Altered Kinships

By J. L. Shelton

While Garin hopes he can free the elves from Iantha’s evil influence, Mattie finds herself stuck with a princely bodyguard. Though not appreciated at first, it quickly becomes apparent that Renard’s presence in Crosshawk is a necessary evil. Sides are starting to form in regards to the coming conflict, altering many kinships during the process. No matter the eventual outcome, some things will never be the same.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Gatekeeper Press
• Release date: Sep 15, 2020
• ISBN: 9781662903618

Book preview

Epilogue

Chapter 1

Mathilda Hawksthorne Von Bos woke with a start! A dream had swirled through her mind, bringing with it both hope and despair. An intensely vivid one involving a battle between her husband, Garin, and his elven mother, Iantha—the victor ever changing from one to the other and then back again. The creepiest part was a third player standing just out of sight in the shadows, watching and waiting on the outcome.

Then her eyes widened even more after realizing she had fallen asleep on the couch last night! All the drama that had surrounded the Winter Solstice had obviously taken its toll on her. Thankful for the blanket that had been draped over her, she wrapped it even more tightly about herself when she sat up. Considering flames were flickering in the fireplace, her actions had nothing to do with the cold. They were due to the fact that she was already courting a scandal because there was a twenty-one-year-old man over in the kitchen. And with the dozen or more eggs still in their shells waiting on a nearby counter, he was obviously beginning to prepare breakfast.

A man who snorted when she unceremoniously inquired, You can cook!?

I would have starved on my travels otherwise, Prince Renard Braun said with a chuckle while he began to deftly chop up an onion. But in all honesty, Mattie, I’m making this peace offering because it’s better for everyone to not suffer an empty stomach while they deal with the upheaval my presence is sure to cause.

That phrase sounded so much like what Leto the Draconian had said when Mattie had first met the creature, it caused her to lower her head and use her auburn hair to shield her tears. Once again, the old dragon had taken it upon himself to interfere and change the Winds of Fate. Though it was partly for the Arduenna Kingdom’s sake this time. While his now-constant battle with Kern had saved both Garin and Renard, the Draconian’s other goal was to help break the millennia-long agreement Iantha had with the First One. Even if Leto ended up having the strength for only a little over a year to fully occupy Kern’s attention, that would be more than enough to prevent any more children being offered up as a tribute.

Silence came from the kitchen before Renard quietly quipped, "Mattie, I swear that my cooking isn’t that bad."

It’s not that. It’s just… Her voice caught, the sudden sob almost escaping. Taking in a shaky breath, she somehow managed to say, It’s just Leto used to have the same outlook on not having an empty stomach at times like this.

The sad chuckle had Mattie lifting her head in time to watch Renard bow his. It was still strange to see anything but derision on that royal face, but the remorse had been quite visible before his expression had been hidden from view. Unfortunately, that brought the fact that his hair was no longer as black as his half-brother’s into sharp focus. She still had no idea what had happened to this man that had caused his silky-straight strands to become a luxurious wave as white as newly fallen snow. Garin had refused to share any information, saying it was Renard’s story to tell.

And she doubted the prince wanted to reveal the complete truth to anyone.

Finally, Renard made an indeterminate noise before shivering and then getting back to his task. He moved the pile of onion bits to the side and then began to chop up some cloves of garlic. I wish I had talked to Leto more than a few times, he said with a sigh. He was definitely an interesting character.

As well as an annoying one, she said with a sad smile.

I could see that, said Renard before he turned and wandered over to the cupboard closest to the kitchen’s small fire.

He opened the cabinet and stared at the spices for a moment before pulling a few of the jars down. Mattie had to lean over to the side to see what he was doing, and she felt surprise that he was actually sniffing the contents of each one. He made a couple of humming noises before putting all but two back.

Watching him do something so human like reaching up to pull a bowl out of a cabinet, she realized that she had never before noticed that, despite the fact he was a couple of inches shorter than her husband and that his muscles were on the leaner side, the prince and Garin shared the same general physique. Because that sudden observation made her begin to wonder how all of Easton’s sons could be so much alike and yet so vastly different, she almost jumped when Renard suddenly asked, How much do you think everyone will eat?

About what you might expect for eight people, she said with a shrug. Though two of them are ravenous teenagers.

There was a soft snort before he said, Then all two dozen eggs it is.

By the time Mattie was done getting dressed for the day, the aroma of spiced sausage being browned was making her stomach growl. She wasn’t the only one brought out of hiding by the heavenly scent. After she closed the door on her bedroom, she heard the horrendous squeak! of the loose floorboard in the far western hallway. Her half-brother had moved quickly into his new room yesterday and was now briskly walking towards the promise of food.

Twelve-year-old Mikhail Hawksthorne was brought up short when Renard had turned around for a moment to grab the piles of carefully cut onion and garlic off the countertop. The kid’s mouth hung open, and it was moving without any sound. His hazel eyes were as wide as saucers while his brow quickly furrowed from confusion.

Yes, my hair is no longer the same color as yours, said Renard with a snort as he began to add the vegetables to the meat. But the best surprise is seeing with my own eyes that Garin was right about my true cousin being alive and well.

And you can cook!? was the bewildered boy’s only response to that.

Why do I have a feeling that particular question will be asked more than twice this morning? grumbled Renard while using a wooden spatula to move the sizzling creation around the enormous iron skillet he was using. His tone softened when he asked, How about one of you helping me out and getting that large bowl from the counter for me?

Mattie grinned when Mikhail swiftly went over to assist his cousin. When he looked down into the bowl, a look of utter revulsion appeared on his face. What is this yellow, speckled goop?

That is what eggs look like after you have whisked them together like mad and added spices to them at the same time, chuckled Renard as he beckoned the youth over. And I need that to complete our breakfast.

Sticking his tongue out, Mikhail picked up the bowl. Two dozen eggs wasn’t light, but luckily his surprise at the weight didn’t cause him to drop the container. Renard instructed the youth to ever so slowly pour the golden liquid into the hot pan while he kept stirring the contents the whole time.

After Mikhail began adding the eggs, Renard looked over at Mattie and said, Usually I would have drained most of the grease out first, but with winter just starting—every little extra bit of fat is important.

Still amazed that he was doing this chore at all, she shrugged. As long as it’s edible, I really don’t mind.

Mikhail was watching the pan intently before he made a noise of realization. You’re making a meatier version of scrambled eggs! he said excitedly.

Renard made a noise of affirmation before his young cousin moved back a step with the now-empty bowl. Rinse that out in the sink real quick and then fetch me a huge platter.

The front door opened while Mikhail was cleaning out the bowl. An enormous and muscular man wearing a leather vest entered the house, chuckling. Whoever decided to take over my cooking duties this morning seems to have some talent, if the delicious aroma isn’t deceiving me.

Then the white-haired mountain froze in place, his eyes widening when they fell upon Renard. The prince gave the newcomer a quick and respectful nod while Mikhail pulled a large platter out of a nearby cupboard. A red-haired and slightly smaller giant then had to push the other forward so he could also get into the house. It wasn’t until after the door had closed that he joined the other in gaping at the highly unusual situation.

Tobias Loganach, said Renard while nodding to the white-haired man. Then he did so again to the other living statue. Bran Brewer. It’s a pleasure to see you both again.

Bran barely stuttered out, You—Your Highness?

Tobias’ eyes narrowed as he strode forward, the tattoos on his arms beginning to glow. Renard didn’t glare back, instead returned the study with a frank expression. Yes, mage, said the prince after he instructed Mikhail to hold the platter steady. A great deal has happened to me since last we saw one another.

It seems we need to have a long discussion later, said Tobias as Renard began to transfer the contents of the skillet onto the serving dish. The nature of which will depend on how well your culinary skills compare to mine.

Renard let loose what sounded like a relieved snort and smiled, And after I talk to my father first.

And long after we eat, grumbled a fourteen-year-old girl who had just come out of her room. Selina Galleti was staring long and hard at Renard. And while Mattie didn’t think it was hate in the girl’s brown eyes, there wasn’t any trust in them either.

I agree, said Mikhail once Renard tilted his head towards the table. This smells so good I’m tempted to just get a spoon and eat this all myself!

Which would be beyond rude, brother, said Mattie with a chuckle. Let’s try not to have a duel first thing in the morning.

The youth shrugged before taking his burden to the table. Because Selina made it a point to give the prince a wide berth, Mattie quickly walked over to the cabinets in order to pull plates down for everyone. Tobias remained where he was, studying Renard while the prince was keeping the skillet over the fire so he could easily scrape off remnants of food prior to rinsing it.

Bran went to stand beside Mattie and started to pull out some forks, chuckling, It’s definitely a morning of surprises.

I’d say.

The stern voice caused Mattie to turn because it belonged to Lord Gregory Hawksthorne, her father. His arms were crossed while he was glaring at the unexpected guest standing in his kitchen. Mattie couldn’t see Renard’s face, but she could hear the slightest of quivers in the younger man’s voice when he said, Lord Protector. I hope this meal will be an adequate apology for not being able to give you ample warning that I would be visiting your home.

We’ll see, My Prince, said Gregory as he tilted his head, those eyes inspecting Renard intently. It depends on your reason for being here.

The response was immediate. Bringing a little girl back home to her family, though I wish my brother had decided to join me in this task as well.

Talk can wait, said Mattie after she saw her father’s jaw tighten. Food won’t remain hot forever.

Bran snorted before he took the plates from her. That sounds like something my mother would say.

She did practically raise me… grumbled Mattie as she took a second to stare pointedly at her father.

Excuse me, Lord Protector, but I must attend to this while it’s still hot, said Renard as he took the pan directly to the sink in order to rinse it off.

Everyone go ahead and start the meal, said Gregory with a grumble. I’ll be just a moment.

While her father disappeared back down the hallway and everyone else began situating themselves around the table, Mattie took a quick second to find one of the rags reserved for cleaning the ironware. Renard shot her a grateful look when she handed it to him, and he released an unsteady breath. The muscles in his broad shoulders were still tense, knowing as well as she that there was still one more difficult conversation yet to come.

One that was sure to be interesting after King Easton Braun the Second’s voice was heard coming from his room when he bellowed, "What do you mean my son has returned changed from whatever mad adventure he was on this time!? And when in the hell did he ever learn how to cook!?"

Chapter 2

Nearly a kingdom away from the impending mayhem at the Hawksthorne Estate, a muscular man with short, black hair was tightening the makeshift sling on an elf’s back. The three human children Garin and Renard had rescued from Kern’s realm needed to be returned to their loved ones as soon as possible. But with the plan to free Arduenna from an insane queen, Garin and Crius couldn’t afford to leave just yet. And Remus was needed to get two traitorous princes past the living border without the whole kingdom knowing that they had even entered, otherwise the element of surprise would be lost to them. Therefore, Silva Atradates and Marcel were the ones who were going to have to complete the most important mission.

What an ingenuous idea, mused Atradates as he tested the sturdiness of the straps about his shoulders. Was it yours, or was it your brother’s?

My brother’s, Garin readily admitted. He has made use of such items before in the past.

I had wondered much about Liberan after the rumor came to my ears that Wren was also Renard Braun, said the elf while moving a strand of silver hair out of his eyes. And more so since the Noble Guardian dubbed the prince, ‘Wanderer’.

Keep wondering, Silva, grumbled Garin as he fastened the final knot. After that not-so-subtle attempt to get more information, it was tempting to tighten the contraption enough to make it difficult for the elf to breathe. For the children’s sake, however, he refrained. Now, since the Von Bos Estate is the closest human holding, do you remember what I said to tell my father when you get there?

The elf let loose a quiet snort before saying, To start off with reassuring the Lord Baron that you were alive and well when I left you. That these children were ones you had rescued and that you trusted in his ability to discover their true families.

Garin let out a frustrated huff before growling, And?

To say his foster son is a brave and honorable fool?

Silva, I have no qualms about making it extremely difficult for you to ever speak again—regardless of what my eldest sister’s feelings would be about that.

A hearty chuckle was given in response. No need to carry out that threat just yet, Garin, said Atradates with a grin. I know to inform the Lord Baron that Arduenna will shortly be in the midst of an internal struggle, to ask if Marcel and I could ride out the storm within his home. That all the other neighboring estates need told that they can shore up their own borders, but not to become involved in any manner.

You’re forgetting the one thing that may help convince him that I actually sent you.

Atradates shook his head. Though I don’t understand why you would have me say that it was your fault the bond formed that day in the atrium or what that whole phrase even means, I won’t forget those words. Have some faith in me, Garin.

I’m afraid I have only so much of that left these days, Silva, he admitted while double-checking the sling. Confident now that it would securely hold a squirming child, he added, The most I can believe is that these young ones will be safe under your care.

Atradates turned and gave Garin a respectful nod. Then let us hope I can restore more than a sliver of lost faith after I prove that putting your trust in me was the correct course.

Watching Atradates and Marcel gather up the three giggling children and place two of them in the slings, Garin crossed his arms and sighed. And it wasn’t because he soon had confirmation about his suspicion in regards to the Silva being a Shadow Bender when the group vanished from the clearing. He would much rather be going with that happy entourage than back into Arduenna. Especially when death in one fashion or another was likely to be an outcome of his return.

I hope to hell it doesn’t have to come to that, he whispered to himself, even while doubting that he wasn’t going to have to fight for his very survival in the end. After all, Iantha had killed her eldest son, Maximus, for trying to free Cambyses. She would have no reservations about doing the same to her youngest.

It will be what it will be, Garin of the Stone, said Akakios while preening a few of his black and white feathers. Though it is always wise to prepare for the worst when facing such a task.

Garin turned towards the enormous griffin. The golden fur and body of a lion began just past the creature’s shoulders and ended with a tail, while the front portion showcased the wings, talons, and head of an eagle. Only in his dragon form could Garin even hope to rival the beast’s size. Yet there was both kindness and wisdom within the creature that was greatly appreciated during this dark time.

Hopefully the worst won’t happen, because that involves my never returning to Mattie, said Garin with a bit of melancholy. If I didn’t know in my heart that Iantha would come after me the second she learns that I escaped Kern, I would be at my wife’s side by now.

Akakios clicked his beak before voicing his opinion in a stern tone, Then accept your elder brother’s offer to help you. Even I can see you’re trying to find some way to keep him out of this conflict.

Garin took a glance over at the fire where Remus and Crius were sitting, obviously in the middle of a hushed argument. He shook his head and said, He’s the best of us all, Noble Guardian. None of us would be able to bear it if anything happened to him.

He’s stronger than you know, reprimanded the griffin. You do Crius a disservice when you doubt his ability to stand by your side. Were you not forced to learn that lesson recently with another brother of yours?

Garin didn’t really have an answer to that. Akakios had made too good of a point, despite his feelings on the matter. Still, he had no idea if this brother truly knew how to fight. Crius was likeable and laid-back for the most part; and immensely forgiving—if the fact he hadn’t done the same as Esus by threatening to kill their sister, Aelia, for her unwanted attentions was any indication. And though he had seen signs that the elf had a tougher side, he had difficulty believing it would be used effectively in a conflict against members of their own family.

I admit I still have uncertainties, my new friend.

After Garin’s whispered admission, the feathers on Akakios’ chest puffed out when the beast made a contented noise. While I thank you for the honor to be considered in such a way, Garin, said the griffin with what sounded like a soft chuckle. My advice merely comes from the experiences I have garnered over the span of a life that has been even longer than Leto’s. Crius is only one and a half centuries younger than his other brother, sneaking off to fight in the Great War more than once despite your mother’s explicit order that Esus be the only son of hers to enter the battle. Each group he temporarily joined on the field survived, and only due to his sudden appearance more times than not.

Garin’s brow furrowed because he was having trouble picturing his good-natured brother in such a conflict. And you know this because?

There was a haunted quality to Akakios voice when he shared, It was an extremely ugly war, Garin, of which my people were a part because the Draconians were our allies. He then pointed his beak towards Crius and said, "That elf over there is the only one to have ever vanquished a griffin while surviving the fight unscathed."

Garin’s eyes widened as he placed a hand over his mouth. The surprise was true when he asked, Yet there is no animosity remaining between you two?

He made amends afterwards, said the griffin with an unyielding tone, indicating nothing more was to be said on this topic.

They stood there in silence while Garin was trying his damnedest to sort this information through his head. During his ponderings, another thought came to him. Mattie had said there was a power sleeping within Crius, like an explosion waiting to happen. Only when someone for whom the elf cared was in danger did it even become visible to her magical sight.

Why do my brothers always seem to have a better handle on their magic than I do over my own? he grumbled.

Because you greatly fear abusing yours, said Akakios with a click of his tongue. You have seen all too often what happens when someone’s power goes out of control, making the person insane. But accepting it as an extension of yourself, like any other limb that needs trained for a specific task, often keeps it from gaining a mind of its own.

Unfortunately, I don’t see that fear leaving me anytime soon, said Garin with a sigh. After all, there’s a reason the Watchtower wasn’t going to let me Shadow Jump through Crosshawk’s borders without possibly delivering a hellacious amount of pain to everyone who was with me.

The griffin made a rumbling noise before snapping out, "Yet it will let you walk through them unharmed, remember!? You may share some similarities with your ancestor, Garin of the Stone, but you are not Caligo! Your life experiences have already shaped you differently enough that you could never be! Considering I knew him well, wrestle that loadstone off your heart!"

Never argue with a griffin, brother! called Crius without moving from his spot by the fire. Regardless of what you’re fighting about, know that you’ll never win!

Feeling ganged up on, Garin ran a hand down his face before placing it on the hilt of the sword, Nox, hanging from his side. Its contented hum at his touch was one of the reasons he couldn’t help but doubt Akakios. The weapon had been Caligo’s, thousands of years ago. A shadow-infused blade that should not have accepted a new wielder because original ownership had never truly been relinquished. Yet the sword seemed quite content with Garin, the descendent most like the one who had held it last.

Between that and some things he had learned while he was trapped in Kern’s realm, a shiver went down his spine. Maybe my life has been vastly different than his, my friend—but it would still be too easy to find myself spiraling into darkness and causing destruction like he did.

The griffin lowered his head until a great big eyeball was right in front of the man’s face. We all have that potential, Garin of the Stone. None of us are immune to the siren songs of temptation. But I know you have many reasons of the heart to help you ignore such things and stay the course. Others are not as fortunate, yet they manage to resist the darkness in the end.

Sounds like what Mattie had to sometimes say to someone when she Soul Walked them out of the dark spell of Caligo’s.

I am not surprised. It was based on the same concept, except the process of corruption is insanely quicker than what occurs through natural means.

Garin’s brow furrowed before he muttered, Then why didn’t it work on Renard as it had on so many others?

Because Caligo wasn’t the one who had developed that spell, explained Akakios with a sigh before he finally backed away. Luckily for both of you, the queen who calls herself Bridget foolishly believed the same as the rest of the world. Her ignorance generated a spectacular upset in many plans, including her own.

Garin shuddered at the truth but did not voice it aloud, knowing his half-brother would most likely never want to be informed of this. Renard’s change in appearance had already made it clear that the man was Kern’s grandson, with the same wavy white hair and deep brown eyes. What the griffin had just hinted was that the prince’s control over the dark spell had come from the fact it had recognized a portion of its creator within him. An idea that would have been more worrisome if Renard hadn’t already proven that he wanted nothing to do with that twisted side of his family.

Akakios then made a grumbling noise and lifted his head towards the western mountains. As stimulating as the conversation has been, I fear I must not delay returning home for very much longer. While I enjoy greater freedom to move throughout the land by being their king, it means my people will send another to come find me after too great a length in time. Best to assuage their fears of my well-being before I take flight again.

Neither Mattie or I realized you were a king! exclaimed Garin in horrified disbelief. Why didn’t you tell her from the start?

Our customs are not yours, chuckled the griffin. And I have long stopped announcing myself as such to other races. It makes interactions highly uncomfortable. After all, without your ignorance, would I have gotten to know either of you as you truly are?

No, admitted Garin. We would have acted as we do around anyone of high-ranking nobility and kept you at arm’s length for a great while yet. Still, I hope we have never offended you.

Actually, you two have been a rather refreshing change of pace, said Akakios in a merry tone. And I am truly relieved you both are Leto’s heirs. He did us a great service long ago that we shall never be able to repay, but we can now continue to help watch over the ancient ways hidden in the mountains without it being a pointless task.

Then I am glad we helped your people find purpose again, said Garin as he respectfully bowed his head.

Akakios returned the gesture while saying, We shall continue to help one another, Garin of the Stone. No matter where the Winds of Fate blow us, you need only call on my name, and I will come.

And if you aerie ever has need of me, I will be there.

The griffin started to wander over to the nearby clearing, the great yellow tail swishing lazily back and forth. The creature then stopped and said as if it was an afterthought, I shall only be three full days in the mountains and then I think I shall visit a friend in Tundrel’s Moor after that. The flight there is but a day or two for me.

Uncertain about the proper response to that comment, Garin merely lowered his head. Akakios made a contented humming noise before continuing on his way. Too soon, a monstrous gale arose from the flapping of the beast’s wings, and Garin raised his hand in farewell as the griffin took off into the sky.

One large ancient creature down, he thought to himself after Akakios became but a speck in the distance. One smaller and rather pissed off one to go.

Chapter 3

Because Garin believes that, after two thousand years of her insanity, those people deserve a better ruler than his mother! Damn it, father; he didn’t exactly give me a chance to talk him out of this!

Mattie cringed while using a towel to dry off the plate her father had just handed her. Apparently Renard could be just as loud as Easton when he was upset. Their royal argument hadn’t been as private as everyone had hoped, the voices easily carrying through the closed door. She took a glance out the window at Selina and Mikhail practicing their knife throwing techniques, wishing she could be out there with them. Hell, she would even be willing to help Bran and Tobias with their round of chores around the estate. Because not even Renard deserved to be raked across the coals like this about things that were beyond his control.

Plus, he wasn’t the only one having to deal with an angry father!

Despite the fact we would never have known that Renard was such a talented cook, you still should have woken me up last night! growled Gregory while scrubbing down an exceptionally dirty dish. He paused for a moment when Easton began cursing each and every one of his sons. Especially after Tem left you alone with him.

Mattie let out a weary sigh, which was nearly covered by a prince pointing out that his king wasn’t exactly an innocent bystander because he had been the one to suggest sending Garin to Arduenna in the first place. Does this have anything to do with what almost happened when Stephan was here? Because I can tell you that Renard is still nothing like his brother, though in a good way this time.

Water started to drip onto the floor when Gregory put a fist against his hip once he turned and frankly said, But you did not know that when you put yourself at risk last night.

If Tem hadn’t been willing to leave me alone with him, you might have a valid point, said Mattie after she put the dish down so she could cross her arms. That ancient one doesn’t strike me as a very trusting creature. Her judgment that I would be fine while she took Lilium home was what convinced me to not wake anyone; why can’t you understand that?

And why can’t you understand that these seemingly innocent situations are how rumors almost always get started? countered her father with a level stare. Not even the two vehement male voices yelling at one another caused the stern expression to falter. You should have learned this lesson quite well if I correctly remember some of the tales I heard all those months ago when we were recovering at the Von Bos Estate.

Mattie blushed and quickly picked the plate up in order to put it in the cabinet. That was different.

Yes, agreed her father too readily when he handed her the next dish to dry. "It was less of a scandal because you were unmarried."

She took the plate but also harshly snarled back, And so was this one because I was surrounded by family!

Barely, he grumbled.

Before Mattie could round on her father for his insult to her intelligence, Easton sharply bellowed, Renard!

The dish in her hand fell to the floor with a spectacular crash after she suddenly caught sight of the prince in question—outside! He was storming towards the stables and shaking his head, obviously upset at the conversation with his father. Then she almost fainted when an equally enraged Easton, cane and all, came into view!

How in the hell did they get out there!?

She almost wanted to smack her father when he chuckled at her shock, Take a wild guess.

As unnerved as she felt, it wasn’t too difficult to come to the proper conclusion. Garin had thought for the longest time that he was a Shadow Bender, which was an elven ability. During his journey to Arduenna, he learned his gift to transverse the shadows had actually been inherited from Caligo, meaning that the power had come from his father’s side of the family. She just never imagined it meant Easton could actually do so as well!

Since it was unsettling that she had never noticed they carried this type of magic, her question came out like a demand, So Garin’s not the only Braun who can Shadow Jump?

Her father tilted his head before shaking it. You were really distracted at the time, weren’t you?

Mattie’s brow furrowed. When?

At the Von Bos Estate, said the man with a sigh before he grabbed a nearby rag and started to dry his hands. Why do you think we were both shocked when Easton was right outside the door to my room that day he agreed with you that I needed a short time to recover? I bet you never realized that the king hadn’t walked down that hallway but had Shadow Jumped into it.

How long have you known he could do such a thing!?

Ever since he snuck me into the castle’s kitchen to steal some cookies when we were both ten years old. That poor cook thought he was going crazy because the number of sweets kept mysteriously dwindling on him during the whole of my visit that year.

Well, it still would have been nice for me to know that he had this ability before today, she grumbled.

You were too young when I left for First Keep, and he asked me to let him decide when it was time for you to know, the man said as he started to walk away. Don’t move; I’ll get the broom so you don’t accidentally cut yourself.

Mattie made a noise of frustration when she looked down at the shards of ceramic on the floor by her feet. While she couldn’t discern more than the vehement buzz of the conversation from here, it was apparent that the prince and the king were still arguing. When she glanced out the window, she watched Renard make a sharp sweeping motion with his hand while Easton pounded a fist against an open palm. And though it had promised to be a clear day, dark clouds were beginning to roll in as if the sky too was angry.

Then the back door flew open when two teenagers ran into the house. Because they looked like they were escaping the heated discussion outside, Mattie knew they weren’t going to be paying attention. Stay away from the area around the sink for now! she sharply said after Selina had slammed the door shut.

I just wanted in here before we were stuck outside in the storm! said the girl with a vehement growl. Damn it, where is Tem or Gan!? Aren’t they supposed to be keeping a closer watch on you!?

I wondered the same thing myself this morning, said Gregory when he entered with a dustpan and a broom.

With those two going at it, growled Mikhail while flourishing a hand towards the back door. I wouldn’t be surprised if they have gone into hiding.

Selina released a noise of angry frustration. You guys don’t understand! she screamed while Mattie’s father began to sweep up the pieces of a broken plate. The prince needs their help as soon as possible!

Fighting happens between family members all the time, Selina, reprimanded Gregory. I’m not sure those ladies will be able to assist with two headstrong personalities.

But they can help someone who might not know how to control himself anymore! Did none of you notice that the prince hadn’t been using a damn thing to protect his skin from an extremely hot pan when he made breakfast earlier!?

Shit! thought Mattie, even as her father and Mikhail gave Selina a puzzled look. Hoping she wasn’t catching her husband at a bad time, she swiftly reached out along the bond. Garin? she asked. Does anything strange happen when Renard gets pissed off now?

Yes, came the hesitant answer. Why do you ask?

Mattie looked out the window as the first flakes began to slowly fall from the darkening sky. Because Selina’s worried like hell. Because he’s also out by the practice field, having a hellacious argument with your father.

She could almost feel Garin’s cringe when he asked, Is it suddenly beginning to snow without any prior warning?

Are you telling me that your brother has become a literal force of nature!? she screamed after getting an image or two of Garin and Renard being stuck in a room with a full-scale blizzard howling all about them!

We honestly don’t know! The only thing certain is that he’s scared of whatever this power is!

Mattie’s heart sank after she watched the snowfall increase and heard a gust or two of wind. Which could make things even worse once he notices he’s doing it!

Where is Tem or Gan? Garin vehemently asked. They are the only ones who might be able to help him! Unless there’s someone in Crosshawk you trust who is also a Weather Guide?

There were a handful with that ability, but it would be a cold day in Hell before she asked any of them for help! There’s one family, but I trust the Bergstroms about as I much as I do your mother.

Having met Adler, I can’t blame you, Garin said with frustration.

At least, your father has enough sense to come in from the snow, said Mattie with a sigh as she watched Easton poke his son sharply in the chest before beginning to walk back to the house. Renard just rubbed the spot where he had been struck and stood there, almost as if the storm didn’t bother him one bit. Your brother, on the other hand…

What in the hell does Garin think of all this!? demanded Selina.

Mattie shook her head because her father had almost tripped on his way to the trash bin because of that blurted question. Still, come what may, she answered anyways, That we need to find Tem or Gan.

How could you possibly know that!? growled Gregory after he had nearly dumped the whole dustpan into the receptacle.

I’ll explain later.

This is not the first time something odd like this has occurred without an explanation, so you will tell me now!

Considering Bran figured it out, I’m surprised your father hasn’t discovered the truth on his own already, said Garin with a sigh. But we both know you won’t get a moment of peace until you do as he says. Go ahead and tell him.

The bond I have with Garin allows us to sometimes reach out and communicate with one another through our thoughts, she said frankly.

Gregory’s eyes widened. Sweet Adonai, he said with a harsh whisper. Evangeline was right all along about the type of bond that had formed between you two.

I bet all the gold I have hiding in that house that we know exactly which kind, grumbled Garin, who was broadcasting loud and clear how he had hated learning the truth from Kern.

Mattie took a glance out the window, knowing that Easton could Jump into the living room if he wanted. Which was highly likely considering the wind was beginning to whistle through every crack in the walls. You and I will have a serious discussion later about what a Soulmate Bond precisely means, but now is not the time. We need to find one of my missing protectors before the snow picks up even more.

Though her father’s eyes narrowed at her words, he nodded his head and grumbled, I’ll wander up to the gate and grab one of them. I need to give them an earful about failing a part of their mission anyways.

No need, said Mikhail after he rushed to join Mattie by the back window. Tem’s coming around the corner, and she looks mad as hell!

I’d say, said a voice that made everyone shriek from surprise! Easton was shivering by the fire, appearing like he was debating on whether or not to crawl into the flames so he could get warm again. Chasing down his son had obviously been more important than finding a winter covering. That’s the scariest expression I have ever seen on a person!

I hate to do this to you, Mattie, but I need to take off because the others are getting restless. Remus said we need to get to the border right at nightfall in order for this plan of his to work, said Garin with a disappointed tone. Let me know if my brother survives this altercation.

Mattie let out a weary sigh, watching Tem nearly disappear from view as the weather grew even worse. I promise to let you know if we all do.

Chapter 4

It wasn’t until after the winds had picked up speed and the falling snow began to make visibility difficult that Renard heard Tem bellow, Wanderer!

Leave me alone, ancient one! he screamed as he continued walking towards the back half of the estate.

After the things his father had said, the accusations the man had shouted at him—Renard welcomed this storm! It reflected all the turmoil inside his heart and soul. Why in the hell was he even here? Yes, he knew full well that Mattie and Garin needed him to be in Crosshawk right now. Still, it was going to be nothing but a slow torment for him. By Celestria, did having a torturous bitch for a mother turn him into the proverbial glutton