Habnome

By John H. Carroll

Book 5 of the Crazed Series

Tyeromaythan, Devourer of Gods will stop at nothing to capture the Child of Flowers and Reviled Thorn for an eternity of torture. He keeps Vevin Dragon in a cage deep under the ancient stronghold of Habnome to lure them in.

Liselle, Child of Flowers, leads a group of powerful individuals on a quest to overcome Tyeromaythan and rescue Vevin, knowing the rescue will not be so easy. The journey ahead of them is long and fraught with peril.

Growing awareness of her powers as a goddess terrify Liselle as she fights ascension. An endless string of epiphanies threaten to tip her over the edge. She clings to those around her in hopes of staying grounded.

Pelya does everything she can to help Liselle, but has her own worries. Her actions have damaged the Black Scale Guild for years. She is the one person Tyeromaythan wants to capture more than Liselle. Her past haunts her and threatens to tear her apart.

Flowers demand Liselle’s archpriestess, Teluith, lead followers to their cause. Without Reben, the task is overwhelming and seems impossible. If only Liselle would help her and teach her rather than wasting time on the killer Pelya.

Join our adventurers in their desperation as they struggle through barriers, personal conflicts and the overwhelming forces surrounding them.

The Crazed Series is the continuation of the Wyvern and Willden Trilogies. Beings of great power manipulate the world, sometimes to the benefit of mere mortals, but more often to their detriment. Join the odd and often unwilling heroes of Ryallon as they face threats to humanity.

• Language: English
• Publisher: John H. Carroll
• Release date: Feb 15, 2022
• ISBN: 9781005412197

John H. Carroll

John H. Carroll was the youngest of seven children and was born in Atlanta, Georgia in 1970 where he was kept in a dresser drawer with the clean socks. Luckily, he wasn’t kept with the dirty socks or else he might have grown up to become slightly warped.As a child, John spent most of his time wandering through the Mojave Desert in an attempt to avoid people. He would stare at the sky, imagining what it would be like to explore different worlds. One of his favorite memories is watching his dad build the fuselage of Evel Kneivel’s skycycle in their garage. One of his least favorite moments was watching that skycycle fall into the Snake River. (Not his dad’s fault and he has documentation to prove it, so nyah)As a teenager, John spent most of his time driving wherever he could in an attempt to avoid people. He would stare at the road, imagining what it would be like to explore different worlds. He was the captain of the chess team, lettered in golf and band while in high school, and wasn’t beaten up anywhere near as much as one might imagine.As an adult, John spends most of his time staring at a computer screen in an attempt to avoid people. He stares at the monitor for hours, imagining what it would be like to explore different worlds. Occasionally, he looks around to see what’s happening on planet Earth. Quite frankly, it frightens him. He’s just going to do his best to write as many books as he can before aliens disintegrate humanity for being so irritating.Emo bunny minions surround John at most times. He is their imaginary friend and they look to him for guidance. At one point, they took over the world. No one noticed because they left everything exactly as it was. They gave the world back after a week because it was depressing.The Ryallon Series is his most popular endeavor into the field of writing. His Stories for Demented Children have lightened the hearts of many strange children and adults. He writes in the evenings and weekends whenever possible.

Book preview

Map of Nulanea

Chapter 1

Being two days after the events of Pinghavn

Teluith simmered with annoyance as she watched Liselle giggle at another impertinent comment made by Pelya. Or was her name Countess Schaliasa? The psychotic warrior lied about everything except the fervent desire she had to kill people. Teluith’s hands wrung the flower-etched staff in her lap and she squeezed her eyes shut in hopes the infernal woman would disappear.

They currently lounged in the spacious suite provided by Lady Kirstmolt of Pinghavn, safe from the frosty air outside the castle walls. Remnants of a fire crackled in the hearth as a reminder of the warmth they were about to leave behind. Soft carpets covered the floor while tapestries on the walls gave the common room vibrant color that contrasted with Teluith’s irritability. Curtains were pulled back to allow early morning light through multi-paned windows. The furniture was of the finest quality with a wine cabinet near the hearth and two small tables with chairs for playing games of strategy near the other wall. Doors to their rooms, from which they had cleaned out of all their personal belongings, another sitting area and an office were all open.

The object of Teluith’s ire sat in a chair, idly wiggling her stupid toes while her feet rested on the edge of the low table in the center of the room. Liselle sat in the chair next to her, leaning toward Pelya like a silly girl wanting the favor of the popular one.

Across the table sat the sinister rogue Tathan of the Shadows in a comfy chair with the equally sinister Felina Bounty Hunter ever-present in his lap and Steve the monstrous squirrel at his feet.

Teluith sat upright on the couch while vainly attempting to hide her annoyance. The Druid Evien, with whom she had traveled since leaving Habnome to rescue Liselle, sat next to her, sympathetically mirroring her irritation.

Platters, nearly empty of stacked pastries, covered the table. Their group ate them faster than the poor cooks could make. Steam rose from hot drinks to warm the guests and give them energy for the journey they were about to undertake.

Teluith snarled at all of it. She was Liselle’s best friend. She was supposed to be the one Liselle talked to late in the night. She was the one Liselle had blessed with the divine powers of an archpriestess.

Months ago, while battling Tyeromaythan the Devourer in the caverns under the ancient city of Habnome, Liselle had an epiphany that she was the Goddess of Flowers. In that moment, power spread from her, imbuing Liselle’s mate Vevin, Teluith, and Teluith’s husband Reben with divine power. Liselle was kidnapped by agents of Crazed Gods who imprisoned her on a ship until the party in this room rescued her a few days previously.

Teluith’s husband Reben died a hero in the rescue.

It was hard to breathe every time Teluith remembered his death. She clutched her shirt to her chest and squeezed her eyes tighter, rocking back and forth. Reben and she had left their cloistered lives to travel from the exotic continent of Pomelea to this forsaken continent of Nulanea. The only good thing remaining to Teluith was her goddess and the powers she now possessed as her archpriestess.

Pelya should have been the one to die. The warrior woman had watched Teluith’s husband die as he bravely sacrificed himself against the backlash of his exploding staff. Pelya could have taken the staff and shielded everyone with her magical dress and jewelry. Even if she had died, it would have been more acceptable than Reben dying.

Teluith? Evien touched Teluith’s thigh with a hand that displayed an exquisite tattoo of tree branches extending down her fingers.

Teluith knocked the hand aside, shot to her feet and rushed out of the room.

Servants mingled outside the door, chatting about weather and castle gossip. They jumped aside in alarm when Teluith stormed out and turned down the hallway. Will you be leaving now, Your Holiness? The most senior of the servants asked.

Teluith ignored his question. Her staff swung with her furious pace as she marched to a nearby exit leading to the seaside wall. She would attempt to calm herself from the anger and grief that consumed her.

Upon reaching the heavy ironbound wood door, Teluith pushed. Evien ran up behind her and added her shoulder to the effort.

You don’t have to come with me, Evien. I’ll be fine. Teluith and Evien slipped through the door and pushed to close it. She needed time to be alone. The Druid had hovered by Teluith’s side since Reben’s death, making it even more difficult to get time with Liselle.

Their disregard of your feelings infuriates me. A detailed, colorful tattoo of a bird on her left cheek gave the appearance of being in flight when Evien scowled. She also had cloud tattoos on her right bicep and chest but those were covered with a long shirt and warm pants for traveling, gifted by Lady Kirstmolt. The way Liselle dotes on Pelya is ridiculous.

It is tiring, no? Teluith nodded to pair of soldiers patrolling the wall.

They tipped fingers to leather-reinforced fur helmets that covered their ears and neck, just as much to keep them warm as for protection. Waterproofed leather coats covered the blue and yellow tabards of Pinghavn. The soldiers held long pikes made for repelling invaders from the wall. At their hips were curved swords.

Teluith adjusted the white skullcap on her sky-blue hair. Lady Kirstmolt had been gracious in the services of her tailors and other staff who had sewn a new one to replace the threadbare cap she had brought from Pomelea. She also wore new trousers and a light blue shirt that matched her eyes. They were warm, comfortable and of finer quality than any other clothes she had worn in her life.

Clothes would never replace the warmth of her husband’s embrace.

Pre-dawn glow illuminated the sky above the icy Gulf of Buruu. Soon, the sun would peer over the water’s horizon and brighten the cobalt sky with the promise of warmth. A light breeze with the tang of salt water invigorated the senses. Cries of northern sea birds rose above the sound of the ocean booming against the rocks below. Someone shouted in one of the castle’s courtyards and a gull squawked in reply.

We’ve been stuck in this castle for the last three days, Evien said as she followed Teluith to a rampart jutting over the bay. Benches were placed in a half circle for people to sit and enjoy the view. There’s snow, ocean and rocks everywhere here. I need trees. At least the blizzard ended yesterday. She pointed at a team of workers shoveling. They’re fast at clearing off snow.

Teluith sat on a bench and gazed south over the bobbing masts of countless ships docked along piers. She watched the industrious movement of people around colorful warehouses. Further into the dark choppy waters of Buruu Gulf, ships were anchored for the remainder of the winter with their masts and spars bare as leafless trees. To the north, houses and businesses sat atop white rock cliffs that rose sharply above the Gulf. Bulky towers of the castle behind her blocked the view of the city between.

Teluith folded her legs underneath her, rested her arms on her knees and closed her eyes to meditate. Her staff rested across her lap.

Evien sat next to Teluith so their legs were touching and the staff was over both their legs. Brr. She rubbed her arms and shivered. I see why they recommended we wait until after sunrise to leave. It’s still freezing out.

Mhm. Teluith inhaled.

I can’t believe we have to ride all the way to Boagberll with Pelya.

Teluith exhaled slowly.

How can you tolerate her presence?

With a sigh, Teluith opened her eyes and her shoulders slumped. I can’t. I was hoping she would go away but everyone else thinks she should stay.

Evien parroted Teluith’s internal thoughts. I don’t understand how, considering her inaction resulted in Reben’s death.

Teluith pressed a hand against her forehead. They don’t believe she was at fault.

Evien rubbed Teluith’s back, but it was vigorous and aggravating rather than calming.

They . . . Teluith pinched the bridge of her nose. She needed to be able to meditate. It felt like ages since she had done so properly. The last time she could remember was on the ship to Pinghavn and even that had been unsatisfying. Liselle needs help understanding her powers and Pelya knows . . .

I don’t buy it. Evien flicked her fingers. She makes these things up as she goes.

Teluith buried her face in her hands. It doesn’t matter. Liselle only became my friend out of pity.

What? Evien rubbed her back more. You need to stop putting yourself down. You’re Liselle’s archpriestess and it’s about time everyone started listening to you.

Nobody listens to me anymore, no? Teluith tilted her head to the sky and flopped her hands in her lap. They ignore my grief like it’s an inconvenience.

It’s Pelya’s influence. She’s trying to isolate you and control Liselle.

Teluith got to her feet and tapped the butt of her staff on the stone of the rampart. She leaned it against the bench so she could do some exercises. Liselle is too intelligent to corrupt, no?

If you say so. Evien crossed her legs on the bench. The important thing is that Liselle needs to start listening to you instead of Pelya.

And why is that, Evien? Liselle’s voice was cool as she walked up behind them, silently enough that neither had noticed her presence.

Evien jumped like a startled cat and landed on her feet. I didn’t hear you coming. Her eyes were wide with alarm.

The two of you stormed out yet again. We’re about to go on a long journey together and I’d like to clear the air before we do. Liselle clasped her hands in front of her. She wore the finest clothes of any of them, also a gift from Lady Kirstmolt. The shirt was white wool with a soft inner lining that Liselle had made certain everyone felt. It was embroidered with lavender thread she had found in the seamstresses’ collection. It matched the color of Vevin’s scales and she felt he would love it on her when they rescued him. Her pants were black to match her hair. More lavender thread was embroidered around the waist and hips to match the shirt. The hood of a fur lined cloak was pushed back.

Her hair had been down to her waist after the rescue, but Lady Kirstmolt’s personal lady-in-waiting had cut it shoulder length, light over her ears and dancing around her cheeks.

A palpable radiance surrounded Liselle. She was the goddess known as the Child of Flowers, though most only believed she was a priestess. At least she wasn’t glowing as she did on occasion when experiencing epiphanies. And her eyes weren’t on fire as they would be when she was angry.

Liselle unclasped her hands and flicked them sharply in a small gesture of frustration. Fine. I’ll talk. She walked over to the rampart wall, waist high so people could appreciate the view. I’m overwhelmed with freedom. It probably sounds odd. It certainly feels odd. She spread her arms wide to indicate the magnificent view in which the top of the sun was just beginning to peer over the ocean. I find it hard to breathe.

Teluith moved to her and wrapped her arms around one of Liselle’s. Then talk to me. Let me help you. We can meditate together, no?

Yes. Liselle smiled at her. I’d like that very much.

Then why do you only talk to Pelya? Teluith wanted to keep the hurt out of her voice, but failed miserably.

Liselle closed her eyes and inhaled, clearly irritated by the question. Do not attempt to control me, Teluith. I am not your pet goddess.

Teluith released her arm and took a step back, hurt to the depths of her heart. Words came out in a hoarse whisper. I would never . . .

Liselle held up a hand. But it feels that way, like you want to put me on a pedestal and gather people to worship me.

The flowers want . . . Teluith tried to fight tears but they already streamed down her face.

Evien stood with her arms folded, staring at her feet. She was quiet whenever Liselle came near and refused to repeat things she said when Liselle wasn’t around.

I know what the flowers want, Liselle said. And I know . . .

No you don’t. Teluith pointed a finger. You ignore the flowers while thinking you are better than them, no?

Liselle’s eyes widened and her jaw dropped.

You do! You think you know best. But the flowers are smarter than you believe they are. They are wise and they worship you. You accept that, but you won’t accept human worshippers? Teluith slashed her arm through the air. That is foolish, no?

Liselle’s jaw appeared to be stuck in its gaping position.

I have listened to the flowers. Teluith smacked her chest with the palm of her hand. I hear what they want for you. I hear their adoration of you that matches my own. She smacked her chest again. Yes, Liselle. I adore you and I worship you.

Liselle closed her jaw and frowned in confusion.

Yet you have ignored me since we rescued you, no? Teluith folded her arms. You spend all your time with that murderer.

Fire flashed in Liselle eyes, literal blue flames of holy anger.

It upsets you that I say that, no? Will you smite me with holy fire? Teluith knew the question was unfair, but Liselle had changed while imprisoned. There was a part of Teluith that worried her goddess might do exactly that.

The flames died as abruptly as they had flared. No. Liselle’s voice was weak with dismay. Her shoulders hunched.

Teluith put a hand to her forehead and tried to calm herself.

I’m sorry, Teluith. Liselle squeaked. I’m sorry I failed you.

You didn’t! Teluith took her hands. I failed you. It is why you are mad at me, no?

No! Liselle shook her head, sending her hair swirling around her cheeks. I’m not mad at you. I . . . I don’t know what I am.

You are a goddess. You’re my goddess and the flowers’ goddess.

Liselle squeezed Teluith’s hands and gave them a shake. But I’m not really, am I? I don’t feel like a goddess. I feel like a human flower or . . . She frowned in confusion. I don’t know what I mean, but I can’t really be a goddess, can I?

Of course you are. I thought that was clear, no?

But I don’t feel like one. She released Teluith’s hands and gestured toward the sky. Gods are invisible balls of spiritual energy that float in the mists of magic, aren’t they?

I . . . Teluith hadn’t given a great deal of thought to gods in her life. She shrugged.

I’m just a girl with the power of flowers. Fear tainted Liselle’s voice and she clasped her hands to her chest. I don’t want to turn into a ball of energy and float around the world.

I don’t want that either. Teluith hugged her, hoping Liselle wouldn’t reject the contact. You are my best friend, no?

Liselle returned the hug and buried her face in Teluith’s shoulder. Yes. I don’t know what to do, Teluith. I’m afraid of what I’ll become if I continue. She lifted her face and rested her chin on Teluith’s shoulder. What will happen when I’m surrounded by flowers again?

You’ll be happy. Teluith rested her chin on Liselle’s shoulder in return. You are always happy when surrounded by flowers.

Will I be so happy my body disintegrates and I float into the mists of magic?

No. Teluith had no idea but that seemed like the best answer in this situation.

How can you be certain?

I don’t know. We should meditate on it.

But if I meditate I may have an epiphany and disintegrate.

Disintegrate is the word Pelya used. Do not listen to her. Teluith squeezed harder. Perhaps if she did so then Liselle would stay whole. She wishes to control you.

But you told me to listen to her because she knows more about gods than anyone. Liselle rubbed Teluith’s back. And nothing she’s done leads me to believe she’s trying to control me.

Teluith released the hug and took Liselle’s upper arms in her hands. Everything was tinted rose in the dawn light, causing Liselle’s tears to glisten on her cheeks. It is what I thought at first, but the more I consider how she behaves, the more I believe she is wrong about you disintegrating and only says so to frighten you. Perhaps she is lying, or perhaps she is another agent of Tyeromaythan.

Liselle wiped her tears away. Do you honestly believe that? She turned her head to the sunrise, a breeze rustling her hair and the soft fur of her cloak.

Teluith released her arms and looked out over the ocean with her. The sun was above the horizon now, casting a ruddy reflection over the choppy water. Seabirds drifting on air currents called out good morning to each other. I don’t know what I believe anymore, no? Nothing makes sense. I wish to meditate, but the power vibrates in me, making it impossible to concentrate.

Do you wish me to remove it? Liselle’s voice was barely a whisper.

No. Tears welled in Teluith’s eyes. It is the greatest gift anyone has ever given me. I never want it to go.

Then you may have it forever. Liselle gripped Teluith’s shoulder and rested her forehead against it. Even when I’m floating in the mists of magic.

Thank you. Teluith’s lips quivered while she tried to restrain the tears that wanted to break free.

Your Holinesses? a voice said from behind them.

Liselle and Teluith turned to face a young man by the name of Ulrik who wore the livery of Lord Kirstmolt. He had been assigned to assist them as needed. Yes, Ulrik? Liselle asked.

Lady Kirstmolt is in the courtyard, ready to see you off. Porters have collected your belongings and the rest of your party is heading down there now.

Liselle gave him a slight curtsey. Will you do the honor of escorting us, Ulrik?

The honor would be mine, Your Holiness. He held his arm out.

Liselle took it and walked with him to nearby stairs.

Teluith wiped her eyes and retrieved her staff. She held it close for the slight comfort it gave her as she followed her goddess.

Evien moved to her side, but remained silent.

Chapter 2

To Tathan’s relief, goodbyes were a fast affair. Lady Kirstmolt’s servants in the courtyard fussed over everyone’s equipment and bags to ensure they had everything. Before the sun crested the courtyard walls, the party was on their way.

They traveled south along the highway, stopping at a roadside inn only for a short lunch and to rest their steeds. It was cold and breezy, but the clothes and cloaks provided by Lady Kirstmolt protected them from the elements and they kept a brisk pace.

Thin, high clouds seemed as though a painter had brushed them against the pastel canvas of the sky. The highway was travelable, though windblown snow drifts in spots slowed them down. Hardy travelers and determined caravans passed them with pleasant but brief greetings.

Teluith and Evien flanked Liselle at the front of the party, dominating her time. Teluith talked more than she had since Reben’s death, often reaching out to touch Liselle’s arm. Liselle asked questions and smiled often, clearly happy to have company. Occasionally the godly radiance surrounding her increased before she would realize and draw it back in.

The rest followed, content to let the others lead, though the disdainful looks Teluith occasionally threw over her shoulder were aggravating.

Tathan leaned back in his saddle while his horse plodded along. With a gloved thumb he rubbed a silver bracelet set with pretty gems. They were semi-precious milky stones not worth a great deal and the craftsmanship of the bracelet was only adequate, but he liked it.

Where did you get that? Felina asked as she rode next to him. The mounts were gifts from Lady Kirstmolt to replace horses lost in battle at the port city of Ibudo months ago. Each had soft woolen saddles and colorfully dyed tack decorated with beads and embroidery.

Tathan looked up at her gorgeous green eyes and smiled. Hmm?

The bracelet, where did you get it? Felina pointed a gloved finger at it. The glove was green like her dress. Both were gifts from Lady Kirstmolt made to replace tattered clothing damaged in the battle to rescue Liselle. Felina had joined with the seamstresses at the castle to make them and had cast enchantments on the thread while sewing it into the shapes of runes to hold protective magics. She had purchased more thread so she could continue whenever they stopped on their journey. It would take a year for her to do it properly from what she told Tathan.

Tathan . . .

Hmm? Tathan raised an eyebrow.

Mudbubbles. Are you addled? Felina puffed her cheeks and lifted her head to the sky in frustration.

Addled? He frowned.

Yes. Are you addled? Did someone stir a finger in your brains and wiggle them about? Felina pointed her finger down and circled it about as though wiggling brains in a pot.

No. I don’t think so. Why do you ask?

She held her gloved hand to her forehead in exasperation. Because I asked you a question and you’re just staring at me.

You’re pretty.

Felina dropped her hand and gaped at him in mild surprise. Oh . . . I . . . She opened and closed her mouth a few times while a blush grew and a half smile crept up her right cheek.

Your beauty makes it so I can barely think of anything else. So yes, I suppose I am addled. He hadn’t intended to sweet talk her, but since he had done so inadvertently, he may as well capitalize on it. There was a great deal of truth to it anyway.

It paralyzes him too, Pelya said from where she rode her war horse Honey on the other side of Felina. Raven black hair covered her face and chronically troubled eyes. Slits in the ankle-length skirts of a form-fitting blue dress allowed easy movement. Black pants covered muscular legs. A pair of thin swords rested on her hips. Over everything she wore a cloak given to her by Captain Sharpil of Duchess Emmaoen’s ship on their journey to Pinghavn. It had enchantments to increase protection against cold. She looked good in it as she had pointed out to everyone at one point or another. The captain let her keep it because of the assistance she had given the sailors. Or perhaps it was because he had been too afraid to ask for its return.

Tathan and Felina both lost their smiles and narrowed their eyes as the mood was broken.

Steve, a human-sized squirrel with a supernatural link to Felina chittered at Pelya from where he rode in the saddle of another horse. His black fur was thick enough that he needed no clothing and would have been insulted had anyone suggested otherwise.

Oh. Good point Steve. Pelya dropped back. Sorry to ruin the moment.

Felina shook off the distraction without looking at the warrior. Where did you get that bracelet, Tathan?

Tathan gazed down at it. Oh, this? It’s just an old thing. He tucked it away in one of the multitudes of enchanted pockets in his jacket.

"It is not your old thing though, is it? Felina’s jaw jutted forward. You stole it, didn’t you?"

Did I? Tathan tried to remember where he had gotten it. He took it out and looked at it again.

Is that Lady Kirstmolt’s bracelet?

No. He ran his thumb over the gems. I didn’t steal this one. It was a gift from someone a long time ago. It feels like lifetimes past.

Oh . . . Felina blushed and hung her head. Mudbubbles. I’m sorry I accused you.

It’s fine. I’m used to it. He put the bracelet back.

Felina rolled her eyes at his morose behavior.

Tathan noticed even though she tried to hide it. He pulled a bracelet out of another pocket. This is the one I stole from Lady Kirstmolt.

Tathan! Felina spread an arm out in a gesture of disbelief.

Pelya burst into laughter from behind them.

Felina laughed in resignation. I thought you gave it back.

This is a different one. He returned it to its pocket. She has a lot of them. I’m guessing that’s the town of Avlcher ahead. It’ll be good to get out of this cold.

She shook her head in rueful dismay while looking at the thatched rooftops jutting above a rocky rise in the distance. There were a few warehouses along the highway on the outskirts of the town. The main street was filled with stores and businesses to serve travelers. Low hills surrounding the town provided shelter from the wind. Agreed. I want to work on my dress some more.

Have you considered making two or even ten since you keep ruining them? Pelya asked.

"I had two. Felina threw her arms in the air. Ever since I’ve gotten involved with crazed gods, I can’t keep a dress."

Tathan noticed Liselle’s head turn slightly at the comment.

Pelya smirked. You haven’t been very good at keeping them on since meeting Tathan either.

It was Tathan’s turn to blush. He noticed Liselle stifle laughter. He also noticed Teluith shake her head in disgust. The monk’s attitude concerned him. He understood she was going through a terrible loss, but there were healthy and unhealthy ways to handle that. Casting blame on others was unhealthy.

Her possessive inclination toward Liselle was also a problem. She was acting like a priestess in the way she was fawning over her goddess. Granted, she was Liselle’s priestess, but she had been much more pleasant when not acting like it.

Felina twisted in her saddle. Pelya, you’re incorrigible. Shouldn’t you be reading or stabbing something?

Perhaps you should try stabbing something you’re reading, Tathan suggested.

Pelya leaned on the pommel of her saddle. I’ve done that more than a few times. It’s not as satisfying as you might think.

Tathan chuckled. Did anyone think to ask what inn we should stay at? And how many rooms are we getting?

Teluith turned. The caravan guard captain who talked to us this afternoon suggested the Blue Stone Inn would have rooms and was away from the highway where inns would be filled with caravaners.

Sounds good to me.

But we should acquire modest rooms from now on, and as few as possible. Teluith fidgeted with her reins. Liselle’s funds are limited.

I have money, Tathan, Felina and Pelya said at the same time.

They exchanged looks and laughed.

Liselle turned in her saddle with a hand on her horse’s rump. I still have enough money to live comfortably for months. There is no need to sacrifice yours.

We each have enough to last years, Felina said with a wave of dismissal.

Pelya spoke loud enough to be heard in front, but not so much that she was yelling. I don’t know that it’s enough to buy churches, but we can support you until your followers collect tithes to promote the spread of your religion.

Churches? Liselle’s brow furrowed.

Big buildings with preachy people and statues, Tathan informed her.

And pews, Felina added. A half-smile crept up her cheek.

Tathan gestured grandly. You could have them build statues of flowers and there could be planters with flowers everywhere.

Liselle straightened and a smile lit her face. Oh! That sounds nice. I like flowers.

We hadn’t noticed. Felina rolled her eyes.

Pelya snorted in restrained laughter while Liselle narrowed her eyes at the sorceress.

Felina’s impish smile stayed on her cheek until Liselle laughed and shook her head.

We should ask people in this town to become your followers, no? Teluith suggested.

Ask? Liselle’s eyes widened. You mean actually ask people?

Yes. You need followers. Teluith stood in her saddle to look out over the sprawling town. There are people here who might wish to care for flowers and follow you.

Tathan made a face. That’s a terrible idea. It’s irritating when people go door to door trying to get you to follow their god. We’ll probably get chased away by priests from whatever religion is established here. He grimaced. Or we could get arrested for blasphemy. That could lead to violence, which we’re trying to stay away from.

Actually, I think it’s a good idea, Pelya said. We just . . .

Teluith stared over her shoulder in disbelief. You do?

Of course. Pelya puffed hair out of her face that fell right back over. If you want worshippers, you have to let them know Liselle exists. I’d recommend adding minor miracles to your conversations.

What sort of minor miracles? Liselle frowned, clearly unhappy with the idea. Every time I heal people, they want to capture me and put me in a cage as their prized possession.

We must avoid that, no? Teluith said.

Pelya winked at Tathan. Some people like that sort of thing, no?

Tathan chuckled.

Teluith snarled. Your mockery of me is bad enough, Pelya, but your comment is inappropriate in Liselle’s presence.

Felina rolled her eyes again. It was a wonder they didn’t jump out of their sockets.

Pelya puffed hair out of her eyes. Ahh . . . didn’t mean to mock you, Telui . . .

Yes you did. She turned her head and crossed her arms over her staff. I’m tired of you saying inappropriate things in front of Liselle.

Liselle’s brow furrowed. She opened her mouth to say something but failed to find the words.

Evien, who had been deep in thought since Teluith made the suggestion of gathering followers, held up a finger. Would breaking a table in half and mending it with flowers be considered a minor miracle?

Teluith gasped. Why must you bring that up?

Are you suggesting Teluith break and mend tables wherever we go? Felina asked.

No. And comments like that are unnecessary. Evien sneered at Felina. But if that would be a minor miracle, perhaps Teluith and Liselle could cast magic in ways that would draw attention, but not enough to be dangerous. And not enough to exhaust them.

Felina’s fingers twitched over a wand as though she wanted to use it on the Druid.

Liselle rubbed her chin with a finger. I could create flowers. I like creating flowers.

"Create your flower, Liselle. You know, the blue one with petals that look like flames. Tathan shifted in his saddle. It had been a while since he had ridden anywhere. Do you have a name for it?"

I don’t. She turned to look back at him. Do you think I should?

Let the people come up with the name for it, Pelya suggested. It’ll make them a part of your movement.

Evien wrinkled her nose. What if people in one country call it something different than in other countries?

That will happen, which will make it even more special to the people of each. Pelya spread her hands. It will give them cause to talk to each other about Liselle and even become a point of friendly arguments.

Teluith shook her head in anger. It doesn’t belong to them. It belongs to Liselle. She pointed. It’s Liselle’s Flower.

Tathan suppressed his irritation with her attitude. Liselle’s Flower is an excellent name for it. We’ll start with that and see what happens.

This is too much fuss. Liselle put fingers to her forehead. I just want to rescue Vevin. After that, I promised to find treasure for him and that’s what I’m going to do. The world doesn’t need another god.

Tathan leaned back toward Pelya. Can a goddess commit blasphemy against herself?

Anything is possible. Pelya grinned.

Liselle chuckled reluctantly and shook her head. But I’m serious, Tathan. I don’t want to be a goddess. I don’t want people to worship me. I don’t want to disintegrate into a ball of energy. She clenched her reins as though they would keep her grounded.

Tathan rode forward, shoving between Evien and Liselle.

Evien gave him a dirty look.

He ignored it and reached over to take Liselle’s hand. I know, Cousin. I’ve seen you wield more power than anyone else and remain yourself through all of it.

Her voice was weak with fear. "But what if I don’t remain myself."

You’ll always be yourself. Everybody changes over time, but they remain who they are.

Not if I disintegrate.

Teluith put a hand on Liselle’s thigh. You won’t disintegrate, Liselle.

You don’t know. Liselle shook her head. I know you want me to be fine. You want me to be who I was before, but I’m not that person anymore.

What did they do to you on the ship? Teluith demanded. What torture did they put you through?

They didn’t torture me. Liselle shook off Tathan’s hand and flicked her reins. Let’s go to the inn. I need food and . . . something. I don’t know. She rode ahead of them.

Tathan wanted to go after her, but Teluith kicked her horse to do so before he could. There were too many people vying for Liselle’s attention.

Evien glared at him and rode ahead as well.

If those two look at you like that again I’m going to slap their faces with one of my wands, Felina said, riding up next to Tathan. I was hoping their attitudes would get better without Ceval whispering in their ears, but it’s getting worse instead.

I don’t understand it. Tathan scratched his chin. Teluith should be able to find peace within herself through meditation. Reben must have been more of a stabilizing force than we realized.

Felina pulled on the cuffs of her gloves to get the fit tighter. It’s not just that. Teluith has had Liselle’s attention the entire ride. She’s growing into her power and should be more at peace with herself. Instead, she’s getting antsier by the day. Felina leaned toward Tathan to squint at his chin. You’re already growing far too much stubble. I’ll shave you tonight.

Pelya tightened her cloak around her shoulders. Evien has been whispering in Teluith’s ears. Perhaps that has something to do with it. I understand Teluith’s problem, but Evien’s behavior doesn’t make sense.

Tathan snapped his fingers. Trees.

Felina stroked his cheek. The stubble isn’t as bad as trees but it’s getting close.

Evien needs to hug some trees. That’ll stop her from being cranky.

Probably. Felina left his cheek alone and shifted in her saddle.

And flowers. Tathan pointed his finger and shook it. Definitely flowers.

Evien needs to hug flowers? Felina raised an eyebrow.

Pelya chuckled.

Evien needs trees, but Teluith and Liselle need flowers. Tathan stroked his chin. Felina had shaved it the day before. It wasn’t as bad as she said. I think it’ll help both of them stop being so emotional.

What are you trying to say? Felina narrowed her eyes.

Tathan caught the warning tone in her voice. I mean their powers are wreaking havoc with their inner serenity and metaphysical channels of energy.

Felina’s eyes remained narrow, which was bad, but didn’t get narrower, which was good.

Keep going, Tathan. You’re not out of the woods yet. Pelya leaned toward Steve. He’s not out of the flowers either.

Steve chittered in amusement.

It was Tathan’s turn to narrow his eyes, this time at the warrior. Secretly he was grateful because Felina did the same.

Pelya held her hands up. Uh oh. Tap into your inner channels of emotional metaphysical serenity energy, please.

Mudbubbles, you’re infuriating. Felina rolled her eyes and shook her head.

Tathan tried to pretend to be upset with Pelya but couldn’t stop the laugh that broke loose.

Felina covered a giggle with her glove. It only lasted a moment. You’re right though, Tathan. Flowers and trees might help them. Until then maybe we should give them space.

Eh. I like talking to my cousin though.

I know. Felina fidgeted with her reins. I could paralyze Teluith.

Tathan chuckled. Not sure Liselle would want to talk to me if you did. He noticed Felina was staring at her hands. Wait . . . You’re not serious?

Mudbubbles, no. Felina’s eyes widened and she observed the town ahead. Oh, what a lovely town with people walking around.

Not often you find those, Pelya said.

Felina rolled her eyes again, a habit she exhibited more and more in their travels.

Um . . . Tathan wasn’t sure whether he should clarify what was acceptable behavior but decided to err on the side of caution even if it meant Felina might get cranky. I appreciate the offer, but let’s not paralyze our friends.

I was just joking. Felina looked away.

He saw her jaw set in irritation. If you wanted to poke their noses with a wand, I wouldn’t say no. Tathan winked at her.

Felina glanced at him and shrugged. Some of the tension left her muscles.

How far ahead did they get? Tathan stood in his saddle to look along the highway as it curved into town. He saw the flower in Liselle’s hair briefly bobbing above travelers before disappearing behind buildings lining the highway. Not far, but let’s catch up. I don’t want us to get separated with all the people who are unhappy with us.

Good point, Pelya said.

Felina nodded and nudged her horse forward. Yes, let’s.

They caught up moments later and rode together to the inn without further conversation.

The night was uneventful and the next few days’ travel passed much in the same way.

Chapter 3

The eighth night of their journey was spent in a quaint village off the highway. A good number of travelers stayed at the Crooked Antler Inn, but it was free of merchant trains. Villagers were in their homes shortly after dark, making the inn the noisiest building on the street and even that was largely quiet.

The air outside was frosty as it had been every night, and the party was thankful to be in warm rooms. At their rate of travel, however, it would take forever to reach Boagberll. From there, it would take longer to travel through forest and mountains to get to Habnome and rescue Vevin.

Pelya fluffed her under-stuffed pillow and sat on the edge of the rough-hewn bed against a plain, unpainted wall of the tiny basement room. The ceiling was low enough that her head brushed against it when standing. She wore a linen nightshirt and pants given to her by Lady Kirstmolt, the only gift she had accepted while in Pinghavn. Her dress was folded away in a small container Ebudae had made for it. She pressed her toes against the rough rug covering the cool dirt floor. The earthen odor lingered in the room along with the scent of wooden walls and dried food from the storage outside her door. A lantern on the nightstand gave off light that shimmered over the ceiling and walls. It was cozy and made her happy.

Things were far different than they had been in Dralin where members of the city guard gave her smiles and pleasant hellos everywhere she went. She had called them her aunts and uncles then but now they were just faded memories. Her life since then consisted of long journeys filled with danger and a lot of boredom in between.

An image of a girl appeared in Pelya’s mind. Her arms were folded like usual. Why are your loudest thoughts always so self-indulgent?

Hello Zai. I’m bored.

Me too. Let’s kill something. Zai was the name of the woman who had been enchanted into Pelya’s sword, though she always took on the appearance of the girl she had been before her capture.

I don’t want to clean blood out of my hair. Pelya grabbed a swath of hair that endlessly covered her face.

Cut it off and be bald.

Mudbubbles, no!

Mudbubbles is Felina’s word. You’re not allowed to use it.

Well that’s not fair. Pelya tossed the pillow on the head of the bed and flopped with one arm behind her head and the other hanging off the edge.

Speaking of not fair, why are you in this squalid room while everyone else sleeps in the suite upstairs?

Because the suite is barely a room itself. And I can’t stand listening to everyone talk all the time, especially Teluith.

I’ll agree with that. But didn’t you pay for everything?

It was only a gold piece. I just wish we would push a little harder. It’s like we’re on a casual outing rather than a rescue mission.

Teluith has taken the lead and is pampering Liselle while attempting to dominate her time. That doesn’t bother you?

Other than the pace, no. It means Liselle leaves me alone.

Zai scrunched her nose. She looks for me every time she’s near you. I hate it.

Yeah. Her eyes catch fire and it feels like she’s studying my brain.

You like her.

Well sure. She’s a nice person.

Zai’s eyebrows lowered. That’s not what I meant and you know it.

I know what you meant. I don’t like her in that way. Pelya watched a spider with long legs stroll across the ceiling. I don’t like anyone that way.

You let her sit on you and kiss you.

It wasn’t a kiss and it was only once. It was curiosity on her part.

It was twice at least. Curiosity?

Yes. She’s curious, lonely and desperate for affection.

Zai lifted a finger, tilted her head and opened her mouth but no words came out.

She’s trying to understand people, which is better than any other god I’ve dealt with. Most want people to worship them blindly. Liselle wants to understand people so she can make their lives better. Pelya lifted both legs into the air and studied her toes. Everyone else has placed her on a pedestal. It’s lonely on one of those when all you want is for someone to hold you, understand you and . . . I don’t know.

Kiss you? Zai arched an eyebrow.

Sure. Pelya stretched her toes apart from each other. Even if she weren’t a goddess, she’s beautiful and perfect near as I can tell. I wonder if Vevin is her mate because only a dragon could compare to her.

Dragons are terrifying.

I think they’re cute.

Zai’s eyes widened in disbelief and she snorted.

The interior latch on