A Guardian Falls: Chronicles of the Coranydas

By Rebecca Tran

A young woman with a destiny. A land on the brink of war. If she can't stop it nothing can.

Following a terrifying brush with death, Mara returns to her homeland virtually empty-handed. With only one magical artifact in her possession, her army out of reach, and the threat of war looming closely overhead, she fears victory will not be hers and death will soon follow despite her best efforts.

Weary from her treacherous journey and growing more and more unsure of herself, will Mara see some semblance of victory before all is lost?

A Guardian Falls picks up where the first book left off. It follows a young woman's journey of love, loss, magic, and sword fights to a jaw dropping conclusion. This book is rich in depth, character and emotion.

Buy A Guardian Falls today to join the fight.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Rebecca Tran
• Release date: Jan 11, 2018
• ISBN: 9781386387435

Rebecca Tran

Rebecca Tran is an award-winning author, reviewer and blogger. She started writing when she was sixteen as self-prescribed therapy after her father passed away and hasn’t stopped since. Rebecca is also a pharmacist, and mother to two rambunctious girls and a Boston Terrier. If she ever has free time she likes combing resale shops to add to her teapot collection or quilting. Currently, she lives in her home state of Missouri.

Book preview

Chapter 1

Esperenza stood before Mara in her long red dress and veils. She could feel her solemn mood even though the priestess’ face was hidden. Mara looked up at the temple ceiling painted to resemble the night sky. It never ceased to amaze her. Esperenza was staring at her, Mara could feel her eyes. The women regarded one another a moment before Esperenza spoke. " Mara, you have proven yourself worthy of the Bow entrusted to us after the Great War. I will take you to it. " The priestess said in Shiori.

Mara knew why she was in the Shiori temple now, but that still left the question of how. She was wearing her Shiori leathers, too, and couldn’t remember putting them on. She’d earned them after beating Valaska their best warrior in a fight and was now second to the queen. Esperenza was ahead of her gliding effortlessly to the double doors. The Priestess looked back and beckoned Mara to follow. Esperenza went out the doors into the field that surrounded the temple. The yellow wildflowers had faded, replaced by purple ones. Mara knew enough of magic to recognize the spells surrounding the entire valley. They kept it a moderate temperature year round and helped them maintain their independence through long growing seasons. Food was never in short supply and it left time and ground to plant cotton for clothing.

Mara stopped abruptly at the doors. The view changed dramatically and she was suddenly looking down at Mist Valley. Her home, The House of Kern, was a massive complex that could not be mistaken. She feared to step out of the door, but Esperenza urged her on. She realized it was a test and took a step. Fog enveloped the temple and pushed it further away until it was a tiny speck eventually hidden by mountains. She took another step and the mist surrounded her. If Esperenza had not been standing before her, she would have panicked. Soon, everything was black.

Mara woke abruptly, safe in her bed. The cold white walls were warmed by afternoon sunlight that filtered in through the open curtains. She’d been dreaming, yet it felt so real. Mara jumped out of bed with the realization that Esperenza had summoned her. Mara had no idea how she’d done it, but that wasn’t important. Rummaging through her drawers, she found her Shiori leathers and changed into them. She grabbed leather hair ties and pulled on her boots before heading for the door.

Mara stopped with her hand on the knob. She wondered how Kess would react about their argument that morning. It ended with her telling Kess she should never have started their relationship. Mara was so mad she went to the practice yard and fought until she couldn’t swing a sword anymore. When the anger wore off she realized what she’d done and went to her room to cry herself to sleep. Mara thought a long moment about how to apologize and her heart sank. She decided to be honest and hope for the best. Praying he would forgive her, she left her room.

Kess looked up from the lunch Tobar brought to see Mara, dressed in her black Shiori leathers, in the doorway. The sleeveless leather tunic exposed her muscular stomach and arms. The leather overskirt and deep blue underskirt left part of her thigh exposed showing off toned legs. Her red hair fell down her back nearly to her waist setting off her green eyes. He admired how beautiful she was before he remembered he was mad at her. It did, however, look as though she might actually admit she was wrong for once. She took a timid step inside his room when he said nothing to her. Wiping a tear away, she looked away from him.

Kess stared a moment, Come here. He said finally, his anger faded. He hated to see her this way. Mara rushed to the bed and hugged him.

Kess, I’m sorry. Will you forgive me for being a fool? she asked, burying her head in his shoulder.

Are you going to fight or are you going to give up? he asked, holding her at arm’s length.

Do I have a choice? she asked bitterly.

I know it’s hard, but you can’t give up. Just think of what Laran will do, even if you quit now. He won’t be happy that you resisted him. Our only way to be free is to be rid of him. I hate to say it, but I think you’re our only chance, Kess reassured her. Now, why are you wearing your leathers? Hoping your mother will kill you?

Mara laughed in spite of herself. I had a dream that Esperenza summoned me to the temple. She said I proved myself worthy of the bow.

That’s a long ride. You’re not going by yourself, Kess stated.

I’m not riding. I’m going by a spell. Mara saw Kess’ worried expression. Magic was still fairly new to her and she’d only cast that spell once before. I’ll be fine, and it’s not that hard. Valaska promised she’d keep my hut ready for whenever I want to come back.

I guess you want me to braid your hair, Kess said, giving her a stern look. You owe me a kiss first. Mara happily complied before handing him a comb and turning around for him. Kess began braiding her hair. You’re still in trouble with me.

Kess, I- she began.

Tobar had to get me my pants. It seems someone left mine across the room when they stormed out of here. You’re just lucky you bought me new ones. He joked gently. He’d been confined to bed after a mage nearly killed him with a spell. It was Mara that saved him by taking the mages life and used it to heal Kess.

Mara smiled. Do you like them? I figured you’d be stuck in bed a little while.

They’re very nice, thank you.

Mara bit her nail then asked, Did Garren come by yet?

No. Is there a reason he should?

I went to the practice yard after we fought and found him there. I was really mad. He couldn’t keep up, Mara said, looking back at Kess. His warm brown hair needed a trim, but his blue eyes sparkled as he smiled at her. He’s furious with me. He needed stitches on his arm because he missed a block.

Trying not to laugh, Kess said. Take him to the Shiori and let him spend the night. He won’t be mad anymore.

I wouldn’t want to offend my sisters, Mara teased. Maybe I can get Valaska to give me a bottle of ale.

That would work if you hand it to him while still wearing your leathers. It seems to have worked on me. Kess finished braiding her hair, asking, How long will you be gone?

It’s there and back, I promise. Although, if I run into Valaska, she’ll make me stay the night.  Mara told Kess. Valaska was Queen Leandra’s sister and one of Mara’s few female friends. They’d spent several nights in the village drinking and talking. Tonight would be no different if they ran into one another.

I’ll see you in the morning then.

Try to get some rest. Mara kissed him goodbye, then moved across the room.

I will. We have some catching up to do. That keeps me motivated.

Me too, she said, winking. She formed the spell and disappeared.

PORTHOS WAS GREETED at the door by the mage. Wayette was a nice enough woman, but her youth made her extremely impatient. Her husband Aramis helped, but there was only so much he could do to keep her calm. Only her beauty kept Porthos from truly getting mad at her. He waved her away hoping to reach his pipe before her questions started. She stared at him as he lit the pipe and took a long draw. Tomorrow. The Elders will meet tomorrow, I assure you, Wayette, he promised. He knew she was eager to plead her case for use of the amulet but the dwarves never rushed anything. In her defense, they had been here four days with the same response from the council: tomorrow.

You’re sure? We’re wasting valuable time. Wayette was harsh even though she had not meant to be. Aramis was there right on cue with a calming hand. She looked up at him before looking back at Porthos. Somehow, she always knew what he was saying even without words. Times like this made Porthos miss his own wife.

Porthos took another long draw watching her. Her wavy blond hair softened the steel of her eyes. He continued, One of the elders’ grandchild was sick and he is recovering. The elder will be there tomorrow. You should speak with your husband about patience before we meet with them tomorrow. They will not be takin’ your tone as I do. Wayette looked back at Aramis before mustering an apology. It’s all right, child. Go on. It is a beautiful day, get some air. I know humans don’t take kindly to the hills.

Aramis and Wayette headed for the door and Raife followed. Porthos watched what she would do. A cross look flashed, Raife stood his ground though. Neither do elves, Porthos added. Wayette left without further argument. Porthos smiled, puffing on his pipe. Raven noticed but said nothing as she watched him.

Chapter 2

Mara appeared inside her hut and was pleased to see it empty, just as Valaska promised. It was clean and the bedding was folded neatly at its foot. Mara opened the door and made sure the coast was clear before stepping out. She breathed in the fresh mountain air and glanced at the familiar scene. The sprawling village was calm. Most of the warriors would be in the midst of lessons or practice. A few children ran down the path in front of her with only a glance. Mara wove her way through the huts avoiding the meeting hut and Valaska’s. She thought she was clear when she heard someone call her name. She turned already knowing who it would be.

Valaska could hardly believe her eyes. "Mara? When did you get back? Why didn’t the guard tell me?" she asked in Shiori.

"I asked them not to. I can’t stay, I have to see Esperenza and then leave, Mara smiled, hoping Valaska would believe her. She continued forward and Valaska fell in beside her. Mara assured her, You don’t have to come with me, I know the way."

Valaska eyed her over then asked, "What’s going on? We haven’t seen each other in over a month and this is how you react? Why does Esperenza want to see you?" Valaska demanded. This wasn’t just a friendly question, it was an order. Mara outranked her as a warrior, but not as the queen’s sister and personal guard.

"It is a long story, Valaska. One that I can’t stop to tell you at the moment," Mara said, walking once again.

Valaska was still standing there annoyed. She stared after the woman she’d thought was a friend in disbelief. Her eyes then flicked instinctively to Mara’s sword. Greenlight glinted off the hilt and Valaska moved to follow once more. She caught up with Mara and walked on her right, eyeing the sword carefully. A green emerald had been added. Valaska smiled. "That’s a fine emerald in your sword hilt. I didn’t fancy you for the type to like jewels."

"I’m not, Mara said absently. It’s just a complication. How’s married life?"

Valaska was speechless, caught off guard by the question. She’d married Sagre’ the day Mara left. Perhaps if she asked of Kess she could catch Mara off guard as well. "It’s lovely. How’s your betrothed?"

"Recovering from an injury. He is none the worse for wear though." Mara smiled, picking one of the purple flowers she’d seen in her vision. The temple loomed ahead. Mara excused herself before Valaska could ask any more questions.

Mara moved through the double doors into the temple. Esperenza waited for her just as she had in her dream. "Mara, you have proven yourself worthy of the Bow entrusted to us after the Great War."

"Will you take me to it now?"

"No, we need to speak first. I sensed doubt in your thoughts when I summoned you," Esperenza said, turning toward the kitchen. Robert was already there with a tray of tea. He set it on the table before slipping out another door. Esperenza removed her veils and waited for Mara to speak.

"I don’t understand how I proved myself worthy. Is it because I can use the sword?" Mara asked, accepting a cup of tea.

"You have shown me something much more important. You have shown me that you can love. More importantly, that you will fight out of love for others rather than hate. I knew when we first met that you were not the type to grasp for power. Your actions with Valaska and Brie proved that. I was concerned over the anger that held you in its grips and the fear that extended from that anger. You may have succeeded using the anger, but you would have been destroyed by its effects. Now you have the ability to defeat Laran and live when you are done."

"I’m glad you’re sure because I’m not. I don’t know that I want to fight anymore. I could lose everything and everyone I care for," Mara admitted.

"Kess was right, dear. If you do not fight and Laran wins, he will hunt you down just the same. There will be no rest for you, no safe haven. You will lose him anyway and you may fail to stop Laran then. I know you will fight so that those you love will not have to live under Laran’s tyranny or worse, die by his malicious hand."

Mara stared at the Priestess. She said all the thoughts Mara hadn’t dared put into words for fear of the responsibility they would bring. Suddenly, everything seemed clear. Kess was right. She was probably the only one who could stop Laran. There was a reason that after two millennia her magic resurfaced. Mara’s will returned and it seemed Esperenza knew it as soon as she did. Still, Mara feared for Kess’ safety. She could not bear the thought of losing him. It nearly killed her when Wayette said he was beyond her help. Suddenly confused, Mara looked to the Priestess. "How did you know what Kess told me?"

Esperenza smiled. "I know many things. I know you love him, and that scares you. I know how you stole the mage’s life and magic in order to save him. Just as I know that you would have given your own life to him. It’s what prompted this summons, remember?"

"But how?"

"I do not know how your magic works, do not ask of mine. Esperenza appraised her again, asking, You seem stronger. Have you been practicing?"

Happy her efforts were paying off, Mara smiled and said, "More like studying, Jensarah gave me a book."

Esperenza nodded in approval as she got up from the table "Did you have someone in mind to wield the bow?"

"I had hoped Wayette would do it, she’s an excellent marksman but I asked her to wield the amulet. I doubt she could do both. Esperenza told her that her assumption was correct. I guess I could ask Raife. Kess said he was a good shot."

Esperenza led Mara down a back set of stairs into what appeared to be a cave. The walls were damp and the air cool. Torches lit on their approach revealing a vaulted ceiling supported by massive masonry columns. Red and Purple mosaic tiles outlined arched openings in the walls. Bodies countless years old were laid to rest inside and barely visible as they passed. The burial alcoves were lined up neatly and labeled with the owner’s name. They passed a mosaic on the wall showing a forest of trees. There were no people or animals only trees. Mara stared in amazement when she realized they were family trees. They listed lineages that went back generations.  More burial chambers lay past the mosaic.

"Why are these women not burned like the others?" Mara asked, curiosity finally getting the better of her.

"These are our catacombs, dug when Shiori first arrived in the valley. All of our queens and Priestesses have been laid to rest here. It is said the Shiori are the chosen children of the Great Magics. Our queens were all great warriors. If another magical war broke out, the Magics promised that these women would rise again and be the salvation of the oppressed. The Priestess would stand by their side to guide the people back to the Great Magics. It is just another part of our responsibilities, to serve even in death," Esperenza explained without stopping.

"And the mosaic?"

"Mosaics, Esperenza corrected, pointing to others Mara had not noticed. They are the family trees of the women laid to rest here. Every century, a new mosaic is made so that we will remember their names and our roots." She stopped walking. Large gold plated doors were set in the stone wall. A gold bar as thick as her arm sat across from them to securely guard against intruders. Mara doubted that five men would be able to lift it much less two women. It didn’t faze Esperenza. She placed a hand on a red tile in the border around the door. When she removed her hand, something clicked. A small door materialized from the larger doors and swung open silently.

Mara followed Esperenza through the door. Stacks of gold sat on tables on the right wall. A few books were stacked on another table with chests of jewelry and bags of silver at its feet.  Swords lined the left wall, hung with great respect. A seemingly plain bow was suspended in midair by a faint golden light. Compared to everything else in the room, it seemed worthless, but Mara knew better; magic surrounded it. Esperenza assured her she would not be harmed and told her to take the bow. 

Mara reached into the magic and pulled out the bow. The wood was silken and rosettes and vines were finely carved in. It was highly polished and looked brand new. There was no string though. Mara could feel the magic in it and marveled at its purity. Esperenza held out a silk bag for it and Mara happily placed it inside. "There is no string. Will that affect the magic?"

"No, any will do. The magic is in the bow itself. Most of its abilities can be figured out by the one who wields it. When the time comes, I will see they receive instructions on its intricacies, Esperenza smiled at Mara. I will show you the way out."

Mara thanked Esperenza and said goodbye to Robert and Elaina before heading back to her quarters. She was in a daze as she walked. Even with the bow in its bag, she could feel the magic. She wondered what it was capable of, but feared testing it. She could not risk destroying such a valuable tool. Near the edge of the village, Valaska brought her out of her thoughts.

"Coming to explain yourself or were you going to leave without saying goodbye?" Valaska was hurt and it was evident in her tone.

Mara looked to her friend, regretting the way she’d treated her earlier. "Sorry, Valaska. I just have a lot on my mind. Why don’t you change and meet me in my hut?Mara requested. Valaska perked up at the offer and started toward her home. Valaska, can I borrow a robe? I wasn’t planning to stay the night."

MARA LIT A FIRE AND sank into the chair. She took the bow out of its bag and set it on her lap. She stared at it, unable to believe what it was. Her bell rang but the door opened before she could tell the visitor to enter. Valaska beamed as she produced a bottle of ale. Sagre’ followed her inside and set down a tray of food. He kissed his wife goodnight and left without question. Mara hastily put the bow away hoping Valaska wouldn’t notice. She took the robe Valaska brought and quickly changed.

Valaska sat in a chair by the fire and pulled the bow out. Admiring the carvings, she asked, "So, how long were you going to wait before telling me?"

Mara looked over her shoulder. Her face went ashen when she saw the bow in Valaska’s hands. "About the Bow," she said, slipping on the robe.

"I already knew you wanted the Bow. I meant how long before you told me you were the Rashade’," Valaska said smoothly.

"The what?" Mara asked, playing dumb.

"Don’t, Mara. If you don’t trust me, then just say so, but don’t insult my intelligence. Valaska watched as Mara sat down in the chair beside her. She leaned forward staring at the other woman. You spoke our language within a day, you appear out of nowhere, and you carry the Sword of the Faye. You expect me to believe you are anything other than the Rashade’?"

Mara sighed as she stared at Valaska. "I’ve told you everything else, why not this? Break out the ale and I’ll tell you what you want. Mara conceded. Valaska smiled victoriously. But, you cannot tell anyone, save Leandra. Right now, my only advantage is that Laran does not know."

Valaska put the Bow back in its bag before going to the table. Mara followed and sat down across from her. A plate of roast chicken, potatoes, and green beans waited for her along with a mug of ale. Mara took a few bites before beginning her tale. She told Valaska everything that happened from the day they’d left up to now. Valaska listened patiently without interrupting unless she needed clarification. Mara was surprised when Valaska knew what Kadesh was. The news of her using a mage’s magic to save Kess didn’t bother her either. Only Mara’s stupidity of getting captured brought any reaction. Valaska gave her a sharp look, but nothing more. As before, Mara felt she could tell Valaska anything.

Valaska smiled at her friend and said, "Finally, you’ve made good use of your betrothed. Much better than filling your big bed, I assume."

Mara smiled. Of course, talk of men would break Valaska’s silence. "It’s not like that. I think I love him." 

"Of course you do, Valaska said quietly before returning to her carefree manner. Was I right? Was he worth embarrassing myself in an effort to steal him?"

Looking away, Mara blushed. "He is more than worthy of me risking my life to stop you. I think Aramis helped hone his skills though."

"Aramis, oh what a treat he was. I nearly cried when my sister gave him away. If not for Sagre’, I would have never taken him to my sister. He has rare talents."

"He does. He can read my thoughts. He and Wayette can communicate that way and do so quite often. It’s unnerving to know they can. I have to watch what I think as well as what I say," Mara pouted.

"Rare indeed. That trait is dying among our people. He would have been a fine teacher for the others," Valaska reminisced as if Aramis were a lost treasure.

"What do you teach your men anyway?" Mara was curious how much was Shiori influence.

"Ah, Shiori love tricks. Which ones did he use?"

"Valaska, really," Mara huffed.

"Do you want to borrow a man tonight and compare? I’m sure Kess wouldn’t mind since he is not strong enough at the moment," Valaska teased, though it was an offer all the same.

"He would mind. He loves me, Valaska."

"Of course," Valaska scoffed.

"I’m serious, Valaska. He told me when we got home. Valaska smiled at her. She was happy even though she was grumbling about Mara limiting herself to one man. Mara really wasn’t paying attention as her mind wandered to other problems. Telling Valaska about her time with the Elves brought thoughts of her heritage. She looked up to Valaska. You know a lot about things I would not suspect. Do you know anything about my family?"

Valaska was clearly not expecting the question. She poured them each another drink and answered, "I’m sorry; all I know is that your family has carried the magic for centuries."

"My family was trapped by a new religion. Kern was merely one of the Great Magics. Every woman since the last Rashade’ has been kept as a prisoner by the accouterments of the High Priestess. A great honor we were told, when really it was an excuse to keep us from knowing who and what we were. A reason to arrange our marriages and keep magic from our veins. Do you know why?"

Valaska had an idea. "To keep Tirar from being loose again."

"Exactly, it takes magic on both sides of my lineage to awaken Tirar. Mara took a long drink emptying her mug. The council investigates each potential husband. They look back more than five generations. They say it is to be sure he is fit for the High Priestess, now I know they search for magic. A family has to provide proof of their lineage, usually, only families with great wealth have such records, hence a good match. They’ve rejected princes because they found magic in his lineage."

"What are you getting at, Mara? That the council missed it?" Valaska asked.

"I don’t know if that’s even possible. What if Breken was not my father?" Mara finished off another mug and began pouring another. Valaska took the bottle away.

"Maybe you should go speak with your mother instead of drinking yourself into a stupor."

"I can’t, my head is already too fuzzy to cast the spell. Deep in thought, Mara sat there a long moment. There are other things that don’t make sense. I should have asked Jensarah when I had the chance, but I was too focused on Claudia and the amulet. Then she told us about Laran’s troops. I need to speak to Esperenza again." Mara stood up.

"In the morning, Mara, Valaska scolded her as Mara got out of her seat. Valaska dragged Mara to a chair by the fire. Tell me of happier things. What changed your mind about Kess?"

Mara blushed. "You know my weakness now."

VALASKA SMILED. "It seems I was the first to figure it out and nearly lost my head for it."

Valaska woke the next morning to her bell ringing. Sagre’ was still sleeping thanks to Valaska keeping him up half the night. She pulled on her robe and went to the door. "When I asked you to get me this morning I did not know it would be at dawn. Are you always up this early?"

"Always, but lately I’ve gotten into the habit of falling back asleep."

Valaska gave a coy smile then instructed, "Go ask your questions. I will meet you there as soon as I have leave to go."

"Go, Valaska. I cannot ask this of you."

"You didn’t, I volunteered and if you leave without me I will ride to the House of Kern and ask to speak with the High Priestess." Valaska smiled, but her tone was hard. She’d meant every word.

"Thank you, Valaska," Mara replied. She was happy to have Valaska by her side once again, still, she worried for her.

"It gave me an excuse to wake Sagre’ last night," she teased.

"Since when have you needed an excuse?" Mara retorted, heading toward the temple.

Valaska stared at her sister in disbelief. She’d explained the same things three times already and couldn’t understand why Leandra was being so stupid. Leandra had her back to Valaska now, with a hand on her chin. She was thinking, but she did not comprehend. Valaska slammed a fist on the desk between them and her sister jumped. "She is the Rashade’, Valaska shouted, holding up a hand to stop Leandra’s protest. Why else would she be entrusted with the Bow? It all makes sense, Leandra. Why do you deny it?"

Leandra stared at her sister. This was only the second time since she’d become queen that Valaska questioned her authority. Putting her own rage aside, she finally spoke. "If I acknowledge the Rashade’ then my people and everything we stand for is in danger."

"Acknowledge her or not, the threat remains the same. We all knew Laran would be trouble. He has eight thousand men ready to strike. He sits only a short march from our western border. Mara is trying to stop him. She has the Sword of the Faye. Leandra, the best way to help your people is to help her."

"All right, Valaska," Leandra sighed.

"She’ll need all of our warriors." More serious than she’d ever been, Valaska glared at her sister and stated, "I’m willing to die for my beliefs. Are you?"

With an icy stare, Leandra responded. "You would question me? Unless you wish to challenge, I suggest you never say such things to me again."

Valaska smiled. That was exactly the response she wanted. "Yes, my queen. I am proud to call you sister."

"You always pushed me harder than I thought was possible, Leandra smiled, realizing what her sister had done. I, too, am proud to call you sister. Thank you for showing me my error. Our people need my strength now."

"I wish to go with Mara in order to help with the preparations. I will return in time to ride with the army."

"I will not stop you, Leandra replied as Valaska went to the door. Valaska, won’t you say goodbye to your sister?"

Valaska grinned.

Chapter 3

Mara appeared in Kess’ room to find him sitting up in bed reading a book. He smiled at her then glanced at Valaska. Mara greeted him with a kiss on the forehead. Kess gave Valaska a wry look knowing she’d been the cause of his cool reception. How was your trip? Did you get the bow? he asked. Nodding, she handed him a silk bag. Kess examined it a moment before putting it away. He looked at her and saw that she was somewhere else. What’s wrong? he asked.

More lies, more complications. I have to speak to my mother, she said absentmindedly.

Kess glanced at Valaska who was now wandering around his room looking at different objects. Kess took Mara’s hands in his and waited until she looked up to speak. Tell me what’s going on, please.

Breken is not my father, he can’t be. My magic proves it. I have to have magic on both sides in order to possess Tirar. The council would not have missed it. Mara wiped away a tear hoping Valaska was not watching.

Are you sure?  Mistakes happen all the time, Kess said gently, pulling her closer to him.

"Esperenza confirmed it. She said a household servant overheard a conversation between my father’s parents. She told him that their grandchild would defeat Laran in my father’s place and the servant told his true master, Laran. Kess, Breken’s father died when he was sixteen. There was no way it was his parents. He was not my father."

Was she sure?

I don’t know how she knows these things, but she does.

You have to speak with your mother, Kess said, pulling her into a comforting hug.

How can I look at her? She’s lied to me my entire life, lied to everyone. She’s the High Priestess; she’s not supposed to lie!

I’m sure she had reasons, Kess rationalized, trying to calm her down. He could feel her getting angrier with every word.

I’m sure she did, but my entire life is a lie.

Mara, go to her, sit down and talk to her calmly.

She pulled away from him. Right, I’ll go talk to her, she said, standing up. She then swept out of the room in a rush.

Calmly! Kess called after her. Valaska was glancing between him and the door wondering what she should do. "Follow Mara," Kess managed. She left to go after Mara. He sighed and pulled the bow back out to examine it more closely.

As Tobar fumbled in, he glanced out the door. Who was that with Mara? he asked as he made his way toward the bed. Tobar was Kess and Mara’s teacher for everything related to their training in the League. Now he acted more as a friend and mentor.

That’s Valaska, Kess said, putting the bow away again.

What was Mara wearing? Tobar asked, looking back to the door again to see if she would return.

Nice, isn’t it? Kess asked, grabbing the tray of breakfast from Tobar.

Nice? That could give an old man a heart attack!

Kess laughed. Will you lock this in my trunk and then have someone take Valaska’s things to Mara’s room? I’d do it myself if she wouldn’t kill me when she found I was out of bed.

Not even betrothed yet, Tobar laughed.

MARA STOPPED AT LEAST four Priestesses before she found one who knew where her mother was. Now that she was outside her mother’s office, all her thoughts and worries crashed in around her. Mara’s head was spinning. The council had not missed the magic in her father’s veins because they had not chosen her father. Her entire life was a lie. Breken was her father in name only. Anger replaced her doubt and she stood straight. Mara threw open the office door and marched in.

When she entered the room she saw her mother leaning on the edge of the desk behind her. The shapeless red priestess dress she wore hid her slim figure. The red hair and green eyes were family traits that went back as far as anyone remembered and were probably linked to their magic.  Drake lounged in a chair across from her looking like he’d just arrived. Her mother stared at her and Drake straightened in his chair. Mara looked back at Valaska when she commented on how much better Drake looked with long hair. The scowl quieted her again. Her gaze swung back to Drake. He was an Eighth Rank Senior and a general when he left the League years ago. But for the past several months he’d been helping Mara because he’d served her mother at the beginning of his career. Still, he was a soldier. What are you doing in this office? Is that the respect you show the High Priestess, lounging like you own the place? Mara huffed.

Hello, Mara. It’s good to see you again. I had a fine journey, thanks for asking, Drake replied his blue eyes were ice as he stared at Mara. His long platinum hair hung over one shoulder making him seem even colder.

The two glared at one another. So glad to see you two are getting along, Coprek said in disbelief.

Mara looked to her mother, That’s irrelevant now. I need to speak with you of more important things

Oh, no you don’t, young lady. You know better than to barge in here and start making demands. First, you will tell me why you’re half-naked.

Mara shrugged. She was used to the clothes by now and they were actually rather comfortable. This is the traditional dress of a Shiori warrior.

A what?

Please be quiet, you’re distracting me, Mara started.

What’s wrong with you?

Drake, will you excuse us? Mara asked politely as he watched the power struggle. Not wanting to be involved, he got up to leave. They could finish their argument later.

No, he stays. You will come back when you remember who you are talking to. The High Priestess ordered.

Her anger boiled over, Mara took a step forward. It wouldn’t do her any good to anger her mother, but she wasn’t leaving either. Mara stared at her mother and she sidestepped. Why do you shy from me?

There is something different about you. So strange I don’t know what it is. Coprek’s voice was quiet and small.

You feel it, don’t you? You feel the magic that flows through my veins? Mara asked, pulling the magic towards the surface. She was on the verge of releasing it to test her theory. Her mother cringed once more.

Magic...no, Coprek’s face went white. Valaska dropped Mara’s sword and rushed to catch her as she fainted.

"Don’t be so cruel," Valaska scolded as she helped Coprek to her feet.

Coprek looked around the room wildly before looking to her daughter once more. You can’t have magic, Mara. It’s impossible, she said with a strained voice.

Is it? Mara asked, forming a small light spell. Drake moved towards the door. Mara forgot he was there. She was glad he was leaving. His absence would allow her mother to speak freely. Mara turned to Valaska to ask her to leave as well. Before she could say anything, though, her mother shouted.

This is all your fault! Coprek yelled at Drake. Mara stared and wondered what he had to do with any of this. It’s your fault my daughter has magic!

Don’t blame him. He had nothing to do with this.  Just because he guided me in its use does not mean that he... Mara trailed off. Everything she’d seen that day crashed over her. Her mother leaning on her desk, Drake lounging in a chair. There was an easiness between them even though they had not seen each other for years.

Mara’s thoughts were still spinning when Drake faced her mother. "Our daughter, Coprek, not just yours. Drake turned to her, apologizing. I’m sorry, Mara."

Mara turned to her mother. Is this true?

Her mother looked away staring at the opposite wall. Mara we were young... her voice failed.

What she means is it should never have happened, Drake said quietly. Mara stared searching for words but couldn’t grasp any. They’d spent months together and he hadn’t told her. I trained here for two years before I was promoted to your grandmother’s personal guard. Your mother and I met secretly in the garden and we talked for hours. We were about the same age and curious about the other’s life, he offered as an explanation.

And it led to more, here I came and there you went, Mara finished for him beyond rage. He’d lied to her.

It’s not what you make it seem, Coprek accused. Once more, she was on her feet. With tears in her eyes, she added, I begged my mother for months to let us marry before I was ever pregnant. She refused. Before I knew it, my wedding was a month away. I pleaded with her again and still, she refused. She said we had to obey the council. She told me if I asked again, he would be sent away forever. We were discovered and he was sent away anyway. I was married to Breken and you came almost a month early. I knew who the father was, but no one else had reason to question. This is not Drake’s fault.

Mara thought about Drake’s reaction and saw the truth even though her mother could not. Are you sure of what you say? I’m not. He said so himself, this should not have happened. I should not have happened, Mara said, her mind spinning. He’d used her mother, and now he was using her. He was the one who suggested they ask for use of the army. Honor and glory awaited those that lead the army. Drake looked to her and something snapped. She would not be used. Get your sword and meet me in the practice yard.

Matching her icy glare, Drake stared and said, Mara, this is not -

You had your chance. You had months to tell me what you thought. It’s too late now. Get your sword or I’ll kill you without it she demanded.

Let - he started

Now! she screamed, marching out the door.

Valaska hurried after her not sure what was going on. She’d only learned a few of their words which were not nearly enough to understand what had occurred. "Mara, what’s going on? What happened? Why are you so mad?" Valaska asked, trying to piece things together.

"That man used my mother. I am just an unwanted