Sephone

By Katy Winter

Sephone is an entity known as Lunaria the Moon/Child. Both Obsidian and Lunaria are born of Night but they have very different destinies. So why has Obsidian broken an oath and laws to interfere in the Moon Child’s domain, as well as in the realms of others? Is it to trap the Moon Child and by taking her captive leave worlds without moonlight and dreams? Does he want to plunge worlds into darkness and an eternity of nightmares?
And can Sephone, still very young and untried, bring light back to these threatened worlds?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Katy Winter
• Release date: Feb 3, 2018
• ISBN: 9780473423421

Katy Winter

Having graduated from university, Katy Winter qualified as a teacher. Much of her subsequent career was spent teaching English Literature and History. She also taught night classes of tertiary students Classical Studies – the study of ancient Greek and Roman History, Art, and Literature. This love of the Ancient world was the spring-board which prompted her to turn her attention from teaching to writing. Katy spent nearly two years creating her epic work, the seven book “Ambrosian Chronicles”, publishing them between 2013 and 2015. They were followed by “Jepaul” (2017), “Sephone” (2018), and most recently "Sopho" in October 2020.Katy lives in New Zealand with her husband and two rescued tabby cats. And her writing continues.

Book preview

Also by Katy Winter

Jepaul

The Ambrosian Chronicles

Book 1: Warlord

Book 2: Children of Ambros

Book 3: Circling Birds of Prey

Book 4: The Dawn of Balance

Book 5: Light Dancing on Shadows

Book 6: Quenching the Flames

Book 7: Metamorphosis

SEPHONE

By

KATY WINTER

Published by The Furhaven Press

Smashwords Edition

Copyright: Katy Winter 2018

All Rights Reserved

ISBN: 978-0-473-42342-1

CHAPTER ONE

Obsidian looked out over the little scurrying figures who worked so very hard and against their wills, a curl to his lips that was unpleasantly cynical. He had a magnificent physique that went with his status: he looked every inch the demigod, very tall, muscled, and with jet coloured eyes that matched the softly curling black hair touching his shoulders. His face was carved with high cheek bones set above a sensual mouth. At ease, Obsidian was a strikingly handsome man.

He leaned forward against a balustrade as he heard a barked out order that made the tiny figures pause to glance up at the towering figure, fear etched in their pale little faces, before they renewed their efforts. Obsidian stretched and with another look below him turned and walked towards the entrance hewn from rock behind him. Now he was frowning.

~~~

Lunaria sat quietly at her loom, the shuttle held in her hand stilled as she stayed suddenly motionless, her eyes focused on the distance. She was sure she could hear small whimpers, but they were so far away she couldn't be sure. She hesitated. Finally she rose, uncomfortable, but not knowing why. She stretched out her mind to touch the little ones but met only unyielding resistance. It was bone chillingly cold. Lunaria recoiled. The shuttle fell with a clang to the floor just as a door behind her opened quietly and someone entered the room.

~~~

Lear the Chosen slammed his hands on the table at the same time as he rose and eyed those gathered, his eyes sparks of anger. There was a nervous ripple round most of the company and a long silence. Lear broke it.

I forget the long cycles we have sat on this Council, both in judgment and in making decisions that affect us all. What I don't forget is that no one, man or god, he or she, defies the Star Chamber and sneers at the pronouncements from it. A murmured assent greeted this.

Xalon spoke in his soft voice. Obsidian threatens cosmic law. He leaves the darkness and tampers with elements he should leave alone. That can't continue.

Who tells us he does this? The speaker, though of a giant build, was long and lean, saturnine of expression and with a grimly set mouth.

It comes from various quarters, responded Xalon, not elaborating.

Obsidian is of my blood. I am Night; he is Dark. I sit on this Council. Do I then have to listen to speculation about one of my own? Why isn't he here to speak for himself?

It's not his place, answered Lear curtly. He hasn't earned the right to sit among us in that way. He glanced at the speaker with half a smile. You know that, Noctus.

And you know you have a place here, reminded Xalon. Also, this time you were invited.

Nor do you tamper with cosmic law. Lear pulled at a long woolly beard. As I recall, you were once tempted.

Noctus gave a reluctant smile. And does Obsidian tamper, Lear?

Lear looked round the circle and saw confirmation on every face. He nodded, his face troubled.

His interference must stop and he must answer to us for what he does.

Noctus' face darkened. Dreams? he snorted. What child's play is this?

Not just dreams. Lear turned to look down into the grim face beside him. Have you spoken to Obsidian?

Noctus shook his head. Why would I? He's a mature man with his own realm. I expect him to stay in his and me in mine. Other than that I have little interest in what any of them do.

He isn't staying in his realm, snapped Xalon.

Obsidian rules himself. He knows no superior law to his own. You can try to impose your collective will on him. I won’t. Noctus rose and stretched. Leave me out of this one, he advised Lear, a glint in his eyes. I have no desire to tangle with Obsidian. I won the last encounter. It should have been enough for him. Wasn’t it?

Apparently not, said Ollo.

Lear stood thoughtfully, then he spoke decisively. Summon the Moon Child. Obsidian has to be made to obey cosmic law.

I wish you well, laughed Noctus. He shook his head. She's still only a child and has, I believe, often failed. Your faith in her ability is touching, but if you think to pit her against Obsidian you are bigger fools than I realised.

His stride from the chamber was contemptuous.

~~~

Lunaria didn't hear the door open behind her. She looked at what she had woven so far. Absently she picked up the shuttle and put it on the chair beside her. Her creation was barely started, yet already it began to shimmer as forms, indistinct to start with, coalesced then broke into larger forms. Prisms danced along the threads. A soft voice behind her made her turn, an expression of enquiry on her face. An older woman stood with a paper in her hand. She held it out to Lunaria.

From the Star Chamber. I knew the Council met, so there is something serious happening.

Lunaria scanned the curt missive then looked up at the older woman.

Why do they want to see me? Have more dreams gone astray again?

Cynthia shook her head.

I don't think so. I'd know if something like that had happened, but something is badly amiss. I can feel it. Can't you?

I sense something's wrong. I'm not getting responses, but I don't know why.

Cynthia touched Lunaria gently. The Council waits. You should hurry.

~~~

Lunaria stood uncertainly at the Star Chamber door. She'd not always succeeded in all she'd attempted as an acolyte, something that made her acutely aware of her weaknesses and vulnerability. There were times when she'd been summoned to the Council to explain her lapses and mistakes, so she usually felt anxious and nervous. Her last time entering through this door had almost led her to request that she be allowed to abandon her quest to aspire to being the Moon Child. She was chosen from among many aspirants to ultimately uplift Cynthia’s heavy responsibilities, though Lunaria had no comprehension of why she was selected, and it was only Cynthia's utter faith in her abilities that made her face and pass the Third Level. She doubted she'd ever reach Level Four or sit among the august assembly she now had to face. She shivered then shook herself sharply. She’d made no error for some time so knew she had nothing to answer for on this occasion.

She gently tapped on the door, heard the response, and softly entered the chamber. Those there looked curiously at her. The last time the young woman was among them she was an acolyte who struggled to reach Level Three, but that was some time since and now she stood inside the door, a look of enquiry on her face rather than apprehension. There was nothing of the apprentice in her bearing. She had achieved full Moon Child status. Those gathered watched her approach, some critically, but mostly with muted approval.

Lunaria lifted her head high. She made an oddly imposing figure with an unusual air of almost quaint, unexpected authority. It gave the assembly pause. She always looked ephemeral and no more so than now with the mane of extraordinarily thick silky hair that almost swathed a slight form; she appeared to be shrouded in what some thought resembled a halo. She moved with grace, elegance and economy of movement, without gestures. The robe she wore, long and gathered at the waist with a girdle, just swept the floor with a faint rustle when she moved, and it was made of an unusual gossamer fabric overlaid with threads of silver and gold that shimmered and floated about her.

She looked ethereal and fragile. That made Lear frown. He knew he wasn't the only one of the Star Chamber to have doubts that someone as apparently vulnerable could survive a challenge some expected Lunaria would fail, but Obsidian was her counterpart, both of them born of Night, and it was her realm, along with Morph’s and Noctus’, that was affected by Obsidian’s actions. Lear also knew it was her domain that was most threatened and that there was no one else as uniquely placed as her to counter the threat. But, like the others, he'd no illusions about Obsidian. So Lear continued to frown heavily. Lunaria sensed the charged atmosphere. Pale apricot colours started to swirl in the halo. She reached the centre of the circle and stood still, her hands clasped at her waist and her cerulean blue eyes wide. Lear's severity relaxed and he approached her, a hand extended. She took it and was led to a seat at the extremity of the circle from him.

You are welcome among us, child, he assured her. Let us touch hands and communicate, he invited.

Lunaria's hands were grasped firmly by those on either side of her. Her mind was flooded, only briefly, but it was enough. Her hands were released. She sat trembling, eyes huge now and darkened, while she struggled to absorb the little knowledge just granted her. In the dimness of her mind she knew that such a meld was a rare honour, but all she felt was an acute sense of sickness and an even sharper pain she knew was real fear. She was shown Obsidian.

He was no stranger, quite the reverse. When they were young, and they were a similar age, she'd danced and played with the dark child older than herself, laughing as they teetered on the edge of the clouds teasing each other. She, like the others, was entranced by the child of Night, as born of the darkness as herself. But the difference ended there as did their brief but intense affaire. As he matured, Obsidian's fate was different from hers. He was fully of the dark realm and would, she knew, one day rule an underworld. Though born of the dark, Lunaria was the child of Light and Night, and her world was as far removed from Obsidian's as day is from night. A shiver shook her. She'd not seen Obsidian for so long she doubted, had she not seen the brief glimpse in the meld, that she'd have recognised the man as the one she’d known. His face, carved in stone, both repelled and mesmerised her. She heard Lear speak but he seemed a long way away. She forced herself to focus on his words.

Find out what you can, Moon Child, and return to us. Don't take risks. Remember Obsidian has powers that threaten you, so be watchful. The traps he can set are subtle. Lear crossed to Lunaria and gripped her hands, his voice very gentle. He has charm, my dear, and he has passion, as you know from your childhood, but he can also be unwittingly cruel. If he has set out to snare you, for whatever reason, be aware that he may choose not to spare you. We hear the whimpers of the moonlits but we don't know why they cry. If you can find the reason, then, for the moment, that's all we ask. They'll respond to you. We know that. That's why we've called you. Can you do this?

Lunaria nodded. Her vocal chords felt paralysed. Lear leaned across to an adjacent table, lifted a clothbound object and put it in her lap.

Speak your name when you touch it, Lunaria, and we will hear you. You can call upon us for support and we'll respond in a meld. Take it, child.

Lunaria opened the cloth to see the small, plain wooden wand on a leather necklace. She lifted it, thought it oddly humble, but obediently put it over her head. It rested on her chest. She felt it burn fiercely and went to wrench it away, only to realise the burning had subsided and she could no longer feel the wand. Instinctively she knew it was now part of her. Lear touched her head and she slept.

~~~

Lear looked hard at the three men who eyed him speculatively in turn. They waited courteously for him to speak. They looked quite at ease and faintly curious.

Thank you for coming, Amaris.

Our current orbit is in a prolonged static phase, so it meant we could respond to your call, answered one man, taller than the others and remarkably thin.

Why do you ask us to come again? queried a second man, the youngest looking of the three.

It is Obsidian.

What about him? asked the third man.

We have reason to believe he has broken the Oath of Realm and has also broken the Second Cosmic Law. It seems he also interferes with other realms.

There was a long pause.

Such as?

Has Amaris been affected by the loss of dreams and with the substitution of unremitting nightmares that affect rest?

No.

Though, added the third speaker thoughtfully, we’ve noticed the complete blackness of the nights since we got here.

Dream weavers – moonlits if you prefer that term – have been removed and the moonbeams are weakened by their absence. Lunaria’s realm is being systematically ravaged so other than the daylight there’s nothing but darkness.

No moonlits dancing down moonbeams with dreams?

No.

And the Moon Child? Has she known this?

Not entirely. She’s been uneasy, but like us she never expected what has apparently happened to occur. Who would?

Where is she?

With us.

Is this sabotage universal?

Only around several worlds at this stage.

It needs to be stopped before it goes any further. The first speaker frowned heavily as he spoke.

Yes, Amaris, it does.

What other realms are affected?

Night – Noctus is his usual cynical and disobliging self – and Morph, though he’s not said anything or expressed concern.

What do you wish us to do?

We’re sending the Moon Child to find out what’s happening.

That’s risky, isn’t it? asked the third speaker.

She’ll be vulnerable, yes, though to what extent isn’t known, nor is Obsidian’s reason for tampering with her domain in such a fashion. With you we believe she’ll be safe.

Lear got ironically raised eyebrows.

Well and good, said the third speaker crisply. What is she to do?

Though she won’t necessarily be close to them, the moonlits only respond to her – they’re hers. Lear paused.

Not to Noctus?

Would you? responded Lear tartly.

He got expressive smiles at that.

So?

They would answer to Morph but he’s too distinctive to wander about trying to find out what’s happening.

And a Moon Child isn’t? asked the second speaker incredulously.

She’s easier to disguise, answered Lear patiently. And she’s only going with you, certainly at this stage, to find out if Obsidian’s Underworlders are active on certain worlds, if moonlits are on these worlds, and, if they are, to see if they’re captive.

And for what reason they’re even there, added the first speaker succinctly.

That is so.

Anything else?

To find out if Obsidian is on one of these worlds, in any guise.

And the moonlits?

Once we know what’s going on and Obsidian’s involvement, then we can consider what it would be feasible to do. At the moment we move somewhat in the dark. Lear gave a rueful grin at the word ‘dark’ and saw amused expressions on the men’s faces.

Rescue them?

Lear’s smile was wider but he was reluctant to answer. He simply took tokens from his pocket that he held out to each man.

Lunaria is very young. She is also more powerful than many think, including herself. She is, after all, the Moon Child, and though not fully mature as such, she is equal to Obsidian. She’ll be in boy’s attire and will be found outside Sylas – take care of her. We entrust her to you.

~~~

Lunaria came to with a jolt and a decidedly stiff neck. She sat up and rubbed it gently. She knew, from the smell of the ground under her, that she was somewhere far from the Council. She saw a shoulder bag lying next to where she'd lain and idly opened it. She saw the change of clothes and ruefully stretched. She found she had a full purse that she put into the bag and she then rammed a cap over her head, but only after she swept her hair back and tied it rather raggedly and shoved as much of it as she could up and under the cap. She looked absurdly young and boyish.

With boots tightly laced, a coat slung over one shoulder and the small bag over the other, Lunaria paused to get her bearings. She knew she would need transport so tried to figure out which way would be best. She decided to follow a stream she could hear and headed that way. She walked for some time until she began to see figures in the distance, but some instinct made her hesitate to get too close. She trailed them. In time they reached a town and passed without question through the gates. Lunaria approached the gates and was challenged.

Who are you, boy? We don't recognise your face.

I'm sent on a message to the Guildmaster, responded Lunaria quickly, hunching to look small.

Too late in the day to catch him, said the guard, spitting. I'll take you home if you like, he added with a chuckle.

"I am in the right town, aren't I?' questioned Lunaria, carefully ignoring the offer.

Well, lad, you're in Sylas. Is that where you want to be?

Yes, it is.

Then you will be happy to know the Guildmaster will give you an audience tomorrow. He will add you to one of the work sites probably. You look small enough to be useful. You have arrived late. Before Lunaria could move, the guard caught her wrist and jerked her through the gates. You’re a nice, girlish little fellow, aren’t you then? I think I’ll take you home with me. How does that sound to you?

He lifted her easily, his grip strong, then she heard a bellow from beyond the guard. With a curse the guard dropped her and turned. She stood at the gate for a few startled seconds when she was abruptly dropped, saw the man distracting the guard, and ran towards the nearest alley. There she stood, framed in a doorway. She scolded herself for being so naïve. She could have dealt easily enough with the guard but that would have drawn the attention she most certainly didn't want.

Having got her breath she headed back to the gate, keeping a watchful eye out for potential problems, then she saw the man who had distracted the guard and checked. He was leaning nonchalantly against a wall. At the sight of her he moved forward, but stopped when Lunaria did. Then, slowly, he advanced, a hand out.

You don't look like a boy, he said conversationally.

Have you been watching me?

Yes.

Thanks for your help, Lunaria managed.

You got away. Fennick is like that. You'll be more careful next time, won't you? Lunaria had to laugh. The man did too. Where are you going now?

I need to find somewhere to spend the night.

Would you like to come with me then?

Lunaria looked speculatively at him. Can I trust you? she demanded, not really expecting an answer.

The man eyed her amused. You ask a man looking at a pretty young woman that? How naïve are you?

I'm not. I'm tired.

You have few choices then. Lunaria shook her head. The man approached and she just watched without moving. He gently took her hand. I won't make promises that I won't try to know you more intimately one day, but I won't make you uncomfortable near me. You can believe that. A wry chuckle followed that. I couldn't even if I wanted to, could I? You're no ordinary acolyte now, are you?

No. Lunaria tried to look prim and couldn't. She smiled instead. What is your name and status?

I'm the Hunter. The man spoke in a soft undertone. I was told to expect you.

I was told the Hunter would be here and I was given your name. What is it?

You may call me Lupus.

Show me your token, if you please.

Casually Lupus took it from his pocket; it briefly glittered, then went black.

It's time to move. What shall I call you? he responded, glancing down at Lunaria.

You know who I am.

What shall it be here? We waste time.

Call me Sephone.

Lupus smiled and turned, her hand still in his. He began to walk at a leisurely pace, threading his way through the crowds and darting down alleys, until they finally stopped at a semi-detached, two-storey house. Lunaria was pushed up the steps, the door was unlocked, and she entered.

~~~

After a shower, Lunaria felt better. Her neck ached less and she realised she was ravenous. She ventured downstairs to find the young man stirring pots and a homely table set for two. He eyed her as she entered.

Hungry?

Very. Lunaria sniffed in a pot. You said your name is Lupus.

That is so. I am Lupus.

Lupus? She eyed him narrowly. Is that your real name?

It'll do for now.

The Hunter, mused Lunaria.

And you are Lunaria, Lupus said calmly. I was told to expect you, but you are certainly more beautiful than I expected, even looking vaguely like a boy.

Lunaria found the challenge in his eyes irresistible. He laughed and casually began to serve from the pots.

We will eat, Lunaria, then we can do whatever you wish. Take this.

He held out a piled plate. Lunaria took the plate. She ate ravenously, watchful eyes on Lupus who ate unconcernedly and chatted inconsequentially throughout the meal. He didn't overfill her wine glass. He only gave her as much as she wished to drink. As the meal ended and they had both moved to armchairs, Lunaria began to speak again.

Do you know why I'm here?

Yes, but this town isn't a good place to be right now.

Why?

A lot of people have started trading with Underworlders. Lupus shrugged. They'll have their reasons. We've not known such activity in this realm before. Now, they set up work sites for camps.

Camps?

What they are for, or what they hide, isn't clear. We just know that there are moonlits in thrall either near or in them.

Lunaria's teaspoon hung in the air, then clattered on the occasional table from limp fingers.

Moonlits?

Yes, moonlits. I’ve been here a few days and had a chance to scout around. All’s not well, Sephone. Right now, across the whole land, I’m told dreams have become nightmares. There's no rest, Sephone, none. It's a bad time. Someone has ensured there are no dreams being created.

How long's this been going on?

Long enough to affect anyone and everyone.

And you?

The Hunter rarely rests. When I do these days it's unpleasant. I have nightmares too, just like the others. Some are bad. You prefer to be awake.

How can I find out more? This affects my realm, Lupus. It's intolerable.

We need Diviner. He'll be here tomorrow and he'll bring Seeker with him. They'll try to help us locate a site, but I can't make any promises.

I understand.

Lupus gave her an odd sideways look. No, I don't think you do, he said finally, standing with an empty dish in his hand. Nor do you fully comprehend the danger. If, as we believe, this is the work of Obsidian, he'll know damn well someone will be sent to verify the rumours are true.

I've been warned, Lunaria reminded him.

Lupus chewed meditatively on his lower lip for a moment. I know you're of equal status, Sephone, but if we're dealing with Obsidian, you could possibly stand in some danger.

I know that too, responded Lunaria calmly.

I hope you do, was the curt reply. There was a long pause while Lunaria eyed Lupus placing dishes in the sink, then she changed tack.

Do you know what form Obsidian may be in? In this realm it could be anyone.

No.

That I need to know, if he isn’t himself.

Speaking of which, said Lupus, turning to face her, can you do something with your hair? It's beautiful but also damnably distinctive. It looks like spun gold shot with silver.

Lunaria looked rueful. I could plait and twine it, she offered.

Do that. Lupus looked her over. And get rid of the pants. Dress as a young woman native to these parts which means a head scarf with a veil at times. It'll cause less comment. There was a satirical lift to his eyebrow. You make a very pretty boy who would not pass unnoticed, believe me. I'll find you clothes. Go and rest now.

Lunaria rose and turned so that the centre light shone on her lower throat. Lupus saw the embedded wand and gave a low whistle of surprise, but he didn't comment. Indeed Lunaria was no humble acolyte. She was, whether aware of it or not, a newly empowered Level Four and touched by the Galactic Star Chamber. He gave a sudden deep shiver. Lupus began to have an uneasy feeling that things were far more serious than any of them had realised and he felt, again, a surge of protectiveness for this waif of a woman who seemed more a child to him than anything else.

~~~

It was still dark when Lunaria stirred. She heard movement in the room and hauled herself up on an elbow, her eyes squinting through the dimness. She saw the outline of a man and stayed still, tensed.

It's only me, came a deep voice as Lupus approached the bed, his arms full of clothes. I've got things for you to wear. He stood and looked down at her. She could see the glint in his eyes. You look rested. Are you?

Thank you.

We need to move quickly and quietly. I don't know who is safe to trust, other than those I mentioned last night.

Do we leave now?

Lupus strode to the door. As soon as you dress, come downstairs and we'll eat. I've got supplies for several days. Hurry, won't you? This is a so-called safe house but for how long -. He was gone on the words.

CHAPTER TWO

As they reached the end of the road from the house, Lupus suddenly yanked Lunaria under a bridge arch and put a strong hand across her mouth to stop any startled outcry. He abruptly pulled her into a crouch. The sound of several men striding quickly and purposefully towards where they were made her tense. She could feel the tension in Lupus. The footsteps faded. Lupus stretched his body round the span and when he did he softly cursed. He could see four men in the half-light of dawn battering on the door of the safe house. He grasped Lunaria, pulled her to her feet and whispered,

How good are you at running?

She simply nodded. Lupus paced his lope to fit Lunaria's smaller steps but was surprised to realise she could indeed sprint if need be and lengthened his stride. With almost a quadrant of the town behind them, he slowed to a walk, then paused to look down at Lunaria.

Are you alright?

I'll be fine, she responded breathlessly. Who were they?

Your erstwhile pal and mates from the gate last night.

How did they know where to go?

Someone told them where you went. They really like you, don't they?

Not a safe house anymore.

No, probably not, and certainly not for you.

They walked on in silence, the world around them lightening and the sunrise beginning to be spectacular over distant mountains. Lunaria gave a shiver. Lupus sensed it.

Are you cold, or is it that you're of the Night?

The world of the moonlits and mine is the lightness through the Night, she responded.

Does daylight make you uncomfortable?

No, I just prefer the security of the night.

But not the dark?

No. I'm not entirely of Night, Lupus.

Sunshine is light, Lupus teased her.

True, she replied, but that's not my domain. After a long pause she spoke again. Who or what is the Diviner?

He senses all things – sight, sound, sensations, emotions, and everything else as well.

Does he live on this world?

Like me he comes and goes where he chooses.

And the Seeker?

Him too. He also goes where he’s needed. We wander quite a lot. Lupus glanced across at Lunaria. Sephone, there’s trouble all over the place.

I know. I was told.

On a number of worlds.

I know that too.

That’s presumably why you were chosen to come here.

Yes. My domain is compromised, but how badly I don’t know. I’m the Moon Child and much is wrong with those around me who depend on me. I can sense it. And untold misery as well.

And all those deprived of restful sleep?

Them, too, Lupus. Me and mine try to give calm and rest through dreams – also understanding that can come through them. We’re unable to cause upheavals by creating nightmares. Those come from outside the ambit of the Moon Child.

They come from the dark, Sephone.

Yes, agreed Lunaria bleakly. Someone, or several someones, have crossed the Bridge and are wreaking havoc. My moonlits have been taken, so I suspect they’re not just stopped from making dreams but are being unwillingly forced to create the opposite. That’s why I sense distress.

How do you see your mission?

To find out all I can, Lupus, without endangering myself or others such as you.

That may be difficult.

I have to try. The little creatures – moonlits to you – are mine and they rely on me. They must be suffering, Lupus.

Lupus fell silent, his eyes occasionally flickering to the very slight figure who walked beside him. It was almost dawn when Lupus drew up abruptly. He signalled to Lunaria to edge back into a convenient shrubbery, alongside the track they followed through a heavily wooded area well away from Sylas.

Wait! Lupus hissed.

He went into a crouch, Lunaria pulled close. They could hear voices approach. Soon they saw the head of what looked like a small column that approached very slowly and they could hear the tingle of metal. Lunaria breathed deeply and found she shook. Her hands were clammy because she once more sensed the same unyielding resistance from the little creatures she’d tried to reach when she was weaving. She sensed whimpers and pain. She flinched. It actually hurt her. She knew someone deliberately tried to block her moonlits from calling to her.

The column was almost parallel with them. Lunaria, deeply shocked and disbelieving, saw the diminutive, pale figures, dishevelled and exhausted, stumbling along, one line linked to another with fine chains. She saw pale blue eyes and long, soft golden hair, lank now, that tumbled about stooped shoulders. The tiny, fragile creatures had ghostly shadows playing about them. Her little helpers, her dream weavers, were here? And the resistance she’d felt?

She saw what it was. It was the dark shadow that surrounded each individual moonlit – it was almost impenetrable. Now she understood why they’d not been able to call to her for help; they were completely trapped. Not only that, the shadows came from beyond the Bridge. Lunaria knew that instinctively and she now knew why people no longer slept. She realised, with a feeling of sickness, that indeed she was right when she suspected someone made her weavers create nightmares: and that was why, in spite of the heavy blocks, she’d had moments of sensing despair, pain, and helpless whimpers of moonlits in thrall, tormented as they were forced to act against their very nature.

Lunaria wondered how many moonlits had been gathered, or more correctly she thought horrified, harvested, from worlds around her. Thousands? More? So, she thought, her heart beating wildly, that was why the skies were so dark with no silver light anywhere to leaven the heavy denseness of utter blackness. She thought of the Star Chamber and, once the column passed, put a hand to her throat. She knew the Chamber was with her, let them read her and waited in silence.

The Bridge has been crossed then.

Yes, she answered.

There can be no doubt. The dark shadows can’t be from anywhere else.

No.

Noctus says Obsidian rules himself and knows no superior law to his own.

Yes.

We doubt that. He will learn that there is a law that governs him and it may well be a very hard learned lesson indeed. Noctus also said no collective will could be imposed upon Obsidian. Do you agree?

No, instantly replied Lunaria.

We agree with you, Moon Child. Our collective will can be imposed more severely than he thinks. Noctus should know that from experience. Lunaria stayed silent. The Chamber spoke of things she knew little or nothing about. Obsidian may consider himself untouchable in his realm.

Probably, Lunaria answered pensively, an uncertain note to her voice.

But it appears, from what you say, Moon Child, he has not stayed in his realm but has gone beyond it.

I sense the Bridge has been crossed, yes, admitted Lunaria unhappily.

So we are right in our concern that he is breaching the Second Cosmic Law and if that’s so we can impose our collective will upon him quite easily and with an authority he won’t forget. There was a long silence in Lunaria’s mind. He must have left his realm if indeed he tampers with elements he should not and interferes in the realms of others, including your own, Moon Child. Obsidian has broken his Oath of Realm.

I don’t know if he’s actually left his realm, whispered Lunaria, distressed, or whether it’s just those who obey him.

That we have to find out. Is Hunter with you?

Yes.

We wish to speak with him through you.

Lunaria gestured to Lupus and when she held out her hand, he enquiringly took it. He immediately sensed the Star Chamber.

I’m here.

Where are Diviner and Seeker?

Very close.

Find them. Are you still on the world of Osah?

Yes.

Then leave it. You must go to the entrance to the Bridge.

Very well.

You know where it is?

Yes.

It’s several worlds away.

We know. It’s not unfamiliar to us.

No. We sense that. There was a pause. The Moon Child will have to be herself, briefly, when you reach there. That’s inherently dangerous.

Quite so.

Time’s precious. The situation is fraught with inherent dangers.

We understand that clearly.

Of course. Are you still happy to go with Lunaria?

Nothing has changed since we last spoke with you.

There’s some urgency. We need to know if the Bridge gate is open and if Obsidian has crossed it as well.

Yes.

Care for her.

We will.

~~~

Lunaria and Lupus sat quietly under a tree and ate food from a knapsack Lupus swung to the ground. They drank from flasks attached to their belts. It was quiet and restful. Even so, Lunaria sensed a fret of impatience about the still figure of the man and she was aware of a deep anxiety as they both sat silently contemplative. Then Lupus tilted his head. He rose lithely like a cat, gestured to Lunaria to shrink back into the wooded shadows, and strode noiselessly forward. He made a cry like a bird. He did another cry, immediately followed by a third one. Close by came answering echoes hard upon Lupus’ calls. They were repeated. Lupus disappeared. Lunaria fell further back, a hand out to yank the knapsack down beside her. She waited.

In minutes Lupus reappeared, two men with him. Startled by their noiseless arrival, Lunaria stared at them. One man was very tall, like Lupus, but where Lupus was a rangy build, loose-limbed and athletic, this man was, apart from broad shoulders, like a wraith he was so thin. If he stood sideways he’d be barely noticeable. He had a tousled thatch of thick blond hair that, though cut short, bounced about his head when he moved; his eyes were deep-set and an unusual light hazel; his nose tended to the aquiline; and his mouth, full-lipped, was uncompromising. It was difficult to assess his age. He actually looked formidable in a most striking way. Once you’d seen him you’d never forget him.

Lupus was blond as well, but his hair was a darker gold with hints of chestnut; his nose was straight; his eyes were an unusual tawny colour flecked with green; his mouth was set in softer lines and he had laughter crinkles at the corners of his eyes. He looked fit and a man of both mental and physical strength, but he also gave the appearance of a man it would be wise to heed.

The third man was also tall but his build was stockier than the other men. His brown hair was thick, wavy and glossy, and it hung to his shoulders; his eyes were light blue; what made him so different were his wide-opened, almost child-like eyes, his indeterminate nose that was even slightly retrousse, and the laughing mouth that curled upwards at the corners. He actually looked ingenuous but Lunaria was quite sure he wasn’t. The men looked down at her.

Sephone, these are Seeker, Lupus indicated the stockier man whose mouth widened to a broad smile, and Diviner. Lupus turned to the blond man who still stared down at Lunaria. He curtly nodded.

Do you have names like Lupus?

Yes, came from Seeker. I answer to Trouve.

I answer to Oracle.

May I see your tokens?

Hands went into pockets to withdraw tokens that briefly glittered, then went black, as Lupus’ had done.

And you! said Oracle sharply.

Lunaria stared up at him, surprised, then she put a hand to her throat, pulled open her collar and turned her head to a faint light Oracle held and shone over her. There were indrawn breaths from the two strangers and the three men exchanged significant glances. Oracle stretched down a hand to help Lunaria to her feet.

We need to move, Lupus, he murmured, lifting the knapsack and absently buckling it before he handed it across to Lupus.

We know, responded Lupus calmly. He turned his head to Seeker. Trouve? Any suggestion?

Directly ahead to leave Osah.

There could be those who wait to see if anyone tries to cross to the fold at the apex, said Oracle, frowning.

Probably, muttered Lupus.

Does anyone know we’re here? asked Trouve, wrinkling his nose. Lupus shrugged. And would it be known Sephone’s with us?

It won’t take much guesswork if they don’t know already. I think our friend’s no fool. He’ll believe Sephone’s been brought before the Star Chamber and will be somehow involved in any effort to find out what’s going on in her realm.

Then let’s move, said Oracle abruptly. Trouve, how far do we have to go?

Some distance. We need transport.

Can we hire anything at a nearby town? As he spoke Lupus frowned.

We’ve looked about, said Oracle. And the best thing for us will be to get on a high speed air train. A saturnine grin came to his mouth. Best in a crowd to avoid comment or undue notice, especially with Sephone being such a very pretty little thing – she wouldn’t pass unnoticed. We’ll have to attend to that.

There are the Saintly Brethren, aren’t there? asked Trouve, curling his lip distastefully and scratching at his beard.

Oracle and Lupus looked hard at him then understood his comment only too well. Lunaria didn’t. She looked an enquiry.

Yes, grimaced Oracle, his grin gone.

Ghastly lot but their undoubted unlovable traits could help us now. I’d forgotten they lived on Osah, hypocritical sods. Lupus almost growled. We’ll need cloaks and black hats, and Sephone will need a net for her hair as well as a veil. She’ll also need to be attached to a male in public as all Saintly Brethren women are.

Trouve and I discovered Wren’s only a couple of miles from here with quite a population of the Brethren, said Oracle. It’s only a small town where the Saintly horrors occupy a quadrant so I can buy what we need easily enough. You all remain here. There’s also an air train from there heading north – I think. I’ll check it out.

Lunaria drew her purse from a pocket and handed it to Oracle.

Osah money, Sephone?

Yes. It will change from world to world.

Oracle looked thoughtfully at her, patted her shoulder and was gone.

~~~

While he was gone Sephone was initiated into the world of Saintly Brethren, a sect who propounded piety, chastity and godliness; they were inflexibly bigoted, aggressive in their proselytizing and arrogant in their assumed superiority. Privately it was known they indulged in sexual immorality and promiscuity, drunkenness and, occasionally, in incest – more frequently in familial rape. Fortunately they were only a small sect though they tried to expand by having large families that intermarried and they had enclaves in most cities on Osah. It was claimed their women were slaves.

Their sect was secretive. It was known they punished any of their members ruthlessly. No members were allowed to leave the sect and children were removed to ensure any erring adult conformed strictly to sect laws. All offspring were taken for long periods away from their parents and placed in dormitories under rigid supervision as they underwent intensive indoctrination, on and off, for the first five years of their lives. They owed allegiance and obedience only to the sect and especially to the Master of it in each enclave.

They would speak with others but preferred not to. When in public their veiled women were hustled along attached to a male family member and they weren’t permitted to speak. Children were rarely seen; they never went to school. Neither sex could cut their hair and had to wear their long tresses tightly braided while only senior men of the sect were permitted to have very long beards. They were hated by other citizenry who visited their shops. They were often merchants and were traders in necessary goods but they showed, by their manners, that they had contempt for those they had to serve. Lunaria shivered.

Oracle returned surprisingly quickly. He and the men quickly attired themselves in the required hats and cloaks, then helped Sephone tightly braid her hair that was swept tightly back into a small net at the back of her head. A thick veil that hung down to her chest was held firmly in place by a low brimmed