Time Cursed

By Brooke Lile and Tiffany Roth

She lived in a place outside of time...
Her father had created this world and he brought into it his family, protectors and servants.
Ignored by her father and despised by her stepmother, Arlana lived in solitude having only brief moments of companionship with her twin sister and childhood friend.
Then her world changes...
She is cursed to live another person’s life in a different time and in a different place.
Dreams of a dark and mysterious man are her only link to who she had been. Would he save her? Or would the curse shift her through time never knowing why he haunted her?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Brooke Lile
• Release date: Aug 9, 2014
• ISBN: 9781311403834

Book preview

Time Cursed

The Deities of Time Trilogy

By

Brooke Lile & Tiffany Roth

Published by Brooke Lile & Tiffany Roth at Smashwords

Copyright 2014 Brooke Lile & Tiffany Roth

Time Cursed is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are the product of the authors’ imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, events or locales is entirely coincidental.

Cover design by Brandi Doane

Smashwords Edition, License Notes

Thank you for downloading this ebook. This book remains the copyrighted property of the authors, and may not be redistributed to others for commercial or non-commercial purposes. If you enjoyed this book, please encourage your friends to download their own copy from their favorite authorized retailer. Thank you for your support.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

We would like to give a special thank you to Kristina Wells for her support and insight. We’d also like to thank our families for their encouragement, patience and enthusiasm through our writing process.

PROLOGUE

Marika leaned solemnly against the window ledge and stared thoughtfully into the Mangrove forest that surrounded her cherished home. Her dark black tresses waived gently in the breeze. Giselle, her maid servant and confidant, walked quietly over to Marika and gently smoothed down her hair. Giselle felt Marika's restlessness and worried for her. It will all work out, Mistress. Soon your happiness will return and joy will fill our home again.

Marika sighed. She stood and turned towards Giselle. Marika prided herself on never showing weakness. Worry and insecurity were not common feelings for her. It had been centuries since she had felt this empty. She was a woman of action and tonight she finally had taken the steps to wash the misery away. She realized she had been lost in thought as she stared at Giselle. Her vibrant violet eyes stared at the maid servant with a tenderness she had never shown a servant before. As she realized what she was doing her irritation began to swell. Her eyes darkened as she scowled at Giselle. She slapped the hand away from her hair. In a scathing voice she whispered, I know that! Guard your words when the window is open you twit! Should someone hear you, my plan will be ruined and you will be the one that will suffer for it!

Giselle turned red. Before she could apologize for her ignorance Magdalen walked into the room. Marika and Giselle turned towards her. Mistress, it is done, was all that Magdalen said as she bowed slightly to Marika. Slowly Magdalen backed out of the room. Marika stared at the space that Magdalen had occupied. Is it finally done, she thought. Her scowl slowly turned into a smile. Is it really true? She wondered to herself. She glided over to the chaise and unceremoniously fell onto it. It is done, she said to no one in particular. She began to laugh quietly to herself. How easy it was she thought smugly. As she turned her gaze towards Giselle she jumped up from the chaise. Giselle, I am ready for my bath. Have the servants bring the champagne. Tonight we celebrate!

Yes Mistress Giselle quietly responded and turned to close the windows of the sitting room. She paused for a moment and saw movement in the garden. It’s probably just a servant she thought and shut the window completely.

* * *

Silence.

Cole stood in the garden and stared up into the sky. There was no moon tonight which made the stars shine even brighter than usual. This time of night was usually Cole's favorite. Midnight brought a peace to the garden that could not be replaced. This place was known as Mikoko Moyo, the heart of the mangroves. It was his home and he was its fiercest protector. As he drew his eyes towards the Mangroves he began to feel that tonight's silence was different. Cole had always had the ability to know when things were not as they should be which was one of the reasons he was chosen to be a protector. Suddenly he felt a tremor in the silence that he knew was caused by unnatural means.

As he moved through the garden he began to feel a sense of dread. He moved with a stealth that surprised most people he met. It was unfathomable to most that a man that was six foot two inches tall and as strong as an ox could ever move with the grace of a gazelle.

When he reached the entrance of the garden he saw a form on the ground that did not belong. As he drew closer he realized it was Sophia. She loved this garden and nurtured it with her own hands. Although lying in the garden was not unheard of for Sophia, Cole knew that she never came out at midnight. He had heard her crying here earlier in the afternoon but had thought little of it.

Mistress Sophia, are you well?

As he stepped closer to her his sense of dread increased. Sophia's beautiful strawberry blond hair flowed around her creating an angelic halo. Her beauty would radiate from her like sunshine pulling you into her warmth. As Cole stared down at her he saw that there was no warmth and the sunshine was no more. It was as though it had bled out of her and left a pale shell of what she had been.

Sophia was dead.

How it happened and why it happened was unknown to Cole. He knew he had to report this to Diokles but he dreaded being the bearer of this news. She was Diokles' heart and soul even if he didn't realize it. His temper was known to be quick and violent. Cole knew that whoever delivered the message was at risk of injury and death. He was the leader of the protectors; he knew he had to be the one to share the news with his lord. He, himself, felt his anger flare and was ready to exact revenge on whoever did this to Sophia, if indeed it was foul play.

He gently covered Sophia with his cloak and called for his men. Take her to the healer. Find out what happened. Speak of this to no one! His men all stared at Sophia with looks of disbelief. Cole understood their confusion but had little patience for it. NOW! Cole commanded in a terse tone.

As the men gathered her up and carried her to the healer Cole turned towards the Main House in search of Diokles. He found him in his sleeping quarters. Cole could hear the rhythmic tone of Diokles breathing and new that his lord was asleep. Cole almost turned to leave. He dreaded giving this news to his lord. He couldn't bear to see the pain and loss in Diokles’ eyes. Cole took a deep breath and entered the room.

My Lord! Forgive me for disturbing you so late in the evening….

Diokles was sleeping in his favorite chair by the fire. He slowly opened his eyes, looked at Cole and said in a raspy voice that oozed irritation, What is so important that you interrupt my sleep!

It is Mistress Sophia, my lord. Sh…she…My lord she is dead… I do not know how she died and have ordered my men to take her to the healer to examine her body.

Diokles was so still that Cole was unsure what to do or say. Could the shock be too much? Did he hear what was said? Cole felt a hole in his stomach and dreaded the thought of having to say it again. After a long period Diokles looked at Cole with cold gray eyes and gave a weak smile. Thank you, Cole. See to the burial. Make sure the twins attend the funeral.

Cole was stunned. Could he have heard correctly? Diokles cared for Mistress Sophia more than even his daughters. Yet his response was devoid of emotion. Cole stood there for a moment saying nothing. Then he collected himself, bowed his head and replied, Yes, my lord. I will see to all the details. Is there a specific day you would like the funeral to fall on?

No! Just get her damn body in the ground and out of my sight!! Diokles yelled in a voice that shook with a rage only ever used for those who betrayed him. As he turned to leave he heard Diokles say in a faltering tone, tell Arlana and Avalynn. Cole paled. How could Diokles not want to tell his daughters? Why would he ask a protector who only knew the girls from a distance?

Cole left Diokles and headed to the healer’s cabin. He had no idea what had transpired between Diokles and Sophia but he began to wonder if her death was the result. Her earlier sadness, Diokles 'unwarranted rage and his coldness….He racked his brain over what might have happened. They had seemed so happy only a few days ago, in those stolen moments at the lake. What could have happened? Cole was disgusted with himself. He was in this camp for one thing, to protect Diokles and what was his. He had failed. Cole had lost all that he had loved long ago; all that remained in his life was his duty to Diokles and his role as lead protector.

Cole’s thoughts drifted to little Arlana and Avalynn, how do you tell 10 year old girls that their mother is gone forever? To atone for his failure to protect Sophia he would ensure the safety of her children on his life.

He decided to wait until morning before he told them of Sophia's death. He sensed that the girls lives would be changed forever and wanted them to have one last night of peaceful sleep.

CHAPTER 1

A gentle breeze was blowing through the mangroves. Arlana was sitting in the garden by a small waterfall. This was her favorite place. It was a bit of a climb to the falls but from the spot she sat she could see the whole camp. The first time she had come here she was 7 years old. Her Mom had woken Arlana and her twin sister, Avalynn, up early one morning. She had brought her and Avalynn to this exact spot. This is a very special place. I have not even shown it to Diokles. I thought it could be our safe haven. I don't know where the waterfall came from but no one else seems to know about it. Look girls, you can see the entire camp from here! Isn't it wonderful? Arlana's mom had said to them. She had been so excited that Arlana couldn't help but giggle. Now her mother had been gone for 7 years and Arlana sat here alone.

In the year after her mother had passed away she and Avalynn would come up here to play the games they played with their Mom. It had been a way for them to cope with the grief and loneliness they felt. Then Avalynn began to spend more and more time with their stepmother, Marika. Arlana never liked Marika. Marika had never been kind to Arlana's mother. She did everything possible to keep Arlana and Avalynn away from their Mom when they were younger. Since that time Avalynn has spent a lot of time traveling around with Marika. Arlana has never been allowed to join them.

It had been an extremely warm day and Arlana was grateful for the breeze. She closed her eyes and lifted her face to the sky. She felt at peace. She knew that she should be at the tailor's cabin with her sister but she didn't see the point of it. Marika had already let the tailor know what she expected of Arlana's gown and her being there wouldn't change anything. The tailor made all of her clothes so a fitting seemed unnecessary. Arlana opened her eyes and stared at the mangroves. A gown for the ball, that is what she was having made. The ball was for her and Avalynn's 17th birthday and for their friend, Kellam's immortality ceremony. Arlana had learned long ago that these gatherings were Marika's chance to show off Avalynn. If it weren't so important to Avalynn and Kellam she wouldn't even bother attending. Marika was a terrible step mother and she hated doing her bidding. Yet I did promise Avalynn to make an effort this year she thought. Besides it was Kellam's day. In one week he would be immortal.

Everyone had been surprised that Kellam had been selected to drink the elixir of immortality. Typically non-family members only became immortal if they were to become protectors but Kellam was unique. Arlana didn't think it so surprising, though. Kellam was one of the servant’s sons. He was born at the camp and he had been playmates with Arlana and Avalynn all their lives. It was as though he were part of the family. He was extremely handsome. He also was extremely kind and always had a smile for everyone. When Kellam was around time seemed to stop. Arlana had spent years watching girls fall all over him. He never seemed interested in anyone but Avalynn and herself. Although he was 20 he never treated Arlana like a child.

Arlana sighed and looked across the garden. From this point she was able to see the garden entrance. Every day at this time the lead protector, Cole, would sit on the bench at the entrance and stare at the orchids that grew there. Where was he, she wondered. The bench was bare. She always found it a guilty pleasure to watch him from a far. Up close he was so cold and emotionless, but when he was at the bench it was different.

He always seemed so sad when he sat there. Whenever she saw him there she felt a need to comfort him. She wanted to put her arms around him and let him know that everything was alright. She longed to run her fingers through his thick brown hair but of course he would never allow any of that. She was merely his boss' child that he had the burden of protecting. Arlana frowned. Where was he already? Perhaps this was a sign that she needed to stop this fantasy and stick to reality.

Daydreaming about Prince Charming? Kellam asked amusedly. Arlana scowled at him, how did you find me?

You forget that I know you so well, my sweet Cherie. Arlana scoffed ha ha

Come, Avalynn is looking for you. She said to tell you that you promised, whatever that means.

Arlana sighed, stood up and followed Kellam down the hill. Kellam was such a dear friend. It wasn't a surprise that he was running Avalynn's errands. As close as she herself was to him it seemed that he and Avalynn were much closer. Arlana was happy for her sister, but there was a small part of her that was envious. Kellam was amazing and a girl would be lucky to have his sole attention. As they reached the garden entrance Kellam turned to her. Oh good you ARE still with me. Hmmm, why don't you take the lead so I can make sure you don't sneak away? he said mockingly.

Arlana scowled again and moved around him to take the lead. Before she could move ahead of him he grabbed her arm to stop her. As she turned towards him to ask what he was doing the words caught in her throat. She hadn't realized how close they were. She felt him tense up. As she looked up at his face she noticed his beautiful blue eyes. They were typically as blue as the sky but at that moment they had become a deeper shade almost violet. She was mesmerized by them and although she could live forever in that moment she felt she had to pull her eyes away from his. She began to look down as he began to move closer to her. She could feel the warmth of his body drawing near. She held her breath not knowing what to do. What was he doing?

KELLAM! WHAT ARE YOU DOING? TAKE YOUR HANDS OFF ARLANA!

Kellam and Arlana jumped and turned towards the voice. Cole was standing at the garden entrance. Arlana held her breath. His hazel eyes were stormy. He was furious which was a dangerous thing to see. Arlana had never seen Cole this angry. This was not the emotionless protector she knew. This was the man she had seen sitting at the bench. There was passion behind his words. Why was he so angry?

Perplexed Arlana looked at Kellam. He seemed rattled but then slowly smiled. Relax. I was trying to stop her so we could brush the grass off her clothes. She is a mess. He said with a laugh. Arlana what on earth were you doing up there to have this much grass on you? He asked.

Arlana turned red. Cole looked at her and then at Kellam, Yes Arlana what were you and Kellam doing in the grass? He asked in a cold, stern voice.

Don't be so serious Cole. I was sitting or rather lying down on the grass in my usual place by myself. I had hoped to avoid the gown fitting today but Avalynn sent Kellam out to find me and drag me to the tailors. What on earth could you be thinking happened? Arlana asked completely perplexed by Cole's reaction.

I...I...Well then, if you are not harmed I shall take you to the tailors to ensure you arrive safely. Cole said. He was his usual emotionless self again.

Cole, why don't you find something better to do? I can handle this! Kellam said. He started walking towards Cole. His hands were opening and closing into a fist.

Kellam don't! Arlana said. She knew that he was frustrated with the way Cole treated him. It was as though Cole blamed Kellam for all the bad stuff that had happened in the camp. Arlana ached for Kellam. He was well liked here but Cole always gave him a hard time. Arlana was furious with Cole for treating Kellam and her like children.

Kellam and I can handle the walk. Why do you have to be such a downer Cole! If you will excuse me I am late to meet with my sister! Arlana said haughtily. Kellam? Are you coming with?

Kellam was staring at Arlana in an astonished manner. She had never spoken to Cole like that. She had never spoken to anyone like that before. Arlana herself was mortified but she continued walking. He just made her so mad sometimes. Yes he was their protector but why did he have to be such a stick in the mud. A small part of her was thrilled that she was the reason he broke his cool façade. It was disappointing how quickly his cold emotionless front returned. She also was embarrassed that he saw her standing so close to Kellam. What on earth was that about? She was so mortified she couldn't look at Kellam.

She peeked back at Cole and saw that look of pain in his face again. She felt horrible for what she had just done. Something about that part of the garden was a special spot for him and she just ruined it. She wanted to run back and hug him and say she was sorry but she knew he wouldn't let her near him.

* * *

Arlana and Kellam walked into the tailor's cabin just as Avalynn stepped out from behind the curtain. She was wearing the ball gown she had picked out for the ceremony. It was emerald green with a ruche top and a sweet heart neckline. A stream of diamonds wrapped around her waist in an ivy motif. The material was pure silk and expanded out from the waist. Avalynn you look stunning! Arlana said in an awe filled voice. Usually Avalynn’s hazel eyes appeared more brown than green but today they matched the emerald color of her gown. The contrast of her dark auburn hair to the color of the gown was mesmerizing. Arlana realized Kellam hadn't said a word since they arrived. She nudged him with her elbow thinking that he should also say something nice. As she turned to look at him she noticed that his jaw was dropped open and he was staring at Avalynn. She looked at Avalynn again and realized that her sister's cheeks were flamed red and that she was staring back at Kellam with a smile on her face.

In that moment Arlana felt like she should give them privacy and walk outside. Just as she turned to leave Jonah, the tailor, walked into the room. Arlana we have been waiting for you. he said with a smile.

Avalynn then noticed Arlana and ran to give her a hug. You made it! I am so glad you are here! Isn't this exciting? Avalynn gushed. Arlana felt bad about not wanting to come and could only think to say I'm sorry I’m late.

Kellam thank you for bringing Arlana here. Avalynn said demurely.

Anything for you my lady. By the way you look breathtaking. Kellam responded. Thank you Kellam. Avalynn said as she gave him a hug. Before he let her go he kissed her cheek. Avalynn's eyes sparkled as they met Kellam's. They stood there staring at each other until Jonah cleared his throat.

Kellam, thank you for finding Arlana. Unless you want to wear a gown to the ball you are free to leave, Jonah said as he pushed him out the door.

Avalynn grabbed Arlana's hand and pulled her into the dressing area. Arlana I have two wonderful things to share with you. I convinced Marika to let me pick your gown! What do you think? Avalynn pulled out a full skirted dark wine colored ball gown. The top had a sweet heart neckline that was highlighted with beading. It had a pickup skirt adorned with jewel appliqué. Arlana's jaw dropped. She never imagined having such a beautiful gown. She was speechless. I knew you would love it! Avalynn said triumphantly. I didn't think you'd be speechless but I can't wait to see it on you!

As Arlana got dressed Avalynn continued with her news, Arlana you will never believe what has happened!

What is it? Arlana replied.

Kellam has asked to escort me to the celebration!

Oh Avalynn, I am so happy for you! Arlana exclaimed as she hugged her sister.

Avalynn, Marika has chosen some earrings for you to wear with your gown. Let's go try them on to see how they look. Then we need to decide what shoes you will wear. Will you be dancing do you think? Jonah said as he pulled Avalynn into the next room.

Arlana turned and stared at her reflection. She had never felt as beautiful as she did now. She was happy that her sister would be with Kellam on the big night. As she changed back into her clothes her thoughts drifted to Cole and she wondered if he would be escorting anyone. She had never seen him show a particular interest in any lady at the camp. She didn't know why she kept thinking about him today. She couldn't imagine anyone wanting to ask her to the ball. She couldn't even imagine who she would want to go with either. She sighed and reminded herself that she was going to celebrate Kellam's ceremony and Avalynn's birthday. Besides, the food would be good. She slowly leaned back against the window. As she turned to look outside she saw Cole standing in the street. His eyes locked on hers.

CHAPTER 2

Cole stared after Arlana as she quickly brushed past him holding Kellam’s hand. Well, that couldn't have been any worse if I'd planned it, he thought. He knew he should follow them to make sure she really did get there ok but found himself needing more time to pull himself together. Kellam was really beginning to get under his skin. He was trying so hard to protect Arlana and Avalynn physically and now he felt like he would also have to look after their hearts. He had often seen Kellam with his arms around Avalynn and he had a feeling Marika was very happy about this. But seeing Kellam’s arms around Arlana was very disquieting on more than one level. For one thing Marika wouldn't like it, and Arlana already had enough problems in that relationship. Secondly, he's constantly flirting with her sister. He also thought of how Avalynn was her closest family member and friend, if anything was to drive a wedge between them, he didn't know how Arlana would take it. And there was also something even deeper; it was almost painful to see her in Kellam’s arms. He thought maybe it was because he was her protector, maybe it was just a protective instinct. As he was busy pondering through his thoughts he realized more than a few minutes had passed and he swiftly headed towards the tailor’s cabin.

When he arrived he decided to keep watch across the road. He stood in front of the baker’s cabin across from the tailor and tried to make out what was going on. Through the window he saw Kellam smiling and noticed him kiss Avalynn’s cheek. Avalynn was wearing her ball gown and looked very beautiful. There he goes again, Cole thought. He was wishing someone would make him leave; he doesn't need to be in there. At just that moment the tailor was practically pushing Kellam out the door and Kellam was still looking back ogling after Avalynn.

Kellam you better watch where you're going, we wouldn't want you to trip and hurt yourself, Cole said with a smile.

I'm sure you would be devastated if something happened to me Cole, who would help you look after the twins when you are slacking off, Kellam replied sarcastically.

Cole’s blood boiled. That really hit him where it hurt. That is something he promised himself he would never do, and yet twice today he had lost track of Arlana.

"Kellam, your job is not a protector, that is my job, and I would appreciate it