The Amulet

By Nancy Beth Lawter

The people of Scerone gathered in the Ring of Challenge. They had come to witness the passing of their beloved Amulet from one Guardian to the next, as well as the fulfilling of the ancient prophecy that would unite the two great powers of their land. But instead, betrayal and subterfuge plunged their world into chaos.
The Amulet, a powerful talisman that holds most of their world’s magic, is sentenced to fifty years of silence, and worse, helplessness. The talisman is secreted away, hidden from the treacherous Queen whose one desire is to claim its powers as her own. For fifty years the power of the Amulet is trapped within the golden walls of its domain, waiting for the time when it can summon the next young woman who will serve as Guardian and wield its power.
Jessica Spencer cannot explain the recurring dream that beckons to her. Every morning the message of the dream is lost, leaving her with an aching desire to fulfill a fate she cannot even remember.
Fifty years later, the people of Scerone gather once again in the Ring of Challenge, hoping to see an end to the reign of terror that began with the silencing of the Amulet.
The High Queen, who desires nothing more than to wield the power herself, the fair-haired child Jessica, who is slowly realizing the fate her dreams have only hinted at, and their Protector and Champion come together to decide the destiny of Scerone.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Nancy Beth Lawter
• Release date: Sep 20, 2016
• ISBN: 9781370619757

Nancy Beth Lawter

Nancy Beth Lawter resides in Southern Missouri with her husband and her four youngest children and a plethora of farm animals. She is currently working on a series of children’s books that are a set of lighthearted memories for children and adults to enjoy called, When I Was Little. Look for the second book in the Magic of Scerone Trilogy, Between Two Queens

Book preview

Nancy Beth Lawter resides in Southern Missouri with her husband, her four youngest children and a plethora of farm animals. She is currently working on a series of children’s books that are a set of lighthearted memories for children and adults to enjoy called, When I Was Little. Look for the second book in the Magic of Scerone Trilogy, Between Two Queens.

Chapter One

Alyssa stood gazing out the large, third story window at the colorful land before her. The leaves on the trees were just starting to turn crimson and gold, and the fields were spread out before her like huge patchwork quilts adorned in autumn colors. She leaned her face against the cold window pane trying to catch a glimpse of the homes and shops she knew occupied the large space between the front of the castle and the enormous wall that surrounded the capital city of Scerone.

Of the five major cities that covered the world of Scerone, only the city that was its namesake could boast being home to the Guardian of Power.

Alyssa leaned back and closed her eyes, willing her harried mind to relax. She took several large breaths and slowly let them out.

Yesterday had been the most wonderful day of her life. She had stood across from the man that she loved, the same man she had loved since first she could ever remember being capable of love. Their lives had been irrevocably bound together. Now, she was his, and he belonged to her. Gazing into his brown eyes, she had seen the reflection of her own love and joy.

She found herself smiling like a lovesick school girl at the memory, and laughed self-consciously. Only it had been wonderful. But today…

She left the thought unfinished as she stared back out the window. One more, large breath lifted her shoulders. Today, she would take part in another joining ceremony. Today she would become the Guardian of Power, her soul inseparably linked to the talisman called the Amulet. For the next fifty years, she would bear the weight of the Amulet’s power, calling upon its magic for the sake of her people whenever needed.

It was a great honor; an honor that many women would have sold their souls for. But Alyssa had never craved honor or power; she wanted only to live a quiet life in the arms of her husband, Tomak.

Alyssa pressed her forehead against the cold window and shuddered suddenly. The cold was like the icy fingers of uncertainty that clutched at her heart. Was she ready for such a burden? Would she be up to the challenge? The young girl shook her head and her ankle length dark hair danced from the motion.

There is no use second guessing the Amulet, she whispered to herself. For it was the talisman itself that had chosen her, just as it had chosen her grandmother fifty years ago.

Alyssa could remember the day, now only a month ago, when her grandmother Kira had come to her home to tell her and her mother, Lenice, that the Amulet had chosen Alyssa as the next Guardian. It had been a moment of joy, and yet, she had never known so much fear. She had run to Tomak that night and told him of the revelation. She had been trembling when he reached out and took her into his arms. He rubbed one hand over her dark hair, shushing her fears.

Well then, Miss Alyssa, he whispered, I think I better make you my wife before some other young man decides to vie for the position of Protector.

She had laughed then, and cried as well for the joy of the moment.

Alyssa turned away from the window and moved over towards the lone table that sat in the nearly empty room.

The time had come to fulfill her destiny.

In moments, her mother would come for her. She would lead her to the Ring of Challenge, so named because it had been originally constructed for the purpose of a great battle between the first Guardian and her Protector, and the wicked King Mallis of Fallorn over the very talisman Alyssa would now to be joined with.

The enormous room would be filled with her people, and there would no doubt be many strangers come from other kingdoms as well. As many people as could squeeze inside, would. Though, invariably, many would have to be turned away. Those turned away would be standing, waiting, still outside of the castle for news of the joining ceremony.

She would walk down the long staircase to the arena at the center, and there, surrounded by friends and family, she would be joined to the Amulet. In that moment, she would no longer be Alyssa, daughter of Lenice. Instead she would be called Alyssa, Guardian of Power.

And in another fifty years, Alyssa whispered to the table as she reached out and touched its cool, smooth surface, I will pass the Amulet on to my granddaughter. The thought of passing anything on to her granddaughter made her giggle. She had only been married for one day, and already she was thinking about grandchildren.

The door opened slowly behind Alyssa, and Lenice slipped quietly into the room and stood watching her daughter. What a beautiful young woman she had grown into. It seemed like just yesterday that she had been a little girl playing with dolls. How quickly their time together had passed!

Alyssa, it’s time. We must go now. Lenice spoke, her voice thick with emotion.

Alyssa turned and seeing her mother, she rushed to her, and threw her arms around her and pulled her close. When she finally released her hold, Alyssa stepped back and looked into her mother’s eyes, bright with tears.

I’m frightened, mother! Alyssa whispered.

Don’t be afraid, my sweet angel. You are our world’s best hope for the future. For the first time in two hundred years, a Queen of Scerone will attend the joining ceremony. Many believe that through you the ancient prophecy will be fulfilled. The people already love you. They know you will be a wonderful Guardian. Lenice laid one warm hand against her daughter's soft cheek. I am so proud to be your mother.

Alyssa pulled her mother close a second time and whispered softly into her ear, I love you, momma.

When they parted this time, Lenice lifted her empty hands and with a sudden flash of red from her glittering fingers, a long shimmering cloak appeared where a moment ago there had been none.

Alyssa turned and lifted her hair with one hand pulling it across her slender shoulder and out of the way. Lenice lifted the glittering golden cloak and draped it over her daughter’s shoulders. It flowed to the ground, blending with the golden gown that the young girl already wore. Alyssa turned and without another word, took her mother’s hand and allowed herself to be led through the door and down the hall to her destiny. The muted whisper of their soft-soled shoes, and the swishing of their full gowns, echoed about them as they made their way through the empty corridors of the immense castle.

When they entered the ancient arena a mighty cheer erupted from the waiting audience surging through the air with the sound of one deafening voice.

Hail the Guardian! they cried. Hail Alyssa, the Guardian of Power! There was such hope in those simple words.

Alyssa pulled back on her mother’s hand as the applause took her breath away. She recognized the desire in their voices, a longing for a better tomorrow, a fuller future. She wondered suddenly if she could fulfill their hopes and expectations.

Alyssa took a deep breath, and she forced herself to smile as she inclined her head to the throng while carefully making her way down the long staircase to the arena below. The chairs stood like stadium seats, each row higher than the one before it. As Alyssa made her way down the broad stone steps, a young girl reached out and respectfully touched the golden folds of the beautiful ceremonial dress. The Guardian-to-be paused just long enough to smile at the child and brush her cheek gently with a trembling finger before continuing on down into the arena.

Tomak was already in the arena. He stood to one side, watching her descent. Their eyes met and he smiled at her and she returned his smile briefly, and blushed prettily under his gaze, which of course, only made his smile deepen.

The arena was about sixty feet in diameter. Lenice led Alyssa to a spot a full ten feet from Tomak. Lenice smiled reassuringly at her daughter as she turned to find the chair that was intended for her on the front row.

Alyssa yearned to stand beside her husband, to feel his strong arms about her. From her position, she could see his beautiful brown eyes watching her and a whisper of calm wrapped itself about her.

Halfway between the two, and slightly in front, there appeared a scarlet circle about two feet in diameter. The circle was placed to form a perfect triangle between it and the Guardian and Protector. This spot was intended for the Queen. She would take no real part in the ceremony, but she would stand in this place of honor as the ruler of their land.

The dark circle had been created four hundred years ago, crafted by the loving hand of a Guardian. It had remained empty for as long as it had existed. The first Queen, after the separation of powers, had refused to attend the joining ceremony and each subsequent queen had refused to take part as well. It had been rumored however, that this year, at this joining ceremony, the Queen would stand at her place of honor, ending the long-standing feud between the two great powers of Scerone. The people were almost overwhelmed with joy and hope as they imagined a future filled only with peace and prosperity.

A quiet spread slowly over the crowd as the onlookers sat in anticipation, awaiting the arrival of their Queen. Suddenly, she stepped into view, her scarlet gown setting off her stunning black hair and eyes. When she was sure all eyes were on her, she began her dramatic descent into the arena. The crowd erupted like a people too long subdued. They cheered their Queen on, urging her toward the scarlet circle, towards the future.

Queen Shaelyn seemed all grace and beauty to Alyssa, who felt, by comparison, young and out of place in the presence of such nobility. She had to remind herself that she too, carried the blood of royalty in her veins. It was easy to forget, since Alyssa did not reside in the palace; no Guardian had lived in the castle since the year of the separation.

When Queen Shaelyn reached the arena, she swirled around in one elegant motion and acknowledged the crowd with a regal nod of her head. Turning, she smiled at Alyssa. There was something startling in her eyes, a danger that lurked behind her beauty.

A feeling of apprehension started in Tomak’s heart and spread. In seconds, his whole being was overcome with an unwelcome feeling.

Tomak had been two years old when Alyssa was born. Their houses stood next to each other, and their mothers were dear friends. It was, therefore, quite natural that he and Alyssa had shared a cradle for naps and played in the same play areas. They had grown up side-by-side and heart-to-heart. He had not known, all those years ago, that when he had first fallen in love with his best friend, she would one day become the Guardian. It made no difference to him. Keeper of the talisman or not, she was the only woman he would ever love or consider marrying.

Yesterday, his deepest desires had come true and now he was Alyssa’s husband. In a few moments, he would become her Protector as well. Because the people loved the Guardian, it had rarely been necessary for any Protector to physically defend his beloved wife from mortal danger. Tomak was certain, however, that any of his predecessors would have gladly given their lives to save their Guardian, and so would he.

Tomak shook his head, trying to shake off the apprehension that claimed him. He wanted desperately to be able to put his full attention on the ceremony and not some strange sensation probably caused by the excitement of the day.

When Kira, Guardian of Power, entered the large room, the crowd rose to their feet cheering. She smiled at them, and in her smile, was the love that she felt for her people. She had served them for fifty years as the Guardian of their precious Amulet. Today, with the passing of the talisman to her granddaughter, her reign would end and she would receive a much-deserved repose. She walked down the aisle to the arena. Her silver ankle length gown swished softly with each step. She was a woman very nearly seventy, but the subjects of Scerone did not see an old woman. They saw a dear friend, the keeper of the magic that ruled their world.

The closer Kira came, the more uncomfortable Tomak felt. He took a deep breath and tried to focus on the Guardian. There was no way he could have recognized the call of the Amulet as the magic attempted to reach out to him, trying to warn him of the danger that awaited them all. If he had been an experienced Protector, the Amulet would have had no trouble communicating with him. Kira’s own dear husband had passed away only a few short months ago. It was the first time in the history of Scerone that a Guardian had been without a Protector. And though it was written in The Great Book of Knowledge that a Guardian must always be married, Kira had refused to consider remarrying. She insisted she could never love anyone the way she had loved her late husband. After all, there were only four months left in her reign. What could possibly happen in four months?

Kira walked over to stand beside her heir, and the crowd gradually fell silent. Now that she was here, the ceremony would begin. She slowly lifted the Amulet of power, slipping the long golden chain from about her neck. Holding it out before her, she nodded for her granddaughter to take it. Alyssa took it in her hands, the chain dangled silently between her fingers and hung suspended below her hand, slowly swinging back and forth. The enormous red stone that was set at the center of the Amulet, and said to be its very heart, pulsed with its hidden power.

Alyssa, daughter of my daughter, blood of my blood, I pass on to you the Amulet that bears the magic of our world. In you will our people find an advocate for safety, peace, and truth. Take this talisman and bear it well. Always remember, honor over glory, mercy over justice, compassion over indifference. Do you pledge your heart to truth?

Alyssa looked down at the Amulet in her hands and felt its peculiar weight. She swallowed hard, trying to remember through the butterflies in her stomach the words her grandmother had taught her only a few short days ago.

I do pledge myself to truth, she spoke the words clearly though there was a slight tremor to her voice. I will always strive for honor over glory, mercy over justice, compassion over indifference. Once the pledge was made, warmth began to quickly seep through the golden exterior. Alyssa pressed her fingertips between the edges of the Amulet and opened the large locket into the palm of her hand. It was the only time she would ever have to open the Amulet; from this moment on, it would open at her touch. A red light surged forth, engulfing Alyssa in its warm glow.

At first Alyssa stiffened and caught her breath as the alien power slipped inside of her. For one brief moment she felt a rush of panic, but then Kira was touching her hand and drawing her eyes to her face.

Relax, child. Breathe deeply, and let it happen, Kira whispered.

Alyssa remembered then her grandmother's words only the night before; It will be easier and painless if you just relax and welcome the power into your soul. After a short while, you will not remember a time when her strength was not your own.

Alyssa closed her eyes and taking a deep breath, she willed her body to relax.

The red magic flared, enveloping Alyssa in its brilliant red flame, and then the power disappeared as suddenly as it had appeared. The joining was complete! The talisman and woman were now one in body, thought, and spirit. They would not be physically separated for the next fifty years. Physical separation would bring death to Alyssa and would condemn the talisman to silence and, perhaps even worse, helplessness. With Tomak by her side, Alyssa would serve as the Guardian of Power until her reign was over and it was her turn to pass on the responsibility to her own granddaughter.

Serve well, most beloved! Kira spoke in a loud voice signaling the end of her reign and the beginning of Alyssa's. Kira's voice was strong as she called out the words of acknowledgment, but her heart felt empty. Now she was truly bereft. With the loss of her husband and the withdrawing of the Amulet's consciousness, she felt very nearly lost herself.

In that instant, Tomak felt a surge of pain shoot through his being and explode into a scream within his mind. He staggered forward grabbing his head, finally recognizing the uneasy stirrings within his soul for what it truly was—the call of the Amulet.

Alyssa was in danger.

As he stumbled towards his beloved bride, he looked up into the crowded seats, searching the masses for some sign of peril. He took another step forward then, spinning around, seeking the multitude behind him. Where was the danger, where? This did not make any sense, who would want to harm the Guardian? The rest of Alyssa’s life would be one of service, and these were the very people she would be serving.

Alyssa’s eyes were on him now, aware of his panic.

Beads of perspiration appeared across his forehead. If only he were not so new at this, if only he knew better how to communicate with the Amulet. How could he be expected to find the danger in this crowd?

The crowd, completely oblivious to his distress, was still cheering when a sudden flash of light, a movement to the left caught his attention.

The Queen held in her hand for one brief instant the object that the Amulet feared. A dagger shined to a brilliant luster, with a handle of cut and polished pearl. Its beauty belied its deadly purpose. There was a flare of blue from her fingertips as the knife sailed through the air on its sinister mission, the aim straight and true.

Tomak lunged forward in a final, desperate act to save the Guardian, the only woman he had ever loved. His hand groped forward snatching at the dagger, catching only air.

Alyssa stood with one hand before her still holding the Amulet and the other clutching the hilt of the dagger that had buried itself deep within her breast. For one eternal moment, she looked at Tomak in surprise and disbelief while her lips silently whispered his name.

The people nearest the arena fell silent with disbelief. The hush spread quickly through the crowd, as they became aware of the drama that was playing itself out before them. The Amulet slipped from Alyssa’s grasp and fell to the ground clattering loudly on the stone floor of the arena, only seconds before her body slumped to the ground beside it.

Lenice rose quickly to her feet. She stood at the edge of the arena unable to move or to speak. She held her hand over her mouth in horror as she fought to remain standing. A strangled sob escaped her lips and, as if it broke the spell that held her, she screamed her daughter’s name.

Tomak was beside Alyssa as she hit the ground. He pulled her in his arms, tenderly holding her as he searched for some sign of life.

There was a moment of suspended fear as the soft song of the Amulet, a constant on the planet of Scerone, was silenced. It was an eerie unnatural silence for a world that had grown to listen for the song without even knowing. The capital city of Scerone stood in complete and utter silence for the measure of two heart beats.

Kira knelt beside Tomak. She smoothed back dark hair from the face that was still beautiful, even in death. Then she reached for the now silent Amulet. Its warmth, its song, like Alyssa’s life, was gone. The large red stone at the center lay silent and dark, its power trapped within.

Tomak cradled his beloved’s body gently in his arms as he rocked her back and forth. His handsome face twisted from the pain of losing her, his body shaking from the sobs that escaped his lips. The crowd stood now, the only sound coming from them was the weeping of the women and many of the men.

Tomak pulled the small dagger from the Guardian's lifeless body then he carefully laid his precious burden on the cold stone floor. He stood and the rage in his face was enough warning for Shaelyn who already had pulled her blue magic about her in a glittering shield.

Do you have something to say to me, Protector of the dead? Shaelyn sneered.

The muscles in Tomak’s cheeks knotted and unknotted as he tried to marshal his emotions. He could not expect to win any battle if he was out of control. You will pay for your crimes, he whispered as he held up the bloody dagger.

Oh? Shaelyn asked, sounding not the least bit concerned. And you will extract the payment from me? You? She laughed out loud at the man before her. I don't think so.

Kira was standing now, though Tomak had not seen her rise. She reached out for him, catching his arm and pulling him around to face her. You cannot possibly defeat her. Not now, not without the Amulet, and she knows that. There is no one alive who can offer her any resistance. Her voice was barely above a whisper, but Shaelyn heard its message and she triumphed in the thrill of truth.

Then I will die avenging the woman I was born to protect! Tomak spat pulling away from Kira's grasp.

That is not the path that fate holds for you, Kira spoke louder as she grabbed Tomak's arm a second time. Alyssa watches you now. Do you think she wants this for you, to die for no purpose, for no great cause? Your death will not bring her back.

Tomak felt his cheeks burn hot with anger as he listened to the only words that could have stopped him. He did not want to join Alyssa without avenging her death. He looked behind him at the slight body on the ground. He had not thrown the knife, had not wanted her to die, but he was just as responsible as the Queen for her death. Was he not, after all, the Protector? He looked back around at the triumphant Queen. No, he would spend his life paying for his crime, he would live a life worthy of her love. And then he would find some way to redeem himself and rejoin Alyssa.

Tomak threw the knife towards the queen. it struck the ground with a loud slap and then struck the Queen's magical barrier before spinning away.

Shaelyn raised her hand and drew the knife through the air back into her hand. Thank you. It's a family heirloom. I should have mourned its loss, she mocked. She looked down at the soiled knife in her hand then ran it deliberately, slowly across the folds of her scarlet dress, blending the blood on the blade with the red of the gown.

The Protector felt his blood turn from boiling with the heat of rage to freezing with the chill of hatred. Oh, how he wished he could thrust that selfsame dagger through her wicked, uncaring heart, ending her life as she had ended Alyssa’s.

Tomak turned and bent, easily lifting the still form of his wife. He carried her reverently, silently up the stairs and away from the future that he had always believed they would share.

The crowd stood outraged. Their stony faces filled with hatred and disbelief, but even their hatred held no power over Queen Shaelyn. She laughed out loud at them as she threw her hands up into the air. As her hands reached skyward, great shafts of blue light shot from her fingertips. The magic exploded forth, it soared straight up into the air and smashed loudly against the massive roof where it rained blue sparks down upon her subjects. Great and terrible creatures writhed within the blue power that danced about and down from the roof. There was no way to resist the lure of watching the horrifying creatures. There were screams from the people, screams of pain as they tried vainly to shield their bodies from the terrible rain, punctuated by screams of terror. The dark power swarmed and danced about its master in its sinister glee. Suddenly, she drew her arms down to her side and in that one sweeping motion the magic, sparks and creatures alike, disappeared.

The crowd fell silent, startled by their Queen’s terrible display of power.

You see? she called to the onlookers, I have fulfilled the prophecy. For there is but one power to rule our world now. Mine! She laughed once before continuing. Turn to me now for your salvation, my people, she cried and her voice reached to the farthest seats and echoed back to her in the near silence of the enormous hall. There is no more Guardian with great and magnificent powers to come to your rescue. I, alone, possess enough power to shape and alter your lives at a whim. Pray to me now. Pray to me as your one hope for mercy and aid. But the sinister smile on her face promised neither.

There was no regret or sadness in her eyes for the atrocity she had committed, and the people hated her for it.

Kira stood and moved over to face the Queen. There was no fear in her face or voice as she spoke. You have betrayed yourself and your people this day. Do you truly believe that by silencing the voice of the Amulet, that you have combined the powers of this world? Kira shook her head as if she actually felt sorry for the delusional Queen. If you believe that your magic can replace the magic of the Amulet, then you truly are a fool! Do you believe that you can control the citizens of Scerone by fear forever? Even you must realize that they will tire of your threats and violence, and they will leave your city and move to the mountains and hills out of the reach of you and your magic. Soon you will be the Queen of emptiness and the ruler of nothing. You will live alone in your precious palace. Kira shook her head slowly. You have condemned yourself to a lonely fate, Shaelyn.

A single tear rolled down her wrinkled, old cheek and fell onto the silver gown she had dreamed Alyssa wear one day. Kira still held the now cold Amulet in one hand, the gold chain hung motionless between her fingers as the brilliant light of the great hall danced off its still surface. It remained closed at her touch, for she was no longer the Guardian. It would not open again until it was opened by the new Guardian. That would not, could not, happen for fifty years. The peculiar energy that generally lit the jewel-encrusted talisman was gone. Instead, the enormous red ruby that graced its surface was dull and lifeless.

There will be no one, no power mighty enough to rule a broken and divided land. Kira’s words were directed at Queen Shaelyn, but she spoke with such intensity that her voice carried to the farthest reaches of the round room. There will be no Guardian to call upon the powers of the Amulet. There will be no Amulet, not in your lifetime, and not in mine! There was a sudden anger behind her eyes that she tried desperately to check. Her frame shook from anguish and rage.

She looked at the Amulet that lay silent in her hands, and then she held it up for the crowd who still stood watching in dismay.

The Amulet sleeps, she cried, Without a Guardian there is no one to wield its power, Kira continued in a loud voice, She will not speak again until another Guardian is chosen. We will pass these next fifty years without the benefit of our beloved Amulet to heal and direct us. Go now to your homes, and join in our sorrow. Mourn with my family the passing of a young heart that was brave and true!

Chapter Two

Kira walked quickly through the maze of hallways that made up the castle. The halls were nearly empty now, the spectators to the tragic joining ceremony finally had dispersed and returned to their homes or other lodgings. Kira had remained until the last villager left, until she alone stood in the now accursed Ring of Challenge. And then she, like everyone else, had left in an effort to return to a life that would never be quite the same. Though Kira was no longer the Guardian, the people had still come to her with their fears and problems, just as they had done for the last fifty years. There was, after all, no other Guardian for them to turn to, nor would there be in their lifetime.

Kira had soothed their fears, comforted them in their sorrow, and promised them that everything would be all right. She had told them that the future was in the hands of fate, just as it always had been, just as it always would be, and then pleaded with them to trust the fates.

Now she found herself wondering only one thing. Was she insane?

How could she have told all those people to trust in fate after the cruel hoax it had played on them this day? She was a hypocrite, for in her heart of hearts she knew she could not take her own advice. How could she? It was impossible to believe that everything would work out. On the contrary, she felt deep within in her soul that there would never be another day, no, not even so much as another moment of happiness for her. How much pain was one old woman expected to bear?

Just three months ago her dearest soul mate, Protector, and husband had been lost to her in a terrible accident. Too late, she had heard of the accident, too late she had reached him. The Amulet could have saved him, but at the moment of his death he had been alone. Kira had been in town taking care of a minor skirmish between two neighboring shops. It had been a simple problem, one dealt with easily, but those few moments away from Guerin had cost her what she most valued.

No, the fates had not been kind to her. Not then, and not now.

She thought of Alyssa then, so young, so full of life and promise. She was gone now, like her Guerin, passed over to the other side of this existence, lost to her for the rest of her mortal days.

The treacherous Queen had stolen from the world, this day, more than a young woman beloved by all who knew her; she had also robbed them of the influence of the Amulet of Power, cherished talisman of Scerone. Kira had known that Queen Shaelyn was cruel, but she had not realized until now how ruthless and wicked she was as well. Too late, the knowledge had come, eternally too late. Shaelyn was the mirror image of her mother, and her mother before her. It seemed to Kira as if each one of them had tried in her turn to be the most powerful, most feared, even the most despicable ruler possible.

In the past, there had always been the Amulet to temper the wicked queen, to right any wrongs she committed or prevent her from committing any true atrocities. Only now there was no talisman to protect the people from the Queen and her unjust rule. For the next fifty years they would be at the Queen's mercy. She could do with them, any of them, as she wished, and they would not be able to stop her.

Tomak had been right to want to execute the Queen for her crimes. Justice would seem to demand that very act. But who would exercise the punishment? No one in the city of Scerone had enough power to destroy the Queen. No one in the entire world of Scerone was powerful enough to confront the Queen. There was a reason, after all, that her line sat as High Queen in the capital city of Scerone. No, Shaelyn had effectively eliminated every possibility of revolt, for without a Guardian to wield the power of the Amulet, there would be no one powerful enough to stand up to her. Kira knew that this was only the first atrocity of many. Shaelyn’s reign would be one of bloodshed, terror, and force.

Kira waved one weary hand, and the glittering red magic at her fingertips pushed open the enormous front door of the castle.

The guards at their post cast her sidelong glances as she passed them, but she was careful not to meet their gaze, unable to bear the pity and need she was certain she would find there.

She walked across the wide stone entryway and down onto the cobblestone street. Her feet made soft plodding noises as she walked down the deserted road. Tonight should have been the start of a week-long celebration, but instead it was a time of mourning, a time to ponder what may lie ahead. It was not the pleasant sort of musings anyone would have entertained that morning.

Kira reached her home quickly. As the Guardian, she was permitted a home in the first line of homes nearest the castle. She had never been more thankful for the short proximity to the castle.

Kira lifted a hand and the front door of her home slipped open allowing her entrance. She walked through the entryway; the house was cold and dark, and empty. Tonight, she would sleep alone in her small home, but that was not new, she had been sleeping alone for the past several months. But tonight, Tomak would also be alone in his new home. The home he had thought to share his life with Alyssa in. Tonight was the first of many long, lonely nights for him.

Kira brushed a renegade tear from her cheek. How well she remembered her first night alone, how much she longed to forget it. She closed her eyes and mourned for Tomak's fate as much as she mourned the loss of her beloved grandchild. Kira waved one hand and the lights in the orbs that hung suspended by invisible bands in every room in her house began to glow. She walked directly to her bedroom. The double moons of Scerone had already risen into the night sky, and though it was not late, she was weary beyond words. She reached her bed and looked down, staring stupidly at the gold chain that hung swinging back and forth from her closed fist. She had forgotten it was still with her.

Slowly, she opened her hand and stared numbly down at the Amulet. The guilt that tore at her heart was too profound. The tears she had been struggling to resist were released.

This was her fault.

If only she had remarried, if only she had consented to find a new Protector, perhaps he would have been able to prevent the tragic outcome of the joining. Kira stared down at the Amulet through the blur of tears. She realized suddenly that she was straining to hear the familiar and peculiar song of the mighty talisman. But only the soft sound of her sobs greeted her ears. She held her hand up and slipping her fingernails between the two halves, she tried to force it open. It remained stubbornly closed to her; she had known that it would. She was not, after all, the Guardian any more. Kira had no more right to its secrets than any other person who might happen to touch it. It did not open to her this day. Indeed, it never would again.

Her tears dripped down onto the front of her silver gown. She glanced down at the spots they left there, and for the briefest of moments, considered that they may stain.

What difference does it make now? She asked aloud. She dropped the talisman, holding it only by the long golden chain. She lifted it, allowing it to fall over her head and settle in a familiar fashion about her neck. It felt so natural, so right to have it there; the familiar weight of the talisman as it lay against her chest should have been comforting. She touched the talisman with one trembling finger, remembering, that it was no longer hers. But she would wear it anyway, for now she could not bear to take it off. For fifty years she had shared her consciousness and very soul with the Amulet. The gentle red magic had joined with her, becoming one with her, serving her as she served the people of Scerone.

How could she bear the loss and the guilt? To know that the merciful, compassionate power that resided inside the Amulet would now be imprisoned within the golden talisman. It was a heavy burden indeed.

Fifty years! It was such a long time to have to live without the healing and protective power of the Amulet. What sort of wickedness would run amuck without the steadying presence of the talisman? What travesties would Queen Shaelyn commit without fear of reprisal from the righter of all wrongs?

Kira flicked one hand over her shoulder and every light globe in her home was instantaneously extinguished, and she stood alone in the cold, dark, silence.

Kira undid the latch at the back of her dress with slightest movement of one hand. She let the long ornate dress slip off of her shoulders and onto the floor at her feet. It lay there in a glittering, expensive heap as she stepped out of it, and crawled into bed. She wanted nothing more to do with the dress, nothing more to do with life.

The old woman allowed the night to swallow her up and somewhere between the darkness that pressed in around her and the constant tears that she seemed unable to stem, she slipped into a fitful sleep.

***

There was a quiet sound, the sort of noise that screams of dark secrets in the night.

Kira sat straight up in bed. She listened with more than her ears; her magic sent small tendrils about the room and through the house to search for the cause of the disruption. But there was nothing amiss. Every room lay just as it had been when she had climbed into bed.

Kira smoothed her dark hair away from her face and realized in the same instant that she was clutching the Amulet like a lifeline. She forced herself to ease her grip, and then, swinging her feet over the side of the bed, she pulled the blankets up around her. She closed her eyes and expanded her search. Her power slipped out of the tiny cracks about the front door and around the minuscule openings around the windows and she felt for the source of the noise. But again, everything was as it should be.

Kira lay back in bed with her eyes still closed. She concentrated on forcing her breathing to slow down, and even as she did so, she realized she was clutching the talisman once more. The old Guardian laughed at herself, chidingly. It was no longer the powerful ally she had borne for fifty years, now it was nothing but a beautiful gold locket. All the same, she didn't release her grip this time. It took her longer to fall asleep. But in the end, sleep did come.

Her breathing was rhythmic and sure when the noise came again. It was the sound of an intruder sneaking through her home. When she heard the sound a second time she jumped, but this time sleep did not release its hold and the sound moved inexorably towards her.

Kira opened her eyes and lay perfectly still listening in the night. Her heart was thudding in her chest and she had the cold sweat of fear on her. She called her magic about her, afraid even to send it out for fear of discovery. She lay there in the night, the darkness about her complete, without even the aid of the light of the moons. Suddenly, a dark shape, a patch of the shadow detached itself from the spot where Kira knew the door lay and moved towards her.

Kira pulled her magic around her tighter now, in a shield that would protect her from almost anything. The shadow stopped just to the side of her bed. And there it remained. Kira could feel rather than see the angry dark eyes that held her.

So, you are awake? Shaelyn asked, shrugging one shoulder. It’s just as well.

Kira felt her breath catch at her throat and her hand tightened on the Amulet that lay cold against her chest.

You have something that belongs to me. Shaelyn's voice was soft, but accusing, demanding. I will have it, Kira, even if I must kill you to claim it. She paused for one anxious moment. Don't forget, I have already killed one Guardian today.

Kira could hear rather than see the cruel smile that the Queen bore.

I can't possibly imagine what you are alluding to, Kira spoke and the steady coolness of her voice surprised even her.

The Amulet, witch! Shaelyn called, her anger getting the best of her. My victory cannot be complete, nor your defeat sure, as long as it is still in your possession. Kira could hear Shaelyn's feet as the shoved the silver dress that still lay in a still pile on the ground out of her way as she inched nearer and nearer to the bed. I must have it! I will have it! She spoke and the sheer determination in her voice frightened Kira.

Kira shrugged her shoulder, a wasted effort since Shaelyn could not see her. I don't have it. The Guardian lied, desperate to save her old friend.

There was a sudden blue brilliance in the dark room as an enormous globe of light encircled them. Kira stared at the blue face of the Queen, her face twisted in anger.

So, now the Guardian lies? Shaelyn questioned, her voice hard and accusing.

I don't have it, Kira insisted her hand tightening on the talisman beneath her heavy quilt.

It is mine by right of challenge and defeat, Shaelyn persisted, You have no claim to it anymore.

It is not yours! Kira cried. It belongs to Alyssa.

But she is not here to claim it now, is she? Shaelyn sneered.

You are the last person in the world who has any claim to the Amulet! Kira screamed, her pain of loss exploding within her like ball of rage. You murdered her in cold blood, and now even before she is buried, you would steal her property? Her voice was quieter now, less accusing more disbelieving. She shook her head. It does not belong to you, Kira finished in a whisper, her hand clenching the blankets tighter still.

Listen to me old woman, Shaelyn hissed. I have just been to your daughter's home. I know it is not there. I have been to Tomak's home and his family’s home. Each time, I left empty handed. She held up her blue glittering hands as if to show they were, in fact, empty. You are the last one. If it is not here, it is nowhere.

Kira felt the invisible band of fear squeeze about her heart. If you harmed them—, she began, her mouth suddenly too dry to even swallow, I will kill you, she finished the threat, and the conviction in her voice convinced the Queen it would be necessary to kill the old woman before she was finished.

Of course I hurt them, Shaelyn mocked, I killed every single one of them. Your precious line of Guardian's is no more. The next time the Amulet joins with a woman, she paused and her eyebrows were lifted, It will not be with one of your posterity. There was a challenge in her voice and Kira rose to it.

Without waiting for the old woman to respond, Shaelyn ripped the blanket off of the old woman.

Kira moved one glittering hand. It was the slightest of motions as she called to her magic. In the next moment, she was uncovered, but the clothes her magic had provided her covered the Amulet as well as her body. She rolled off of the bed landing on her feet on the opposite side.

Kira brought up her hands, the glittering red magic formed a fire ball that she hurled across the bed to strike the Queen. The Guardian knew she could not defeat this opponent, not without the aid of the sleeping talisman, but perhaps if she could hit her hard enough on the first strike, she could still escape. She only needed a small time to find