frightened her but now she found comfort in the listless wanderings of her night time reverie. Time did not exist in this state and as such when she felt a physical hand on her shoulder she was not surprised to see the beginnings of the sun peeking in through the windows.

The matron of the harem, her adopted mother, stood over her. She was a tall human woman with raven-black hair and green eyes. She was approaching the latter half of her middle age with her beauty and grace still intact. She wore a red shift not unlike the one Rose wore with fine golden chains decorating the waist and neck line. When Maudette moved away from her Rose stood up and began her morning routine. The first thing she did every morning was stretch and exercise. Rose’s primary duties to her master were singing and dancing to entertain his guests. The matron herself had taught rose how to perform before a crowd and their duets were legendary within the city, or so her master had told them.

Once Rose was done she set about her normal duties, usually she was regulated to the harem room and certain parts of the house, on rare nights she would be allowed to browse the library and search through her master’s many tomes and volumes of lore. Paper was hard to come by in the desert so each book was worth a substantial amount. Slowly the matron had been passing her duties off to Rose so her day-to-day activities varied. Just as she was going to exit the room via the large double doors they swung open and two of the house guards flung a small blond-haired bundle in to the middle of the room in the midst of a stack of lush pillows.

Both guards wore whips on one hip and a weapon carved of obsidian or bone on the other. Their garb consisted of thick cloth tunics with boiled leather plates and they wore helms of the same make which made identifying them difficult. Rose locked eyes with the ranking of the two. A new acquisition Gerome?

Yes ma’am. The tall guard replied as he indicated the stack of pillows with an outstretched arm that ended in an uncoiled whip. A feisty little elf, she has a bit of fight left in her.

If you will permit, I will take it from here. Rose said with a bow to him. No need for that.

As you wish second girl. The guard replied and led the way out of the room with the door behind them.

Rose approached the stack of fluff; there was no sound or movement from within so she cautiously pushed the stack aside. She was greeted with an empty cavity but her quarry was not far. The short elf was opening the double doors to the harem. It was a short walk to her and she shut the door before the girl could go out. She was a short, skinny little thing in a long white tunic with long blonde hair and pupils that were light blue on dark blue, a pretty young girl that must have cost a handsome sum. You are new and until you are given permission you are not allowed to exit the room without an escort. The punishment is severe as they all are.

Defiantly the girl stood before her. Are you in charge?

I am second to the matron of the harem. Rose said with a nod as she summed the girl up, she could tell this would be rather difficult. I can see you are new to this life so I will help you with what I can, but the attitude must go.

The elf girl stood there looking at the naarabian woman for a moment. In the back of her mind she felt a sensation of trust burgeoning. It was a strange feeling for one she had just met. I’m Ninanthia, my friends call me Nina.

Rose put an arm around the girl’s slender shoulders and smiled. I am called Alethia Rose, everyone just calls me Rose. Come, let us talk.

As she swept past the girls gathered Rose met eyes with several of them. Most were jealous of her because they knew Maudette was grooming her to become the next matron. Her adopted sister, the daughter of Maudette was the most envious. Her name was Neeshka and, like some real siblings, they did not get along very well. Rose ignored them all and walked with Nina in to a side room that was designated for the matron of the harem. There was a desk and chair with papyrus and an ink well along with a few books and minor trinkets. A small table sat in the corner with a candle and the matron’s bed was a soft feather mattress in the corner. Rose sat at the table and Nina did the same. Where are you from?

Rose I feel I can trust you, within myself I can see you have a good heart. Nina leaned forward and whispered to her. As such I feel I can entrust you with something no others can know. I need your word that you will not tell another soul.

Rose arched a brow and nodded to her. You have my word.

I am not long for this place and I need your help. I was put here to find an item important to my people and if you help me find it I can offer you something of great value in return. Nina glanced at the door of the small room and then back at Rose. If you help me find it, my people will secure your freedom.

Rose nearly gasped. For a moment she was unable to speak, something about the confidence of this elf girl brought a truth to her words but that hope was quickly pushed back down by prudence. Her eyes closed for a moment and she sighed. I have lived in this place for as long as I can remember there is nothing sweeter than the promise of freedom but the cost of a slave fleeing from her master is high in Rhakshas. Why are you here?

I was placed in this house because your master has a book that belongs to the elven people. I know little about it but it is penned in the language of the elves. It would be small and ancient and the pages would be of a sturdy material like bone or treated skins.

I may know the tome of which you speak. Rose said softly as her gaze met the table. She sat for a short time in silence thinking about her trips to the library and the penalty of stealing. It was too horrible to imagine. Nina sat quiet across from her and Rose was glad for the silence. You guarantee me that your people will get me out?

I give you my word and my bond. Nina’s blue-on-blue gaze held Rose’s eyes fast and matched her intensity. How soon can we get to the library?

We cannot, I can but it will take some time. Rose sat back in the chair and put her head in her hands. Until then we must continue on like nothing is going on.

I’ve never seen a Naarabian before. Nina said after a long and uncomfortable silence. Why are you here? Can’t you use your magic to get out?

Magic? Rose said with a laugh. I cannot work magic.

All naarabi can command magic. Nina said matter-of-factly. My grandfather is a scholar and a wielder of magic; he taught me everything I know. If you wish I can teach you, it’s the least I can do for your assistance.

Tonight then. Rose replied with a nod.

~~~~

The day passed quickly for Rose and Nina as they went about their daily chores. The evening brought a simple meal of meat and vegetables and much talking among the gathered about the new addition. Rose and Nina once again retired to the matron’s chambers when the guards brought in a metal brazier of prajma weed to burn. Rose disliked the state that the powerful drug put her in so it was the norm for her to retreat into the matron’s chamber.

They sat against the wall watching the other girls get their high; the silence between them was more comfortable than before. Rose looked over at Nina. You seem well versed about my people, do you have any stories you could share?

Years ago I was reading about the species of sentient beings on this planet and your people were one of them. I read a story about a naarabian male that befriended a male elf. This elf, Xunil, was weak and frail but he was good at shaping magic. The naarabi, his name was Kwynnith, was mediocre at shaping but a skilled swordsman. Xunil was on a quest assigned by his elders to locate a lost elven artifact of great importance. Nina paused and cleared her throat, taking a slip of a ceramic cup of water near them on the table. They traveled together for a long time and eventually became lovers. During this time Kwynnith swore an oath to Xunil to protect him always, to become his guardian until the end of their road. They shared blood in a ritual of brotherhood. During this same week a terrible storm raged across the desert and the two of them got separated and lost their way.

Fearing his chosen dead, Kwynnith was fraught with despair and begged the gods for assistance. The vigilant god, also known as the Darkwatcher, came to the naarabian because he was moved by the devotion Kwynnith showed and gave him the ability to track and locate his chosen over great distances and through even the mightiest storm. Nina said reverently as she looked over at Rose.

Did he find his chosen? Rose asked, her voice only an octave above a whisper.

Nina shook her head lightly. The story says that he wanders still, searching for his lost love. I believe he found his chosen and they continued their journey together.

I like that ending better. Rose smiled a bit and closed her eyes for a moment. "Do you really think I could learn to shape magic? I have heard hushed whisperings of people shaping magic but humans are so afraid of it most will not touch the subject.

Like I said, your kind is said to be adept at such things. I figure that since you've never been out of these walls you will need a way to defend yourself. You don't seem very strong but you are intelligent, quick with your mind and body. Your eyes and your actions tell me that. Nina smiled broadly and sat down across from Rose. I would like to repay you for your help some way, your freedom will be won but I also appreciate what you are doing to assist me. I feel like I owe you a greater debt.

You owe me nothing. The needs of the many outweigh the few, as much as it pains me to say that. Rose believed that she could be willing to sacrifice herself for a good cause, but that had to be seen. Even if you might not give me my freedom I would still get you the book if your people need it so bad. But may I ask why this tome is such a big deal?

My station prevents me from sharing the information with anyone outside of my family. Nina looked up at Rose apologetically. I do not doubt your loyalty nor do I question your integrity but I am not permitted to speak of it with anyone.

Don't worry about it. Rose shrugged her shapely shoulders and cast her eyes out into the large harem room.

So let's get started. Nina decided to change the subject before the conversation became awkward. First off you need to be completely relaxed.

Alright. Rose sat cross legged on the ground and assumed her normal pose for sleeping, knowing that would help; taking a few deep breaths she steadied her breathing. What next?

Keep in mind before we start that it takes quite a while for most people to learn how to touch their true potential. Alright, I want you to focus on yourself. Head first, then your neck and torso. Feel the power in your arms, your legs and then your feet. Save your hands for last. Focus your concentration until you feel a slight tingling and you should feel it in your hands most keenly. Nina paused and looked over Rose as she closed her eyes and began. Using an ability that her tutors had taught her she shifted her eyes to the spectrum of magic. The room and world around them was so dull it was almost painful to see the lack of energy. It was like looking at a dark room at night with a few scattered candles representing people here and there. When she focused her gaze on Rose she gasped. She could see the energy coursing through Rose's body like the blood in her veins. White lights like small pinpricks glowing were being pulled not only from Rose but from the people and things around them. Rose was drawing power from the stones underneath their feet and the earth underneath that. By the gods.

What? Rose said in a slightly subdued tone as she opened her eyes and looked over at Nina. She noticed that the center of the elf's eyes had become large, so much so that her eyes looked like they were almost dominated by a dark blue. What is it?

Rose you can stop now, that's enough. Nina's voice was wavering slightly and she closed her eyes to adjust them once again to the normal spectrum of light. Rose's eyes were visibly glowing a radiant shade of gold.

I... I can't stop. Rose whimpered softly as she felt a surge of power hit her all of the sudden. She could feel the sapped energy flowing through her veins filling her up to the brim as if she had eaten way too much in a short sitting. The gentle, pleasant tingle became a burning sensation inside the pit of her stomach and she bowled over crying out in pain. Her voice became a hoarse whisper. Nina please help me!

Oh gods Rose, stop! Stop! Nina leaned over to her ailing friend and placed her hands on Rose’s shoulders. Rose I need you to concentrate hard, you need to close everything off. It's almost like closing a curtain or shutting a door. Form a door in your mind, see the details, and tell me what it looks like.

I see it. Rose said softly as she gasped and looked up at the young elf with wide eyes. The door, it's made of black metal, thick with golden rivets. The knockers are jackal heads each holding a ring in its mouth. It's so heavy Nina, I can't close it!

You have to close it. You're strong with magic, stronger than anyone I've ever seen! Close the door, use everything you've got! Nina put her head on Rose's shoulder and wrapped her arms around the shaking woman trying to hold her tight and close. I'll help you as best I can.

By this time everyone in the harem had come to witness the spectacle, for they could all feel the draw to naarabian. Nina could sense eyes on her back but she quickly washed those thoughts away and tried to help Rose. Rose’s entire body was glowing bright and she was breathing heavy with rapid, ragged gasps. In her mind she saw the door Rose was referring to because she had physically seen the door herself near the home of her people. In her mind there was no doubt of Rose's part in this play. After a while she felt more than saw the door that Rose had described swing shut with a bang that knocked them both to the floor and caused several of the girls around them to stagger backward.

Nina recovered quickly and rushed over to Rose, she noted that the glow had subsided and her breathing was steady. Sighing in relief she put her hand on the furred forehead of her friend. Are you still with me?

Blood and sands, I feel like I am going to burn from the inside out. Rose said with a grimace across her features. What happened to me, what did I do wrong?

You didn't do anything wrong, I miscalculated your capacity. Your body attempted to absorb more energy than it was used to. The more you use it the easier it will become and the more you can absorb. Nina brushed her hand down the side of Rose's cheek. I'm sorry; you could have been seriously hurt.

It's alright but when does the burning stop? Rose sat forward and crossed her arms over her stomach, bending at the waist. It hurts.

You absorbed too much, you have to release some of it. Your magical energy is like a fountain or in your case a waterfall, if you want to release it all you have to do is lift the dam and let it flow. Usually you would do that in the form of a spell or incantation but I don't know if I should let you try one with the amount of power you have stored. Nina scratched her chin with one hand and looked down at Rose. She had to think fast, it wasn't good for someone to hold in so much energy for long. Okay, I have an idea I want you to make yourself invisible.

What? Rose said in astonishment. How do I do that?

Arcane and psychic powers are all based on imagery and visualizations. Some of them require hand gestures and movements. The more powerful you are and the more power you have the less you have to do to manifest a spell. Nina paused for a moment to let that sink in. Take a chunk of the energy within you and put it to the side, turn it into a transparent shroud or blanket and imagine that you're putting it over your head. Let it cover your entire body, just drop it over your head and let it fall around you. You have to feel it happening.

I'm trying. Rose said through gritted teeth. After a moment she looked up in astonishment and breathed a sigh of reprieve. The pain is subsiding, what a relief.

Rose noticed that everyone around her was staring. Looking down at where her body should have been made he realize why. She was completely invisible and so was Nina. Did I use too much?

Seems so. She heard Nina laugh in her light flitting tone. You can cancel it now. Just cut the strings or close it off like you did the door.

Cut the strings? Rose said in a questioning tone. I don't understand.

Just pull the blanket off of us or let it dissipate.

Rose attempted to follow Nina's instructions for at least ten minutes or more before she finally figured out how to turn off the magic. She scratched her head once she could see the little elf again and shrugged an apology. Sorry, I'm new to all of this.

No don't be! It took me months to master magic but true to what I have read about your people magic is almost like breathing for you. Nina had a newfound respect for the naarabi if they could manipulate magic so easily. If one that had no skill at all could manage such a difficult spell so quickly she could only imagine what the most experienced one could do. Once she recovered from her shock she turned to the girls of the harem and fixed them with a discerning eye. Do not breathe a word of this to anyone.

All of them nodded their heads in agreement though Nina was sure that more than a few of them would let spill the waters if threatened the right way. Most of them were probably too scared of the display to think properly, magic was forbidden in most territories and met with fear and hostility. Nina lowered her voice and turned back to Rose. We have to make our move tonight, no question. These girls are first and foremost slaves and they will obey their master for fear of punishment.

I will. What else can I do with the energy I have stored? Rose asked Nina curiously as she looked down at her hands in amazement. She had never experienced such power before and though the pull was seductive she knew she had to temper her use of it with prudence and care. She paused, wondering why she knew that but shrugged it off.

Almost anything you can shape in your mind. The extent of this power is limited to the amount of magical energy you can store. You can throw a ball of flame as hot as the sun or walk in the sun and heat without the negative side effects that exposure would offer. The most powerful magi, those from the legends of the past, could move mountains or change the climate of the world with but a thought. I consider those to be unbelievable tales though, no one is that powerful. Nina said skeptically as she shrugged her shoulders. You just have to use the energy within you and shape it with your will. There are limitations though. Most effects will only last so long, there are a few that you can shape and maintain for extended periods but making their duration longer or permanent is more difficult. Only skilled shapers can do as such.

I understand. Rose said simply as she listened on.

If you expend too much energy in one day you will get very weak. There are some that can absorb large amounts of energy and expend it but those few have been practicing for years and years. Legend has it that naarabian shapers could use their own body's energy to cast if they were taxed beyond their limit but I wouldn't attempt that if I were you. It can be dangerous and damaging. Nina put a finger on her cheek and tapped it gently. There are other rules but honestly those are the most important and the only ones I can remember off hand, I was never a good study.

You seemed to have introduced me to this gift just fine. Rose said with a big smile.

Well you seem to have a natural aptitude for it. I figured you would, something about you makes me think you're destined for great things. Nina smiled and turned around as the double doors of the chamber opened and the two guards that delivered the prajma weed walked in to retrieve the brazier.

Chapter 2: Escape

It is almost time, we should prepare for tonight. I'm coming with you.

Nina, no! I can't put you in that position. If something were to happen to you. Rose said as she ran her fingers through Nina's long, soft hair. Well, I would not be able to take it.

Don't worry. No one will be able to see me. Once we find the book I can get us out of this place. Nina put her hand on Rose's thin fingers and smiled broadly. It warms my heart to know that you're looking out for my best interest.

I took you under my wing, you are my responsibility. Rose said with a smile. I don't take such tasks lightly.

Can I ask you a serious question that you may not fully understand? Nina asked as they sat down against the far wall underneath the barred window.

Of course, though that is an odd way to start a conversation. Rose said as she looked around the small room.

For a long time I have served the elven court with devotion. I have been assigned a few bodyguards since then. Nina looked up at Rose with her eyes sparkling in the sunlight wiggling its way through the obsidian bars. Will you be my guardian like in the story of Kwynneth and Xunil?

Nina. She said softly as she looked down at the shorter girl then back out to the main room of the harem. For a moment she was quiet as she pondered the question. Nina was doing so much for her but this type of commitment was something she had trouble fathoming. She knew it stemmed from not having any friends growing up, she had been alone most of her life regardless of the fact that there were always other girls in the harem.

Rose couldn't help but sigh and look down at Nina and her beautiful blue eyes. Nina was the closest thing she had to a friend and Maudette and Neeshka were the closest thing she had to family. Regardless of her trepidation she felt as if she and Nina had a bond. From the instant they had met she felt like they were destined to be together.

I take it from your silence that is a no? Nina said dejectedly.

Not at all, I just need some time to think. Rose smiled down at the young girl and pulled her close by the shoulder. You are the only friend I have in this world.

I have never been able to make friends; every other elf I have interacted with has either been older than me or too mixed up in politics or study to care about having a friend. I feel like we are bonded together at some level I cannot see. Nina rested her head on Rose's shoulder and sighed softly. It's funny you know, I've never taken to anyone this quickly but there's just something about you I trust. I feel like I have known you all of my life.

Rose knew not how many hours had passed but she watched the light from the window shift across the floor as the moons played in the sky overhead. Her mind swirled with questions but she could not answer them all at once. The bond Nina felt was obviously mutual, for Rose could not deny she had taken a liking to the girl. Nina, I would be honored to be your guardian.

Oh thank you! Nina's ecstatic tone broke her calm exterior instantly.

I must ask though, what do you need protection from?

This is the part you may not understand. Nina said simply with a shrug. My mother's current status will not hold forever and the truth of this world is that everything is dangerous or it is dead.

So how does this whole thing work?

I don't know exactly. Nina replied sheepishly. I guess we exchange blood and an oath?

Well then, Rose stood up for a moment and straddled Nina's lap. She got a bright red blush from the elf and giggled; knowing Nina had misunderstood the gesture. With a light nip to her lip she drew a line of blood. She leaned forward and bit Nina on the lip only enough to draw a little blood from her as well then kissed the elf full on the lips making sure to exchange a few drops between them. She held the intimate gesture for a moment then pulled back and looked directly into Nina's eyes. I swear to protect you to the best of my ability, may our bond hold strong eternal.

Nina was flushed and taken aback by the highly personal gesture; she cleared her throat a bit and shifted looking a bit uncomfortable from the proximity. I accept you as my guardian and closest friend, may the gods themselves watch over our union.

Rose felt warmth wash over her and sat back down next to Nina, knowing from her look she felt the same. The knowledge that Nina had shared with her thus far was a demonstration of the trust they felt for one another. Without a doubt she was sure that the informal ceremony had caught the attention of the remaining gods, she knew in her heart that the bond they felt had been strengthened in that passing moment.

That was unexpected. Nina said after a long moment of silence had passed between them. She giggled softly and put her hands over her cheeks to cover the blush she knew was coming. I have never kissed anyone in that manner before.

I figured that a gesture of intimacy was required to solidify it. I think I was right. Rose chuckled down at the naïve young elf and hugged her shoulders tight. I think the gods approve of our pairing, guardian and charge, friend and sister.

I must commune with my mother, it will appear as if I am asleep but I am still aware. Nina said softly as she closed her eyes.

It was not long for Nina to drift off. Rose sat there and watched her for a long time before entering her trance. She found the mists easy as usual and as the plane unfolded before her she caught sight of something out of the ordinary. Nina and few other elves, all older than her, were talking together in a huddle. Once she arrived they all regarded her with wide eyes and whispers. She in turn was surprised to see anyone within what she thought was her own private little dream. I don't understand. I have never seen anyone else here before.

And I, in turn, did not know that naarabians entered reverie though I had heard rumors and tales. A tall and slender female elf said in reply as she stood up and walked over to Rose. She wore a light tunic and breeches that seemed suitable for desert travel with a single bone dagger belted at her hip. She was the very image of Nina only grown. She had the same blonde hair and the beautiful white eyes with blue-on-blue centers. You must be Rose, the one my daughter was speaking of. If I had not trained and guided her growth myself I would have found it a fanciful tale to find a naarabian female wasting away in a pasha's harem.

One cannot avoid the circumstances of their birth nor stop the consequences of time. Rose replied, her voice nothing more than an ethereal waver in the plane around her. She had never attempted to speak or move in this state before.

Obviously you have never met another naarabian. The elf woman said in turn. My name is Miralastra, my trusted call me Mira and I invite you to do the same.

I am known as Alethia Rose, but all who know me just call me Rose. She stuck out her hand in greeting palm tilted up and to the side with her fingers loose and spread. Once she had the stunned-looking elf's hand she kissed the fingers gently signifying that she meant no harm.

A submissive gesture if ever I've seen one. You said your name is Aletha Rose? The elf woman inquired. Pray tell do you know what that means?

No, I do not. Rose said with an arched eyebrow. And I did not know this was a submissive gesture, I was told it was a proper greeting.

A proper greeting from slave to master. The elf replied, looking somewhat amused.

Rose could hear the other elves whispering amongst themselves after the greeting though she could not understand their speech. It was obvious that they were talking amongst themselves in their native tongue. It is rude to speak around others who do not understand your language.

Forgive us; we do not venture out of our home often. Mira said softly as she motioned for Rose to join them all with one hand. Mira sat down to the right of Nina and motioned for Rose to sit to her left.

Forgive my manners. I am Merik, guard and protector of the court. Nina has said that you have agreed to help us. One of the male elves said in his fluid voice, he had a thick accent which was a testament to the fact that he was not used to speaking the common tongue. We are in your debt.

I would do much for my freedom; I have never left the walls of his palace. Rose smiled until she saw the look of confusion on Mira's face. What is it?

Your freedom? Mira echoed softly.

Yes, Nina said you could get me out of this place and into the world abroad. Rose said with a hopeful smile. It was quickly shot down when Mira frowned and looked down at her daughter. She was obviously angry that her daughter had made a promise on their behalf.

Nina, you know better than to make promises without consulting us first! We cannot abide by that pledge. Mira's face was stern and she glanced up at Rose more than once. Apologize to this woman at once!

Apologize? Rose said as she stood up and faced Mira directly. Do you think that a mere apology will fix this? I have been given a taste of freedom, honey upon my tongue and it has been snatched away with a pointless few words! You will abide by the promise or you will not get the book.

Mother please! Nina pleaded as she looked up at Mira. I gave my word.

Quiet Ninanthia. She said in reply while turning to Rose.

I will do no such thing you naarabi brat. Mira countered with her stern voice as she stood in turn. Her fists were clenched and it was obvious that no one talked to her in that manner often. I will not aid a pleasure slave not worthy of my time for services rendered that are a step up from her usual.

Unable to contain herself Rose slapped the elf woman across the face, unconcerned as the other elves stood and unsheathed their weapons. Her chest was heaving underneath her thin clothing and she glowered at the arrogant elf. Dare not judge one who was born into this life, one who was just a child and sold off to repay a debt, for you have no right to talk down to me! My mother sold me when I was a newborn and the only life I have known is this. So do not think that I have chosen this of my free will! I am innocent of any crime you might accuse me of.

Alethia Rose you have my apologies. Mira waved the other elves back to a sitting position and inclined her head in a gesture of respect. Forgive me for I forget my manners outside of the comfort of the elven court. Let me tell you a tale Rose, if you will?

I shall listen attentively. Rose said as she took her seat once again next to Nina who had remained quiet during the exchange.

Long ago before the magus-kings took over the rule of the lands around you this world was lively and beautiful. Forests, trees, rivers, oceans, and other forms of now uncommon landscape were plentiful with only one desert on the face of the continent. This was known as the golden age. The first and most powerful of the sorcerers began draining this world of its life force long ago and his disciples in turn learned the ways of his power. Infused with the blood of humans, dragons and naarabians these powerful wizards stripped the world down to the bones and left it for dead all the while reveling in their unrivaled supremacy. Mira paused for a moment and cleared her throat before continuing, offering Rose a water skin that smelled of honey and wine. There was an elven profit named Leonidus the namesake of my father that foretold these events and our salvation. We have worked since then to make his prophecies come to light.

So this book is important to the entire world then? Rose asked dejectedly. You realize the pasha will sever my arms and legs and hang my still-living body in the barracks for his soldiers to have their fun if he discovers this book gone.

Barbarians! Nina said with fire in her voice. Mother you cannot let this happen, regardless of my mistake I promised on my honor that I would help her escape!

Ease Nina. Mira said with her hand outstretched. I shall help you if I can Rose, but you must understand that this is of dire importance.

I understand. Rose said with a nod, her face set in a determined scowl.

Rose and Nina both disappeared from sight as they woke along with most of the other elves leaving Mira and Merik alone only briefly before they broke the connection and snapped out of reverie.

Damn this game, we need that book. Mira said in her melodic voice. Merik did you hear her name?

Yes my queen, but I know not the significance. The male elf that had spoken with rose said in confusion as he regarded Mira with a wary eye. What is it?

Alethia is the ancient elven word for desert. She stated while staring at the place that Rose had just been sitting in. Her name means, desert flower.

You jest; this girl is the one the prophecy foretold? He said with his eyes wide