Riders of Haven - Memories: Riders of Haven, #2

By Ashe E. Grace

After Urien's attack on Haven, leaving many injured in his wake, there is a rift among the Riders as they settle into their training. Aerrow's loyalties are questioned, trust is waning, and there is still the matter of Magnár looming in the background. When they are faced with a new threat, they also find new allies. Men of the water, a woman in white, the Riders will meet and attempt to forge ties with the Mareanas and the High Elves. Will Wander's past endanger it all? Will the Riders be able to handle these new territories? When it comes to telling the truth, it may hold more weight than anyone anticipated.

 

Then again, they are only memories.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Ashe E. Grace
• Release date: Oct 1, 2020
• ISBN: 9781777337100

Book preview

Riders of Haven - Memories

Riders of Haven, Volume 2

Ashe E. Grace

Published by Ashe E. Grace, 2020.

This is a work of fiction. Similarities to real people, places, or events are entirely coincidental.

RIDERS OF HAVEN - MEMORIES

First edition. October 1, 2020.

Copyright © 2020 Ashe E. Grace.

ISBN: 978-1777337100

Written by Ashe E. Grace.

Riders of Haven

Memories

W

By

Ashe E. Grace

Copyright © 2020 by Ashe E. Grace

All rights reserved.  No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other non-commercial uses permitted by copyright law.

Cover and interior design by Ashe E. Grace.

First Edition

ISBN: 978-1-7773371-0-0

To Sylvia and Alice,

For Keeping the Magic Alive

Prologue

"The objective for a Rider,

Be they from the East or West,

Is to protect the lives around them,

battle-worn with little rest.

And should they fall in battle,

Should a blade dare to find their heart,

We bring their ashes to the earth,

and it is here we part.

But I will remember the fallen,

Their greatness still alive.

Despite the ashes at my feet,

Their memories will survive."

-Sauro, Rider of the Western Sands

Chapter One

Stay low, I commanded my partner, grabbing my weapon, the last thing we want is him catching on to our ruse.

Fen let out a huff.  This was my idea in the first place, Aerrow.  Don’t you think I know what to do?

I grinned back at him.  He’s slyer than he looks.  If we make one mistake then Cayse’s efforts are for naught.

He seems to be keeping him occupied.  Let’s go now while we have our chance.

I nodded, slowly creeping out from behind the trough of water.  I looked over to the shorter Rider to see if he was following, finding him still by my side.  We had been planning this for days, anxious to get moving since our target was usually on his guard.  But since he trusted us as allies, it was easier to set him up.

We snuck up on our target, weapons in hand.  It was difficult getting him in position but thanks to Cayse’s effort we were able to follow through with the plan.

We stopped directly behind him, looking to each other for reassurance.

With a nod between us, we looked to the elf who kept our target busy.

Cayse winked, catching our target’s attention but he was immobilized with icy water drenching him from the head down.

Fennerick dropped his bucket onto Kaide’s head.  With love, from your brother Natch!

The three of us ran, laughing maniacally as Kaide spurted and flailed to grab us before ripping the bucket off his head and giving chase.

You dirty brats!  He exclaimed.  How dare you conspire with him!?

He paid us in silver!  Cayse let on.  And we needed it!

I felt a connection reappear in my mind.  Head towards the lift!  We have it ready for you three!

I relayed the message to the other two Riders before picking up my pace, having them follow behind me.

The pranking had been going on for two weeks, with each of us paid copious amounts of copper and silver to continue the game.  Natch and Kaide had been at each other’s throats as of late, all in good fun, but they made the mistake in getting us involved.

We jumped onto the lift, watching as the red-headed twin caught up to us but wasn’t fast enough to jump aboard the lift before it shot upward.

YOU ALL ARE DONE FOR WHEN I GET UP THERE!  Kaide bellowed.

The three of us laughed as the lift came to a halt, finding three dragons taking charge of the pully while we were away.

The blue dragon trotted over to me, nuzzling his head into my hand.  Are you safe and sound?

I kneeled down to the beast, scratching behind his large head.  Only because I put my trust in you.  Thank you, my friend.

He gurgled happily, nuzzling into my chest as Fennerick and Cayse began patting their own dragons.

It had been nearly nine months since I arrived in Haven, Cobalt now the size of a large dog.  I hadn’t noticed his growth spurt until I realized he was too heavy to carry on my shoulder, even blaming it on his weight at the time and forced him on a diet.

Sadly, it wasn’t just his weight.  Time had passed and he was just large enough now to be considered a hazard.  He was too big for his small nest on the shelf back home, and no longer could he fly around the bedroom to grab exercise.  He wasn’t large enough to ride yet, which was a bit of a let down, but he was certainly large enough to take down a stag.  Though, he still acted as if he were a tiny creature I was still able to carry around in my arms.

I chuckled as the large beast began nuzzling too hard, nearly pushing me over.  Honestly, Cobalt, you’re too big to be cuddling me like this.

I heard Fen chuckle as well while giving his own pets to Cynder.  Aw, just leave him.  He looks happy.  Besides, he probably misses the days where you could carry him around in your hood.

I miss it too, I won’t deny that.  I spoke morosely.  After all, when he was small, he was easier to have around.  Nowadays it’s a chore just getting him food.  He never stops eating!

Cobalt immediately took offense and pushed me onto my back, pinning me with his paw.

What was that, human?

I giggled at the playful tone in his voice.  You heard me, you over-ripened blueberry!

Blueberry am I!

The beast pounced on top of me, making me laugh as he tried to keep me pinned down with his full weight.  His wings flapped about to keep him balanced as he lightly pawed at my face, careful not to leave any scratches.  I could hear Fen and Cayse snickering at us while their own dragons started snorting and roughing around, a clear sign they were encouraging Cobalt’s antics.

I pushed the dragon off of me but only momentarily as he pounced on me yet again, this time going in to lap at my face like a hound.

I tried to push him away, dodging my face left and right.  Ah, come on Cobalt!  You know your breath stinks!

But how will you know I love you!?  Came his near sarcastic reply.

I finally pushed the beast off of me, wiping the dragon drool from my cheek while Cayse and Fennerick howled.

Before I could start a fight with them, there came a familiar voice from behind me.

Having a bit of a tussle, brother?

I looked up to see a pair of warm crimson eyes staring down at me through black tresses, thin lips quirked into a grin.

I smirked back at him.  Shouldn’t you be helping Zeke reorganize the library?

Wander pulled me to my feet, answering with, Yes, but I’m trading off with Niall to come train you.  Come along, we must go to the falls.

I rolled my eyes, wiping off the rest of the drool.  Mama Wander in his natural habitat dragging the youngling to the falls for training.

The man turned to glare at me while Fennerick and Cayse snickered at my words.  You know as well as I that I am far from being a parent to you lot.  It’s simply a habit for me to keep you all safe since none of you can care for yourselves.

Hey!  I did pretty well on my own before finding you two!  Fennerick defended.

Wander crossed his arms.  That’s why you snuck into our camp to loot our gear?

I was never- -!  Ach, what’s the point!?  He gave up, throwing his hands to the air.  Neither of you believe me anyhow when I say I was only going to ask for supplies.

I pat the Rider on the shoulder.  It’s fine, Fen.  It turned out for the better.  I’ll see you back at the Den.  Make sure your brothers don’t take my dinner shares!

As I walked off with Wander, I heard Fen promise me before he headed off toward the library with Cayse.  My guess was they were going to find Zeke and speak with him about our next lesson.  Knowing him, it was going to be interesting.

Cobalt followed beside me, ensuring I kept my pace above a shamble to keep up with Wander.

So, what’s the plan for today?

Meditation into peace of mind.  You’ll have to be under the falls to perfect this.  But don’t worry, I have faith in you.

I scoffed in retaliation.  Zephren is waiting for us there, isn’t he?

And he’ll be the one to heal you when things inevitably go south.  But I wasn’t lying when I said I had faith in you.

Of course you weren’t, I muttered, earning me a smack to the head for being cheeky.

Nearly nine months we had been here, consistantly training and working with the elders who watched over us.  It was hard to imagine that before this I was just some kid from a ranch, broken and battered, who now worked to help the resistance against our tyrannical monarchy.  Of course, it helped that Wander and the twins were with us.

With Wander having once been in the courts with Magnár, and previous leader to the Talons, he and the twins had been the most ruthless in the king’s armies.  Doing what was asked of them no matter the consequence.  This earned them a great many names to those fighting against the Tyrant King, Wander’s being ‘The Scourge of the Skies’.  It wasn’t until they lost their freedom, and then their companions, that they realized the destruction they wrought.

Well, to be fair, Wander found me long before he found Haven.

But if I hadn’t appealed to his better nature, neither of us would be here now.

I looked up at the man, smiling at the thought of our first meeting.

Wander noticed my staring and cocked an eyebrow.  What’s that smirk for?

I only smiled more.  We met over a year ago now.  You remember?

Hardly that much time, but I do remember finding a bruised little apple of a brat walking down the road towards Whitcreke.  Was that you?

I playfully punched him in the arm, making him chuckle.  Come off it, you know you’re glad you met me!

Indeed, he spoke fondly, ruffling my hair, I’ve always wanted to babysit a brat like you for the rest of my life.  It seems dreams do come true.

Cobalt gurgled out a laugh, making me roll my eyes.  Would you rather be babysitting Kaide?

Come to think of it, you do act your age much more than he ever has.  And you don’t smell as bad.

Come on, you love me!  Just say it!  I joked, poking at his shoulder.  Say you love me!

He smacked my hand away, smiling.  Honestly, you’re just as bad as the twins when they were younger.

I huffed at his words.  You act like you’re over centuries of years old when you’re less than ten over me.

As far as you’re concerned, I AM centuries older than you.  Try to remember I was once a Rider as well.

The man ruffled up my hair once again, mussing it up even more than Cobalt had when he tackled me.

This was why I enjoyed Wander’s company.  It was based on friendship and understanding between us, even if we hadn’t known each other for long.  With him I could be myself and have fun, even if he didn’t comprehend it sometimes. 

He had been the first to accompany me on my journey, making sure I was trained in the ways of archery and sword.  Along the way we found Fennerick, then the twins, and lastly the elven brothers – Cayse and Zephren.

The seven of us forged a strong bond.

I lived with Fen and his family since I had talked him into returning home when we found out he was a runaway from Haven.  Living together, I learned more about the person I befriended over the few months of travelling.  Case in point, I learned it usually took Fen an hour to fully wake up and realize he’s halfway through breakfast most mornings.  He hadn’t been like this on the road to Haven, so I assumed he never wanted to leave his usual warm covers.  Unfortunately for him, I was a lot stronger than he gave me credit for, and more than once I carried him to the dining table so he could eat and not make us late for class.

His parents were humoured by this.

As for Cayse, though he and his brother Zephren were wary of strangers, he had become my closest confidant when it came to things that were troubling me.  Following the incident some months back with the scrambled minds, I had been feeling guilty about it since it was my leaving that caused it all to happen, and Cayse took it upon himself to help me work through the feelings I had – generally just talking and lending an ear.  He helped more than I could ever thank him for, and I felt genuinely blessed to have such a sweet kid as one of my friends.

The tight-knit group we had created had grown even tighter once in Haven. 

We found Zephren by the mouth of the falls, a pair of towels on his left arm and his white hair tied up behind his head, showing off his long, pointed ears. 

He pushed a strand of hair away from his forest-green eyes, a grin quirking at his lips.  Ready for your training, brother?

I gave a curt nod, taking one of the towels from him.  Happy to see I’ll be training with you mostly.  Your grandfather is a good man, but his methods of teaching are… well…

Boring?  That’s an understatement.  He acknowledged glumly.  Back home in Elëndra, learning from him is a once in a lifetime opportunity.  It’s a bit different here in Haven, however, and I can see why Wander came to me for help.  Apparently, you fell asleep in class last week.

I looked over to the black-haired man. Yet he fails to mention he woke me up by smacking a ruler to the table, making me jump out of my chair.

Oh trust me, I never failed to mention it.  The cheeky bastard replied before pointing to the falls.  Off with you now.  I’ll stay here by the opening, if only to make sure no one starts peeking on you.

I growled at the man before turning to Cobalt.  Stay here with Wander.  I’ll be back in an hour.

The beast nodded, trotting over to the man to sit by his feet.

I looked over to the elf now.  Shall we?

Zephren gestured over to the entrance.  Let us begin.

a

Thanks for the lesson plan, Zeke.  I said as I pocketed the parchment into my side pack.  We’ll get it to Aerrow once he’s done his training.

The elder man huffed in annoyance.  If you ask me, he should be as free as you two are right now.  Who cares if he lost some control of his Shaping abilities?  We all go through moments like that at some point.

You weren’t there, Zeke.  You didn’t see what Wander and I saw.  My auntie is only doing what’s best for everyone.

Fen, you know as well as I do she’s only punishing him because she fears the lad.  People have been talking.

My heart sunk, making me look down at the wooden floor.  He never meant to hurt anyone.  It’s not in his nature to hurt anyone.

Well, he’s lucky you’re friends with him.  Gods only know what Belle would’ve done to him were you not there to defend his actions.

Yes, that thought was terrifying.

It had been months since Aerrow’s meltdown in the Spirited Wood but I couldn’t find it in my heart to blame him for his reaction.  That Talon Rider used him and had him believe his entire village was under Magnár’s thumb and ready to die.  Aerrow was manipulated and pushed into doing something he didn’t want to, for the sake of his friends and closest allies.

Uncle Byron had wanted justice for his betrayal, my aunt joining with him until I got in the way and explained everything that had happened beyond our sight.  Although it seemed more like a cry for help from me, even if it sorta was, they listened and took into account all that had happened and lightened his punishment.  Where he would’ve been lashed, he now spent the entirety of three months rebuilding and working to make homes for all the new citizens we now housed.  He did it all without complaint, fueled by the thoughts of it being for the people who had stood by him and helped him onto his feet when things looked bleak.

Save for one.

Said individual was helping the book-keeper shelve returned books at the moment, quietly listening in on our conversation and mumbling about something when Aerrow’s name came up.

Oi, Slade!  Zeke called.  Don’t ya know it’s rude to listen in on others conversation?!

The man growled back in response before training his eyes back to the shelves, rolling his cart of books away so he was out of view and earshot.

I didn’t like this man. 

When he first arrived, he had demanded a house and farmland to start up his business again, saying something about how we owed him since it was a Haven Rider who burned his place to the ground.  My uncle quickly put him in his place, explaining that if he wanted farmland then he would have to work for the house and acres we had beneath the surface.  He also stated that although it was possible to start up another ranch down here, it was near unlikely to come by good property for such since we didn’t have a lot of sunlight.  Slade saw he wouldn’t get his way, throwing a fit while demanding Aerrow repay him for all the damages he caused.

His daughter then punched him square in the jaw and told him to shut his trap.

And that was how Angela became my new favourite person.

Zeke gave a grumble.  I suppose you can’t change everyone.  He’ll be a shite-bag for the rest of his life.

He seems to have sorrow in his heart, Cayse replied quietly, maybe something happened to make him so unhappy.

Yeah, he lost his farm and all his produce.  I growled.  And then he has the audacity to blame Aerrow for it after torturing him for ten years.  Need I remind you about the blade-wire?

Cayse shuddered remembering all the scars on Aerrow’s back.  It’s not that I don’t think he didn’t deserve it, he relented, but he obviously has some pent-up aggression towards Aerrow.  I just can’t see why.

Because he’s young and can empty his bowels without breaking a hip?  Our elder humoured.

I rolled my eyes at him, wondering how he was allowed to be a teacher here.  I don’t think so, Zeke.

Cayse gave a sigh of resignation.  Perhaps we’ll never know.

I’m sure he’ll calm down eventually, came a familiar voice.

I looked over to the doorway of the library, finding Angela with her red hair twisted in a bun and her bright phoenix companion on her shoulder.  The silky violet cloth over her eyes blocking them from the world as her fiery beast watched on for her.

The Blind Seer of Whitcreke, a woman of strength and beauty, who now lived with us in Haven.  I had to admit, once she was cleaned up from her long journey, she was a vision.  She was tall, graceful, her hair bouncy and curled, and she gave off an air of kindness that seemed utterly lost in this world.  Aerrow had introduced her to Cayse and I some time after she arrived.  She was currently being trained in her own abilities as a Seer – an irony she was well aware of at this point – by another Oracle known to us as Merith. 

She ‘looked’ over towards her father, sighing heatedly.  I’m not sure why he acts this way, but as long as I’m around he won’t bother you too much.  He’s already conceded to the home Aerrow helped to build for us as an apology for Cobalt’s mistake, no matter how much he hated to accept it.  He’ll come around.  Eventually.

I crossed my arms, straightening my spine.  "Angela, I know you want to believe in the man.  He is your father.  But that doesn’t excuse his actions."

I understand, Fennerick, really I do.  She paused, collecting her thoughts.  But we all deserve a chance.  Right?

Everyone, save for Shard.  Came another, all too familiar voice.

I growled audibly, turning back towards the large shelves and tables of books to find Bardroy sitting by a stack of records, a manuscript in hand.  I hadn’t seen him when I first walked in but that may have been because he was hiding from me.

After all, finding a new confidence in my abilities, I was now able to throw him to the ground in training more times than I could count.

Well, more than he could count anyhow.

My eyes narrowed at the taller Rider.  You know he hates that name.

He glanced down at his book.  It’s better than what others have been calling him.

I gave an indignant sigh towards the tawny-haired man.  I won’t hear another word out of you, Bard.  Aerrow paid his price, and he’s paying even more with his training.

He takes an extra few hours to hone himself.  That doesn’t mean he isn’t dangerous.  He replied smugly, setting down his book.  After all, he let in those Talon Riders.

Fallen Riders, I corrected, and he didn’t let them in, my aunt did.  You know as well as I that they can’t do anything lest those marks she burned into them take their lives.

Marks which still haven’t disappeared even after months of approval from some in Haven.  He reminded, standing up to walk over to me.  Listen, Fen, I know you have faith in them, but you know as well as anyone that they still pose a threat.  And after what Shard did, running off to join the Talons, scrambling those minds, it’s a wonder why he wasn’t killed for treason.

He NEVER scrambled those minds!  I exclaimed, making the taller man step back.  And I’d advise you to tread carefully when it comes to talking about my friends!

Bard fell silent for a long moment before letting out a heavy sigh. 

"Fen, comrade or not, it doesn’t stop people from talking.  Urien could have been the one to scramble those minds, but it just doesn’t make sense.  He was far out of the way while Aerrow was here.  If anything, this makes him look more suspicious.  I’d like to point the finger at the twins or even Wander, but it is as you said.  Those marks would’ve killed them if they had anything to do with it."

The man walked passed me now, not bothering to give a second look as he headed for the door.

He then paused in his steps.

You’re a smart person, Fen.  Smarter than most.  Don’t be blinded by companionship.

And like that, he was gone.

Some part of me hated Bard for saying this.  Like he didn’t agree with showing companionship to anyone when he was just as guilty to doing the same.  Many of his own friends were losers and weak-minded dolts who didn’t know their arse from a hole in the ground.  Aerrow wasn’t perfect but at least he was loyal to those he cared for.

Which was much more than I could say about Bardroy.

A hand on my shoulder brought me from my reverie.

Leave it.  Cayse spoke quietly.  We know the truth.  Aerrow may have lost control but he certainly wouldn’t invade another’s mind, let alone shatter it like those victims.  Urien just got lucky.

Cynder’s voice entered my mind in order to agree with Cayse’s words, jolting me a bit as I’d forgotten about our link.  Dragons and other beasts weren’t allowed in the library so both her and Osiron were outside waiting for us to return.  Angela was allowed to have her phoenix with her, however, since this was her way of seeing the world.

I took a breath, calming myself.  Maybe, but I can’t help but think about his words.  We have a shield around us to stop sifters from entering our minds.  Yet, even with this, Urien still managed to invade Aerrow’s thoughts and nearly destroy the minds of all those guards.  Could there have been a tear in the shield?

No, not possible.  Zeke answered for me.  The shield is constantly checked.  It’s part of my duties as an elder.  Niall and Azrel have the same job.

"So then, how did he get through?  How does he know where Haven is, but not exactly where Haven is?  It doesn’t make sense."

It does if you’ve got someone on the inside, Angela replied quietly, it’s not unheard of.

We sift the minds of all who wish to enter our borders, Zeke informed as he leaned against a desk, it would be near impossible for us not to catch someone with intent to harm.

Have you found any like that before?  She asked.

Many, the elder answered, only once we do, we sever the memories they have of finding us, then throw them into the Spirited Wood.  They either get lost and perish or find their way back to the Capital.

Then a spy couldn’t get through here.  Not without getting caught anyhow.  I thought aloud.

Maybe.  Maybe not.  I can’t really say.  Belle and that husband of hers are keeping everything hush at the moment.  If it was Urien or someone else, I wouldn’t really know.  They have parliament meetings about it, keeping them to a select few.  Apparently, I am not to be trusted.

Why not?  Cayse questioned.

The elder man let out a guffaw of laughter, scratching at his scraggly hair.  Because I’m not afraid to tell you lot what’s going on!  They know I like to gossip.

Good for you… bad for us, I remarked, especially with Aerrow as a suspect.

I’m sure this will blow over soon.  Now get going!  Gotta keep up with the renovations here.  New books from the Capital are coming in with informants so we’re getting new shelves up.  Oi Slade! Get yer head runnin’!  We need to start building!

I shook my head as the elder man walked off to bark at his worker.  I suppose he was right to tell me not to worry about this.  It was out of my hands anyhow.  I’m sure the culprit would be found and things could go back to normal.

I pat the elven Rider on the shoulder.  Come on then, we should head to the Den and wait for Aerrow.  Maybe get started on the weather project without him.

The chipper little elf saluted me.  Aye Captain!

An eyeroll surfaced from me.  I thought I told you to quit that.  I’m no leader.

You are when Aerrow’s not around!  He joked, giggling to himself.  "Actually, even when he is around you manage to keep us organized."

"Only because you two are hopeless without someone acting as an adult."

Not true!  The elf whined, crossing his arms.

Go ahead, make my point ever stronger by acting like a child, I mocked, a chuckle escaping both myself and Angela as the younger Rider whined once more.

Chapter Two

Sitting under the roaring waterfall made it exceptionally difficult to focus on meditation.  Zephren counted me lucky the falls weren’t as cold as the ones up north in his homeland.  Many elves had been left freezing or unconscious due to the waters up there.  One victim had nearly been Zephren and Cayse’s grandfather.

Thankfully Azrel made it out alive.

When the session was finally done, and I had dried off my freezing skin, I turned to the tall elf with chattering teeth.

I c-can’t believe your people d-do this r-regularly! 

Zephren merely chuckled, When meditating, we don’t feel anything.  which makes it easier to stay under the falls for longer periods.  Perhaps we should venture up north and find you some better water to rest under.

No way!  I replied strongly, holding the towel closer to my body in order to warm up.  I’m good here!

Zephren laughed at my reaction, drying off his hair.  Humans are so amusing.  You stand under a little cold water and you’re chattering like a rodent.  It’s a wonder any of you are chosen to be Riders, what with such weak constitutions.

I grinned through my trembling lips.  Well, m-maybe it’s because some of us have g-good hearts!

Well, you and Fen do.  And I suppose Wander and the twins aren’t so bad.  You all helped my brother and I when we needed it.  Don’t think I’ve forgotten your heroics in the past, either.  Helping my grandfather and then saving my life.  I can only wish all humans were like you.

That last part came out more hushed than what was said before it.  As though he didn’t want me to hear it.

I felt my body sink.  Knowing Zephren and his brother were victims of the elven slave trade made their distrust in humans understandable.  I greatly appreciated their friendship as I was the first human they thought to trust.  The slave trade existed due to the tyrant king making it legal to sell elves to people who needed cheap labour.  And since elves lived for hundreds of years, greatly outliving humans, they rarely had to be replaced.  Zephren and Cayse had lost their father to slavers when they fought back, leaving the two alone in the world until they met up with my group. 

It took some doing, but I managed to convince them I was worthy of their trust.

I swallowed a bit of worry before straightening up.  If you don’t mind my asking, would you… erm… …

Would I be willing to explain more about my time in captivity?  He finished, looking over to me from the corner of his eye.

I shrunk in on myself, leaning against a large rock and looking away from him.  It’s okay if you can’t

From one slave to another, I have no qualms with sharing my experience.  Do keep in mind, however, it was not a pleasant happening.

I looked back at him sorrowfully.  It never is.

He paused at my words, looking down at his bare feet.  I suppose you’re right.

He tied off the towel around his waist, walking over to me and sitting down against a large rock, I followed suit.  I already told you the slavers ambushed us some time ago and killed our father, yes?  After this we were tied back to back and thrown into a wagon.  I had no idea where we were going, but we weren’t fed or watered for a long time.  I suppose they thought to starve us so we couldn’t use our power to free ourselves.  With our hands tied behind us it would have been near impossible anyhow, but when they freed us from the binds I would’ve been able to properly dispose of them.  However, by the time we arrived to our destination, Cayse was unconscious and I was on the brink of starvation.

I shuddered at the thought, recalling the many times Slade had done the same to me.  I suppose it was a power thing, though I couldn’t quite understand it fully.  Why anyone would intentionally starve another person was beyond my reasoning.

Zephren sighed, fiddling with the ends of his towel.  "The slavers introduced us to our new masters, a married couple clothed in finery to which we were unaccustomed.  They were bright and gaudy, not simple and elegant like we were used to.  The woman was fat and disdainful, wearing makeup so thick she looked a fool.  Her husband was quite the opposite, tall and thin with a face stern and cold.  Of the two, he terrified me the most. 

They fed us and showed us around the plantation before setting us to work in the fields.  I thought that once the food got into my system that I’d be able to use my power again and set us free, but to my surprise no power flowed through my veins.  It wasn’t until much later that I figured out our new masters were drugging us with some kind of restrictive medicine.

That thought scared me as I had never heard of a drug which could ultimately make one’s power disappear.  Zephren was pretty powerful, so hearing someone was able to take it away from him was terrifying.

The elf growled audibly.  Once they knew we were powerless, they beat and degraded us like we were nothing.  No, worse than that.  I can remember the husband eyeing up Cayse, like he was a whore from a tavern.  It disgusted me.  My brother was too frail to fight back, making me nervous any time that bastard dared to go near him.  The man finally left him alone when he realized I wasn’t about to leave my brother’s side for any reason.  The other elves on the plantation never dared to help us in fear of angering the masters.  They saw what was happening to me, how many times I was lashed for speaking out or trying to defend Cayse.  And each time they saw me writhing in pain they did nothing to help.  Why would they?  They were just as terrified as anyone who had their power taken away.  So, my cries fell on deaf ears.

The elf then gave a huff of pride.  I’m almost glad I left them behind.

Although I could sympathize with Zephren’s anger, I wondered if he could have helped the others on the plantation.  Of course, there’s no telling what had actually happened and he had to look out for Cayse as well.

I leaned further back against the cool rock, glancing over to the tall man.  How did you escape?

Zephren paused, his eyes focussing on the ground.  The roaring water from the falls was not much of a distraction while speaking to each other, but now it seemed to be much too loud for the silence between us.

The elf bit down on his cheek, thinking.  I’m not so sure, to be honest.  I remember the night we escaped had begun with the master accusing me of stealing something from the house and dragging me into the kennels.  There he struck me with a worn leather strap until I was nearly unconscious.  Right before striking me into the darkness… …he fell over.  Dead.

Zephren bit at his thumb now, a nervous tick both he and his brother shared, though Cayse was seen doing such more often.  "When I looked around, I saw Cayse standing behind him.  Whatever he had done, it killed the master.

He grabbed my hand, pulling me to my feet, and we ran into the fields.  Once we were safe, he collapsed in front of me and I took him to the nearest town where, thankfully, there was a nurse who took pity on us and saved both our lives.  When Cayse came to, I asked him what it was he had done to the master.  Do you know what he said?

My ears perked.  What?

Zephren let out a small chuckle.  He gave me that innocent little smile of his, and said ‘He’s not our master anymore’.  I never questioned what he had done again, and he continues to tell people that I saved us.  I would like to know what he did, but I doubt I will ever get the story from him.  It matters little anymore.  After we escaped, I made us some money in that town by carving out wood in the shape of spirit animals, then gathered all we needed to make our way back home.

I grinned at the man, leaning my head on my hand.  But you chose to come with us instead?

Zephren scoffed with a quick eyeroll following.  I wouldn’t have dreamed of doing so if Cayse hadn’t found that egg and then heard your explosion in Jäenrr.  He actually stopped me by the arm and told me to go with him and check it out.  When I said no, he replied with ‘Fine’ then dropped his bag and ran after you.  I love my brother more than anything but dammit all if he ever just listens to me.

To be fair, I replied with a touch of humour in my voice, I’d be dead without him.

Knowing Wander, he could have healed you himself.

I chuckled.  I’m still grateful to you for helping me.  I wasn’t even aware then that Riders had power like I used.  I just thought we got a boost in our health and more time to spend in our lives.

There are perks like this, yes, but even a shut-in like you should have known Riders are powerful beings who control the arcane.  Extra years and healthier bodies are only a small by-product.

Apparently, or so Niall says, Riders can live up to as many years as elves can.  I replied smugly.  How does that thought make you feel?

Zephren chuckled to himself.  I’ll still be kicking around for another hundred-or-so more years, so I’ll let you know by then.

I blanched at this, feeling my stomach drop.  Wait… how… …how old are you?  I kinda assumed- -

One-hundred and nineteen, Aerrow.  And I’m still young!

I blinked in astonishment at the number, now wondering how old Azrel was if Zephren was his grandson.

But Cayse is fifteen!  Did he mean something higher!?  I asked incredulously.

No, he’s fifteen.  Zephren stated happily.  When we said he’s the youngest in our clan, we meant it.  He’s considered a baby in our culture.  And he won’t be a man for some time.

But how?  I mean- - I’m just…

Allow me to explain, young Rider, Zephren offered, fixing himself in his seat, elves live for a long time, longer than most humans can comprehend.  I believe the eldest High Elf in our clan is eight-hundred and sixty-two.  Because we live for so long, having children doesn’t really appeal to us until later in our years.  Two-hundreds are usually when we settle down with someone and have families.  Our parents, however, were not being too careful fifteen years ago.  And soon my brother was born.  I consider it a blessing as I’m the only elf in my small circle with a younger sibling.

Are siblings not something that happens often?

Zephren shrugged.  I never asked, but I’ve noticed most elves don’t have large families.  Maybe because we all consider each other family when we aren’t enslaved and forced to be beside one another.

Well, this explains a lot about Cayse.  I sighed.  He doesn’t like conflict, doesn’t worry a lot, and he’s usually so upbeat about everything.  He was treated like a child and so he acts like one.

Don’t fool yourself, brother.  Cayse is smart, and he’s not as childish as you may think he is.  He just sees the light for the darkness.

Meaning…?

Zephren let out an airy laugh, standing up from his spot.  I’ll tell you more about it later.  For now, we should head back inside.  Mama Wander is probably starting to worry about you.

You know he hates being called that, right?  I reminded the taller man as he helped me up.

I’m well aware, which only makes it more humorous.

A giggle escaped me as we collected our things and headed back to Haven.  It had taken a while for Zephren to come out of his shell, but it was safe to say he now felt comfortable in our little band.

And we were happy to have him with us.

As I slipped my shirt back on, getting frustrated with the sleeves since I was still damp from the falls, I heard a loud splash that didn’t sound like anything that could have come from the roaring waters.

I looked back to the lake, trying to see if whatever had fallen would surface again.  Did you hear that?

Hear what?  The elf asked.

I perked my ears, trying to hear for more splashing.  It sounded like something hit the lake.

Aerrow, it was probably just a stone or something.  We need to head back.

I ignored the elf, followed my instincts, and ran back to the lake’s edge to see if I could see anything out of the ordinary.  Rocks and stones didn’t normally fall from the top of the falls, and if they had they wouldn’t make the sound that I heard when they hit the water.  Rocks made a distinctive, heavy splash. 

But this sounded like someone smacked the surface of the lake with a large hand.

Peering over the water, my eyes caught something on the far edge where the small lake met with the river that jutted out and flowed into the forest.  It was difficult to discern what it was, but this thing resting at the water’s edge was not part of the normal environment.

I stepped out a bit more, looking at the large thing at the water’s edge.  Hey, Zeph… I don’t think it was a rock.

The elf joined me by the lake’s edge, looking over to the edge as well.  He seemed as dumbfounded as I was.

What in the name of the Goddess is that?

Keeping my eyes on the odd-looking thing, I took a few steps off to the side, going around the small body of water to get closer look at it.  From my new vantage point I could see it wasn’t just a thing, but a breathing thing.

And it looked to be in trouble.

Zephren followed as I trotted over to the breathing… whatever it was, and noted it was blue.  Not just one blue either, but a great many blues all shimmering in the light of the sun.  If I didn’t know Cobalt was waiting for me with Wander inside Haven, I would have thought this thing was him.

As I got closer and could make out details, I realized it was a person.  Not just any person though.  This person had odd-looking skin that shined like clear water and dressed in nothing but a dark blue cloth around his hips lined with gold.  There was a rather large, jagged-looking gold earing hanging off his left ear that hooked upwards and held an odd blue gemstone in it.  Around one of his arms was a gold band while another piece of gold jewellery hung from his neck.  There were more gold pieces which caught my eye, but what I hadn’t expected to see was long, thread-like fins protruding from his head and down his neck, while large gills on his neck were opening and closing desperately.

Zephren’s breath hitched.  He’s an elf!

What?!  I asked in shock.  Zephren, this- -!

He’s from the Mareana’s clan.  The elf explained, leaning down to hold a hand over the man’s gills.  He’s basically an elf of the water.  But I had no idea…

He said the last parts to himself before standing up and turning to me.  Stay here with him and get him to start breathing through his nose again!  I’m going to find assistance!

The High Elf ran for the falls, picking up speed as he dashed through the opening of the cave. 

Trying to come to terms with what I had just been told, I turned back to the… elf… and rolled him on his back to get a better look at him.

His chest was bare, the same shining blue as the rest of him.  His skin felt cold and slimy, like a fish to the touch, and it stuck to my hands as it dried out.  It was almost leathery but seemed to secrete a weird substance that made my own skin feel oily.

He was still gasping heavily, but when