Gold & Fire: The Alburnium Chronicles, #3

By J. R. Castle

The moment he decides to dedicate his heart to the one he loves, he risks losing everything he has worked to achieve.

After spending a year at Academy in Aloblase, Kardia the Sano is ready to embrace her future. The world is an open road for her. Yet, her heart yearns to return home to Rodonal. The question is will Rodonal accept her return?

Regent Leon's heart is set on uniting his life with the beautiful Sano, Kardia. Her year at the Academy is finished and he hopes to convince her to start a bright, new future ruling the Rodonal Province at his side.

Yet, their union threatens to divide the very people they wish to protect. Demands and requirements of their position pull them in every direction until they are unsure of what to do next. If they don't find their way soon, everything they care for and has worked hard to attain will slip away, including their union bond.

In the meantime, darkness is growing. The Brethren Order wizards are advancing, intent on taking over every Kingdom Province they come across. But another ruler is quickly rising to power.

Darnel has fallen in league with the witch Orelia, and she's promised him that he will one day rule the Western lands. First, he must let go of his past, and he must control with a ruthless fist. Most important, he must shatter the last pieces of his heart until nothing of his former self is left to survive.

Enter an enchanting realm of adventures with this new series that takes place in the beloved land of Alburnium. The author who brought you The White Road Chronicles is back with a new, gripping series of loss, betrayal, and one girl's desperate fight to hold onto the only thing she has ... hope.

This story is for those who love allegorical, fairytale retellings set in a fantastical world.

Gold and Fire- book 3 is an epic fantasy fairy tale adventure mixed with clean romance and humor. If you love stories similar to Gaiman's 'Stardust' or Goldman's 'The Princess Bride' you may enjoy this series, as well.

In the Chronicles of Alburnium series.
Blood & Water- Book One
Silver & Light- Book Two
Gold & Fire- Book Three
The Faerie Trader is a bonus story that fits between books 1 and 2 but can be read at any time.

One-click now to start your next enchanting adventure!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Jackie Castle
• Release date: Jul 10, 2020
• ISBN: 9781393191346

Book preview

Prologue

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Kardia, from the House of the White Horse, grasped her gloved metal hands together. This was it. The moment she’d dreamed of, hoped for, fought to make happen. Nervous tingles danced down her back. Her legs trembled as she took a step closer.

She’d traveled such a long way from her tiny hamlet town of Goia where she lived with her parents who were the town’s millers.

Finally, she stood before a shallow pool of water inside Radiance’s Meeting Hall. The portal similar to the courtyard fountain in the capital city of Rodon. Except, this one had stone steps that ended at a wall of cascading water. She tried to peer through the shimmering curtain but the muted greens and yellows all blended.

Kardia, Riyah the Elderad placed his hand on her shoulder. His stormy gray eyes sparkled with amusement. He had snowy white hair that flowed down the back of his dark blue jacket that was trimmed with silver designs.

The sisters, Nellie and Kellie had gone through that morning, followed by Jael Azazel, the faun. Kardia immediately began to miss her friends. Would they wait for her on the other side?

I’ll follow you through, child, Riyah whispered, whenever you are ready.

Kardia swallowed down a ball of fire. I...I’ve never gone through a portal. Is...is it...hard?

You’ll feel a bit of pressure and for a moment, it’ll be difficult to take a breath. But it’s a quick moment, and then you’ll be in Aloblase.

In...In the city...or...?

I’ll take you to the entrance of Shaydon’s throne room. Follow the path between the jade columns. What you’ll see will be...um...different at first. Honestly, if you’ll only take, he counted the stones, five steps, then one more, you’ll see for yourself.

Kardia covered her face. The cool metal of her hands soothed her burning cheeks. She was being silly. Why was this first step so hard?

Riyah would not even agree to give her a push. He’d said this was completely her decision. When she decided she was ready, he’d be right there behind her.

She closed her eyes, trying to make her foot move forward. In her mind, she saw Regent Leon and the way he often rested his hand on his medallion when he was thinking something over. It was important, comforting, and yet challenging to him. His medallion was more than a decorative adornment. His face always softened when he talked about Prince Issah or King Shaydon. They were personal friends to him, someone he deeply respected and had dedicated his life to. The way he conducted himself, the way he treated her and others, revealed his deep faith in the Kingdom.

Kardia wanted that. She wanted it more than anything she’d ever wanted in her life. Drawing in a deep breath, she scooted her boot forward one step onto the first wet steppingstone.

Would Shaydon truly welcome her in?

She glanced down at the marvelous gloves Regent Leon and his Curian friend, Brock, had made her. They covered the damage done by a misguided contract with a wizard her father had made.

She took the next step.

Losing her fingers had been the worst and best thing to happen to her. The loss forced her to leave the comforts of her little town where she’d grown up and search for a life she’d always dreamed for.

Another step. Mist from the waterfall dampened her face.

The path she’d taken had led her through so many adventures with new friends and possibly the love of her life. He cared. She had no doubts that Leon cared as deeply for her as she did for him. He’d always been so kind and encouraging.

Before she realized it, Kardia stepped through the curtain of water that opened as she passed through into what had to be Aloblase.

Various shades of greenery and an assortment of fragrant flowers surrounded her. She stood before a row of tall columns made of jade and adorned with precious stones. Her feet stood upon a glistening white path. The sweetest scent, reminding her of a fresh apple on the first bite, or a bouquet of roses pressed to her face, or the taste of honey on her tongue filled her senses.

Riyah stood before her no longer wearing his blue cloak. In its place was a billowing shirt of gold adorned with bands of silver and clear stones upon his broad shoulders. A band of gold circled his head, disappearing under his flowing snowy white hair. At that moment, she saw him with more clarity than she’d ever had before.

Y—you’re so...Riyah, is that really you?

He smiled, his hand still resting on her shoulder. Indeed, child. Are you ready to take a few more steps? He’s waiting for you.

He? Who?

Would she finally meet the prince of Miltie’s stories? Or would she be standing before the King first? What should she do? Fall to her face? Beg that they accept her damages and all? Her throat tightened. A small part wanted to shout and dance with joy over finally having made it to Aloblase. Except...

I’m still right here with you, dear Kardia. When you’re ready, Riyah whispered.

Her head bobbed in a nod. She straightened her back and made her way past the two pale green columns. Across a clear pool of water were two golden thrones that sat on a small, grassy island. Growing on each side of the thrones were the most vibrant Healing Trees she’d ever seen. Their branches hung low with bright red fruit.

She breathed in the sweetest scents. Everything reminded her of that strange dream where Miltie stood at the entrance to Everlasting. To Kardia’s amazement there was same glimmering curtains that Miltie had entered now hanging behind the thrones.

Kardia’s gaze traveled upward, eyes widening at a sky full of shooting stars and balls of lights. It reminded her of the vast fields of wheat she’d once stood in with Riyah as they’d gazed up at the black sky filled with thousands of stars. It seemed like eons ago, though it had been less than a year since she’d reached Rodon.

Riyah remained quietly beside her, letting her take everything in. Suddenly, her pack felt as if it weighed a hundred pounds. She let it slip off her shoulders and fall to the ground behind her. Then she was removing her mechanical hands, not wanting anything that might hinder or keep her from fully experiencing this place. She kicked off her boots and untied her cloak.

Riyah smiled at her as if this was normal behavior. Go on, child.

The grass beneath her feet was cool and soft to her weary feet. As she walked toward the edge of the water, a man rose from one of the thrones and made his way toward her. He was actually walking over the surface of the water! It seemed to grow solid beneath his steps.

Greetings, Kardia of Goia. Defeater of evil’s bondage. Gifted Sano. Brave soul. Beloved daughter of King Shaydon. The man’s features became more distinct and even though she’d never met Prince Issah before, somehow she knew it was him.

Prince Issah stood before her, dressed in pale blue and gold. His smile, welcoming, and his earthy brown eyes dancing with merriment as he held open his arms. We’ve been eagerly anticipating your arrival, dear one. Come and meet your King.

All the wondering Kardia had fretted over faded away. Heedless of the water, she ran forward into his waiting arms.

I made it, Issah. I’ve finally made it.

Indeed, you have, Daughter. But your true journey has only begun.

Chapter One

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Leonard, the Regent of Rodonal, stared out the weathered glass window of his study at the bustling city below. His heart banged hard inside his chest. In the distance, a messenger bird flew toward the darkening sky.

Leon crumpled the rolled parchment between his hands. He blew out a long breath, fogging the glass until the scene below disappeared.

He blinked and glanced down at the wrinkled letter. When he looked back up, the fog had cleared he no longer saw the white cobblestone streets of his beloved capital. Nor the gilded buggies rolling along the main street drawn by pairs of fine tan Bloolsa brought from Kinti City, the horse breeding province.

The scene began to change in his mind’s eye. His breath caught.

The pristine mercantile shops, bakeries, homes, and taverns lining the main thoroughfare burned with an all-consuming magical blood-red fire. Walls crumbled and broken bodies littered the street.

No! Leon blinked again, shaking the dark thoughts away. The disturbing vision dissipated like smoke on the wind. He dragged in a ragged breath, reminding himself that his people were safe. At least, he hoped they were safe.  

He unrolled the letter, smoothing it down on the cool windowpane. Ignoring the headache pounding at his temples, he made himself read to the end this time.

The correspondence came from the Regent Dilawar who ruled the White Hart Province in southern Alburnium. Leon had met only a handful of people that came from that part of the land. The cities were built into the canyons that divided the ancient forest of Wilderland from the rest of the south plains. He had met the Regent several years ago when Dilawar paid a visit to his father during his leadership of Rodonal.

To My Regent Brothers,

We are lost. Our city is reduced to rubble and many of my people have been taken captive by the Brethren Order. A few of us managed to escape. 

I write not to beg for help but to give a warning. The Order has grown incredibly strong. Their magic is powerful and destructive. The blood-lusting wizards show no mercy, no reserve. They will be seeking to overtake more Provinces soon.

Prepare yourselves. Do whatever is necessary to secure your borders.

I’m sending this with my fastest messenger birds to everyone I can think of in our vicinity. Perhaps if we had followed King Shaydon’s ways more than our own, this never would have happened. But who knows for sure?

They are upon our heels. We have so far to go to reach safety.

I fear by this time tomorrow, I will be passing through the entrance into Everlasting where I will be required to give an account for everything I failed to do.

Your Servant,

Dilawar of White Hart

Below Dilawar’s name was an outline of a four-pronged stag that represented the White Hart Province’s four towns. Leon glanced out the window upon his capital city once again. He had seven towns under his protection.

Only Kinti City, Sapre, and Denovo exceeded the Rodonal Province in size and population.

The Brethren Order was capable any atrocity, as Leon knew all too well. The borders of his province still needed stronger fortifications.

Last year’s attack on the capital city had resulted in the near loss of their cherished Healing Tree. Since then, his people were shaken up enough to start working with Leon. Instead of against him.

Still, training farmers and tradesmen to become warriors was no easy task. He needed warriors to protect the province. He needed to be a stronger leader and...often worried that he truly was not cut out for this position.

Leon turned away from the window, pushing the images of destruction from his mind. He was finally beginning to get a handle of ruling the province.  His father’s untimely death had caused the position to fall into his lap almost a decade, or two, too soon. These things took time, he reminded himself.

People of Rodonal were now aware of the danger lurking at their borders and had begun to prepare themselves to stand against the Brethren Order, if necessary.

Leon would not allow this letter to send him into a panic. His province was more dedicated to King Shaydon than ever before. At least, most of the people were. He still had so much work to do with the smaller towns and hamlets under his care.

He needed to speak to his Guardian, the Elderad Riyah, and seek more wisdom on this matter. Then he needed to call a meeting with his advisers and council members. He wanted to make sure everyone followed through with the orders to send ambassadors into each town. He would not allow any town, big or small to go unchecked and ignored, as his father had done during his rule.

This was no time to be complacent. He must find a way to keep his people from falling into the same fate as those of White Hart.

His father would have known what to do. Regent Lonnel was a formidable, though heartless, man who never had trouble getting people to follow his orders.

Leon was neither formidable nor heartless.

His father often said he was weak and soft.

Leon faced the roaring fireplace and considered tossing the letter into the flames. He didn’t wish to start a panic, but on the other hand, the council needed to know what had happened to their southern neighbors.

He moved to his desk and tucked the note into a slot where he kept things he wanted to deal with later.

Sitting in the middle of his work area was a ledge-o-graph, a correspondence book he used to keep in contact with his dear friend, Kardia of Goia.

Kardia had been away the past year, undergoing her studies at the Academy in Aloblase.

He turned to the last page of the book that had words written upon it. Nothing new today. What had captured Kardia’s attention tonight? Usually, she wrote to him every evening after her studies were completed for the day. He checked the clock standing in the corner. Maybe she was too busy this evening for him.

He slowly sank into his cushioned chair, fighting a sinking sensation in his heart. Kardia was always a bright spot to the end of his days. Her upbeat letters lightened his mood and cheered his disheartened spirit. She believed in him.

He loved her for her sweet spirit and kind heart.

Though he’d never written his feelings out in such a bold manner, he felt them deep inside his soul. Mother still harped on him about finding a mate. However, Leon was sure he’d found the one with whom he wanted to spend his life. The problem was if others would accept the lowly goose girl from the border towns who’d lost her hands after an unfortunate incident with a small band of wizards.

The same wizards that had tried to wheedle their way into Rodon so they could take him down and seize control of the province.

They’d failed at that too, thanks to Kardia.

Leon sighed, tapping his finger on the desktop. Oh, what he’d give to see her again.

Kardia’s notes were filled with news of the fascinating and wonderful things she’d seen and heard. Soon, she’d finish her studies at the Academy. Soon, she’d be given a choice on where she’d like to go and start her new life.

He picked up the ledge-o-graph and tucked it into his jacket pocket. The sun disappeared behind the jagged mountain range surrounding the city.

Night would soon be upon them. As much as he hated eating alone, he thought that perhaps he’d pick up something small from the kitchen and head to his little cottage that sat beside the pear orchard. The fragrant scent of the blooms was pleasant this time of year and would remind him of being in Aloblase. Maybe he’d not miss being there so bad.

Before he had his jacket on, the door to his study flew open as his page, a young boy named Samuel, burst in breathless. Leon folded his arms over his chest. What have I told you about running—?

You’re needed in the fountain room. Sire. Uh, sir. I mean, Leon. Sir.

Exasperated, Leon pushed past the boy. They’d been working on a portal in the fountain room. What had happened now, dare he ask? It wasn’t scheduled to be completed for another moon cycle.

Has anyone been hurt? He hurried along the corridor until reaching a set of narrow stairs that led up to a tower built into the side of the cliffs. It was a long-distance to tread. No wonder the boy was out of breath if he’d ran all the way.

Samuel hurried along beside him. No, sir, but— Before the lad could finish his sentence, Leon rounded a sharp bend and nearly collided into his old Curian friend from the Academy. The visitor wore a heavy woolen jacket trimmed with white fur. His boots were dripping with water, which Leon found strange. How did he get here? The portal wasn’t functioning yet.

Brock! Leon exclaimed. How...but? Weren’t you in Kinti? That’s what your last message said.

Brock steadied Leon by placing his hands on his shoulders. Like others of his kind, he had swirling marks that covered the edges of his face, neck, and trailed down his arms, which were covered by thick sleeves. His ears, if they were visible from under the hood, would hang low and also be covered with the same markings.

Easy there, my friend. Take a deep breath. Yes, I was in Kinti. Then we received the letter from Dilawar. Now I’m on my way to Aloblase and had hoped I could coax you into coming with me.

Aloblase? Of course, he’d love to go, but.... I can’t possibly leave the province for that long, Brock. What are you thinking? And why is everyone...wait. When did you leave Kinti? It’s a month-long trek by horse.

And a moments trip by the portal. Brock winked with a chuckle. Prince Issah would like for you to attend the Regent’s Assembly. I promised that I would bring you. Now you don’t want to be the reason I break my first promise to our Prince, do you? He was grinning like a child staring in the sweet shop window.

Leon straightened and smoothed out the front of his jacket. Far as I’ve been informed, the portal isn’t working yet. However, you are here, so I’m assuming it’s been fixed?

Samuel was tugging at Leon’s sleeve. Sir, I couldn’t believe it. But yes, it’s working. The Prince is waiting for you, he’s holding the passageway open as we speak. That’s why I was running, sir, even though you’ve told me not to.

Leon laughed and patted the boy’s head. You’re forgiven, Sam. He turned to his friend. I... how long, Brock? Should I pack?  I— He might be able to see Kardia! His breath caught. He most definitely needed to change, though he was dressed in his best regent attire.

You’ll be back by tomorrow afternoon. Issah is speaking with a couple of the men on your council. Appoint one of them to take charge while you’re gone and let’s go. We can probably catch some of the guys at the Dragon’s Snout for a small reunion celebration.

Oh yes, the Dragon’s Snout was one of their favorite places to meet and argue over laws and other stupidly dull subjects. Those were the days. Yes, let’s go. I’m ready.

Should he send a quick note to Kardia and let her know? Maybe he could take her to a late dinner? Oh, but he’d need to find out what Prince Issah needed, first. Despite all that, his excitement wouldn’t be diluted. Somehow, he’d find some time to see his dear Sano friend.

Brock patted his back and they walked up the stairs together, falling into a discussion over the fate of the White Hart Province.

Any chance of them rebuilding? Leon asked.

Nil. Those who survived fled into the Wilds or to a neighboring province. Reports are still coming in. With a shake of his head, Brock’s tone grew heavy with regret. I’m sure this matter will be discussed at the regent’s council. King Shaydon has called all that are willing to come to discuss how we can help each other against this persistent threat. There will be a short meeting tonight, but tomorrow, the real discussions will begin. I knew that you would wish to come, especially after all the trouble you’ve had with the Order’s infringing on your lands. I fear White Hart is lost to us.

Sadness over the loss slowed Leon’s steps. Thank you for coming for me, Brock. Leon checked his pockets to make sure he at least had a few basic things that he’d need. Hopefully, the inns would still have rooms.  

They turned one last corner and Samuel ran through the arched entrance ahead of them. The spacious room opened on one side to a wall of water rushing down the edge of the cliff that the Meeting Hall was built against. Some of the water had been funneled into a pool where several masons and stone craftsmen worked at constructing a circular pool. Faint light filtering in through the wall of water, along with the flickering torches caused rippling shadows over the smooth walls. A lion’s head, the symbol for Rodonal, had been carved into each pillar that supported the overhanging roof. Another stone lion lay upon a shelf overlooking the pool.

Standing at the entrance, Leon gasped at the sight of Prince Issah, along with a couple of his Logorian guardsmen, helping the builders lay some of the stones that would make up the containing wall of the fountain.

Three steps led up to a pedestal where water sprayed upward, creating an archway. When Leon wished to go somewhere, it would become a doorway to another province’s portal landing. Of course, King Shaydon needed to sanction the portal first.

Issah! Leon exclaimed when he spotted the prince. Issah’s sleeves and trousers were rolled up so they’d not get wet as he waded into the water to help set a large stone in place. Sire, we have men who can do that. You needn’t—

Issah gave him that look that said he didn’t need anyone telling him what he could and couldn’t do. It’s wasn’t a reproachful look, though it should have been. Instead, Issah straightened and moved to greet him, dripping arms outstretched as he gathered Leon into a warm hug. I’m so pleased to see you again, Son. I’ve heard so many good reports from Riyah. He wanted to escort you himself, but when I learned that Brock wanted to bring you to Aloblase, I decided that I’d be the one to open the passageway.

Thank you, Sire. I’m pleased to see you, as well. Will we have time to talk later? There are a couple of matters I had wished to discuss with Riyah, but now that I’m face to face with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Of course, Leonard the Lionhearted.

Leon feared he’d never live up to that name.

Issah’s arm rested across Leon’s shoulders. One was always left feeling as if they were the most important person in the whole universe when Issah looked upon them. The Prince never raised his voice or showed any bouts of anger, even when wronged or challenged by his subjects. 

Leon wanted to be a ruler like that but has such a long way to go.

Are you two ready to depart? Issah asked, rolling his sleeves and pant legs back down. The workers thanked him profusely for his help. The Logorian warriors stood on each side of the arch of water that glimmered with flickering lights.

Leon glanced at Brock who gave a nod.

Good, Issah said as he motioned for them to go first. As Leon passed him, he added in a voice only he could hear, Someone is eagerly waiting to see her regent friend.

Leon paused. Was it Kardia? His pace quickened. Would he finally have the nerve to express how he truly felt about her? What would she think if he did?

Issah chuckled and patted Leon’s back. There’s only one way to discover the answer. You’ll never know if something will work until you give it a try. His warm smile widened as he gave Leon a gentle push toward the parting waters. The sweet, heady fragrance of jasmine and apples filled his senses as he stepped through.

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Chapter Two

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Kardia sank into the plush leather chair, her satchel of books clutched to her chest. She glanced around the secluded corner of the vast library to make sure she was indeed alone. Kicking off her shoes, she tucked her feet beneath the simple cotton skirt she wore. The rest of the books she placed on the red-oak table between her chair and its matching partner. They were so heavy, the stack landed with a loud bang.

Her breath caught as she looked around again, hoping to not be discovered. That silly faun, Jael Azazel had been after her about joining in on a game of marbles. No thank you. There was too much she needed to do. Too much she needed to think about. Heavy decisions needing to be made before her final meeting with King Shaydon and Prince Issah.

But first, she rested the ledge-o-graph on her lap and opened to Leon’s last letter. Perhaps... well, maybe she’d find something in his finely penned words to offer a bit of guidance.

She’d only made it through the first paragraph before her gaze lifted to the stone walls and beautiful tapestries of tranquil gardens, amazing creatures, and beasts. Her favorite one was of a dragon in flight over black mountains.

Every shelf that surrounded her little alcove was stuffed with old books. Four more floors hosted the same. Spiraling stairs, with a railing that looked like a spiraling worm dragon, wound upward to each floor.

The sky outside the tall windows had turned to a deep indigo blue speckled with stars. Gas torch lamps glowed dreamily over her quiet sitting area.

There were several options laid out for her future. She’d hoped that the king would simply tell her where he wished for her to go, but Issah said she needed to decide on something that filled her heart with excitement and yearning.

There was one option that did exactly what Issah described, but...

Kardia’s mechanical hand ran over the yellowed paper that filled the journal. Leon’s gift to her so they could keep in touch. Sometimes, she wondered if he felt more than mere friendship toward her, but she didn’t dare speak her question out loud.

How preposterous to even think that someone like Regent Leon would ever stoop to fall for a simple goose girl. A naive girl from a tiny hamlet that had been all but forgotten to the leaders of the Rodonal Province.

Regent Leon had asked, though. He’d asked if she would be returning to Rodon.

Would she?

Returning to her parents was out of the question. Last she’d heard they had left Goia and not told anyone where they planned to go. Mother, evidently, no longer felt that the town had anything worthwhile to offer them. She’d always been about making a profit and aspiring toward a comfortable living.

Kardia took the graphite stick from her bag. Oh, she would love to return to Rodon, but why? What did she have to offer the grand city? Fledging Sano skills? There were already plenty of Healers.

She couldn’t, wouldn’t go back to tending the geese. After all Kardia had been through in her short life, she wanted something more.

For the first time in her life, she thought that maybe, despite her losses and lack of real education, that she’d be able to do something important for the kingdom. She’d been given a second chance at life and didn’t want to waste it.

First, she needed to reply to Leon. His kindness and generosity had helped her overcome some major hurdles in her life. Now she had the use of her hands again. Not to mention that he’d made sure she was able to make the trip to Aloblase so she could finally meet the King.

She returned to his letter, pleased that he’d taken her suggestion to offer people portions of land in return for moving to the outer regions. Finally, skilled blacksmiths, shoemakers, seamstress, and the much-needed instructors would help build up the struggling hamlets like her Goia where she’d grown up.

Your idea is working, dear Kardia, he’d written toward the end of the note. Young people who want a portion of free land have signed up and will begin training for their new posts in the next couple of weeks. I do cherish your suggestions, so do not hesitate in sharing them with me! Sometimes my mind is so cluttered with all I hope, and need to accomplish that fresh ideas are hindered from surfacing.

She grinned as she held a writing stick in her mechanical hand. Leon had wonderful ideas. She flexed the fingers of the glove he’d made to replace her missing digits. Before designing the gloves, Leon had made her a quill that she could secure to her palm so she could write again.

Her chest ached to remember his handsome face and endearing smile. She could get lost in his golden-brown eyes that firm jawline and kind smile. He’d become such a dear friend to her.

Just a friend? This was the question that plagued her every time she read one of his letters. Especially when he wrote about how much he missed her. Did he, really?

She liked being missed. It made her feel as if she mattered. At least a little.

There you are, Little Bit. Jael’s jovial voice broke into her silent pondering. Troll’s breath! He’d found her after-all. Come on. We need one more player.

The flickering light of the gas-lamps cast a yellow glow around the faun’s tangled black hair and horns that curved around his pointed ears.

Jael had accompanied her from Rodonal to Aloblase, along with a few other Rodonians. His year of training was also nearly completed. Whereas she was overcome with questions about her future, Jael had already decided that he was ready to return home to Melodies Forest. He was so eager to tell everyone about his time in Aloblase and encourage them to consider making the trip to meet King Shaydon. In the woods, few knew about the great King and how he welcomed everyone to join his Kingdom—human and creature, alike.

You’ve had your nose in books long enough, he chastised as he clomped closer, reaching for the journal. She snatched it out of his reach.

Undaunted, he grinned. Come play with us. You can be my partner. We’ll show that bragging Elderad Riyah who the real Marble Masters are.

Kardia sat up. Riyah is here?

He was Leon’s guardian and adviser. Why was Riyah here instead of in Rodon?

Yes, the Lightman is here. There’s to be some big important meeting tomorrow. Now come along like a good pal and let’s have some fun. You work much too hard, silly human. His pleading grin caused a dimple in his cheek to appear.

Jael had become one of her dearest friends over the past few months. He checked in on her every day, whereas she seldom saw her human friends Kellie or her sister Nellie.

Kellie had new friends that shared her Illuminate gifting and Nellie spent most of her time out in the fields and orchards.

So how could Kardia refuse Jael? With a sigh, she decided that writing Leon would have to wait a little longer. Her letters were probably nothing more than an interruption to his evening activities, anyway. Though he never made her feel that way and always responded quickly, despite the length of the letter she wrote.

After tucking the books back into her satchel, she followed Jael into a small, brightly lit room where several students sat around tables playing various games. Others were huddled in quiet group discussions.

Jael’s hairy arm draped over Kardia’s shoulders. How did you do on your last exam? Did you pass?

Yes, she beamed up at him. He’d helped her to study, though she was never sure what classes he attended. From what she could tell, creatures had their own methods of learning. Being cooped up in a classroom was not one of them.

Once in a while, she did spot him trotting through the halls. More often than not, he ran outside with the centaurs, griffins, and other amazing creatures that she’d never seen before in her whole twenty-one years.

They headed toward a table near the windows where Riyah sat with three other people who dwelt in Aloblase. A circular board with a line of notches running along the edges sat in the center. Kardia took a seat across from Jael. Their marbles looked like tiny orbs taken from the night sky. When she held one up, she was sure stars twinkled inside the ball. Hers was a dark, purplish-blue, and Jael’s were pitch black like onyx.

Kardia recognized one of the Logorian instructors, named Skilts, who taught a class on stone masonry. He was currently in a quiet discussion with Riyah who set up the marbles game while they conversed. 

The other team they were to play against consisted of a dwarf named Turk, who ran the supply store where she got her paper and quills from, and a human boy from her Healer’s group. She smiled at Milac and took the seat between the dwarf and Riyah. Their marbles looked like perfectly round balls of moss encased in glass. Turk’s marbles were a deep emerald green and Milac’s a dusty yellow.

Riyah’s gaze drifted out the windows that lined the eastern wall. I can play a couple of rounds before I’m needed elsewhere.

Jael rubbed his hands together, he loved playing games. Sir, he said, lining up his game pieces. I heard a rumor...

Jael, my friend, Riyah cut him off. You know how I feel about rumors.

Jael merely laughed but continued with his line of thought. That the portal to Rodonal has been opened.

The side of Riyah’s mouth tilted up. Snooping around the Logorian quarters again, have you?

Professor Skilts narrowed his gaze at the faun. I told you, young Jael, if you are interested in building, you should come to my morning class. I can always make room for anyone interested in the intricate skills of masonry.

Jael’s brows shot up into his darkly tanned forehead. I’m never awake in time for your class, Master Skilts. Do you not have something later in the day?

Lazy hoofer, Turk the dwarf scolded with an amused scowl on his bearded face. The time matters not when one’s passion burns from the heart. Do you or do you not wish to learn an honest skill? One that will enable you to provide a fine living for your future family? Why, my store brings in more than enough to keep my wee ones and my mate comfortable.

Jael blanched as if he’d been prodded in the ribs with a blunt stick. How fine of a living? He looked from the dwarf, then to Master Skilts with his questioning gaze.

Riyah rested his chin on his knuckles. Jael Azazel, have you visited with King Shaydon yet? You know He will lead you into finding your true gifting and talents if you’ll only ask. He will know better than anyone in all the land where you are best suited.

Jael rolled the numbered cube, then moved his first marble accordingly. It’s not that I worry about what he will tell me that I should do. It’s that I fear he’ll figure out what I’ve done in the past. Ol’ Jael wishes to stay on the King’s good side. Are you two trying to divert my original question about the portal? I was thinking... that if one is about to open, then I’ll not have to return to home the long way.

Kardia’s eyes widened. Home. Where was that for her? You’re ready to go back so soon, Jael?

It was her turn to roll the cubes and a double came up. When she picked up the first marble, she was sure the little stars inside were exploding like sparks coming off a bonfire. She carefully lifted one of the balls in her metal fingers, hoping it wouldn’t slip out again. She hated having to chase them across the floor while Jael laughed too hard to be of any help in retrieving her escaped pieces.

Soon as the semester is over, Jael answered, pointing to the spot where she needed to move. He never needed to count the slots as she did. Nellie is almost done with her required gardening classes. You’re almost done with yours too, right, Little Bit? Are you ready to get back to Reg—?

I got another double, she cut him off, not wanting to suffer the embarrassment of his teasing innuendos. Jael knew she and Leon wrote daily to each other. He wouldn’t accept her insistence that they were only friends and nothing else. Stubborn faun!

Since rolling a double, Kardia was able to go again. She quickly tossed the cubes onto the table and exclaimed, I can’t remember what two doubles mean.

She shot her faun friend a warning glare to keep his mouth shut. He was always teasing her about Leon but there was absolutely nothing between them. Nothing that she felt comfortable sharing with anyone else. 

His grin widened as he winked playfully at her.

Such an obstinate beast.

Before anyone could explain what her second double meant, she remembered and quickly moved her sparkling pieces into place. The marbles seemed to know she’d rolled well and were celebrating with tiny explosions of light. I think Riyah is right, Jael. You need to see King Shaydon before you leave.

Yeah. Yeah. That’s what I’ve been told. Perhaps I’ll make an appointment... his joke faded at Riyah