The Crystal Chronicles: Convergence

By M.A. Carr

Convergence, book one of The Crystal Chronicles, follows the paths of some very unlikely heroes from across the lands of Karaihe. In times long past, the Ancients set the world into motion with the help of eight magical crystals. Now, as the lands face a great darkness, the crystals seem to be awakening. From the might capital city of Erresum

• Language: English
• Publisher: M.A. Carr
• Release date: Jul 11, 2022
• ISBN: 9798986534817

Book preview

Prologue

Asharp, cold wind suddenly blew out the small cabin’s lone candle. The wooden door cracked as it slammed open, then shut again. A flash of lightning lit the small, one-room cabin, as thunder sounded in the distance.

Hurry, Peytra, a woman screamed from the window. Take the baby! Hide under the floorboards.

I’m trying, mother, a child of about eight said, voice shaking. The child held a baby in her arms, cries piercing the darkness.

The mother rushed over to the children. She gave the older child an understanding pat, seeing the fear in her eyes. Let’s get this board up, she whispered as she knelt down and pried a board away from the floor. There we go, she said as she took the children in her arms.

Momma, Peytra said, voice trembling, what’s happening?

The sound of birds–ravens–pierced the night; a shriek so shrill it sent chills down the young girl’s spine.

Don’t you worry, Peytra. Everything will be alright. You and your brother will be just fine, the mother said with a firm and reassuring tone. A new resolve of courage washed across the mother’s face. Now, down you go. Keep your brother quiet.

Peytra climbed down below the floorboards, giving her mother one final look as she disappeared into the darkness under the floor. As soon as the board was replaced the door of the cabin sprang open amid the crash of thunder and flash of lightning. A tall, slender figure appeared in the door, hooded, holding the curved blade of a katana, which shone brightly in the flashes of lightning. The temperature of the room seemed to drop suddenly, with the appearance of the stranger.

Where is he? the figure hissed in the darkness.

He’s gone, the scared woman managed to say, where you can never find him.

Is that so?

Please, go from here. Leave me be, she begged.

If it were only that easy. The man glided into the room as if his feet did not touch the ground. Where are the children?

Gone. The woman stood her ground. You will not have them. They are protected in ways even you will never understand.

Is that so? the man said. Do you still believe in the ancient arts? Those days are far in the past, long forgotten and forever lost. All followers of those ways shall die, by my hand if necessary. The man seemed to look at the floor right where Peytra and her brother were hidden.

The baby squirmed in Peytra’s arms. Shh… she whispered, trying to keep the baby quiet and hidden.

The hooded figure slowly approached to stand right atop the false board. Bending down, a stench so great Peytra almost passed out, wafted beneath the floor. As she peered up all she could see were two bright, green eyes; empty and cold. Peytra, despite being just a child, recognized these eyes as holding the purest form of evil.

A hand, bony and spindly, reached for the floorboard. Peytra, watching in fear, saw her mother charge the man from behind, with a butcher’s knife raised above her head, only to meet the sharpened end of the katana. The figure moved so quickly neither Peytra nor her mother had known what happened. It wasn’t until the woman—her mother—fell to the floor in a puddle of blood that Peytra realized the woman who had given birth to her was dead.

Peytra grimaced and ducked as close to the hard, cold earth as she could, knowing the figure was coming for her next. With a slow creak, the board was lifted. A bright light filled the cabin, a flash, but not of lightning. The world went dark as the floorboard crashed back into place. Peytra remembered no more.

Chapter 1

Xandar woke with a start, sitting straight up in his bed. The sun shone brightly through his open window. A scent of salt, from the sea, was brought into his room by a morning breeze. Xandar hung his legs off one side of his bed, gazing out the open window.

Three…two…one…and here you are, Xandar spoke, seemingly to himself as a bright red bird flew through the window and lit upon his bare shoulder. The bird’s feathers were a bright reddish-orange, appearing as flames rustling in the breeze. Its tail, almost as long as its body, rested upon Xandar’s back, as it looked upon its master.

Good morning, Quenya, Xandar said as he patted the bird. Quenya was no ordinary bird, but a phoenix; one of the rarest of all birds in Karaihe. This particular phoenix was less than one year old. Xandar had found the phoenix nested among some rocks near the harbor, nearly one year ago, alone and scared. Little is known about the phoenix, outside of the legends surrounding their mystical ability of rebirth; it is also said that they choose their masters. Xandar doubted the truth of this because there was no reason that a phoenix would choose him to be its master; he was no more than a servant boy in the small harbor town of Cristola.

Xandar! a voice bellowed from another room, bringing him from his thoughts. Breakfast is on the table. I hope you’re awake. You can’t be late for work today!

I’m coming, Uncle, Xandar yelled in return. He sat Quenya onto a perch next to the window and slipped into the next room to find a plump, spry man cooking strips of meat over a flame in the room’s hearth.

Ah, there you are, the portly man said.

Good morning, Uncle Valin, Xandar replied. Bacon again today, is it?

We must finish that hog we killed before it all spoils, boy, Valin said as he pulled three strips of bacon off the spit. There’s some bread and fresh eggs on the table, too.

Xandar sat down at the table and picked at a piece of bread. I had the dream again

What dream? Valin was too busy preparing the food to really hear what Xandar was saying.

The one with the bright flash. But that’s all I can ever remember about it, he said as he took a bite of bacon. I feel like there is more to it, but I can never seem to recall it all.

Maybe one day you will remember, Valin said as if he had not heard a word of what Xandar had said. Now, you best be off. Work is to be done and Miss Gretchen will not wait for your slow feet to get it done.

Yeah, yeah, we wouldn’t want to upset Miss Gretchen, now would we? Xandar said as he rose to his feet. I’ll see you there?

It is doubtful you will see me today, Valin replied. I have many errands to run around town. I will likely not be at the Manor until your shift has ended.

Alright then, Xandar said, as he exited the small cottage. I will see you tonight at home.

Stay out of trouble! Valin shouted upon his exit. A worried look crossed Valin’s face as he muttered something about a dream.

—-

Cristola was a small seaside town, located on the coast of Elvin Bay. Aside from the harbors, there was nothing impressive about the small village except for the immense manor that stood at the edge of town, in the shadow of Mount Cristol. Cristola was nothing more than a quaint fishing village where nothing of importance ever seemed to happen. The most excitement that could be found in Cristola came in the wild fishing tales that could be heard nightly at the harbor’s many pubs.

As Xandar walked down the pebbled path, which was filling with morning shoppers on their way to the fish markets, his mind was back on the dream. He remembered having this dream throughout his life, but it was recurring more often in recent weeks, becoming even more vivid.

Hey! a voice called from behind, Are you not going to wait for me?

Xandar stopped, turned to find a girl slightly taller than him, running his way, attempting to put on her shoe as her apron flapped behind her like a cape.

I’m sorry, Zalise, Xandar said, chuckling at the sight of his best, and only true friend. I wasn’t paying attention.

The dream again? she asked, catching up to him.

Yes, he sighed, third time this week.

Maybe it’s because of all the rum you’ve been drinking lately, she said with a wink.

I have not been drinking alone, he said as she fixed her apron around her waist. Orange?

Orange? she repeated, confused at first, but then realized he was talking about the orange tips that appeared at the end of her blonde hair, fading the higher it rose. Oh, yeah…it just kind of happened, she said. So did this. She showed him her wrist, where a tattoo of fire had appeared. I guess I’m just a fiery kind of girl, don’t you think?

Another new one?

Yeah, I guess, she said, acting as if she wasn’t sure of it.

When did that happen?

Last night.

I thought you went home when I did? he questioned her.

I did, she laughed. Not sure how to explain it.

Good morning, Miss Zalise! Xandar! a fisherman shouted from a boat docking at a nearby pier, diverting their attention away from the topic of tattoos and hair color.

Zalise was Xandar’s oldest friend. They had grown up only four houses apart, in a town primarily full of an older generation of fishermen. They had studied together, played together, and worked together their entire lives. It seemed as if the two had no secrets from each other, yet the two friends were very different. Xandar was much more reserved, wishing to avoid any, and all attention; Zalise, on the other hand, craved the spotlight, as could be seen by her appearance. Her hair was constantly changing of late and new tattoos seemed to appear on her body with little thought. The new fire ink was the third that she had told him about. Zalise, like everyone else in Cristola, was tan from spending their days in the sun. Xandar, on the other hand, never seemed to darken from spending so much time in the sun. In many ways, his appearance was opposite that of Zalise. He was pretty plain-looking, with shaggy, sandy hair and a lighter complexion. In that regard, he did stand out a little in Cristola, but no one seemed to mind—or mind him at all, really.

So, it’s a big day today! Zalise said as the two walked past a bakery, followed by a meat shop.

Is it? he replied.

Don’t tell me you’ve forgotten? she said, almost sounding angry.

Of course, I haven’t, he said. It’s not every day we get to clean the kitchens.

That’s not what I mean, Zalise said slowly.

Oh…your birthday? Xandar smiled.

You’re so mean, she said, returning his smile. This is a big one. I’m seventeen. We’re celebrating tonight, right?

Sure, he said. Whatever you want.

And next week, we celebrate you turning seventeen, her smile grew. We will both be of age.

To continue our servant-hood? he said dryly.

To explore the world, she said. We will finally be able to go and do as we please…make our own way in this world.

For me, that probably means work in this village, Xandar said. I’ve got a good job. I really can’t complain.

Where’s your spirit of adventure? Zalise asked. Don’t you want to find out what’s outside this village?

I don’t know, he said. I guess I haven’t given much thought to it.

Don’t you want to learn and broaden your horizons? she asked. I’m going to learn to fly an airship, or hunt for chimera, or discover the lost treasure of the Treasure Isles. Maybe I’ll even go to the Academy.

The Academy? Xandar laughed. Yeah right. Like The Academy would invite either one of us to study there. We’re just poor servants, like everyone else here, Zalise. Our lives are right here before us.

They came to a stop outside the gate of a house that stood taller than any building in Cristola. The marble facade of the outside appeared to glitter in the sunlight. Four impressive columns stood across the front of the house, giving it the appearance of a temple to some god or another. Atop each column sat a stone gargoyle; the outer two facing straight ahead, while the inner two faced one another. Windows dotted the entire house, giving the impression of numerous rooms, enough for all of Cristola to live comfortably; yet, it was the home of one man—the Magister of Cristola, Morphran Stefano.

Alright, Zalise sighed, You’ve convinced me. I’ll stay here as Lady of the Crystal Manor. You can remain as my servant if you please, she said, as she circled Xandar.

Lady? Whatever, he laughed. We had better get inside before we’re late. We don’t want Old Maid Gretchen after us first thing this morning.

To the servant’s entrance, Zalise joked as the two walked around the side of the house to a hidden entrance, known only to servants, but guarded nonetheless.

Two guards stood silently, on either side of black iron gates, topped with spikes. Xandar and Zalise presented the guards with a small piece of parchment that had a number scribbled on it. The guards looked at each number, nodded, and opened the gates.

Good morning to you, too, Ezra, Zalise said, in a mimicking tone.

I’ve told you not to call me that, the guard grunted.

Zalise led the way through the gate; Xandar on her heels, Why do you give them such a hard time?

Because they’re such stone-faces, she answered.

As they rounded the corner, they came across a yard full of people, ranging from younger to much older, all dressed alike. The males were wearing gray pants, with white button-down shirts; a multi-purpose belt around their waists, which had pouches for various tools. The females were all wearing the same-color gray skirts, with shirts that matched the males; the difference was an apron tied around their waist. Any with hair past their shoulders were made to keep it pulled up, atop their heads. Both males and females wore the same black shoe, which was uncomfortable to walk around in all day.

Zalise was busy pulling her hair up as she and Xandar entered, greeted with a number of odd and disgusted looks; for being almost late and then there was the unique, and bold, appearance of Zalise. Anything different, or out of the ordinary, in Cristola was not accepted by most; Zalise was anything but ordinary. Xandar was simply guilty by association.

As they stepped up to the group, a frumpy, old woman waddled up to the front of the crowd. I wonder what Old Maid Gretchen has in store for us today, Zalise muttered.

I really don’t understand what Uncle Valin sees in her… Xandar’s words trailed off as the head maid of Crystal Manor began to speak.

Good morning! Gretchen barked over the dull din of voices. Listen up for today’s assignments. Females twenty-three and younger report to the fields to harvest. Females older than twenty-three, report to the manor for cleaning duties. Males twenty-nine and younger report to the fields to plant. Once in the fields, you will be divided into two groups for specialized jobs. Males who are older than twenty-nine, report to the manor for repair work. Cooks, you know who you are, report to the kitchens.

Xandar would fall into the fieldwork by age, but he was fortunate to have a skill in cooking, so he spent his days in the kitchen instead of performing manual labor in the fields.

As the servants began to split off into different directions, Maid Gretchen spoke up once again, The following need to come with me to the front parlor: Loren, A’koa, Zalise, Xandar, and Seamus.

—-

The front parlor of Crystal Manor was even more spectacular than the outside. A grand staircase dominated the center of the parlor, featuring a blood-red carpet flowing down its center. At the top of the staircase, the path split to the left and right. What lay atop the stairs was unknown, as only the most senior servants were allowed to ascend to the upper floors of the mansion. The parlor floor was ivory tiled, with flecks of gold sprinkled within. Despite the grandeur of the staircase and gold-infused floor, the most magnificent piece in this parlor was the crystal chandelier that hung in the center of the room, dropping from a domed, cathedral ceiling that made the manor unique, and unmistakable from the outside. The crystals glittered with the sunlight that poured in from the high, cathedral windows which dotted the front and back of the parlor.

Quite the looker, isn’t she? Loren sidled up beside Xandar. Loren was one of the older servants of Crystal Manor. He was small in stature but remained fit for his age. His hair, although very white, was still full and thick. Despite the wrinkles that appeared upon his dark face, Loren’s eyes still shone with life.

It is, Xandar replied, admiring the chandelier.

For the last fifteen years, it has been in my care, the old man spoke. While you young ones are out doing the hard work, I spend much of my day up with the crystals.

What do you do up there? Xandar asked.

I polish every crystal, every day, Loren spoke proudly of his work. Sixty-six of them. I count them every day, too.

Why do you clean them every day? I’m sure they don’t get that dirty, Zalise interjected.

Ah, Loren said, looking up at the chandelier, but they do. You see, when they are spotless the sunlight that comes into the room creates a magnificent effect. But, the true beauty of the chandelier is at night, when you two are long gone from here, he laughed.

You mean you work here at night? Xandar asked.

Every night when all the rest of you go home, I stay and light the candles atop the chandelier before I leave, Loren said, almost in a whisper. If you could only see it. It’s truly a thing of beauty.

Loren was one of three other servants in the parlor with Xandar and Zalise. A young girl from the village, named A’koa, stood very close to Zalise. Her features were highlighted by her unique, snow-white hair that hung down to the middle of her back. She was younger than Xandar and Zalise, having not yet reached her teenage years. She was also much more of a talker than Xandar liked, at times, and she almost idolized Zalise.

I love your hair, A’koa was excited to point out. And orange is one of my favorite colors. My hair is so boring. You know? Colorless. Can you make mine orange?

Zalise looked to Xandar for help, Well, your mother might not like that, she said to A’koa. Besides, I don’t recall your favorite color being orange yesterday.

That was yesterday, A’koa said. So, can you? she asked again.

I’m not sure that would be such a good idea, Zalise said, not wanting to admit that she herself had no gift of coloring one’s hair.

Besides, Zalise just accidentally made her hair orange, Xandar joked.

Really? A’koa asked, confused.

Something like that, Zalise said.

Xandar turned his attention to the final servant in the parlor. Seamus. Of all the servants at Crystal Manor, Seamus was the one that Xandar did not want to be around. He was the same age as Xandar but had made it part of his job, since Xandar first came on at Crystal Manor, to make his life miserable. Seamus gave Xandar a hard way to go every chance he got, acting as if he were older and better. Now, for some unknown reason, they were in the parlor together.

Maid Gretchen waddled into the room, entering from a side door, and hopped three steps up the grand staircase. She looked over the lot of servants in the parlor and frowned. She pulled a parchment from the front of her apron and began to speak, The five of you have been chosen for a very special task this day. Although I’m not sure why it is the lot of you that’s been chosen, here we are. The Master will be returning this evening and we, or you, must make sure several things are in order before he arrives, meaning, you are not to leave today until your jobs are complete.

Xandar looked at Zalise, seeing her disappointment at the possibility of working late on her birthday. A’koa, on the other hand, seemed rather excited. Loren winked at Xandar, nodding at the chandelier; while Seamus skulked against one of the marble walls.

Loren, the crystal chandelier is your sole responsibility for the day, Maid Gretchen said. It must be in perfect condition. The Master takes great joy in showing off the chandelier.

Is the Master having company this evening, Lady Gretchen? old Loren asked.

It would appear as though he is hosting a delegation from the Academy of O.L.U.Z. Maid Gretchen replied.

The Academy? Zalise piped in.

That is of no concern to you, young lady, Maid Gretchen cut her off. You and A’koa will have a list of jobs to complete today. As will the two of you, she looked to Xandar and Seamus.

Xandar’s luck could not have been worse at this moment. He would be stuck with the one person in all of Crystal Manor whom he despised. He would much rather spend the day polishing the crystal chandelier with old Loren or listening to A’koa rattle on about some nonsense.

Xandar and Zalise looked at one another; each unhappy with the day’s assignments.

Off to it, Maid Gretchen ordered.

Of all the days, Zalise said to Xandar.

I know, he replied. Don’t worry. We will get done in plenty of time to celebrate. I promise. My list is only two pages long…

Zalise looked at her list, Same here.

A’koa began tugging at Zalise’s arm, urging her to come so they could begin their day of work together. At least someone is excited, Zalise murmured as she followed A’koa into the corridor to the left of the stairs.

Xandar watched the two disappear around the corner. He glanced again at his list of jobs for the day, most of which involved cleaning or repairing items that had been neglected due to time.

Aren’t I the lucky one? a quiet, sinister-sounding voice spoke. Seamus stood in the spot vacated by Zalise. I get to work alongside a nobody like you.

Trust me, the feeling is mutual, Xandar let slip.

Oh, look who’s grown a spine, Seamus toyed. Finally decide you’re going to stand up to me?

Look, we’ve got a lot of work to do, so let’s just get started and get this over with, Xandar held the list up for Seamus to see.

I’m not spending my day with scum like you, Seamus said. Give me one page. We’ll split up the work. Seamus grabbed one page from Xandar’s hands and began to walk away.

Xandar had never understood Seamus’ dislike for him, or why he thought he was so much better. His beginnings were no different than his own; he was a servant in the same place, for the same person, in the same village. For some reason, Seamus carried with him an air of greater importance.

I don’t think that’s what Maid Gretchen had in mind, Xandar said, as Seamus continued to walk away.

I forgot you’re a brown-noser too, Seamus laughed. As long as the work gets done, who cares how it happens. By this point, Seamus had rounded the corner into the opposite hall than the one Zalise and A’koa had entered moments earlier.

Xandar found some relief in Seamus’ abrupt exit and change of the day’s plans. It was true, by all definitions of the word scum, Xandar qualified. He was a servant to another human. He, and his uncle, worked very hard for all that they had. They had shelter, but it was nothing fancy. They had food, but it was what they worked to have with some livestock and a small garden. Seamus, on the other hand, was a mystery. Many rumors abounded that his father was a merchant in town, selling jewelry along the Looter’s Coast. If that were the case, why he worked here as a servant was quite puzzling. Xandar knew little about his mother, or father for that matter, but had never really seen him around the village; aside from their days spent working at the Crystal Manor.

Xandar looked at his list of jobs for the day and decided he had better get started, so he would be done in time for Zalise’s birthday celebration after work.

—-

The day moved fairly quickly for Xandar as he checked work off his list. He spent much of the day in the kitchen area. Certain jobs required him to move around on the lower floor of the manor; one even called for him to enter the cellars. He passed through the front parlor several times; each time watching Loren work tirelessly and diligently on the crystal chandelier, which he had lowered to the ground for ease of cleaning. During one of his passes through the parlor, Loren called Xandar over to the chandelier.

Just thought you might want to get an up-close look, old Loren said with a smile. Aren’t they beautiful?

They are, Xandar said, approaching. I’ve never seen a crystal up close.

Crystals are one of the purest gemstones found anywhere in the world, Loren said. Some believe they even have magical qualities.

Magic? Xandar laughed to himself.

Not a believer? Loren asked.

Guess I’ve never really thought about it, Xandar said truthfully.

I’ve seen a lot of things in this world, kid, he paused, some things that simply can’t be explained by natural means. This world is full of incredible wonder, and there is nothing quite as wonderful as pure crystal. Well, I better get back to cleaning. I’ve got fourteen more to polish. Loren began whistling, as he returned to the crystals.

Xandar looked back to his list. One item remained unchecked on his list of jobs for the day. Open window in Master’s Study? he read to himself. The Master’s Study was located on the second floor of the mansion. Xandar, nor any other simple servant was allowed on the second floor. Maybe he should seek out Maid Gretchen to verify the task, but she was probably busy overseeing the preparations for the night’s feast. It would probably be best to not bother her. The job was on the list she had given to him that morning, so it must be something that needed to be done.

Xandar stood at the foot of the grand staircase, nervous about ascending into an unknown part of the house. He looked at his list one more time, just to make sure he was doing what it said. There it was…the last item on the list read, "Open window in Master’s Study." With a shrug, Xandar headed up the stairs.

The blood-red carpet that led up the stairs, continued in either direction on the second floor. To the left was the Master Suite. Xandar’s destination, the Master’s Study, was off to the right. Xandar headed in that direction, finding himself standing outside a large door made of black walnut. He turned the golden knob and the door creaked open.

The study was dark, a large curtain at the far side of the room was drawn shut, letting no light into the room. Xandar crossed the room and opened the curtain. Sunlight flooded the room, revealing a large room full of books and items that would catch anyone’s attention. One wall was covered with a floor-to-ceiling bookshelf that was full of books. Artifacts and items from all over the world were held in display cases on the other side of the room. In the center of the room, sat a large cherry desk. The desktop was particularly tidy; everything in its place.

Open the window, Xandar said to himself. He walked behind the desk to the large window that overlooked the back lawn of the manor. He opened the window, letting in the warm sea air of Cristola. As he turned toward the door to leave, something caught his eye. The sun, which was now flooding into the room, shone upon something that glistened. In the corner of the room, next to the bookshelf, Xandar found the source of the glow; something was there, sparkling in the beams of the late evening sun. Approaching the object, he heard a low hum as he got closer. He looked around to make sure he was alone, then reached out to grab the object…

XANDAR! a voice yelled.

Maid Gretchen. He was caught. Xandar ran out of the study, leaving the door slightly ajar, following the bellowing voice of the old maid. As he reached the bottom of the stairs, he found Seamus and Maid Gretchen awaiting his arrival.

Would you care to explain yourself, young man? Maid Gretchen pointed her question at Xandar.

I was just opening the window, Xandar said with a trembling voice. It was on my list.

Yes, the list, Maid Gretchen said. Why does the list remain undone? Maid Gretchen held up the page that Seamus had taken earlier. It seems that nothing has been accomplished here.

I have completed every task on my list, Xandar said.

But this list has not yet been started, Maid Gretchen scolded. Young Seamus, here, says you tried to force him to do the work, but he couldn’t get it finished alone.

He wanted to… Xandar began, before being cut off.

Enough! Maid Gretchen yelled. Seamus, go home. Xandar, you will stay here until this work is finished. If not for you uncle, I’d have you fired for this.

Maid Gretchen stomped out of the room. As she exited back into the kitchens, Seamus began to laugh. Well, have fun, friend, he snidely said toward Xandar. I’m out of here. Seamus marched right out the front door, a major restriction for all servants to be seen using the front door of the Crystal Manor.

Xandar stood in shock at what had just transpired. He had spent all day working on his part of the work, while Seamus did nothing. Now, he was being punished by working extra…and on Zalise’s birthday of all days.

About that time, Zalise walked up, saying goodbye to A’koa who ran off through the kitchens, as the servants were expected to do.

You ready? Zalise said, walking up beside Xandar.

I’m really sorry, Zalise, Xandar said. But, I can’t. Seamus did none of his work today and Old Maid Gretchen is mad at me about it, so I’ve got to finish his work while he gets to leave.

Really? Zalise said. You have to stay?

Yeah. I’m really sorry.

It’s alright, Xan, Zalise said. I’ll stay and help.

No, you don’t have to do that, Xandar said. It’s your birthday. You shouldn’t suffer because of me

Listen, Xan, Zalise said, putting her arm around him, it’s my birthday. The only person in this town I want to spend it with is you. So, if you’re staying here, I’m staying here. And Old Maid Gretchen can choke on a fish bone if she doesn’t like it. So, let’s get on with this. I’ve been making up guest rooms all day. I could use a change of scenery.

You’ll never guess what I did, speaking of a change of scenery, Xandar said.

What? Zalise asked curiously.

I opened the window in the Master’s Study.

You went upstairs!? Zalise yelled.

Shh… Xandar cautioned. Keep your voice down.

I’m sorry, Zalise whispered, but I can’t believe it. You’ve got to tell me all about it.

Old Maid Gretchen stormed back into the front parlor, where Xandar and Zalise were talking.

Get with it, you two, she barked. The Master will be home sometime this evening.

As Old Maid Gretchen stormed through the parlor, Loren was raising the chandelier back to its place of rest, floating above the grand staircase.

I guess we should get on with it, Xandar said to Zalise.

Let’s do it, Zalise said.

Xandar and Zalise headed into the kitchens to begin finishing the work Seamus failed to do.

—-

The rest of the work took three hours to complete. Xandar was grateful for Zalise’s friendship and willingness to sacrifice her birthday plans to help him complete the work that was unfairly laid upon him. Otherwise, he would have been stuck there most of the night.

That should do it, Xandar said to Zalise. Let’s get out of here. We’ve still got time to celebrate your birthday.

Zalise paused, Actually before we leave, I was hoping you could show me the Master’s Study…

What!? Xandar said, shocked. I don’t think that’s a good idea. If we got caught in the Master’s Study, we would be in major trouble with Old Maid Gretchen.

Then we won’t get caught, Zalise said, running halfway up the stairs. Besides, if we do, didn’t you have a job to do there earlier? We can just say you didn’t get to finish. Besides, it is my birthday. So, I want to see the upstairs. Consider it your gift to me.

But, I got you a gift, Xandar said.

Really? Zalise asked. What did you get me? Never mind that right now. You’re trying to distract me. Come on. Show me his study. Please… she begged, mockingly sticking out her bottom lip. He couldn’t say no to her, and she knew that.

I guess… Xandar hesitated.

Before you take off on your grand, but risky, adventure, have a look at this, a voice said from above them.

Startled, they looked up to find Loren perched amid the chandelier. It’s time to light it up, he spoke to them. You need to see this.

Loren began lighting the candles, one atop each crystal piece that hung from the magnificent fixture. With each new lighting, the room was lit ablaze in a splendor of dancing light. The flickers of candlelight, combined with the soft glow of the moon, bathed the room in unique lighting.

This is beautiful, Zalise said, spinning in circles, taking in the magnificence of the room, as it had transformed from an entry parlor into a colorful show of light.

That it is, Loren said, proudly. Happy birthday, Miss Zalise, he smiled from on high.

Xandar looked at the domed ceiling in awe. He had never viewed anything so spectacular in his life. The way the color flooded the room was almost spiritual, magical. Something about the domed ceiling, in the light, seemed familiar to Xandar. As he took in the beauty created by the crystals, Xandar noticed that one candle remained unlit.

Loren, you missed one, he said from below.

Oh, you noticed that one, did you? Loren spoke. Quite the eye you’ve got there, Xandar. Unfortunately, that candle won’t light. Never has. It’s almost as if that crystal doesn’t want to reveal its secrets.

Secrets? Zalise questioned.

Many believe that crystals hold secrets from the past, Loren said looking around the ceiling. It is said that, within a crystal, certain memories of the world’s past may be held.

Memories? Xandar asked.

Yes, Loren said softly. But, those mysteries are long-locked. The ones who could read crystals have not been seen in Karaihe for many years. Well, my work here is done. I’m off to home, a hearty meal, and bed, Loren laughed. You two, don’t go getting yourselves into too much trouble.

About that, Xandar said, please don’t tell anyone we’re sneaking into the Master’s Study.

Don’t you be worrying yourself about that, Loren said. You won’t be the first to have done it, he winked at Xandar.

With that, Xandar and Zalise crept up the stairs and headed toward the Master’s Study. As they approached the door, Xandar paused, We can’t stay long, but when I was here earlier, I did see something.

What was it? Zalise asked.

I don’t know, Xandar said. Old Maid Gretchen started yelling for me before I could look. It was shiny and was making some kind of noise.

Then, what are we waiting for? Zalise said. Let’s see what it was.

The door to the study opened into a darkened room. The only light in the room came from the near-full moon outside. The room had a much more sinister feel to it in the dark, absent of the sunlight from when Xandar opened the windows earlier.

It was over in that corner, Xandar pointed to where the object was resting earlier in the day. Without the sun, it isn’t shining like it was earlier.

I don’t see anything, Zalise whispered. And it seems pretty quiet in here, too.

I know, Xandar said. Eerily quiet.

You shouldn’t be here… a voice spoke from the dark corner behind the two.

Chapter 2

The near-full moon reflected upon the diamond-shaped pool, one of the four pools of Eilid Castle. The castle sat as the center of the capital city of Erresuma, seat of power within the Kingdom of Andras. Princess Astra stood upon a balcony; her long, sandy hair flowing loosely in the night breeze, like the thin gown she wore, which reached her knees. Astra was the second daughter of the king and queen of Andras; her fifteenth birthday was just six months away. Preparations for the royal gala were already underway, as guests would be coming from all over the kingdom for the special occasion.

Astra’s mind was not on the party but lost far away in the worlds of her imagination. She was a free spirit, not one to enjoy the duties and expectations placed upon a princess. Luckily for her, she was not the oldest daughter of her parents. Princess Bella was the one destined for the throne. One day in the distant future she would be known as Queen Isabella I. Astra did not envy her sister in the least; if anything, she pitied her and the life she would be thrust into one day.

Astra’s destiny might not be any better than that of her sister’s, however. With her fifteenth birthday gala approaching, she was only one year shy of being promised to the hand of some suitor of her father’s choosing. These arrangements, for the younger daughters, were typically for diplomatic benefits. Astra’s life would be one of comfort, far from the castle, as a lady of one of the Five Great Families of Andras. She would likely not love the man her father chose for her, but hopefully, she would come to experience that, in time. She would be taken care of, nonetheless.

A brooding princess is never a pleasant sight, a voice said, as a young, tanned woman with shoulder-length hair, featuring a slight bit of curl, stepped onto the balcony.

Good evening, Pexya, Astra sighed. I’m not brooding, not really, anyway. Just dreaming of things that will never be.

My mother always told me dreams were an insight into your strongest desires, Pexya replied. And what is it you dream of, Princess?

Astra turned to look at Pexya. They stood the same height, despite Astra being ten years younger.. They spent the majority of their days together, so they had grown quite close over the years.

Pexya’s mother was Queen Camille’s favorite handmaiden. She had served in that position for much of the queen’s time in Erresuma. Upon the birth of Princess Astra, Pexya had been brought on as her handmaiden. Although she was just ten years old, at the time, Pexya had been a natural. She possessed strong motherly instincts, which had been to her favor, since raising the princess had been her primary responsibility for the past fifteen years.

While the two could pass for sisters, in mannerisms and appearance, there was a clearly defined status shown by how each dressed. While Princess Astra wore her nightgown, Pexya remained in her castle-provided uniform. The uniforms were made in the colors of the family—green and brown. Her dress, which fell to her ankles, was green, part of which was covered by a light brown apron. She wore heavy brown shoes, designed for one who spent much of her day on her feet.

Astra gave her a disapproving look, I’ve told you not to wear that all the time. Especially when you come to visit so late. Your work day has ended.

It is my duty to dress as I am told, Pexya replied. And my workday never ends, Princess.

Always a rule follower, aren’t you, Pexya? Astra said jokingly as she looked back over the pool below.

One of us has to be, Princess, Pexya grinned.

I suppose so, Astra said. Pexya, I wish to go for a walk.

I don’t think that’s a good idea, Princess, Pexya replied, looking to the sky. It’s getting late. I think you should be getting to bed.

No, we’re going on a walk, Astra spoke with defiance. You and I. So, get yourself changed.

I’m fine as I am, Princess, Pexya said.

It is your duty to dress as you are told, a wry smile appeared on Astra’s face. There, I have an extra gown over there. You can put that on.

Very well, Princess, Pexya said, reaching for the gown.

Pexya stepped over to the wardrobe. The scent of pine drifted into the room, as she opened the door. Erresuma, and Eilid Castle, sat near the entrance to the Evergreen Forest. Much of the castle furniture was built from the trees of that forest. The royal family had always made it a practice of theirs to plant a seed for every tree that was cut for their uses. They were very mindful of nature, and the world around them, something Pexya admired a great deal about the family. She undressed, keeping her uniform as neat as possible, hanging it in the wardrobe.

You’re very pretty, you know, Astra remarked. And it’s obvious that you take care of yourself.

Thank you, Princess, Pexya said, looking away, her cheeks shining a rosy pink.

Why do you not date? Astra asked. I’m sure there are a number of men at court who would fight over a date with you.

I hardly have time to date anyone, Princess, Pexya said, slipping the nightgown over her head.

You are allowed to have a life besides me, Astra commented. I want you to be happy, Pexya.

I am happy, Princess, Pexya said. Soon enough I will have time to date, if I choose to. She tilted her head, acknowledging that their time together was short-lived.

Yes, I guess you are right, Astra sighed. I will be fifteen in a matter of months. After that I will have one year to worry about who my father will choose for me to marry.

But, on the bright side, after the marriage is arranged, you will still have two years, here, to prepare yourself to be a proper Lady, Pexya laughed.

You jest, Astra said. But, you are right about one thing.

And, what is that? Pexya asked.

I am far from a proper Lady, the princess laughed. So, shall we sneak out for that walk now?

Pexya smiled, glad the topic of her romantic life was off the Princess’ mind, for the moment. "Shall I call for Sir Dontae to escort us?

Oh, please, no! Astra rolled her eyes. The last thing I want is for that big oaf to be following us around all night.

The Princess reached for the door and pulled it open, to find their exit blocked by a large, hulking figure, wearing a full suit of armor.

—-

Ahem, the soldier cleared his throat. Going somewhere, Princess?

Dontae! Astra yelled. What are you doing listening at my door?

I wasn’t listening, Princess, Sir Dontae stammered. I was on my nightly patrol, when your door opened. Good evening, Pexya, he said, noticing Pexya off to the side, trying to cover herself, as Astra’s gown did not fit her quite as loosely as it did the princess.

Evening, Dontae, Pexya said as she pulled a robe around herself, tying it with multiple knots to keep herself hidden from the knight.

Well, you may be on your way, Dontae, the Princess said. You’re not needed at this time.

With all due respect, Princess, Sir Dontae began, "If you’re going to be leaving your room at night, I will be joining you. I am your personal guard, so this