In Search of Gods and Heroes

By Sammy HK Smith

Buried in the scriptures of Ibea lies a story of rivalry, betrayal, stolen love, and the bitter division of the gods into two factions. This rift forced the lesser deities to pledge their divine loyalty either to the shining Eternal Kingdom or the darkness of the Underworld.
When a demon sneaks into the mortal world and murders an innocent girl to get to her sister Chaeli, all pretence of peace between the gods is shattered. For Chaeli is no ordinary mortal, she is a demi-goddess, in hiding for centuries, even from herself. But there are two divine brothers who may have fathered her, and the fate of Ibea rests on the source of her blood.
Chaeli embarks on a journey that tests her heart, her courage, and her humanity. Her only guides are a man who died a thousand years ago in the Dragon Wars, a former assassin for the Underworld, and a changeling who prefers the form of a cat.
The lives of many others – the hideously scarred Anya and her gaoler; the enigmatic and cruel Captain Kerne; the dissolute Prince Dal; and gentle seer Hana – all become entwined. The gods will once more walk the mortal plane spreading love, luck, disease, and despair as they prepare for the final, inevitable battle.
In Search of Gods and Heroes, Book One of Children of Nalowyn, is a true epic of sweeping proportions which becomes progressively darker as the baser side of human nature is explored, the failings and ambitions of the gods is revealed, and lines between sensuality and sadism, love and lust are blurred.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Kristell Ink
• Release date: Jun 13, 2014
• ISBN: 9781909845350

Book preview

In Search of Gods and Heroes

Children of Nalowyn, Book One

Sammy H.K. Smith

www.kristell-ink.com

Copyright © 2014 Sammy H.K. Smith

Smashwords Edition

Sammy H.K. Smith asserts her moral right to be identified as the author of this book

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 publisher except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.

All characters appearing in this work are fictitious. Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.

Paperback ISBN 978-1-909845-33-6

Kindle ISBN 978-1-909845-34-3

EPUB ISBN 978-1-909845-35-0

Cover art by Raymond Tan

Design by Ken Dawson

Map by Hazel Butler

Typesetting by Book Polishers

Kristell Ink

An Imprint of Grimbold Books

4 Woodhall Drive

Banbury

Oxon

OX16 9TY

United Kingdom

www.kristell-ink.com

For Nanny and Granddad

Acknowledgements

So, this is it. After three years of constant procrastinating, my debut novel is here in the big, bad world.

I have huge thanks and love for the three people who made this possible: my husband, my granddad, and Zoë Harris. Without them, this book wouldn’t exist. Many evenings I’ve sat in my living room with headphones on, endless cups of tea brought lovingly to my side by John. His words of support lifted me out of my dark slump and forced me to write on. Zoë spent countless hours helping me turn In Search of Gods and Heroes, Volume I from manuscript to novel. You’ve both supported me every step of the way, and I love you.

Without my granddad, there’s no way I would ever have had the confidence to publish this book. His enthusiasm for it after reading the first draft pushed me forward. Big kisses and squishy cuddles. I wish that nanny could have read a copy, but I’m so grateful to have you. You mean the world to me.

Steve Guscott, David Muir and Ken Dawson – you’re the best, and I hope you like the additions and changes I’ve made. Thank you, guys. Oh, and Hazel Butler, thank you for my map of Ibea! I love it.

Team Grimbold, I couldn’t ask for a more amazing, friendly and supportive bunch of authors (and most importantly, friends) to work with. Long may it continue!

Dom, thank you for the inspiration for Prince Kee Dala. I can’t imagine Ibea without him! And a big thank you to Mark and Adam for trusting and having faith in me.

And finally, thank you to everyone who takes the time to read this book.

Chapter One

Chaeli could see nothing but a line of dull light at the bottom of the door. Her heart was beating so hard she was sure the creature could hear it.

You can’t hide forever, you know, the voice said with a wintry laugh. When I find you, you’ll be praying to Metlina to show mercy.

Chaeli shifted her weight, wincing and almost gasping aloud with the pain. She bit hard on her lip. It was stifling in the cupboard and she was having difficulty breathing properly. Her muscles ached from contorting her body into the small space, and blood oozed from the deep slash in her thigh, forming small puddles on the flagstones.

Silence fell. Chaeli strained to hear a noise, a movement, anything to give away his location, but there was nothing. Where was her sister? Had she made it out alive? She thought back over those last moments for any sign that might have warned her. They had been laughing at some joke when the flash of green light blinded them. The next thing Chaeli knew, her leg felt as though it was on fire, and Acelle was screaming. Like a coward, Chaeli dived into the cupboard where their mother once stored mebaya berry jars and winter cloaks.

Chaeli, Chaeli, Chaeli. The soft jeer cut right through her. Come and see what I’ve got for you. She heard a high-pitched scream . . . No . . . no please, gods . . . not Acelle.

Chaeli, please! Chaeli, help me! Acelle begged and cried, her pleas distorted by sobs.

That’s right Chaeli, stay where you are. Don’t let me end it for her, the voice whispered, please, let it continue.

Fear and bile forced their way up from her stomach. These creatures were not meant to be real, to exist in Ibea.

It must have been waiting for me.

She swallowed hard again and blinked back tears.

"Chaeli!" Acelle screamed, the desperation in her voice burning Chaeli like acid.

She shifted, blocking out the pain, and pushed open the door, rolling out onto the dusty kitchen floor. Pain seared through her leg and she cursed aloud, shoving a fist against her mouth in frustration as she scrambled to her feet, her left side sagging slightly with the effort of supporting her weight. The room was dark and musty, and her eyes took longer to adjust than she wanted. Gripping the side of the kitchen cupboard, she took several deep breaths to calm herself. She could hear movement in the room opposite, heavy bangs and short rasping breaths, which seemed to be getting closer. Please, Elek, please help me, she silently begged to the God of Chance. It’s not my time, not yet, please. In her mind, she repeated the prayer over and over.

Nothing. No reply. Only the sharp agony in her leg. Metlina, Goddess of Pain, was taunting her.

Her strength and resistance ebbed away. There was no help coming and she was going to die at the hands of that monster. She moved towards the doorway, grimacing with each step as she tried to stop her leg from buckling. Thoughts and memories bombarded her mind as she prepared herself. Her parents, their deaths, Acelle . . . oh gods, what’s happening?

She stood in the doorway, making no attempt now to hide or run.

Where are you? she called out, surprised her voice didn’t waver. Show yourself. I’m not hiding. Her voice didn’t sound like her own; it was strong and resonated through the room. Warmth and strange languor caressed her, touching and commanding every inch of her skin. The heat spread and possessed her. A sweet intoxicating feeling of sheer . . . luck? Suddenly, Chaeli felt strong and alive. Elek! Smiling to herself, she called out again:

Acelle, are you there?

Even though there was still fear in her heart, divine energy from the God of Chance wove through her being. Bravery. Excitement. Power!

Chaeli, the creature hissed, I’m here, my lady. Will I do?

She spun around, and finally faced the demon; she gasped at both sight and smell.

Limp in the arms of the creature was the body of Acelle, blood dripping from her torn throat, her eyes glazed and staring. Despite her horror, Chaeli let out a sigh of relief at the shallow but certain rise and fall of Acelle’s chest; she was alive, just.

Chaeli, will you come willingly with me? Come to my lord?

What are you talking about? Shut up, shut up!

She tore her gaze from Acelle and stared into the black eyes of the demon. Tall and imposing, it seemed to fill the room. Although human in shape, the slick skin was mottled and bruised, the eyes cold and unfathomable. It was hard to stand her ground as the smell of the beast crawled around the space between them, searching and hunting for her.

An answer. Chaeli, now!

Perhaps if you released my sister I would be more amenable to your offer, she replied, forcing herself to stare at the creature, her jaw set like stone and steel in her spine. As its odour intensified, Elek’s blessing weakened. The demon’s mouth contorted into a sneer.

Of course, my lady. It dropped Acelle, her body hitting the floor with a sickening thud. Chaeli tensed and her throat contracted. She couldn’t tear her eyes from the beast, refusing to look down at her sister’s crumpled body.

Are you ready? The demon beckoned her forward with a claw.

Where will you take me? What’s going on? Chaeli hoped her voice wouldn’t betray the fear that began to envelop her again. What do you want from me?

The demon lowered an arm and grimaced. Do not push me, I have been patient so far. We have all been so very patient.

Patient! Her eyes widened as the pain in her leg flared, preventing her from retorting further.

Chaeli stepped forward to kneel beside Acelle’s motionless form, brushing the hair away from her face. Her chest was still now, her eyes unblinking. Chaeli cradled her, rocking backwards and forwards as silent tears fell. The pain of her injuries was nothing to the pain in her heart. Her only family in this world was gone because of her. Staring up at the demon she hissed: I shall have my answers now, my lord.

The demon was unconcerned by the sudden edge in her voice. Perhaps if you were to leave the human and come speak with me, you would come to understand that these sacrifices must be made. It grinned manically.

Sacrifices. Something inside Chaeli changed. Her confidence, and the presence of Elek, ebbed away until finally, with a jerk, it disappeared. Gently she laid Acelle down and kissed her forehead; the warmth had already begun to leave her body. As she stood to face the demon, Chaeli felt alone. Her legs were soft and unsteady, and the steeliness within her crumbled. Though tall for a woman, she didn’t even reach the demon’s shoulders. She gestured towards the dining area where the crockery from their abandoned meal lay on the table. The smell of ditari bread still lingered, scented water sparkled in the jug, and as she walked towards the great hearth, she noted that the fire still crackled heartily. The warmth whispered to her and she couldn’t resist; she didn’t know why, but she had to look at the fire. The flames licked around the logs, colours shifting as the heat permeated the grain. It was beautiful to look at and Chaeli felt her gaze drawn deeper into the flames, transfixed by the way they danced and twirled, the way they left nothing behind but ash, destroying everything in their path.

My lady? The demon leaned over her. The smell of the beast’s breath churned her stomach and she recognised it as the scent of death.

What? she snapped. Shut up! Don’t provoke it. Idiot. What do you want from me? she repeated. Whatever it is, take it. I care not. She jolted; if she could escape, she could get help from the village, she just had to bide her time. The priest would know what to do; surely he would have something to repel this beast. But was the beast real? Had she finally gone mad? A half-sob, half-chuckle escaped her lips, and she clamped them shut, silently praying to the Kingdom gods for help and support. They had to answer now that she really needed their help. Closing her eyes, she forced a litany, calling on every god she could recall for guidance.

The demon moved a chair to face Chaeli, sat down, and pressed it’s fingertips together. The smell of the beast overpowered her prayer, and the words faded, mixing with the screaming desire to run, to save herself. But liquid fear gripped her, and falling into her father’s wingback chair she opened her eyes to stare into the creature’s. For a moment it seemed to hesitate, and there was a flicker of emotion on the cruel face. Recognition, perhaps? As though it saw something in her eyes. But before she could think further, the thoughtful expression disappeared, and the sneer returned.

You care not? Then tell me, why do you tremble so? Extending a claw, he pressed hard against the cut on her leg; she screamed and her vision blurred.

Get off me! She lashed out, slapping the creature’s arm. It laughed and pushed harder, gripping her flailing arms with it’s other hand.

Stop, please stop, she babbled, sweat sticking to her armpits and back. For the gods’ sake just tell me what you want. The pain swaddled her, making her immobile and entirely at the mercy of the demon.

So be it. The demon sat back, the sharp cracking of wood breaking the silence as the chair protested at the size of the beast.

*

Adley ran through the opalescent blue halls of the Eternal Kingdom, threading his way through the opulently robed and constantly whispering Beings, the celestial manifestation of the Seven Virtues. His presence attracted their attention. A protector entering the Kingdom uninvited was a rare occurrence and considered a gross insult, but this was no time for formalities and pleasantries: he needed help, he needed guidance, he needed . . . he needed His Highness.

Adley! This is an unexpected visit, what brings you to the Kingdom? called a woman’s voice.

The whisperings amongst the Beings ceased as they turned to face the woman. Adley skidded to a halt on the smooth marbled floor. Bending over to catch his breath, he put his hands on his knees. The sweat from his brow beaded on his face and his dark curly hair was damp.

Anointed One, I have news. I must see His Highness. Adley breathed heavily as he addressed the goddess, trying to ignore the stabbing sensation in his side.

The whisperings started again as the Beings communicated between themselves, ethereal faces awash with intrigue as they scuttled closer to the deity. His Highness had not agreed to an audience in over two hundred Ibean years. For a mortal to demand one now was an insult of the highest order.

The goddess stepped towards Adley, a frown wrinkling her otherwise beautiful face. All bowed before her and attempted to kiss the hem of her gown. She radiated passion, and Adley struggled to keep his wits in her presence, wanting nothing more than to shower her with gifts of devotion and love. He had spent far too long in the mortal world, disconnected from the gods and their grace.

Anointed One, I have news of Chaeli.

Chaeli? What of her? The goddess of Love asked, seemingly disinterested in his news but amused at his lack of formality.

The demon . . . killed her sister . . . Demon attacked . . . She’s in danger . . . I left. He spoke quickly, still gasping for breath. I believe Elek has bestowed his blessing on her. Oh, why did I leave? I shouldn’t have left. The balance. It’s not safe. Anointed One, I must see Prince Daro. I should have left the shadows. I should have—

Adley, enough with this ‘Anointed One’ nonsense. Call me Penella. The goddess of love smiled. His Highness will not permit an audience, you know this as well as I. However, I will gather the gods who are present and we will meet in the high tower. Do not dwell on what you could or could not have done. You had your orders and you were wise not to defy the prince. With this she disappeared in a flare of light.

Adley stood up, angry he had been dismissed so abruptly, and frustrated that His Highness wouldn’t see him.

The celestial Beings stared at Adley, their huge eyes asking a thousand questions, but not one they deigned to put into words. Not to one such as him.

Calming himself, he turned and walked towards the tower, through twisting and turning corridors; with each sharp turn, the décor changed, and as he reached the summer walls he breathed in deeply. The smells of Ibea, the Velenese starflowers and Algarian oak trees, called to him, his mind still reeling with what he had observed on Ibea. He was bitterly frustrated at not being able to intervene and help Chaeli, but he had sworn an oath not to dabble in the world of mortals without permission, no matter what the cost. Even though the demons had broken their treaty, Adley was forbidden by Daro to help, forbidden to stop the murders of two innocent mortals . . . and Chaeli. She had only just celebrated her twentieth year and coming of age, and certainly wasn’t ready for whatever it was the Underworld had planned for her; indeed, he doubted she was even ready for the Kingdom’s plans.

His heart was heavy as he tackled the stairs. The lower gods were frivolous and out of touch with the mortal world. They didn’t realise how much had changed in such a short period of time. In four hundred mortal years, the old ways had eroded away, and the gods were not revered as they once had been: these days the Underworld had more temples and churches, and almost as many believers as the Eternal Kingdom. He reached the great oak door and hesitated; the anxious voices on the other side growing louder and louder. Taking a deep breath, he pushed the door wide and entered.

Adley! Praise be. It’s been too long, cried a voice from the crowd. Smiling, Adley moved to embrace the grinning god.

Drenic! You honour me. It was impossible not to like the God of Happiness, and being near Drenic reminded Adley how much he missed spending time with his gods. As he moved to the middle of the tower room, the conversation died down and the gathered crowd looked at him. They had all chosen to adopt human form in his presence – a most thoughtful gesture.

Anointed Ones, you honour me with your presence, he began. I apologise for my lack of courtesy in not giving warning of my arrival to the gatekeeper. However, Chaeli is in danger. The demon Malo has broken the treaty, and it is my belief that his master, Eli, is unaware of this. He paused, knowing his next statement would upset the gentle gods. The life of Chaeli’s sister, Acelle, hangs by a thread.

Adley, son, are you sure it is Malo who has betrayed his liege? As I remember him, he wouldn’t dare act of his own accord. Malo is the most trusted and reverent advisor of their world.

Yes, Drenic, I saw it myself. I might have prevented these atrocities, replied Adley bitterly.

This is no time to be concerned with your own guilt, my Adley, not when the balance is so fragile. Purge yourself of these thoughts, warned Shy’la, the Goddess of Fertility.

I apologise, my lady. However, time is pressing. Malo is with Chaeli now. Elek has sent her the gift of chance and this alone I believe is helping maintain her balance and determination. But Elek’s blessing can’t last long as it’s draining the pool. Even though these demons obviously feel it is acceptable to break the rules, we can’t. He paused for breath, staring around into the faces of the gods. I am requesting your permission to go to Chaeli and help her find her way, to bring her into the Kingdom’s protection.

The ensuing silence was broken by several voices at once.

Quiet, commanded Penella. The voices stopped at once. The church is no place for Chaeli. Adley, this would break the treaty, she cannot be in a place that would influence her decision, and you know this. You know what was sacrificed so this child could choose her future without interference.

Lady Penella, the treaty has already been broken. We can’t be the only side continuing to play by the rules. We need to be as ruthless as the Underworld, retorted Adley.

No, it cannot be. The balance will suffer. One for one. That has always been the rule. Balance and harmony.

We cannot be seen to influence her, protector. We must always be neutral, said Drenic, his head in his hands as he rubbed his temples. Always.

Then Lindor it is. Lindor has the most comprehensive library in the entire mortal world. With the blood that courses through Chaeli, I can prepare her there for what comes.

"The blood we believe courses through her. We must never forget her mother was a mortal," Penella said softly, though her eyes flashed with anger.

True. And who’s to say she didn’t seduce a third? Shy’la added, slipping her hand into Penella’s.

Take care with your words, Shy’la. The walls are always listening, said Drenic, looking up and frowning. You’d do well to remember that.

Tell me, Drenic. Since when do walls hear? I fail to—

Adley interrupted the God of Honesty with a loud cough, then lowered his head in apology. Forgive me, but time is precious. I ask for permission to show her our world.

A voice thundered about them, silencing the chatter in the room. Are you quite sure that’s necessary? The gods swivelled to see the huge shape of Vorgon, God of Water, forming in the air like a huge bubble. The treaty may not be destroyed. Perhaps we can salvage something from this. The god leaned forward and stared intensely at Adley.

My lord, they were eating supper when he appeared in her home. Acelle tried to protect her, but Malo struck her down. Adley’s voice was reduced to nothing more than a whisper. The gods glanced at each other in dismay as Adley pressed on. Acelle attempted to distract Malo. When Chaeli tried to help her sister, Malo struck out, injuring her leg. Afraid and hurt, she ran to hide. Malo then slit Acelle’s throat. I saw nothing else; it was then I came to you. Malo gave no reason for his presence, no warning, and didn’t send an emissary to the protectors advising us that he intended to speak with Chaeli.

But why must you reveal the gods to her, Adley? Chaeli is already a believer, she prays to Elek, to Denna, and others. She doesn't need to know more. The voice that spoke was quiet and reassuring. It was Igon, God of Honesty, who had chosen the form of an old beggar for the meeting.

But she can’t be expected to find her way unless she can see. Adley could feel anger bubbling within him. Swallowing, he closed his eyes in an effort to calm himself. I beseech you. The Underworld has broken the treaty, and we must stop them. Adley looked around the tower room. The gods wouldn’t make eye contact with him. He opened his mouth ready to vent his frustration when someone spoke.

Adley, you have my support in this matter, but hear me well: if Malo has twisted her before you arrive, you must deal with the situation accordingly. The Goddess of Love looked straight at him, her amber eyes burning. She must not be corrupted by the Underworld.

Adley bowered his head with deference to mask his dismay. If he lost Chaeli to the Underworld then he too would be damned. A protector who neglects was no use to any god. Redemption would be found in the stilling of her heart, and the breaking of his.

Aye, you have my support as well, muttered Drenic. We’ve waited patiently for the daughter of Amelia Von Ariseré to discover her potential, perhaps now she needs a push.

Adley held his breath. The others were too quiet and he needed more of them to back him; two deities would not be enough.

All in favour of Adley accompanying Chaeli to Lindor? said Penella.

Aye, chanted a chorus of voices with varying degrees of enthusiasm.

All opposed?

There was no reply. Adley’s heart leapt. He had the support of all gods present. This was more than he had hoped.

Penella looked at him and pursed her lips with dislike. Go, rescue Chaeli. Do what you must, but remember who she is, Adley. I will relay the Council’s decision to His Highness.

Adley backed towards the door, stopped, and bowed to the gods.

Thank you, was all he said as he left their presence and headed toward the halls. He knew that whatever happened from this moment on could change the balance of their three worlds. As he approached the gatekeeper, his mind was full of thoughts of Chaeli. He had spent so long watching from the shadows, ensuring her guardians took care of her. It was only in recent years he had felt the strong pull of his own emotions. He was her protector. All those times he had watched her cry had hurt him too. He had wanted nothing more than to shield her from the ugliness of the world, to take care of her in the way she deserved. As a protector, he was denied the physical pleasures of a woman, but he could look after her, he would protect her and show her that her life was not all misery and pain.

The cobbles were cold through his boots, and though the sun beat down, warming the gardens and lakes, he shivered at what was before him. When he reached the gates he was so wrapped up in his thoughts he walked straight into the large scaly keeper. He grunted as he picked himself up and dusted his hands on his trousers. Two large eyes the size of dinner plates stared back at him.

Watch where you’re going, Adley, the dragon snapped. I’m not that small.

Apologies, Boda, I was lost in thought. The gods have listened to me for once. They’ve finally taken their heads out of their—

Adley! Remember where you are. The dragon stretched his enormous body out along the width of the gates. His scales glistened in the dappling sunlight. Yawning, he exposed his fangs, each the size of a fully grown man. I suppose you want to leave now? After rudely running past me earlier, not asking permission to enter, not even announcing yourself? With each word, his tail flicked against the gates causing them to shake, and his body twitched restlessly. Adley stood parallel to the great dragon, taking care to be out of reach of either wing or claw. He knew he did not have to be as reserved around the dragon as he was the gods, for the two shared a long and deep bond.

I apologise, old friend, he said, and then recalled recent events to the dragon. The keystone in Alingale was removed some years ago. I had to travel further afield.

Was there no way to . . . you know, said Boda, his irritation dissipating with each flick of his tail. He curled his body around, large eyes staring at the protector from the top of his crossed arms. Adley would have relaxed, but the flash of red that shimmered from head to tail across the iridescent scales reminded him that the dragon was still angry, and so he knelt in submission, head bowed.

"I had no time for that, old friend. I called out for the Great Father, but only the whisper of the wind replied, and on it I heard the word ‘run!’."

The Father has not been seen for many turns of the sun and moon. He becomes as elusive as his son.

How is my prince?

At the mention of Daro, the dragon regarded Adley with both anger and sadness. Little seen, little heard. Twice since we sent the child to Ibea have I seen him, and both times he stood with the Mother in the fields, planting crops and harvests. He speaks only to her, and Penella. Holding a mortal babe here for so many centuries has taken a toll on his spirit. He is flighty, restless and uneasy. Each breath of time here can be days elsewhere. The dragons suffer more than most, for we stand on all worlds at once, and sitting here I can do nothing to ease the suffering.

I am sincerely sorry, said Adley, both for his rudeness and for the loneliness the dragon exuded.

The gatekeeper snorted and flashed red once more. Do not apologise, protector, for you know not why I live this life of solitude. Go now, I grow tired of your false flattery, and if you bend for much longer, your knee will turn to stone.

Standing, Adley bowed once more and nodded his thanks. He turned away from the gatekeeper and looked back at the Kingdom with longing.

Good luck, protector.

*

Prince Eli stood at the parapet of his balcony overlooking the twisting streets of the Underworld. Empty stone buildings scattered the horizon, the crumbling ruins of a once thriving land. As he stood staring at the shadows, lost in thought, the ravenous screeching of the harpies echoed through the darkness, cutting the silence and forcing the prince into the present. The harpies’ nest, made from bones and rotting flesh, filled his gaze, and he watched as the fighting siblings clawed at each other, flapping their wings in anger, the prize for the victor a cowering man. The largest creature cackled with glee as she approached the human, her wings enveloping him and drawing his body against her feathered breast. Eli saw the soul of the pitiful mortal wisp into the darkness where it was consumed greedily by the shadows. A gust of wind sent the sweetness of the dead river straight into his chambers. The tang of betrayal and lies from the stirring waters permeated his corporeal form, and he quelled his excitement, instead focussing his attention on a dark shape moving through the silent streets. It was the only movement in vision, but it was too slow to be a demon, too large to be a hellion. It appeared to be dragging something behind it. He stared harder; it looked like a mortal.

Bored, he looked away and across the cold, empty land, dead and hard like a sheet of black ice where nothing grew. He shivered. Eli refused to wear a mantle in his domain, and to succumb to the environment was to admit defeat – something to which he was not accustomed.

The Damnable Lord swivelled on his toes and returned to his quarters, slamming the shutters behind him.

Metlina! Where are you? he called, striding to the fireplace. Staring into the flames he became aware of a strange feeling. He knelt on the hearth and studied the mass of glowing embers and dancing blades. It was as though he was being watched – no, not watched, it was as though someone was attempting to connect with him, pulling at his energy, reaching through the blaze. As he concentrated on the flames further he could almost feel . . .

My Lord, you called? came a quiet voice behind him.

Jerking his head up, Eli saw Metlina looking at him with concern. For the Goddess of Pain, she appeared too caring and too gentle. The fire and its strange behaviour had made him uneasy, not an emotion he was accustomed to feeling. Barely suppressing his rage at the interruption he got to his feet – after all, he had summoned her.

Something doesn’t feel right, Metlina. What’s going on? He towered over the petite goddess. She looked away, hesitating. Infuriated, Eli grasped her chin in his hand forcing her to acknowledge him. Well? His dark eyes bored into hers, exuding dark energy and pressed into her being. None of his subjects would attempt to keep secrets from him. He was her master, and he would punish her.

Eli . . . please. A small trickle of blood rolled from her eye. It’s Malo, he . . . he’s with Chaeli.

For a moment everything was still.

Get out, he snarled, releasing her chin. Metlina gasped and rubbed her eyes. Eli delighted in her pain, his energy stronger than it had ever been. He had so many more followers now. Did you not hear me? Leave!

He grabbed the goddess by the arm and walked her to the door. She gave a small, gratifying cry as he threw her into the hall before he slammed the door behind her and leaned his back against it; he was surprised to find his breathing was uneven. As he closed his eyes a thousand thoughts swamped his mind. The treaty, his brother, Chaeli – and then Amelia.

He had never meant for things to go as far as they did with her, but he couldn’t help himself. It was a shame he had never loved her the way she had loved him. Opening his eyes, he went to his bureau and removed a sheet of calf vellum and a quill. Perhaps he should write to Daro? It seemed only yesterday when they had laughed together over one of Drenic’s terrible jokes. He hesitated, then placed his writing instruments back into the bureau drawer. No, he wouldn’t write to his brother. Daro had neglected him in his time of need, neglected him for Amelia. Daro had blamed him for her unexpected infatuation, and no amount of protestations from Eli had swayed his mind. Daro refused to believe his brother, and instead had placed a mortal above all. Smiling sourly, Eli drummed his fingers on the desk. No, Daro would feel his pain; he would feel what it was like to be neglected and alone. Chaeli would ensure it.

He smiled. He would have Chaeli even if it meant sacrificing every one of his subjects.

*

Good Luck.

Boda’s words echoed through Adley’s mind as he headed towards Chaeli’s home. It was a good seven kilometres from the gateway and would take precious time on foot. He cursed the unpredictability of the portal and the keystones – why could he not have appeared at her home? Since the dragon wars and the arrival of Boda as gatekeeper, the portal fluctuated in accuracy. It seemed a mystery to the gods.

As he touched the arc of carved stones on the ground, he prayed Chaeli was alive and that Malo had not revealed the truth to her. The damage could be limited if the treaty was intact. Turning away from the large lake and quickening his pace to a job towards the village, he remembered the day of the signing so well. The princes had emerged from the council rooms in silence, each unable to look at the other. The Beings scattered around the halls had whispered to one other with agitated glances towards the two princes. There was a chill in the air and ice formed around the marble pillars.

Leave us, Daro had commanded, staring at the Beings. Adley too had turned to leave, but stopped as Daro called out, Stay, Adley, you will be needed.

Dismayed, the Beings ceased their communications and bowed to the princes, scuttling away towards the Great Hall. Daro looked defeated and worn, and the sneer on Eli’s face suggested he had won the argument.

Penella, bring my papers.

What’s wrong, brother? spat the younger sibling. Regretting your decision? The look on Eli’s face had been a mixture of hatred and triumph; there was no need for him to mask his true feelings any longer.

Daro turned to Eli with a doleful look in his eyes. Eli, the treaty will be signed and the papers sealed with our divine sanction. Once this has been done, do not speak to me again.

With that, His Highness had turned away from his brother and sunk to the floor, cradling his head in his hands. Adley could see he was crying.

Moments passed – it felt like hours – then he heard Penella. My lord, your papers. Her voice trembled. Snapping his eyes open, Adley stared at the goddess. She was pale as alabaster. Please my lord, she whispered, don’t . . .

Thank you, Penella, replied His Highness, holding out his hand. Penella bowed and handed Daro a mass of reed paper and his gold quill. Eli? Shall we? He inclined his head towards the council.

Ah, brother, do you take me for a fool? This display of unhappiness does not sway my heart. You have always treated me like one of your pets. Once this is completed, I shall be gone with my followers and will never enter this place again. Of course, if the child is to follow me . . . well . . . Eli smiled maliciously. Then you may see me once more.

Eli closed the council doors behind them with a loud, echoing bang.

Hey, you!

The tall doors were ripped from his mind, replaced with the blue hour hues bouncing on the dusty ground. Slowing down to walking pace, Adley saw a local patrol guard staring in his direction, his hand on his hilt.

Yes, sir? called Adley. How can I help?

The guard approached. On closer inspection he looked young, perhaps just entering manhood, with his face still showing signs of acne.

Your papers, ordered the young guard holding out his hand. Adley saw the silver band encircling his wrist; the runes were the ancient common tongue, and he could read that the guard’s channelling abilities were average at best. He had no proficiency or specialisation, but he’d passed the test: he had enough energy to channel and, most likely, enough to ward off some dangers or to attack. He wore the band above his uniform with pride, for he was part of the small proportion of mortals on Ibea who had an affinity with the natural energy and power of the gods. "Papers, now," repeated the guard.

Damn, thought Adley, I don’t need this now. It was the first time he had shown himself to mortals in years.

I’m sorry sir, I don’t seem to have them on me. Adley shrugged, grinning good-naturedly. I must have left them with my woman.

The guard narrowed his eyes and gripped his hilt tighter. All persons are to carry their papers at all times, no exceptions, as decreed by King Stirm. You are now bound by law for the offence of non-citizenship. You have no papers, which leads me to believe that you are not a free citizen. The guard hesitated, then muttered, The speed at which you were running leads me to believe you are an escaped slave. Law thirty nine, code four demands immediate acquiescence of all slaves.

With the last few words, two more men appeared and flanked Adley’s sides. Groaning, he put his hands up beside his head and debated with himself for a moment.

I’m sorry to do this, he said, ducking forward and sweeping the young guard’s feet away from him with his left leg. The man crashed to the ground with a cry. The guard to his right shouted something, and with a sharp movement of his right elbow, Adley connected with his chin, causing him to stumble back. Adley leant forward and grabbed the first guard’s sword from his belt. The guard stared at him, holding his chin, and after a brief hesitation, turned and ran. Adley turned towards the third guard, and saw the fear in the man’s eyes.

You can run like your comrade, or fight and die, said Adley. Make your choice quickly, son, I am a busy man.

The guard looked at his colleague on the floor and back at Adley, seemingly weighing up his chances.

Do you have a family, son? asked Adley.

"That’s no concern of yours, slave."

I think you’ll find it is. If you stay and fight, you will lose. Adley weighed the sword. Good weapon, sharp too.