Time and Tide, Book II: Crisis of Faith: Time and Tide, #2

By Seth A. Feldman

LEAH'S JOURNEY HAS led her from one mystery to another, but she and the Hunters Guild are prepared to continue their investigation into her father's affairs, even if they must enlist the aid of Tora Danya's most influential leaders. Meanwhile, Cain draws ever closer to identifying the woman who murdered his family. 

However, dangerous schemes threaten to derail their progress. Following the destruction of yet another Niranite clan, Guardian spokesman Caleb Storm will stop at nothing to ensure the survival of his people. But could Storm himself be a puppet of greater powers? 

As the icy winter descends, a savage vengeance ravages the hills of Arinnley Province. Some will die. Some will be forever changed, and players on both sides will be forced to question what they truly believe...

Crisis of Faith is the second part of the Time and Tide series. 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Seth A. Feldman
• Release date: Nov 11, 2019
• ISBN: 9780996671958

Book preview

Copyright © Seth A. Feldman, 2019

By Seth A. Feldman

All rights reserved. This book or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the publisher.

ISBN-13: 978-0-9966719-5-8

www.sethafeldman.com/timeandtide

Front cover art by Darko Tomic

http://paganus.weebly.com

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events, and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.

Dedicated to my soul brothers Doug Hall and Bill Houghton, for years of brotherhood and support.

Keeping a Promise

A very special thank you to the friends and readers who have supported me thus far through the early stages of this series:

Ana-Maria Mira

Arianna Lavigne

Arlene Feldman Greene

Ashleigh Marie Rackliff

Ben Feldman

Bethany Bailey

Beth Bellmore

Bonnie Sullivan

Charlie Doell

Christopher Dion

Christine Feldman

Christine Fusco

Cynthia Raymond

David Duhamel

David West

Debbie Finley Jarboe

Deirdre Littlewood Dastous

Doug Hall

Elina Laaksonen

George Mansfield

Ilene Feldman

Jackie Cherepinsky-Schmidt

JD and Sara Bresslin

Jeff Feldman

Jeff and Kimberly Michaels

Jeffrey Tokarz

Jennie Lindsay-Kelley

Jennifer Reardon Lavigne

Jeremiah Rackliff

Jim Graham

James E. McLaughlin III

Joel Feldman

Josh Gibney

K.A. Neeson

Krista Strobel

Kristina Connors-Snyder

Kurt Van Egmond

Luke the Lone

Lynn Dion

Matthew Hanson

Margie Tomasello

Meghan Marceau Greenhalgh

Nicole Roscioli

Remmy Meggs

Rob Groves

Scotty Theodore

Shari Irsay

TER

Tiffany Bacheller-Harris

Valerie Greene

Virginia Penrod

William Kingsbury Houghton

CONTENTS

PART I: WINTER’S BITTER KISS

Chapter 1: Time Was...

Chapter 2: Unexpected Grace

Chapter 3: Restitution

Chapter 4: Diplomatic Effort

Chapter 5: A Royal Gathering

Chapter 6: Breakdown

Chapter 7: Infectious Behavior

Chapter 8: Inch by Inch

Chapter 9: Incognito

Chapter 10: Gathering Storm

Chapter 11: Dangerous Games

Chapter 12: Home

Chapter 13: High Noon

Chapter 14: From Below

Chapter 15: Far from Summer

PART II: TIME OF DOUBT

Chapter 16: War Council

Chapter 17: Nira’s Victory

Chapter 18: Long Distance

Chapter 19: Unlikely Allies

Chapter 20: Loss of Control

Chapter 21: Empty-hearted

Chapter 22: Trial by Conscience

Chapter 23: What Was...

Chapter 24: Overture

Chapter 25: Blood and Steel

Chapter 26: Aftermath

Chapter 27: Beneath the Mask

Chapter 28: Like the Wind

Chapter 29: Puzzle Pieces

Chapter 30: End of the Road

Chapter 31: Premonition

Chapter 32: Nira’s Redemption

Chapter 33: Love and Loss

Chapter 34: Foreboding Questions

Chapter 35: Fresh Tides

Chapter 36: The Dark Path

Part I

Winter’s Bitter Kiss

Chapter 1

Time Was...

I’M BACK AT the beginning.

The words resounded through Leah’s mind, but she couldn’t find the proper context for them. Was she back at the beginning of life? The beginning of time?

She stood on an ornate balcony, gazing over a regal hall. Matched rows of columns framed the center of the chamber, each stone pillar stretching from the polished floor tiles to the wooden rafters above. Purple banners with gold trim hung between the columns, rippling even in the stillness of the air, as though a breeze from the hills somehow penetrated the stained-glass radiance of the windows. At the far end of the room, a red-carpeted dais formed of five rounded stairs supported a silver throne decorated with emeralds and rubies.

What a grand place, she said. I swear I’ve been here before.

Her voice sounded hollow as it echoed through the hall, and her surroundings blurred in and out.

She was dreaming again.

Behind her, an archway framed by two potted trees led deeper into the palace. The boughs, long and thin, sprouted up the granite wall, bending to form a twining knot of leaf and bark above the arch. To Leah’s left and right, identical staircases led away from the balcony, curving down to the regal chamber below.

As she approached the staircase to her right, she glanced at her clothing. She was wearing a lavish red gown adorned with ruffles around a low-cut bodice. Her soft velvet slippers tapped against the stairs as she descended. Lifting her hands from the ebony bannister, she reached up to find her raven hair fastened into a bun.

She stopped on the ground floor, staring across the hall at the vacant throne.

Are you going to sit down? a voice asked.

She turned to find Cain Forester standing beside her. He was wearing the same garments in which she was accustomed to seeing him: protective leather, loose enough to accommodate quick movements.

Sit where? she asked.

On the throne, of course.

It doesn’t belong to me. Glancing around, she wondered, Is it always this empty? I wonder where everyone is. When she faced him again, she noticed his palms were sticky with blood. Cain, your hands?

He grimaced at the blood. I know. I can’t seem to get rid of it.

Bronwyn told me what happened to Strife-Son, she said. Why did you do it?

Justice. Turning away from the throne, Cain added, Well, if you’re not going to sit down, we should leave.

I suppose we should, she agreed, following him out of the chamber.

Like the throne room, the corridors were deserted. As Leah wandered the palace, she saw that she was surrounded by great wealth. Fine oil paintings and alabaster statues brought beauty to the splendid halls, but she struggled to discern the details.

They descended a long staircase, down below the ground floor, and crossed through an ornate gallery. The corridor led into a square chamber lit by long, twisting candles. Above, a domed ceiling was painted to resemble the night sky, with stars, planets, and heavenly bodies rendered in gold-flecked paint that glimmered in the firelight. A podium at the center of the room bore a crystal compass and a bronze astrolabe.

I remember this room, Leah said. The sky-dome. They would bring these tools up to the roof and chart the heavens. Then, they would paint the constellations on the ceiling down here and meditate upon their meaning.

Help me! Cain gasped, vigorously rubbing his palms against his clothing. The blood... it burns!

She unhooked her gown and slipped the garment from her shoulders. Underneath, she wore a loose slip, as soft as silk and as white as the purest ivory. Cain snatched the gown and scrubbed his hands with it. The blood vanished.

It will return, he said. When I help Silas Glenville to hurt other people for my own selfish reasons, it will return. When I murder the woman who killed my parents, it will return.

Then you must change your path, Leah said, or learn to live with it.

Leaving her gown in a heap, they wandered out of the sky-dome and into the corridors again. Before long, they came to an intersection at which three staircases led back up to the main floor. One ascended forward, the others to the left and right. I remember this too, Leah said. I remember this whole castle.

Whose castle is it? Cain wondered.

I don’t know, she said. I’m only certain of one thing.

What?

Gazing at the three staircases with reverent eyes, she declared, This is where I died.

When they reached the top, the sound of a distant chaos reached Leah’s ears. Clanging metal, shouting voices: the sounds of battle. At first, she thought it was coming from inside the palace, but she soon realized that it must be outside.

What is that? Cain asked, cocking his ear.

The end of an era, she said.

Drawing his sword, Cain sprinted down the passageway in search of the fray. Leah raced after him, her white slip fluttering around her thighs as she navigated the labyrinth of halls with inexplicable familiarity. At some point, she overtook Cain. Though she sensed him falling back, swallowed by the shadows behind her, she was unable to stop her flight. It felt as though she was under the will of some other consciousness, acting out a drama that was destined to occur... or had already occurred.

The din grew louder when she reached the foyer. Weapons clashed. Voices roared with hatred. Throwing her weight against a set of twenty-foot oaken doors, she stepped outside and into a scene of chaos.

Dark clouds hung low over a green highland, under which the palace grounds were overrun by a monstrous battle. Hundreds of men clashed before the gates, ravaging one another in a fury of crimson rain. Some of the warriors were armored swordsmen, bearing fine shields decorated with the sign of a balanced scale. The opposing warriors wore leather skins and fought with axes and spears. They were shaggy and muscular, like beasts, and each one bore vivid red tattoos. At the center of the fray, an armored captain battled a massive barbarian.

Stop! Leah cried, but this time, her voice was not her own. Stop it! You’ll ruin everything!

The sky flashed, and a bolt of white lightning struck the battlefield, sending the combatants scattering. In its wake rose a ten-foot-tall woman with clawed wings and razor talons. Hair of blue flame blazed atop her head, above a gaunt face with a hanging maw that contained two forked tongues and row upon row of stiletto teeth.

Leah recognized the she-demon. She had seen the thing in a nightmare, or perhaps the memory of something long buried. Gods, no, she whispered. I remember now.

The Divine Fury.

Soaring across the battlefield, the she-demon descended upon Leah with black fluid dripping from its mouth. Its fingers clenched into claws.

DECEIVER! it wailed. NOT EVEN THE HEART OF DESPAIR CAN DESTROY HOPE!

Thoughts raced through Leah’s mind faster than she could decipher, and, as they whirled, she was crushed by a visceral desperation. The she-demon raised her talons and unleashed an ear-splitting howl.

Release me! Leah cried.

With a wave of cosmic rage, the monster plunged her talons into Leah’s flesh and ripped her to pieces.

She was awoken by her own scream.

The echo of a distant thunderclap rang in Leah’s ears. She was disoriented, but a quick appraisal of her surroundings revealed that she was right where she belonged: on a comfy featherbed in The Fox and Goose Inn, just days from the royal city.

She sat up and rubbed her head. Rays of afternoon sunlight peered through the window. In the days since she had left Parabella, she had been plagued by steadily worsening nightmares. The specifics of this dream were already scattered into the same subconscious realm where the others had been lost, but she sensed they were all telling a similar story. A castle, a battle, and a terror from the darkest recesses of her mind. What did it all mean?

She wandered to the window and rested her forehead against the cool glass. Outside, the woodland to the north had shivered away many of its leaves, displaying a tangle of naked branches among the reds, yellows, and brittle brown foliage. The sun was setting earlier every day, and the fading colors brought loneliness upon Leah. She and her friends had been traveling for fourteen days now, quickly crossing the three hundred and fifty-seven long miles that lay between Parabella and Nedo. The trip was less demanding than her flight from Sealight Cove to Parabella, but even moving by horse and carriage was exhausting. Cain was as supportive as he could be under the weight of his own problems, while Ben and Marion continued to treat Leah like family, but she couldn’t shake the sense of isolation.

You would understand these nightmares, Father, she whispered. You always had the answer.

The busy town of Brickmill Cross lay on the bank of the Winshaw River, a small but well-used waterway running east from Lake Eryll and north into the southernmost hills of Galanie Province. Though small compared to a sprawling city like Parabella, Brickmill Cross was vital to the prosperity of Bowen Province. Located at a four-way crossroad roughly two days west of Nedo, the city was an active waypoint for goods coming into the province from every corner of the kingdom. To the east, a sizeable garrison at Whitewood Stronghold policed the region, working daily to foil bandits who were drawn by the constant stream of pilgrims and caravans going to and from the royal city.

Upon arrival, Leah had learned that there was, in fact, a brick mill in the town. It stood on the riverbed, and its owner partnered with The Fox and Goose to produce a locally famous sweet bread. The Fox and Goose was one of two taverns in town. While the posh establishment was known for its high-end food and board, its competition, The Back Door, was said to offer better ale and other less-reputable services.

Leah had been in Brickmill Cross since noon of that day, when her coach had rolled into the stables and her companions had chosen to settle in for the day. She had gone for her nap around three o’clock, only to be tormented by that recurring nightmare.

Shaking away the effects of the dream, she wandered downstairs and into the main room, which featured the largest dining area she had seen in any tavern. The lengthy central table had been decked out for a considerable feast, set with tankards, platters, and pewter cutlery. The tavern owner, Barton Rudge, moved with urgency, prodding his staff to prepare for some grand occasion.

What’s going on? Leah wondered.

Ah, Miss... Rudge scratched his chin, attempting to recall her name. He was a stocky-looking chap, with a mop of shaggy brown curls and a thick beard tinged with grey. To Leah, he looked more like a blacksmith, but he knew how to treat his guests. Godwin? No, Godfrey. You’re the one who came in with those hunters.

Right.

How was your nap?

Disturbed.

I’m sorry to hear that. Is there anything I can do? More pillows? Clean bedding?

No, it’s not the fault of the bed.

Sorry. I do have my hands full tonight.

I was wondering about that. Why the fancy table? Is supper always like this at The Fox and Goose?

No, Rudge admitted. Well, it’s usually busy, but I only take out my valuable crockery when we have an important guest.

How sweet, she joked. I’m just a peasant from a no-name fishing village.

Very funny, he said. No, Baron MacDougal of Arinnley has just arrived. He’s on his way to the king’s birthday celebration.

That’s where we’re going.

This month, that’s where most eastward traffic is going, he said. Anyway, Baron MacDougal has requested a feast to feed his retinue.

MacDougal, Leah thought. He’s that crazy noble who hates Niranites. The Guardians insist Nira is driving him insane for his sins against them. How many are they?

He’s got maybe twenty men with him, plus their companions, so I’d like to make a good impression.

I’ve never met Baron MacDougal, she said. In fact, I’ve never met any nobles except Duke Phillip.

They’re gathered out by the stables, if you want to talk to them.

I don’t think so, she sighed. If everything they say about MacDougal’s failing sanity is true, I’d rather avoid him.

I’m not one for rumors, he said. If he behaves himself... and his gold is good... he’s welcome.

Leah smiled at the recollection of Gracie Brooks uttering a similar sentiment when the Niranites ran afoul of the villagers back in Sealight Cove. The Fox and Goose was impressive, but she missed the quaint familiarity of The Ocean’s Breeze. Where are the others I came in with?

They went out to the shops, he said, pointing beyond the west wall of the inn. Something about the lady wanting a new winter coat. They didn’t want to wake you.

I could use a walk myself, she said. Are there any trails around here?

There’s a path that runs along the riverbank and circles the pond, Rudge said. Go out the front door and walk around the back of the inn, then follow the avenue to the water. Be back before dark, though; we’ve been having a problem with ruffians. Last night, a party of louts got kicked out of The Back Door for abusing the women. Might still be in the area.

Thanks for the warning, she said, wrapping her shawl around her shoulders and heading for the exit.

Don’t take long if you want supper, he called, or the Baron’s contingent might eat it all!

Exiting the tavern, she wandered around back, out to the avenue, and made her way north until she came to the Winshaw. The river was narrow here, and a rustic stone bridge spanning no more than thirty feet took her safely to the other side. As she crossed, she glanced west to see the waterwheel on the mill churning the current. She suspected the water was as cold as it looked; after all, it was the 8th of Last Bounty. Autumn was well underway, and winter was approaching.

Following the riverbed to the town pond, she passed an empty wooden bench at the water’s edge. There, she sat to collect her thoughts. Since her father’s death, she had lived through the most mystifying time she had ever known. The past few months had been filled with strange happenings and unanswered questions. Sadly, she still felt unprepared to deal with any of it.

Oh, Father, you’ve gone beyond my reach, she whispered, but I need you more than ever.

Chapter 2

Unexpected Grace

WHEN CAIN AND his friends return to the inn, he was amused to learn that Leah had wandered off again. Ben was predictably exasperated, while Marion was concerned, but, after everything Leah had been through, Cain was relieved to see her exhibiting familiar behavior. Marion went on to voice concerns that their inquisitive friend would run into trouble again, but Cain doubted Leah would get herself lost, poisoned, or nearly sacrificed this time.

I might have known, Ben grumbled when Rudge informed them of Leah’s departure. Do we have to put a leash on her?

Marion smacked his chest. She likes to explore. So do you.

I’m careful, Ben said. Leah just roams around until she gets robbed and falls into some ancient tomb.

I suppose we should go find her, Cain said. She’ll miss supper if she doesn’t come back soon.

That’s a good point, Marion said. She didn’t eat breakfast this morning. There’s no telling how much food will be left once the MacDougals have a go.

On cue, Duncan MacDougal’s armored soldiers began to file into the tavern, most of them bantering about how hungry they were and how good the food smelled. Because they were headed for the king’s celebration, many of them came with wives or companions.

Oh, hell, here they come, Cain muttered. We’d better get to the table.

I’m sure Barton will save a few plates for us, if we have to look for Leah, Marion said.

I want first crack at it, while it’s hot.

That’s right, Cain, a voice answered. ‘Cause it’s always about you, ain’t it?

Cain spun around, ready to insult whoever had challenged him. The offender was indeed one of the visiting soldiers, sporting the scaly MacDougal dragon proudly across his chest, but the face was familiar. That bright highland skin tone, the thick black hair falling across his forehead in a tangle of curls; it was a face Cain had known since childhood.

Angus McCrimmon? he asked in disbelief.

"Aye! Who else would stop and talk to you?"

They, thumping each other fitfully on the back.

What the hell you doin’ here? Angus wondered.

We’re on our way to Nedo for the celebration, Cain said. What about you?

Same thing.

Yeah, but why are you traveling with the Naphburn guard? And why are you wearing MacDougal armor?

Joined the army, mate! I work for the baron, now.

You what? What happened to the shop?

I sold it, Angus said. Became a soldier.

Why would you do something like that?

Better pay, I should say, answered another voice.

Cain’s stomach clutched, and his heart nearly stopped at the sight of the wispy auburn beauty who stepped before him. He recognized her bangs, which fell gently above a pair of warm doe’s eyes. Those kind eyes had always captivated him, and the cascade of freckles down her cheeks made him smile now as surely as they always had. Her dress hung over her slender body, clinging to the fragile form beneath. So delicate, he recalled telling Leah, that you want to tell her not to go out on a windy day because the breeze might carry her away.

It’s good to see you, Cain, she said, reaching out to hug him with reedy limbs.

Hannah... His tongue tied itself in knots. You came too?

Obviously, she grinned, unless your hallucinations have taken on a life of their own. Reaching for him again, she added, Now, come on, are you going to leave me hanging?

Hug the girl! Angus said, pushing Cain against her. You got my permission.

Cain’s cares melted away as Hannah pressed herself against him. The rigors of travel, the trauma of his battle against Clan Rygga; for the first time in weeks, it all seemed so small. I’m glad you’re here, he whispered. I can’t tell you how badly I needed to see you. Pulling out of her embrace, he clapped Angus on the shoulder. Both of you.

We heard about that mix-up with the Guardian Niranites, Angus said. I guess Clan Rygga is gone, then?

Guess so, Cain uttered.

It’s all Lord MacDougal will talk about, Hannah added. He considers it a great victory for Tora Danya.

The hunters aren’t so sure, Marion chimed in. We’re still waiting to see how the rest of the Guardians react.

Forgive me, Cain said. I should introduce my friends. This is Marion Golding from Parabella, and that fellow talking to the innkeeper is her fiancé, Ben Thornhill.

Cain’s mentioned you, Angus said, shaking Marion’s hand. Good to meet you.

You too, she said. Cain speaks of you often.

So, how did you get lucky enough to come on a festival assignment? Cain asked.

Angus shrugged. Just put in a request. MacDougal was pleased with my conduct, and he rewarded me. Wrapping his arm around Hannah’s waist, he said, Still, I told him I wasn’t going anywhere without the wife!

Hannah’s laughter warmed Cain’s heart, then shattered it.

You still live in Naphburn? he asked.

Still own the house, Angus said, but we’re stationed in Rosevale this year. I’m part of the garrison that guards the Quently Iron Mine.

Rosevale is a nice town, Hannah said. We’re renting a little house there. But I can’t wait to get back to the city.

As the last few soldiers entered, they were followed by a bear of a man whom Cain recognized as Nathaniel Quinn, MacDougal’s chief lieutenant. A bushy brown beard hid much of his pock-marked complexion, and his arms, bulging with veins, were covered in coarse hair. His head, by contrast, had been shaved down to the pores. So many puffy pink scars streaked his head that Cain often wondered if someone had tried to scalp him.

RISE! Quinn boomed across the room.

The soldiers rose to attention.

In came Duncan MacDougal, the Baron of Naphburn, Arinnley Province’s capital city. He stood a foot shorter than Quinn, though with a powerful frame of his own. His short-cropped hair was a similar hue to the luxurious brown fur that hung over his shoulders and trailed down his back, stopping just short of a tartan kilt fastened around his waist.

Thank you, Quinn, he said, clapping his hands together. Well! It looks as though Mister Rudge has set out quite a feast for us.

Cain leaned closer to Angus’s ear. He seems to be in a chipper mood tonight.

One of his good days, Angus whispered.

How accurate are the rumors of his growing insanity? Marion quietly asked.

He’s not the same man he used to be, that’s for sure, Angus said.

In what way?

Paranoid, Angus said. Thinks there’s Niranites under his bed. He’s doubled the watch on the streets of Naphburn, arresting anyone he deems a Guardian sympathizer and personally interrogating them. Not much anyone can do about it without involving King Joseph. A few people have even been thrown into the baron’s dungeon.

Damn, Cain said, checking to see that MacDougal wasn’t listening. You be careful working for him. I don’t want to see you in jail.

Don’t worry about me, Angus muttered back. The baroness still has a clear head on her shoulders. She keeps order in the city.

Where is Lady Annika, anyway? Cain asked.

She and Duncan got into a horrible row just after we arrived, Hannah said. She stormed off.

Saw her heading over to Whitewood, Angus said. Wish they weren’t so obvious. Ain’t normal for nobility to scream so much. People are going to know there’s a problem.

People already know there’s a problem, Cain said. When have they ever gotten along?

It’s only gotten worse with the baron’s crumbling mind, Hannah said.

Do you believe insanity is causing the baron’s erratic behavior? Marion asked.

What else could it be?

Who can say? Cain muttered. The Guardian Niranites think Nira is punishing him.

Angus laughed loudly, drawing the attention of his baron. Apologies, Lord, he said. Bit of a joke.

No trouble out of you, McCrimmon! Duncan replied, returning the laugh. Sit, my friends. Enjoy the food.

As steaming portions of bread, mutton, and potatoes were brought out, Cain watched Hannah out of the corner of his eye. I can’t believe she’s here, he thought. We’ll be at the king’s celebration together!

Come on, let’s dig in, Angus said. This food won’t last long.

Hold on! Ben interrupted, rapping his knuckles against the tabletop. Someone has to find Leah before she misses supper completely.

Forgot all about her, for a second... Cain realized. We don’t even know where she went.

Barton says he sent her out to the trail that runs along the riverbank and circles the pond, Ben said.

I did tell her to be back before dark, Rudge replied. The trail also goes to the woods. She might have gotten lost.

Ben slapped Cain on the shoulder. You take the trails. I’ll take the streets.

What about the woods? Marion asked.

After what happened in the Greenmist, I would hope she’s learned better than to walk into the forest unprepared, Ben said.

The baron was listening to every word. Hold on a moment. He fixated on Cain. Um... Forester, right?

That’s right, milord, he bowed. Cain Forester.

Yes, I remember you from your days in Naphburn. You’re a hunter now, aren’t you? One of Daniel Janssen’s men?

Indeed.

What’s this about? Has a friend of yours gone missing?

She does it a lot, Cain said. We’ll track her down.

Well, it’s getting dark out, Duncan said. Quinn, why don’t you help the hunters find their friend?

The lieutenant looked surprised that his meal was being interrupted before it had scarcely begun. Grimacing, he threw down his fork and stood up. Very well, milord. I’ll search the woods.

Save us some food, Barton! Cain called. I’ll pay you extra!

Chapter 3

Restitution

THE TRAIL TOOK Leah into the local woods. She recalled Rudge’s warning to be back before sunset, but there was still some daylight remaining. Besides, nothing about the area seemed dangerous to her; she found Brickmill Cross to be a perfectly delightful community. Every town had its scavengers, but, from what she could see, the nearby garrison’s vigilant soldiers kept the streets clean.

She found these new woods to be different from the Dunwood back home, as well as the Greenmist Forest surrounding Parabella. Here, deciduous oaks and elms seemed more common, and there were noticeably fewer evergreens. The trails were well-used, wide open and clear of vegetation. A number of maples were marked for the syrup harvest to begin midwinter. To Leah, it seemed a cheerful place.

Alone with her thoughts, she considered everything that continued to haunt her at night. So far, nothing new had come to light regarding her father’s death, or what he was doing with the foreign herb called acadium. Once she and the hunters arrived at the royal city, they would continue their investigation, but she was growing impatient with the lack of progress. As if that mystery wasn’t worrisome enough, news of Clan Rygga’s demise was traveling quickly. During the trip, she and her friends had heard about Duncan MacDougal’s proclamations that time was up for Niranism. Counterclaims from the Heretics and the Guardians had also come in. As expected, Edmund Rourke claimed his Heretics would never repeat Rygga’s mistakes, while Caleb Storm swore vengeance against the Monarchy for the destruction of another Guardian clan. Leah thought they were all crazy. Still, personal experience had taught her that the Heretics might be the sanest of the bunch. Edmund Rourke, at least, had treated her with respect on the bank of the Antinee River.

One thing that did give her pause was the memory of Arthur Merring. The albino had killed her father, his erstwhile partner, and once Leah had escaped with his satchel of mysterious notes, Merring had shown great interest in seeing her dead too. However, the albino’s murderous intent had eventually transformed into a desire to know her better. She still struggled to understand how he had known about the birthmark in the small of her back. Merring’s murder of Jonah Godfrey had long since been reported, but he had yet to be caught.

Then, there was Cain. He hadn’t been the same since the final combat with Rygga. The hunter Bronwyn Ryan had confided in Leah that Cain himself had cut Wolfe Strife-son’s beating heart out of his chest. While this seemed poetic justice for the victims Strife-son had sacrificed to his twisted version of Nira, the fact that Cain could have stooped to such a level, even in a moment of rage, frightened Leah. Just how much anger was her friend hiding?

Leaning against a knotted tree, Leah faced the red sky and sighed. All I’ve done is remind myself of how much we have to sort out. If I don’t get a peaceful night’s sleep soon, what good will I be?

Well, well, called an amused voice. Here’s a nice one, Rhys!

Leah turned to see a pair of shabby men coming down the path. How had they ventured so close without alerting her? Had she been so distracted?

Hey, pretty girl! one of them called. Leah couldn’t tell whether his skin was of a darker tint or he was simply filthy. Whatcha doin’ out here?

You’ll frighten her, Rhys, said the second, a greasy man with spikey blond hair. Don’t worry, luv, he won’t hurt you.

Nah, I won’t hurt ye, Rhys returned. But Cass, here, he might.

Excuse me, Leah muttered. She turned away from them and started back to town.

Where you goin’, luv? Cass said. It’s rude to walk away when someone’s talkin’ to you.

Leah quickened her pace.

Aw, come on! Rhys teased. We just need someone to clean the cabin! We’ll pay ye!

I’m not interested! she shouted back.

Aww, Cass cooed, stopping his cohort in the middle of the path. She’s right, mate, we shouldn’t be botherin’ young girls. You go on back to Brickmill, dear!

Leah walked on, ignoring them until a bearded oaf came barreling out of the trees with a mighty roar. He collided with Leah and locked his massive arms around her. She screamed, hopelessly fighting to squirm free.

Oi, Jamie! Rhys shouted. Don’t spoil your appetite, it’s almost suppertime!

Cass signaled for Jamie to release Leah. Easy, he said. Let her go.

Jamie obeyed. Just havin’ some fun.

Leah searched for some way to escape, but they had her surrounded. Let me go, she insisted. If I don’t return to town, my friends will come looking for me.

You’re much prettier than the girls at The Back Door, Cass replied, pulling a lock of her hair gently through his fingers. What’s your name?

Alright, she decided. For now, maybe playing along is safer than shouting at them. Leah.

Leah, he repeated. Beautiful name, eh? Reminds me of meadows. I’m Cass. That’s Jamie and Rhys.

Hallo, miss, Jamie cackled, waving his fat fingers in front of her face.

I’m warning you. I... What now? Mister Rudge said that he was expecting Baron MacDougal this evening. Maybe... She lifted her jaw imperiously. I’ve come with the retinue of Baron MacDougal. If anything happens to me, my lord will hear of it.

MacDougal? Cass’s eyes narrowed. From Arinnley?

He’s here, Rhys said. Saw ‘im goin’ into the Cross when I was huntin’. But I don’t think this one was with ‘im.

I think she’s trying to trick us, Cass said.

She returned his gaze. Are you willing to take that chance?

He regarded her with intrigue for a moment, then laughed. Maybe you can help us, Leah, he said, crossing his arms and rocking backward on his heels. See, last night we got kicked out of this slop-house called The Back Door. We broke house rules, you see.

We was misbehavin’, Rhys chuckled.

We’re looking for some fun.

Leah surveyed them, noting the intent in their eyes. She backed into the ample belly that hung below Jamie’s tattered shirt. It’s not that I don’t understand, but I can’t help you.

Uh-oh, Jamie mumbled.

Here’s the deal, Cass replied. You come with us back to the cabin, right? You do everything we tell you, and maybe you walk out with some extra jingle in your pocket. Refuse, and we drag you there anyway, only you get no say in what happens.

No say, Rhys parroted.

Be a whore or be raped. Some choice.

Well? Cass asked, wetting his lips. What’s your pleasure?

Leah’s mouth moved, but nothing came out.

It’s gettin’ late, Cass said.

Please, Leah said. I just want to go back to town.

That weren’t a choice, Rhys growled, his mirth quickly changing to spite.

Hot tears collected in Leah’s green eyes. If you lay a hand on me, I’ll have you all executed.

Cass glared at her until she began to cringe. Take her.

Jamie snared her again with his sweaty arms. Leah thrashed from side to side, throwing a failed kick at Cass’s groin, but Jamie only squeezed tighter. Cass smacked her across the cheek, leaving a stinging red burn.

Let’s go, he commanded, before the evening patrol comes.

Uh... Cass, Rhys uttered, glancing around his obese cohort. Someone’s comin’.

Jamie turned around with Leah still in his arms, giving her a clear view of the armored warrior ambling up the path. Even from a distance, she could discern both his arrogant posture and his startling physique. For such a large man, he was closing fast, walking with a militant gait and a haughty expression. The hilt of a claymore poked over his left shoulder.

Scatter! Jamie hissed, still holding Leah.

No, Cass replied. Stay right there. One man ain’t gonna ruin our night.

Stopping before them, the soldier gazed down at Leah with lazy eyes. Miss Godfrey, I presume?

She twisted out of Jamie’s faltering grasp. Yes.

Although the soldier wasn’t as large as Edmund Rourke, the Niranite giant, Leah did note that he was brawnier than most men. Likewise, his voice wasn’t as deep as Arthur Merring’s, but he spoke with authority. His breastplate was crafted from fine steel, bearing the green and red insignia of a winged serpent. You should return to town. It’s supper time, and the hunters are worried about you.

Hunters? Rhys gasped. There’s guild hunters here?

Hunters don’t scare me, Cass said, standing boldly before the soldier. I fought a hunter once. Stabbed him in the eye with his own arrow.

Is that so? the soldier grunted, glaring down at him.

Pulled it right out of its socket, Cass said. You don’t scare me, neither. Let’s have it, hero: who are you to give me orders?

Nathaniel Quinn of Arinnley Province, he answered, chest puffed with pride. First Officer to the Baron Duncan MacDougal, and Lieutenant of Naphburn.

Come on, Cass, Jamie said, tugging him in the opposite direction. I heard of this guy. They say he’s never lost a fight.

Setting his hands on his hips, Cass said, Is that a fact?

Let’s just say my eyes are perfectly safe from your stubby little claws, Quinn sneered.

Cass met the expression with a wild-eyed stare. Three on one, mate.

Turning a hateful glare on him, Leah returned, Three on two, you son of a bitch!

You’re Arinnley! Cass challenged, spitting at Quinn’s feet. You got no power in Bowen Province!

I don’t require jurisdiction to save a young lady from being raped and murdered.

Drawing a knife from his jerkin, Cass squared off before Quinn. Go on, then, get your little sword off your back!

So you can stab me while I’m off-guard? Quinn said. I don’t need a sword to fight a sewer-rat like you.

The three of them dove at Quinn, Rhys wrapping his gangly limbs around one massive bicep as Jamie attempted to restrain the other. Cass raked his blade across Quinn’s left forearm, sending a splash of blood onto the soldier’s polished plate. Quinn grunted but didn’t cry out.

Hold him, Cass hissed, so I can open his throat!

Leah sprang to action, but before she could touch the bandits, Quinn delivered a nose-breaking headbutt that knocked Cass away. With little effort, he pulled his arm out of Rhys’s grasp and swung it across his body, striking Jamie in the face and sending him backward onto his rear. Rhys attempted to fumble his knife from its sheath, but he dropped the blade as Quinn lifted him off the ground, one hand around his belt and the other around his neck, and hurled him into the brush.

Cass came at him again, but Quinn raised his arm to deflect the stab. Then, sighting his enemy’s front wide-open, he put the bandit down with a boot to the solar plexus. By then, the rotund Jamie was back on his feet, unleashing a mighty roar as he clamped his hands around Quinn’s throat. The lieutenant struggled to free himself.

Leah groped in the underbrush for something useful. A rock,