El`Domin Book 1

By K. J. Ward

At first, she was excited to go to the Festival. She would be meeting a wide variety of people and see new things. Most of all, there were cute boys to flirt with. She was looking forward to feasts and dances. It all seemed so great, her imagination ran wild. Unfortunately, this trip was completely dull. So far there wasn't any adventure or charm at all. Captain Willis was very strict with Lissa and her the whole time.

“Don’t talk to anyone. Be invisible.” Willis scolded every time they stopped at an Inn. ‘What a bunch of crap!’ she thought angrily. It had been like hell. Early to rise; ride all day, then early to bed. ‘What? Were they in the army now?’ she hissed in her mind. If she had known it was going to be like this she would have insisted on taking a ship instead and leaving earlier in the month. But no, she wanted to ride horses. ‘What a dumb idea.’ she grumbled to herself. Even the Captain’s fascination with Lissa didn't help much.

• Language: English
• Publisher: K. J. Ward
• Release date: Jul 23, 2014
• ISBN: 9781310366451

K. J. Ward

Hello, my name is Karen. I'm happy you took a moment out of your day to visit my profile. First I guess I should tell you a little about myself. I've been happily married for 26 years, almost 27 by the time this will post and I have three wonderful children. I have enjoyed writing short stories since I was in eighth grade. Although I never considered publishing any of my stories my family and friends, whom have read my works, love them. It's with their support I've decided to share this side of me with people I don't know on a personal level. To be totally honest I'm a private person and an introvert. However, I'll always work hard to put my thoughts down for others to see, even if they aren't popular or I don't get good reviews.On another note, when I'm not writing I like gaming. I'm a casual gamer from way back, which also influences my stories. Just to be clear on that point I play MMORPG's. I would mention some but I don't want to get called out on mentioning a copy-righted name. If you're interested in finding out more information you can always ask me by sending me an email.When I'm tired of writing or gaming, I partake in other hobbies like crocheting, quilting, sewing, needlepoint and crafting.

Book preview

Tales of Draymera Series

El`Domin

Book 1

Copyright 2014 Karen J. Ward

Published by Karen J. Ward at Smashwords

Book Cover Illustration by Tim Ward & Anna Schutze

Smashwords Edition License Notes

This e-book is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This e-book 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 enjoyment only, then please return to Smashwords.com or your favorite retailer and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgements

Prologue

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

About Karen Ward

Other books by Karen Ward

Connect with Karen Ward

Acknowledgements

I dedicate this book to my loving husband, Tim, and all three of my children, James, Kat and Aaron. Without their support I would not have had the courage to publish this series. Thank you to my many friends who encouraged me to continue writing for all these years.

Prologue

Many thoughts ran through her mind as she watched the last drops of the night's rain fall to the ground in the dim light of morning. Soon, the warmth of the sun would spread swiftly across the Land, exposing everything to its life giving light. She lay quietly listening for any sound, but nothing reached her ears. Once satisfied, she relaxed her body into a meditative state. Her thoughts became tranquil while she absorbed the energy around her to open her mind's eye. After what seemed like an eternity to her young restless soul, her essence began to float freely leaving her peaceful body. With the ease of air, she moved out of her bedroom window and into the garden where she could see the waking of songbirds in a nest. Sweeping across the grass to the study door, she hesitated for a moment to peer through the window and make sure ‘he’ was not there. If he was, it would only take a fraction of a second before he noticed her. Then, once again, all her careful planning would be for not.

Finding nothing, she flowed in through the open window and to the door that was slightly ajar. Here she could hear the voices of servants in the hall beyond. Casually she used the shadows left by the disappearing night and moved out into the entry hall; then to the front door and out into the courtyard. Checking again to be sure ‘he’ was not watching, she cautiously slid through the open gate just behind the guard that was making his way out to take his post. Once free of the castle walls she took flight with the gentle morning breeze. She flowed over rooftops and the protective wall that ringed the city to her final destination, the lush green forest not far from the sanctuary and safety of the castle she called home.

Floating down to the ground, she gently landed without a trace. Here she felt more in tune with life and all the energy it was made of. The life force of each living thing glowed with its own unique vibrancy. Out of the corner of her eye, she caught the glimpse of a young fox stretching under a bush. Beyond was a clearing with flowers where the light was becoming brighter. She walked calmly to the flowers and squatted to watch the budding of a white Morning Glory as the light touched it. Suddenly she felt a presence not far away. Startled she stood and looked around. A man in woodland clothes stood across the meadow from her staring in her direction. She froze in fear when he started to walk toward her. Panicked she lifted from the ground into flight again. Looking down she saw him standing in the spot she had occupied, his face uplifted, dark eyes watching her ascent.

‘How could this be?’ she thought to herself. ‘All the books said this power was rare. No one had ever noticed before, except Leamox. Only those of the same or greater—Power,’ terror lent speed to her flight. She surged through the gates of the castle oblivious to Leamox detecting her. His warnings of other beings possessing the power ran repeatedly through her thoughts. That was why he strictly forbids her to leave his protection.

She flew to the garden and through her bedroom window into her body where she lay trembled while trying to regain composure of her thoughts. ‘Was he in a disguise? Was he an evil being looking for souls to trap?’ she shook uncontrollably for just thinking about it. ‘No, there wasn’t an evil present. In fact, there was something familiar about him. Like a presence that made her feel warm similar to loving,’ she reasoned with herself. ‘Maybe he took a form that was familiar to my memories to fool me,’ she contemplated. ‘Whatever it was, I’ll not venture out alone for a while,’ she determined with a shiver.

‘Perhaps I should tell Leamox,’ she considered. This thought was appealing until she remembered a time when she had planned to stow away on a wagon that was leaving the courtyard. However, just moments before her escape Leamox walked by giving her a stern look of 'I know what you are planning,' she quickly lost her nerve. ‘No, he will become angry with me for disobeying him and take even more precautions to remove what little freedom I have. I can’t let that happen. My spirit gift is the only way I get to see outside the castle walls,' the thought of his anger made her giggle. Leamox always showed such self-control.

One should be dignified at all times, he often scolded. His anger with her would make him lose that self-righteous composure. She could almost see the rage in his eyes. Thinking of him did make her relax a bit. His strong convictions of right and wrong had always been a foothold for her since her parents died so many years ago.

Teonna, are you awake, a cheerful voice from the closed door shattered her thoughts, it’s time to wake for the day.

Yes Graffle, I'm up, she replied.

Hurry then, morning meal is in ten minutes. If you're late, you will clean the kitchen by yourself. Graffle scolded playfully. A groan from beyond the closed door made him chuckle as he walked down the corridors to the kitchen. Helping in the kitchen had always been one of her chores but threatening her with more work when she didn’t get out of bed had become a game she seemed to enjoy, so he would do it from time to time.

Often at the morning meal, she would ask him about his adventures with Leamox when they traveled the lands. Graffle was a loner without family before he met the mystic and they traveled together many years. When the letter came for Leamox instructing him he was now guardian over the children, Graffle believed he would be alone once more. He could have cried when Leamox asked him to live in the castle with them. The years had gone by quickly since, but he would never forget the feeling of being wanted. The children had become as dear to him as if they were his own. He smiled thoughtfully as he stepped into the dining hall. Quietly he paused to observe the hustle of busy servants as they worked. Some stopped long enough to wish him a good day then returned to their appointed duties. Then the aroma of fresh baked bread lured him to the kitchen. There he found Zandia, the head cook, taking a pan of hot loaves out of the furnace. He leaned over her shoulder breathing in the fumes. His mouth watered with desire.

Fair day to you sire, she said with a bright smile.

The same I’m sure. I see you have been up long. What is on the calendar for today, he continued as he inhaled the pleasant aroma.

Fresh pork and eggs this morn' and roast bird at evening. Is there something special you wanted my lord, she smiled sweetly.

Nothing comes to mind, he stood back expectantly waiting for her to offer him the first slice from a fresh loaf.

I know, some of these fresh cherry puffs perhaps, she pulled a cloth back to reveal his most treasured tidbits.

You are out to win my soul for sure dear lady, he sighed heavily and accepted one greedily.

And it seems you are willing to give it by the way you have rounded since I was employed, she laughed gently, but I do have a reason to butter you up. You are the head of staff and you did say that you would consider letting my daughter come to work here once she was old enough. Her thirteenth birthday was yesterday and I was wondering if it was time? Here, take another puff while you think about it, she placed another puff in his hand with a hopeful look in her eyes.

You bribe well and I did say I would have a look at her, he said as he took the last bite and savored its flavor while she watched him nervously. All right, she may come for an interview. If she looks like she can handle the work, she can start in here helping you and run an occasional errand, he sighed happily as he finished wiping the crumbs from the corners of his mouth. Thirteen you say. I believe that is Te's age. This could work out quite well. You may send for her immediately.

Oh thank you my lord, you won't regret this. I was sure you would agree so--well I--she is already here. She works very hard I hear, Zandia said anxiously.

So you thought I would say yes. I have become predictable I guess. Graffle snorted lightly, All right then, let me look at her. Graffle chuckled. Zandia dashed out of the room and returned shortly with a young girl in ragged clothes. Graffle scratched his chin as he walked around the small girl. She looked up at him with large brown eyes hidden slightly by dark tangled hair. Beneath the dirt patches, he could see fair skin and a pretty face. He stood in front of them pondering for a short time.

What is your name child? he asked softly.

Lissa, my lord. her voice was so soft he almost didn't hear her.

Well Lissa, do you understand what is expected of you? Graffle asked trying not to sound too gruff and scare her.

Yes my lord. she wrung her fingers together so tightly the knuckles were starting to turn white.

All right then, first a bath and some better clothes, then we will see what we have. I want to see her right after breakfast. he instructed Zandia.

Yes sire. Thank you Lord Graffle. Zandia replied as she took her daughter's hand and hurried to the servant's quarters. Graffle smiled to himself as he watched them leave. He walked to the dining hall and sat in his usual seat close to the kitchen. Leamox had seated himself at the other end. As usual, he was busy with some papers and old scrolls. These he had purchased from a gypsy the day before.

Graffle looked at his friend fondly and wondered why after almost twenty years; the mystic seemed unchanged in his eyes. Leamox had never been one to indulge in his feelings and never mentioned his family, only miscellaneous memories from school. Graffle had always looked upon himself as a simple but pleasant fellow with a love for food. However, Leamox always had that superior look of refinement and wealth. But Leamox never made Graffle feel inferior. Graffle believed Leamox’s family had connections with the King of the Realm and that is why Leamox was chosen as temporary Ruler and guardian for the children. Graffle realized many years ago that their differences were probably why they had always gotten along so well. Nevertheless, even after all this time, Graffle still found it hard to talk to him when he was busy. At present, Leamox looked worn with concern. ‘He was probably up all night reading again.’ Graffle thought to himself.

Still can't figure out those tomes? Graffle said to break the silence.

No there is something missing. Leamox laid the scroll down and rubbed his weary eyes, but there is something else on your mind. Would you like to tell me before I tell you," he leaned forward with his elbows on the table and rested his chin on the back of his hands as he looked at Graffle intently.

Yes there is something I wanted to talk to you about, Graffle admitted awkwardly. Zandia has a daughter that is of age to work here. I was considering putting her on in the kitchens, Graffle stumbled over the last few words subconsciously.

You are the Head of Household. It is up to you to decide whom to hire. That is why I asked you to do it. Then I would have time for tasks that are more important.

Well the girl is the same age as Te and--I thought possibly she could be a part time companion for her. Graffle shifted in his seat under Leamox's cool expression.

You thought I might object? On the contrary, my friend, I have been blind to Teonna's needs lately with all the work. I am glad you thought of it. Of course, you may introduce them and if a friendship develops so be it. However, do make sure they know that responsibility comes first. When do you plan on Te meeting her? Leamox smiled slightly.

Meet who? Te entered the room catching only the last sentence of the conversation. She walked to Leamox and kissed him on the cheek. Fine morn', meet who? she inquired again.

You will find out soon enough. Sit and eat, where is your brother, Leamox turned and looked at the door expectantly.

Krislan said he was far too busy with his studies to be bothered right now. I tried to get him to come but he insisted that I should have his meal brought to him in the study hall, Te replied.

I see. Don’t worry about it; I will take care of his breakfast. You eat yours little one, Leamox replied with aggravation in his voice. Refusing to eat in his company was one of Krislan's recent attempts to upset their already stressed relationship. To openly cross Leamox was his way of expressing his independence. However, this was not the time. Leamox's patience was at its end. Leamox pushed himself away from the table as he stood.

I suppose it's time we had another discussion; but this will be the last time, with meaningful intent, he left the room. Te started to follow but Graffle stopped her.

This is something they need to work out between them. There is nothing you can do. he gently set her back in her seat as tears swelled in her eyes.

I hate it when they fight like this. I love them both so much, she cried while Graffle did his best to comfort her.

*****************

Anger propelled Leamox’s footsteps as he left the dining hall. This time he would put a stop to that pompous, rude, arrogant, pretentious fledgling. There were too many obligations to be concerned with to be wasting time on different points of opinions twenty times a day. Krislan was nothing more than a spoiled brat whom refused to act his age or accept the responsibility of his station in life. It was past time for Krislan to leave the comfort of his present life and learn the hard knocks of the real world.

Growing Pains

Teonna smiled sadly remembering the events from four years ago. So many things changed since that fateful day. It was the worse argument between Leamox and Krislan she could remember. The result was Krislan leaving. But, on the upside, she did gain a best friend. It all happened so fast she really didn’t give it much thought until lately. It was times like this, when the quiet surrounded her, she felt the desire to reflect on things. Krislan should be the one making this trip. But his location was unknown; to her at least. Leamox was so strict, she couldn’t even fathom he wouldn’t know where Krislan was. Even so, Krislan must not be able to attend or she was sure he would. On the other hand, Leamox was busy with making sure the Western Borders were safe from the increased Elvin attacks and could not attend this year. Thus, the reason she was here. Someone from the royal family had to represent the kingship.

At first, she was excited to go to the Festival. She would be meeting a wide variety of people and see new things. Most of all, there were cute boys to flirt with. She was looking forward to feasts and dances. It all seemed so great, her imagination ran wild. Unfortunately, this trip was completely dull. So far there wasn’t any adventure or charm at all. Captain Willis was very strict with Lissa and her the whole time.

Don’t talk to anyone. Be invisible. Willis scolded every time they stopped at an Inn. ‘What a bunch of crap!’ she thought angrily. It had been like hell. Early to rise; ride all day, then early to bed. ‘What? Were they in the army now?’ she hissed in her mind. If she had known it was going to be like this she would have insisted on taking a ship instead and leaving earlier in the month. But no, she wanted to ride horses. ‘What a dumb idea.’ she grumped to herself. Even the Captain’s fascination with Lissa didn’t help much. Tomorrow night they would be in Boxtown and sleep in soft beds. That, at least, would be something to look forward to after spending the past couple of days on the cold hard ground. Te was ready to burst from the frustration.

Thankfully Lissa was able to distract Willis for a while tonight so Te could spend some time meditating alone. Not that she was actually alone, there were guards everywhere, but under the circumstances it was a bit of independence. So, as for tonight, the stars were beautiful and Te could enjoy them with the fire burning bright behind her; unfortunately, the rock she sat on was as cold as ice. Many farmers in the market place said the cold weather would be early this year, however, she didn’t expect it this cold this soon. The days were still warm once the sun was high in the sky. Teonna shook the feelings of disappointment off with a sigh. Despite the cold, she began to let herself drift into the night air. The touch of a hand on her shoulder called her back into herself quickly.

Milady, did you hear me? called the strong voice of Tomal, the main hunter for the castle.

What? she said softly as she turned to face him. He was like a six foot four bean pole with long hands, feet and face. His long black hair, combined with the black clothes he wore, made him look like a reaper of souls which caused many people to fear him. Actually, she felt he was very nice and very good looking. The other soldiers admired him for his expertise with a longbow. She never witnessed his ability but perhaps she could persuade him to compete in the games at the Festival.

Mistress? his voice shattered her thoughts again, The Captain will return soon.

Uh--yes. she replied shyly after realizing she had been staring at him blankly. She slid down from the rock and walked back to her tent without looking at him. 'Damn, what an idiot. How embarrassing. I can't believe I did that. I have to get control of my day dreaming,' she thought to herself as she plopped down on her bedroll. It seemed like mere seconds before Lissa came in smiling, her cheeks rosy from the cold air.

So, what did you do? Lissa bubbled with enthusiasm.

Not much. Just sat on a rock and looked at the stars. What about you, like I need to ask. Te replied a little more sarcastically then she meant to.

Who me? Lissa blinked her eyes innocently showing she was ignoring Teonna’s mood.

Don't play games with me; I've known you too long. What happened? Tell me the details or I’ll levitate you until you do. Te poked a finger at her side for emphasis.

Oh a threat is it? Ok I will but only because you know I hate when you do that. Lissa closed her eyes in thought. After a moment a smile filled her lips as she let the feelings she held in her heart spread through her body. Well we held hands as we walked into the woods. He was so polite and sweet. We found a small clearing where he spread his cloak out for us to set on. We talked for a while and he told me things about himself. Lissa seemed almost in a dream as she talked.

Like what? Teonna asked feeling envious.

He has always wanted to be a soldier. His ambitious is to become a major before he gets married. He loves his parents very much but the most important thing to him has always been his duty. He has the most beautiful eyes. Lissa sighed, her own eyes filled with starry love.

Come on, I know you didn't talk about his eyes. Teonna jabbed Lissa again to bring her back from her lovesick state of mind.

No we talked about mine, Lissa giggled as she pushed Te’s hand away. He says I’m the prettiest girl in the castle and he loves me more than anything.

Really? Te became consumed by Lissa’s aura of happiness and could almost feel what Lissa felt. It was a wonderful feeling. One that Te had no experience with.

Then he kissed me so gently you would have thought my lips would break. Lissa continued. He told me he wanted to give me all of my hearts desires. Then, she sighed, we made love. It was so wonderful. Oh Te, I love him so much I could just die. Lissa’s eyes sparkled with a vision of the Captain only she could see.

Wow that sounds so wonderful, Te said enviously. Boys their age always flirted and paid more attention to Lissa because she was very pretty. Te’ on the other hand, had always looked at herself as being plain and dumpy. The only boy who even expressed interest in her was Baron Darkmoore's eldest son, Chad. Te thought of him as the acne king of the entire known realm. Last year Chad talked her into making out with him in the hay shed during a visit to castle with his father. The whole experience was completely disgusting. He kissed like a slobbering hound. Not that she had ever kissed a dog but the experience completely grossed her out. She made an excuse to leave before anything more could happen.

Te shuttered just thinking about it. Well time changes things and she would have to see how Chad had changed over the last year. Te looked over at Lissa whom had become silent ready to continue their conversation, only to find Lissa fast asleep. Her face shined with the dream she was having. Sadly Te laid her head on the pillow and fell asleep wishing she could know such happiness.

Good morning ladies, it's time to move. It’s a bit damp out so the morning meal will be cold. Wear you weather wraps so you don't catch a death. Willis said with a smile.

I hate cheerful people first thing in the morning. Lissa threw her pillow at him. He easily caught it and returned it.

First thing indeed, I have been up for at least two hours. he chuckled and left so they could prepare to leave.

Well another day another mile. At least we’ll be sleeping in soft beds tonight. Lissa smiled as she sat on her legs and rolled her bedding into a tight bundle. Te rubbed the sleep from her

eyes then began to copy her.

What are you so happy about? Oh, let me guess. Teonna giggled.

Just you be quiet. Lissa smirked.

"Like it’s a secret, you’re always in a good mood after--um--you spend time with him. It’s extremely obvious. Not to mention his mood is a lot better too. I’m sure everyone appreciates it. At least I