Luminosity: The White Road Chronicles, #2

By J. R. Castle

Alburnium is at war. 

Eighteen-year-old Alyra's joy of being reunited with her family fades when Prince Issah sends her beloved friends away on quests across the kingdom. Allies must be gathered to stand against the dark ruler, Lord Darnel. 

The reclusive dragons happen to be necessary allies. Alyra's friendship with the young drake, Crystal, offers a slim hope of being heard by them instead of being burned. 

Alyra must attempt her own quest and travel to Drakensburg with her resentful brother, Ethan, a Messenger, who doesn't trust her, a prankster Okbold intent on honoring his debt to her, and a unseen Guardian Instructor, who must teach her how to use the Illuminate's gift before they reach the dragons' hold. 

Ethan has the words to persuade the dragons. Alyra carries the red fruit of the White Tree to present as a peace offering. Until she finds Tarek, beaten and near death. She must choose between using the fruit to save the man she loves, or the kingdom she serves. 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Castle Book Creations
• Release date: Aug 30, 2016
• ISBN: 9781536550320

Book preview

Castle’s Other Works:

The White Road Chronicles:

Illuminated

Luminosity

Emanate

Radiance

Ignited

Ablaze

Check out the new series from the world readers love:

The Alburnium Chronicles

Blood and Water

Silver and Light

Gold and Silver

––––––––

The White Road Tales Novellas

Captured

Stolen

Ransom

For Young Readers

The Sentinels Archives: Through the Portal

For Lovers of Sweet Romance: check out these series

Madison Creek Bed & Breakfast

Lavender Vale Farm

Grimwood Legacy Series

To my mom, who always knew this is what I was meant to do. Everyone needs that one person in their life who knows without a doubt.

To Angela who has undertaken her own quest. May you always seek wise counsel and know who you are in Christ.

And to all those who have read my stories, offered words of encouragement, and let me know how much these stories have blessed you.

Thank You!

Thank You!

Thank You!

Map of Alburnium

Click to see full scale map

The

White Road

Chronicles

Book Two

Luminosity

Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.

Hebrews 13:17

Chapter 1

You, insolent troublemaker.

Alyra hovered between the realm of sleep and wakefulness. Her eyelids fluttered against the moon’s glare. Behind her tightly closed lids, Lord Darnel’s angular face hovered over her, his artic gray eyes scowled, sending a cold shiver all the way down her spine.

You failed to do as I asked, Daughter. His menacing voice hissed as his fingers clawed at the flesh of her arms.

She jerked away in a futile attempt to break free of his vice-like hold.

You’re capable of much better. Now the face changed to her History Instructor, Logorian Carv from the Academy in Aloblase. Alyra, if you’d only apply yourself and attend lectures more regularly....

The classrooms were stifling, and the walls threatened to close in on her. The dark stone halls reminded her of the gray castle in Racah. To escape the troubling memories of her old life as Lord Darnel’s servant, she often used any excuse to avoid classes.

A soft breeze wafted through the open bedroom window, cooling Alyra’s sweat-drenched face and neck. She pushed back the twisted blankets, welcoming the chill racing over her damp body.

Her throat burned. She sat up and looked around the shadowed room. Next to the balcony windows was a small desk she hardly ever used. She preferred to sit on the front porch of the apartment-styled house she shared with Katrina, her only female friend, and the smartest person she’d ever known in her whole life. Of course, all the Curians were smart.

A throbbing pain returned to her chest as Alyra remembered Katrina was readying to leave Aloblase the day after tomorrow. Alyra had asked Katrina to take her to Denovo and let her help. The Curian, with her strict adherence to principle, would agree to nothing without Issah’s consent.

Jerin, under General Marcel’s command, would accompany Katrina to Denovo before undertaking his own quest into the northern regions of Alburnium. Alyra considered asking Marcel if she could travel with Jerin’s unit, but she wasn’t a warrior. Only trained warriors were allowed on the recruiting expedition.

Alyra wondered why Issah, the Prince of Alburnium, had remained quiet concerning what she would do when her classes at the Academy were over. She was sure he’d received the disappointing reports from her instructors about her failure to show up to class half the time and often forgot to complete her work.

Their complaints were justified. Still, no matter how hard she tried to listen during the long, boring classes her mind wandered to places outside the drab stone walls.

To make matters worse, her centaur friends, Lotari and Stitch, were also preparing to venture across the country.

Everyone had an assignment.

Everyone, that was, except her.

Because I’m a troublemaker? Insolent? A big disappointment?

Alyra reached for the cup of water she’d left on the small nightstand. After several long gulps to douse the burning in her throat, she straightened her blankets and tried again to get some sleep.

Please, no more nightmares.

Easier said than done. Her emotions tumbled like rapids in a swift river. Prince Issah mentioned nothing to her about joining any of her friends. Matter-of-fact, she hadn’t spoken to him in over a month.

Stop thinking and get some sleep.

She closed her eyes only to find Tarek’s pale face staring at her. Marcel’s military unit had brought him to King Shaydon as a prisoner. Her friend from Racah, who’d helped her escape many times from the relentless Bezoar, captain of Lord Darnel’s army, was found beaten and near death. Filled with compassion, General Marcel decided to spare the young man’s life and bring him to Aloblase, the one place Tarek refused to believe existed.

Both Tarek and Alyra grew up in Racah. He, a servant, worked the kitchens with his family. She, lacking memories of her past, had been fooled into thinking the demented Lord Darnel was her father. She clutched her Illuminate medallion, a flame surrounded by a burst of light. If not for the golden disk, she may have never learned the truth.

Since escaping Darnel’s imprisonment, most of her memories, her real identity, and the reason behind his entrapment had been brought to light.

She tried to push aside Tarek’s probing green eyes. When he first arrived, she’d asked Issah to let her visit him.

He’s very ill, Alyra. Issah had answered. No visitors until he’s released from the Healer’s house. Ask again later.

Instead, she’d become totally wrapped up in her own pathetic life. Sometimes attending classes at the Academy, but more often she escaped to explore the woods with the younger centaur Stitch. Her nights were taken up with Lotari and Katrina’s attempts to help her with homework. Oh, and the pointless hours spent in weapons training with Jerin. Alyra buried her head beneath her feathered pillow.

All she had to show for her past few months in Aloblase was a group of frustrated instructors and proof she would never wield a sword properly. Not to mention completely brushing off Tarek and his plight.

Inconsiderate. Self-serving.... Darnel’s voice rang in her mind.

That’s it. I’m going! Alyra kicked away the covers.

When her bare feet hit the icy stone floor, she yelped and fell back onto her bed. Groping around in the darkness, she eventually found a suitable pair of boots. After slipping them on, she rushed to the washbasin and splashed cold water on her face.

I’m going to go see Tarek. Apologize for taking so long. Then get him out of prison, she told her shadowed reflection. The girl with the wild red hair and bloodshot amber eyes stared back as if she’d lost her mind. She quickly spun away and headed toward the door.

Why was Tarek still being kept prisoner, anyway? Issah hadn’t called a council to charge him with any crimes. She shook her head. Didn’t matter. He’d saved her countless times, and now she needed to pay him back.

In the living area, a pale silvery light poured in through the open doors and onto the cushioned couches surrounding the hearth. She and her friends had spent many wonderful evenings together, enjoying delicious meals prepared by Katrina.

Lotari and Stitch preferred to sit on the veranda now draped with wisteria and trumpet vines. The doors were always thrown open, even during the cool winter months. Jerin and Stitch often played games or practiced sword fighting in the yard. Katrina, who usually had a book in her lap, discussed deep matters with Lotari that made no sense to her.

Alyra cherished every moment they were all together. Now everyone was leaving her. How would she be able to stand this big empty place all by herself? She’d have to beg her friends take her with them on their quest. Honestly, she couldn’t believe they’d leave her behind. Would they?

Her knee banged against one of Katrina’s many crates. Alyra bit her lip to hold in a whimpering yelp. Rubbing her throbbing leg, she hobbled out onto the porch.

A band of pink in the east illuminated the tall spires of the city buildings. She loved Aloblase. The Academy, where everyone came to learn how to use their talents, was a breathtaking sight from the outside with its towering classrooms, some made completely of glass. But those rooms were for the more advanced students. She was stuck in the lower dungeon-like rooms. At her rate of learning, she’d never finish her basic training.

To the north, the entrance to King Shaydon’s throne room stood on the tallest hill. Her breath caught as she felt a familiar beckoning to enter through the jade columns into the inner sanctuary. The urge hit her every time she passed the King’s dwelling place. She’d become good at ignoring the sensation, fearing what she’d see in Issah’s face if she did enter. Anger? Disappointment?

She shook the troubling vision from her thoughts. One thing at a time. First—

From the shadows came, Where do you think you’re going this early in the morning?

Alyra jumped, nearly tripping over the top step. She caught herself on a post before tumbling backward.

Hooves clomped as Lotari stood over her, hands on his waist where his human body turned into the form of a horse. And why, in the land of Alburnium, are you sneaking out in your night clothes?

She shushed him. What are you doing here, Lot?

Lotari’s gold medallion, with a needle and string emblem, rested on his chest among the many pale marks covering his torso, remnants of the arrows he received while trying to protect her and Jerin from the Racan army.

Why did Shaydon choose to heal her scars, yet left his?

Perhaps as a reminder to not squander his second chance at life? The grim determination to learn everything he could at the Academy proved his intention to not waste another moment of his hundred-and-fifty-year existence.

If only she could be as diligent.

I wish to speak with you, Alyra. Now go get dressed, foolish child. What madness has gotten into that head of yours this time?

* * * *

Lotari paced in front of the porch while the human stormed back to her room. Of all the audacity. He sighed, knowing she wasn’t taking everyone’s impending departure as well as he’d hoped. Of course, he’d also hoped Issah would send one or two away at a time over the next few months, leaving him last.

His hopes were extinguished when Issah met him for one of his talks that generally required a strange task for Lotari to carry out. Like last year when Issah asked him to chase after this ranting, human girl who was lost in his woods. Even worse, to later ask him to break ties with his clan in Many Rivers and help Alyra safely reach Aloblase. Lotari dug his hoof in the dirt. Now, after a year of protecting and training the impish child, Issah requested he leave her and travel all the way across Alburnium to the Wilderland forest, the most remote and dangerous place in all the land for both human and creature.

The challenge of finally aiding the wild creatures sent a ruffling excitement down to his tail. He’d been eager to do this ever since being captured in Denovo, where he met Stitch and the other young centaurs forced to fight in the evil one’s army. He wanted more than anything to see those who’d gone into hiding to return to King Shaydon and live under his protection once again.

Alyra returned a few minutes later, wearing a simple green dress, but her hair still a rumpled mess. Despite knowing this day would eventually come, her golden eyes had pooled with restrained tears when he told her he must leave by the end of the week.

Come here, Imp. He turned her back to him while he fashioned a braid of her red tresses. Now, tell me why you are up before the sun.

There’s something I need to do, Lot. After he tied a strip of leather to hold her hair in place, she faced him. And I’ve decided I want to go with you and Stitch to Wilderland.

He stroked his downy beard. Her acceptance and friendships with creatures might have provided real proof that humans were changing. Something his clan members had difficulty believing. However, Issah insisted that he took that impetuous Stitch with him instead.

Stitch was a fierce fighter. Lotari needed someone who was a master of various weapons. Plus, almost everyone loved Stitch’s playful disposition. Except for Jerin, who was often the butt of the centaur’s pranks. Still, even the burly warrior had a soft spot for the young centaur. Lotari also needed the youngster’s ability to charm his way past a reclusive clan’s reservations.

Please, Lot? Alyra whispered, burying her face against his chest. I don’t want to be left behind. Someone must take me, too. I swear I won’t be any trouble. I can help.

He wrapped his arms around her delicate frame, remembering how many times she’d dampened his fur with her tears during their journey together.

I know, Alyra. Tell me, have you asked Issah? Perhaps he has another undertaking for you. There had to be some explanation for why the prince refused to send the girl with any of them. What about your family? When we arrived here, you were quite eager to find them.

She shrugged, turning away to stare at the dark street.

Tell me, child.

Her fists clenched as she spoke through gritted teeth. They’ve not written to me once. She blinked several times, as her voice became a whisper. If they wanted to see me, don’t you think they’d have been here already?

Lotari sighed. Issah had explicitly said Lotari needed to help train Stitch and leave the human girl in Aloblase. He knew the prince loved her more than anyone ever would, but Lotari had spent the past year keeping her safe. Setting this obligation aside was proving quite difficult.

She added. You all are my family, now. I can’t stay here ... alone.

Nothing like sinking a knife into his chest. With each plea, the blade twisted a little more and a little more.

He rested a hand on her shoulder until she met his gaze. You are never alone, silly imp. Have you spoken to Issah about your family?

What for? Like I said, if they wanted anything to do with me, they would have already come. Or Issah would have spoken about them before. But he’s said nothing. Nothing! Her golden-brown eyes darkened as if storm clouds filled her thoughts. She pushed away from him, arms folded protectively over her stomach.

I knew this time was coming, Lot. Knew everyone would eventually leave. I don’t know what I’m supposed to do. I still haven’t received any training for my light trick—

Gift, Lotari interjected. When would she learn? Your ability is not a trick. I’ve told you this over and over.

She nodded, keeping her stormy gaze focused on the rising sun. Thing is, I still don’t understand how to control it, and if the prophecy is about me, eventually, I’ll have to face Darnel—

Stop, He stomped his hoof, wanting to stomp out her ranting.

That prophecy had become a chain around the child’s neck, and nobody knew for sure if she was truly the one the prognostication referred to. Without a doubt, she was the light-bearer who came out of the dark lands. But whether or not she’d be the one who led the kingdom toward defeating the enemy remained to be seen.

He grasped her arms and turned her back to face him. You are getting ahead of yourself, Alyra. Ahead of Issah. Why was she avoiding their Prince? Go speak to him first.

Alyra shook her head. No. First, I need to break Tarek out of prison. If Issah is still speaking to me, then I’ll meet with him.

A laugh escaped Lotari’s mouth before he bit down on his bottom lip to stop himself. Have you lost your foolhardy mind?

You know I owe him.

Tarek made his own choices. You never asked for his aid. You owe him nothing.

Her brows furrowed. Fine. Since you’re refusing, I’ll ask Stitch.

Now he laughed even louder. Go ahead. He’ll be delighted to help you break your boyfriend from jail.

He’s not my boyfriend!

Well, that will be his take on such a thrilling tale of cunning risk. They all knew how much Stitch loved embellishing his stories. Lotari patted his chest and said in a dreamy voice, "All for the sake of love."

Shoulders sagging, she groaned in defeat.

He had her now. She had no other recourse than to listen to him. Katrina, practical and steadfast, wouldn’t help. Jerin, the defender of all things right, would berate her for even considering such foolishness. Her pinched brows and pale face told him she knew this as well.

You’re my best friend, Lot. Please? I need to see Tarek. I’ve put this off long enough.

Why did she always play on his sympathies? No, he had to stay firm. He would not cave this time.

Fine, Alyra, I think you should go, too. Do it now, before you lose your nerve again.

She scowled at him for a moment before saying in a pathetic voice, I don’t know where the prison is.

Very well. He’d agree on his terms, not hers. Climb on my back. We’ll arrive faster if you ride.

However, instead of heading toward the prisons, he aimed for the place she really needed to go. Not that he had a problem with her talking to Tarek. Lotari had visited the lad himself a couple of times but found him distant and unresponsive. When Lotari thanked him for aiding their escape from Denovo, Tarek accepted the thanks but seemed pained by the whole discussion. Maybe seeing Alyra would improve the young man’s disposition.

He climbed up the stairs and stopped before the jade pillars.

This is not the prison, Lotari. She slid from his back, glaring up at the entrance.

Why was she being so obstinate? Normally, she loved being with Issah.

She shifted on her feet, wringing her hands nervously.

If you wish to visit your friend, ask Issah to take you. Then he added, Unless you have a problem seeking aid from the Prince?

No. I’m fine. She stared at the ground, her brows furrowed.

Shaking his head, he turned and started to trot off.

Wait, Lot. Her sad tone sent another crack through his heart.

He stopped, tail swishing, but didn’t face her.

If Issah says I can go with you, will you really take me along?

His head bobbed. More than anything he wished she was coming with them. Perhaps she could persuade Issah to change his mind. He doubted it, though. In a heartbeat. Do you think I’m happy about leaving you behind? He shuffled his hooves as he stared at the ground. I understand completely, Alyra. My clan disowned me. I also have no family except for all of you.

Alyra closed the distance between them until she stood in front of him. You’re going to build them a beautiful Meeting Hall. I watched how you worked with the people in Many Rivers. You’re naturally good at helping people feel ... all right.

He bit his upper lip, his own tears threatening. We will keep in touch. We can use messenger birds. I’ll write you long letters about what’s going on. Later, once I know you’ll be safe, then maybe ... if you still want to come.

He hated himself for making such a false promise. The creatures hid in Wilderland to avoid humans. She would never be safe there.

The hollowness in her usually dancing eyes told him she knew this as well. Still, she grasped his face and pulled him down to plant a kiss on his bearded cheek. Then she darted into the throne room, taking the remainder of his frayed heart with her.

* * * *

Refusing to look back, Alyra ran into the throne room to find the grassy shore and garden area filled with linen covered tables. Beyond the circling pillars opened a wide, golden plain where a herd of deer thundered across the tall, swaying grasses. Above, the sun shone in a brilliant blue sky dotted with puffy white clouds. Every time she came to Shaydon’s dwelling place the scenery was different. 

Logorians moved between the tables, some setting out plates and glasses while others took armfuls of white lilies and created tiered glass centerpieces that glowed with twinkling lights. How did they manage to create such wonderful things out of practically nothing? Their voices joined in a soft, soothing song as they worked

Alyra strolled past the sparkling tables toward the water’s edge. At the center of the lake, perched on the island dais, where two ornate thrones, made of gold, silver, and bronze. Two white trees, the branches hanging low with red healing fruits, grew on each side. Behind the thrones, a curtain of glimmering light marked the passage to Everlasting where her mother, Dean the Messenger, and many others had already passed into the lands beyond Alburnium.

Upon the still waters, a group of people stood before the thrones. Some played musical instruments while the others sang along. The scene reminded her of the weekly meetings in Many Rivers she’d attended with Marya the Healer.

The Logorians’ voices joined in with the singers. Alyra gaped at them, never hearing such a beautiful sound before. A mixture of voices and melody swirled around her like waves in a fast-moving river. Issah strolled through the group, singing along with them, sometimes stopping to speak to one or another.

What’s going on? Alyra asked the nearest Logorian. To her dismay, she recognized her history instructor, Carv. His glistening black hair draped down his purple Academy robe. A large, golden medallion with the Instructor emblem hung around his graceful neck. On his head, he wore the tri-cornered professor hat, trimmed in silver.

His brows furrowed as he scrutinized her from head to foot. Now she was glad she’d listened to Lotari and dressed in one of her frocks. At least Carv wouldn’t lecture her on proper public attire.

Well, Alyra, I’m sure you’re aware there’s to be a council meeting tonight preceding the banquet celebration.

She snorted a laugh. Of course.

Raking her memories, she vaguely remembered Katrina telling her to pick out a nice dress for some fancy event. Was that tonight? What are they celebrating this time?

A female Logorian grinned as she laid out the silverware. A special day.

Professor Carv cleared his throat, narrowing his silver eyes at his friend. She moved to another table.

Slender hands folded at his waist as he faced Alyra. "If you’d heeded the announcement I made in class earlier this week, you would remember our city is being graced with visiting dignitaries from kingdom townships across Alburnium. Though they will be discussing important issues with Prince Issah, we wish for them to enjoy their visit as well." His arm swept to the glowing decorations. Now strings of lighted ice crystals hung between the pillars and the trailing vines.

His brows furrowed in thought. "Oh wait. My oversight, indeed. You would have known this if you’d been present. Unfortunately...."

I’m sorry, sir. I really am. She had no good excuse and didn’t try to make one up.

Regardless, he continued. I’m eagerly awaiting your final report. You will reward my patience by delivering it to my office before noon the day after tomorrow?

Alyra knew what report he spoke of. Maybe if she started writing it today, she could complete the twenty pages in time.

Unless- he returned to setting out plates -you aspire to spend a second term with me. I do enjoy your presence when you elect to attend. However, I was hoping you’d move on to another instructor instead of having to repeat all my seemingly boring lessons.

It’ll be done. Alyra quipped, berating herself for not working on the paper last night while she had a chance. When would she learn?

"Humph. Let’s hope." Professor Carv touched a limp lily, and it stood up straight like the others.

Alyra’s cheeks burned from Carv’s remark. Professor, I was hoping to speak to Issah. Looks like he’s busy— Her chin dropped open, the people were gone! She looked around, not having seen them leave, or even realizing the music had ended. 

Carv nodded his head toward the thrones. You only need to ask, Alyra.

Dressed in his princely attire, Issah stood alone on the waters. Alyra swallowed the nervous lump in her throat. She preferred his casual traveling outfit for some reason. His white, knee-length coat trimmed with red and gold reminded her of his power and authority. The power and authority to cast her out of his kingdom for her failures.

The prince grinned, motioning for her to join him. Taking his smile as a good sign, she neared the edge of the water. Despite knowing it would turn solid once she set her foot on the surface, her stomach churned with her first step. Last time she crossed the lake with him, instead of seeing fish below her feet, she found an aerial view of Alburnium.

I’m so happy you’re here, Daughter. He embraced her the moment she reached his side. You don’t visit me enough.

I figure you’re too busy, Issah.

Never too busy to keep up with how you are doing. I did promise to always be here for you. Whenever you need me.

She stared into the water finding a view of the city square. Maybe he did know.

He silently waited without the least bit of irritation or disappointment in his earthy brown eyes.

After a long silence, he asked, What do you need, Alyra? Obviously, you’re here for a reason.

She blinked a few times, realizing he didn’t appear angry in the least. Well. Yes, Issah. There are a couple of things.

He grinned as if she’d let him in on some wonderful news.

She sucked in a lung full of air before blurting, I want to see my friend, Tarek. And I want to go with Lotari and Stitch to Wilderland.

His brows rose.

Or maybe to Denovo with Katrina. A-a-at least until you’re ready for me to do ... whatever ... I’m supposed to, uh, do.

Issah laughed, shaking his head. As I said, you don’t come to visit me enough. However, I can grant one of your requests. Let’s go see Tarek.

What about—

I know that parting with your friends is going to be difficult. But you will learn that true friendship endures even over long distances.

He held out his arm for her to take. Now, look over there. He pointed down at the water where she saw a brownstone structure surrounded by a vast garden. Focus on the building and keep in step with me.

What—

Her words were cut off as a brisk wind swept them into a watery vortex. Her ears roared as if caught under a rushing waterfall. Issah’s grip on her arm tightened as he pulled her forward. She buried her face in his sleeve until the noise stopped and the wind calmed.

The next thing she knew, they stood in front of the same brownstone building she’d seen in the throne room. The sound of flowing water now came from a spouting fountain behind them.

Issah?

You’ve traveled through your first portal. And did very well, I might add. He led her toward the door. I’ve found the element of surprise often helps. You have no time to try to process the experience and, in turn, you slip through quite easily.

Portal? You travel through the waters? Now that she thought about it, every time he’d suddenly appeared to her, they’d been near a watercourse.

Indeed.

They entered the domed building. Light filtered in through tall, stained-glass windows. Along the outer wall, a row of rooms was divided by intricate vine-like wrought iron bars. Each spacious room contained a bed, a desk, and a comfortable chair. She’d never seen a prison such as this. There was no rust, no damp walls or smelly straw and most of all, no rats.

Tarek sat at a desk beside a window, his blond head bent over a book.

Good morning, Tarek, Issah called to the lone occupant. I’ve brought you a visitor.

He quickly stood at attention, setting his pencil beside the journal. When his green eyes fell on her, he moved closer to the bars. His color had returned, and he’d filled out from his previous skeletal form. Even his silken shirt and trousers were finer than anything he’d ever worn in Racah.

She grinned, actually glad to see him.

Don’t I know you from somewhere? Tarek sneered, scratching his head.

Her grin faltered. Funny.

Funny? I’ve been here four weeks! His voice grew increasingly louder.

Issah patted her shoulder. You two enjoy your visit. I’ll see you tonight, Daughter. We’ll talk more concerning your other request then.

Before she could stop him, he left her alone with the angry prisoner. At least Tarek was behind bars. She kept back a safe distance, glad to have the barrier between them while she explained her actions.

Four. Weeks. His fingers gripped the swirling bars until his knuckles whitened.

I know, Tare. I’m sorry. I was going to come sooner.

He yanked the cell door open. To her horror, he stormed out, stopping inches from her face. "After all I’ve gone through? Being sent away from my family? The beatings and hardships of serving under Bezoar? Only then to be sent back to Racah as a traitor! Then ambushed by Alburnium warriors!

"And all you can tell me is that you’re sorry? That you intended to come sooner? Really? Really Princess?"

Chapter 2

Troll’s breath, Kat! Must you take so many books? Stitch nailed the lid onto the fourth crate, then wiped his arm across his damp face.

Katrina turned to the palomino centaur, trying to ignore his red-rimmed eyes. Yes, I will need everything.

She handed him her handkerchief. He blew his nose a couple of times before trying to hand it back. She waved the soggy cloth away and returned to her list. Katrina avoided looking too much at the lovely apartment she shared with Alyra. She had never lived anywhere with bright floral furniture and a pretty yellow kitchen. The idea of returning to the dreary, abandoned Meeting Hall in Denovo made her stomach twist into knots.

Want these in the wagon? Stitch hefted one of the large crates over his shoulder like a sack of flour.

Yes, dear. She admired the centaur’s strength and agility. What marvelous creatures they truly were. I remember every book in the library when I stayed there, but... She swallowed, fighting down the growing lump in her throat. I do not know the condition of them now. I’ve been gone for over a year, yes? Nobody took care of them before.

Katrina had waited for this day to come, had worked hard doing research for the task ahead, but now her eagerness flowed away into a sorry stream like the tears flowing down her dearest friend’s cheeks.

Katrina caught Stitch staring absently out from the porch where she’d packed all her belongings. A white cobblestone road passed in front of the home she and Alyra shared. If they headed west, they’d end up at the Academy, her favorite place. To the east lay the village common with all the shops and businesses. Straight ahead and up the hill was Shaydon’s throne room, Katrina’s second favorite place.

She needed to hurry and finish packing. The council meeting would start in a few short hours.

Stitch broke into her thoughts. You never did explore the mountains with me.

Katrina let out a long breath. I am sorry dear, yes? My mind ponders much these days. I am eager and yet fearful. Returning to Denovo will be both happy, yes, but also sad. I do not know if I can do this alone. Getting the people interested in the Denovian Meeting Halls would prove a huge undertaking, but not nearly as hard as finding a way into the secret passages of the Halls of Knowledge. First, she must find the hidden tunnels, then face what she might find inside the ruined mountain fortress. She rubbed her hands together, trying to calm her trembling.

If only Issah had allowed Alyra to accompany her. The girl would be such a help as long as she was kept busy.

Stitch dropped the crate into the wagon bed with a loud bang. Of course, you can.

She was thankful the box held together.

"Kat, you’re the wisest, most bestest friend anyone could have. You can figure out anything. He trotted over and grasped her shoulders in his rough hands, caked with dirt. You keep me from getting in trouble. When I listen. His momentary grin quickly faded. Who will tell me to stop chasing the pretty female centaurs? Huh? Who will remind me to treat them with respect? Who will tell me where to find the best worms to hide in Jerin’s bed?"

I did no such thing. Katrina retorted with exasperation. Sometimes his antics grated on her sensible nerves. However, on most days, the youthful centaur was a beam of bright light in her dimly-lit world of ancient books and scrolls.

Alyra, I believe, was your trickster partner, yes?

Oh yes. Another stream of tears coursed down his spotted cheek.

With a groan, Katrina broke from his grasp and turned to the last crate. She could not allow his tears to come between her and what she had to do.

Who will go exploring with me now? I’m going to be lost without my little Miss Alyra. He blew into the handkerchief again.

Lotari will be with you, silly one. She studied her list. Two crates of reference books were already loaded, along with another crate of study guides she would use to instruct the youngsters living in the kingdom settlement of Delve. The small hamlet was nestled up in a narrow mountain valley outside of Denovo. While she searched for the hidden entrance into the Halls of Knowledge, she’d do so under the cover of working as an instructor for the children.

Stitch sighed. Ol’ Lot hates leaving little Miss, too. At least we still get another week before traveling to Wilderland.

I don’t see him carrying on like you, no? Realizing she’d checked the same crate three times now, she shoved her list inside her smock pocket.

Lotari? Mr. Dignified? Mr. Do-it-right? Of course not.

You will listen to him, Stitch? She faced him and placed her delicate hand on his burly arm. Though younger and beardless, he was built much stouter and bulkier than their trim, chestnut colored friend. Lotari is your mentor. Issah gave him the charge of teaching you.

Stitch waved the handkerchief dismissively. "Yes, yes, I am supposed to work with him, under his leadership, to help the inhabitants of Wilderland establish a community, build a Meeting Hall, and stop fighting each other so much. Sounds like a breeze." He rolled his eyes and snorted.

I trust you will behave as an ambassador of Aloblase, yes?

Ambassador? His wide smile revealed a large set of pale yellow teeth. I like that. Sounds so dignified. He rubbed at his smooth chin, his grin faltering before he resumed organizing the crates in the wagon.

She tied her clothing case closed and handed the bag to Stitch. General Marcel told her to be prepared to depart by tomorrow morning. Tomorrow. Her heart skipped a beat, and she took a deep breath to calm the nervousness coursing through her.

Wondering when Alyra would return, Katrina glanced toward the road and spotted Jerin heading their direction. He was dressed in his warrior’s attire and covered in dust from the training fields.

Hey, have you two seen that lazy kid anywhere? She was supposed to meet me for one last practice.

Oh sure, Stitch quipped, loading Katrina’s cases. Now you show up when I’m done getting these heavy boxes in the wagon.

Jerin chuckled. I was watching from around the corner until you had them all loaded. His laughter shook his massive shoulders.

Funny, funny. Stitch wagged a finger at him. Have you even managed to get Miss to hold a sword properly, yet?

Jerin’s smirk died into a flat line. Almost. She hasn’t dropped one on my foot in a while.

Katrina covered her smile. "Perhaps you are better off fine-tuning what she is good at, instead of trying to make her