The Unforeseen One: The Sundered Lands Saga, #5

By Lexy Wolfe

The ancient gods remain unsatisfied. Now Storm and Ash must find another to take Zhekali's place among the divine servants. 

 

But when they reach Desantiva, they discover a land still reeling from the devastation of war. With questions that can only be answered in the holiest of places deep in the heart of the unforgiving territory, they begin a journey that will either save the land—or destroy it.

• Language: English
• Publisher: BHC Press/Indigo
• Release date: Aug 23, 2017
• ISBN: 9781386210306

Book preview

Title_Page_Flat

THE UNFORESEEN ONE

Copyright © 2015, 2017 Lexy Wolfe

All rights reserved. Except as permitted under the U.S. Copyright Act of 1976, no part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, or stored in a database or retrieval system, without prior written permission of the publisher.

This book is a work of fiction. The characters, incidents, and dialogue are drawn from the author’s imagination and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to actual events or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

Published by Indigo

an imprint of BHC Press

Library of Congress Control Number:  

2017950851 

Print edition ISBN numbers:

ISBN-13: 978-1-946848-71-0

ISBN-10: 1-946848-71-9

Visit the author at:

www.bhcpress.com

Also available in trade softcover

31566

THE SUNDERED LANDS SAGA

The Raging One

The Knowing One

The Timeless One

The Fallen One

DOOM AND THE WARRIOR

Divinity Impaired

In Memory Of

Monty Oum

June 1981—February 2015

The effort you put forth to anything transcends yourself, for there is no futility even in death.

Monty’s work has always been an inspiration since the first time I saw it. The vibrancy and energy of his work gave life to his animation work. It was poetry without words that always stirred my oft times tired muse and fanned the flames of creativity. Though I am saddened you are gone, as many are, your spirit lives on in your work as each pixel dances across the screen.

In Memory Of

My Beloved Charlie

March 1966—July 2016

It was without warning that my husband of 25 years passed away this past summer. He was the love of my life, and I of his. He was my muse, my companion, my best friend. Together we raised our two children and he got to see his grandson born. Despite his health declining after a serious car accident shortly before I graduated college, he always encouraged me to never stop, never give up. Thanks to him, I went back to school and finished it, and got a good job that supports my writing efforts by keeping the bills and author fed. Thanks to him, I am a published author. Together we had crafted characters and worlds to fall in love with.

I miss you so very much, beloved.

32181

Master Nolyn!"

The man startled out of his thoughts at the shout, refocusing on the present. He blinked and looked owlishly at the speaker. His attention focused on the head woman standing across the desk from him, hands on her hips. He cleared his throat, feeling his face warm like a boy caught red-handed sneaking sweets from the kitchen. What is it, Miss Kelafy?

Her expression spoke to her droll amazement at his ignorance. You are late for dinner. Everyone is waiting for you.

Dinner? He looked at the window and swore under his breath. How did I lose track of time?

She tsked, gathering up empty teacups and plates from earlier in the day. How indeed. You are the leader of the capitol region of Forenta. If that itself was not enough responsibility, you are host to Desanti visitors. She noted in a scolding tone, Even they have joined us today. Their patience amazes me, given their tempers. And Su’alin Star—

At the mention of his beloved lifemate’s name, he jumped out of his seat. Is Kiya well? She hasn’t—?

She sat the dishes on the desk and put a calming hand on his shoulder. Relax, Master Nolyn. She is quite all right. Perhaps irritated with an overprotective brother and husband.

His cheeks warmed at the reminder. We are not married. There has been no ceremony.

Kelafy tsked again. I know well you and she are as close as Storm and Ash. Neither of you care one iota about fancy words or fancier ceremonies to make official what we all can see is there. She added blandly, If you ask me, you should have realized your feelings months earlier. Or admitted them to her. It might have made things less chaotic. She shooed him out. Now hurry along and join your guests. The food is getting cold.

Yes, Miss Kelafy. He shook his head, hearing her chuckling behind him. He looked at the star-shaped scar in his palm, a symbol of the soul bond he shared with Ash Avarian. Goddess, what would I do without that woman, brother? Thank you for bringing her into your home.

He smiled as all eyes turned to him when he entered the dining room. Good evening, everyone. Forgive me for holding up dinner. He leaned down to kiss Star’s cheek, putting a hand on her swollen belly. I hope my delay was no trouble to you?

She covered his hand, her smile affectionate. We are both fine, my heart. A vigorous kick drew their attention. Laurel is happy you are here. She is hungrier than I am.

I find that difficult to believe, Seeker stated, arms crossed. I have never seen you eat so much, Sister.

Ellis sipped his wine, his azure eyes twinkling in mirth. "I am not surprised. She is eating for two, and Nolyn was always ravenous when he was a boy. Why, when he and Ash were my wards, small animals would flee the area around mealtime."

The younger man snorted, giving his apprentice Marcus a look that only made him giggle more behind his hands. "We were not that bad. He inclined his head to his other guests. Edai Unsvet Valerian, Healer Tobias. It is good to see you both again."

Likewise, Edai Magus Nolyn. Thank you once again for the offer of your…of Illaini Magus Ash’s home for our stay, the Vodani replied. He turned his attention to the mage council leader. I am happy to report Andar will soon be ready to receive those who wish to settle within her branches and the return of her caretaking family, Master Ellis. He caught Star looking at him intently with vivid gold eyes. He wagged a finger at her. Don’t look at me like that, Su’alin.

Then do not conceal your concerns from us, she replied archly.

The Vodani heaved a sigh. Fine, fine. Issues remain that will delay reopening the borders, but nothing that warrants immediate concern. He looked to her lifemate with mild exasperation. How do you survive without being able to keep secrets?

Nolyn smiled. From a Su’alin? There are ways— He winced when Star kicked him in the shin. He cleared his throat. But it is better not having a reason in the first place. They get touchy.

I do not.

My shins say otherwise. He flinched at another kick. I stand corrected.

You are sitting corrected.

Ellis watched the pair with a fond, bemused expression. A visit to your home never ceases to be entertaining, Master Nolyn.

Ash’s home, but thank you. He squeezed Star’s hand before reaching for his wine glass. I appreciate all of you taking time to come. The spring congress of the Edai Tredecima is not for another month. However, I wished to speak privately with everyone before the insanity that is the springtide festival ramps up.

Well, I promised I to be here when Star was near term, Tobias said. He flicked a glance at the slight woman with mild disbelief. Though I would not have believed Desanti pregnancies really are so much shorter than ours. He held up his hands to forestall the warrior folk from speaking. I know, I know, it’s a survival necessity. But hearing about something and witnessing it are two different matters. The others smiled at his exuberance, his amazement infectious. "When I examined her and Laurel, I could see the baby maturing. I’ve never seen or heard of anything like it!"

Seeker grunted. I can understand that. Desantiva is nothing like the northlands. If anyone told me of the things I have witnessed here, I would have called them a liar and challenged them to a duel if they did not recant.

A little extreme, don’t you think? Valerian asked in droll tones, nodding thanks to a servant topping his wine glass.

No, the dark-skinned man replied. Desanti discussions are often much more vigorous than the nattering of northborn. The Vodani just rolled his eyes, shaking his head in bemusement.

Ellis studied Nolyn while the rest bantered. Your message hinted there was some urgency. Is there a problem?

Nolyn’s smile faded as he sat back, looking at the scar in his right palm. "To be honest, I am not sure if there is a problem, but I’ve known Ash for decades. I suspect they will not be returning to Ithesra. Not immediately, at any rate."

Everyone at the table traded bewildered looks. Star reached for his hand, distressed at his words. But they must! I was to return to Desantiva with the Githalin. We need to speak with Storm and Skyfire to find which of us that is! The longer we stay, the harder it will be to leave if—

He covered her hand with his other one, expression apologetic. I know, my heart. But the feeling has been plaguing me for weeks since Andar. I had hoped it would pass as just a fanciful wish of mine to have my brother home and some of the responsibility for Forenta off my shoulders. Or shared, at least.

That explains your odd behavior of late. Seeker shrugged a shoulder at the quizzical look his sister gave him. I do not need the Su’alin gifts. I am observant.

Valerian rubbed under his chin with the back of his finger, studying the other Edai. You have other thoughts about their return? Or lack thereof?

Nolyn quirked a wry smile. I do, yes, though I planned to bring it up after the meal. I was thinking on a proposal long ago aborted due to Desanti requirements. Everyone at the table turned their attention to him as he directly addressed Ellis. You wanted Star to be an ambassador to Forenta for Desantiva. She had told me it requires a majority of the tribes agreeing to her serving in that capacity.

Yes, Ellis said slowly. Given there has been no communication with the warrior folk, I imagine the conditions have not changed. How are you proposing to remedy the issue?

First, you need more than simply an ambassador to advocate for the Desanti people, Ellis. You also require a liaison to speak for ours. He picked up his glass. I want to accompany my lifemate to Desantiva and offer to be that person.

The warriors appeared as surprised as the others, speaking amongst themselves for a few minutes. Seeker turned back to Nolyn and Ellis. It is a reasonable consideration. The tribes will have more reason to consider her to be an ambassador with their relationship.

Ellis frowned in concern. They will not think that it creates bias? The Edai Tredecima, in their infinite lack of efficiency, could debate the matter until autumn. The more aggravating highborn families will harp on nothing else.

Seeker laughed. You are assuming our people see things like yours, Se’edai Magus. He is still Forentan, and she is still Desanti. We always favor our own. But the ties they share will serve as an excuse for his tolerance of ours without being seen as betraying his. One they trust and believe. For the warriors, the fact she is lifemate to a northborn would be the reason she tolerates Forenten. He flashed a smile at his sister. It is how view it.

Since several of My circle had been part of yours prior to you being named Se’edai Magus, they can see to the running of Ithesra under your supervision, Nolyn added. And I trust Eptina to handle my responsibilities on the Edai Tredecima as Second Chair. He leaned forward. Please, Ellis. We cannot wait on Ash forever. He’s a Dusvet Guardian. Goddess knows what other duties demand his attention. Wherever my brother is, you know Storm will be, and Skyfire with her. If they return before us? Tell them where we went and why.

Ellis did not reply at once, drumming his fingers on the table as he studied the couple. Given Su’alin Star’s expression, you did not speak with her about this first.

No, I didn’t. I did not wish to cause her any distress with waiting until we could discuss the matter with to you and get your blessing or refusal. Nolyn smiled apologetically to the slight woman. She returned an understanding smile, reaching out for his hand to kiss his knuckles lovingly. I could have been wrong and Ash would have been sitting in this chair instead of me right now.

The entire table held its collective breath until Ellis made a disgruntled sound of assent. Fine, fine. You are well aware I want to establish more secure ties to Desantiva to bridge the gap between us and keep another Great War from happening. Communication with one another is vital to achieve that. And Seeker is right, your proposal is reasonable. He closed his eyes, massaging his forehead with two fingers for a moment. When do you propose on departing?

After Star has our daughter and both are strong enough to travel, Nolyn replied, relaxing back into his chair. When Mureln sends another messenger bird, tell them where we went and why.

We can leave in four days, she said. Everyone looked at her, startled, as she pushed herself out of her seat, putting one hand on her swollen belly. It is time.

What?! Marcus covered his head as all those around the table but himself and the female Swordanzen jumped to their feet, chairs falling over and people getting tangled in them. Decidedly calmer, Tobias dodged the panicked men with ease to get to Star’s side to help her back to her and Nolyn’s bedroom.

The Desanti women watched and waited, sipping their water. The apprentice looked at them quizzically. Aren’t you going with her?

The pair of women traded knowing looks. Just wait, Windsong stated in a soft voice.

The three turned toward the hall when Star shouted, Stop it! I will not break! Calmly, the two women went to save the poor woman from the panicking men’s over-attentiveness.

32190

Ash jerked upright, suddenly awake and drenched in sweat, his heart in his throat. He looked to either side and saw the wide bed was empty. With a relieved sigh, he fell back, dropping his arm across his eyes.

He heard the quiet sound of a metal-on-metal tap. The soft glow of light from the sunstone lamp seeped under his arm. He lifted it enough to see Storm using the tip of her knife to open the lamp without getting off the floor. I thought you were training the Unsvets.

They complain I am too strict and demanding. They also have short memories. Ash shifted to lay on his stomach, looking at the woman as she worked, her weapons arranged around her as she cleaned them. After Skyfire trains them alone, they forget their complaints of me to lament about him. Then I return to remind them.

Chuckling, he kissed her temple. I almost feel sorry for them.

Almost, Storm echoed, holding her two-edged sword out to eye it. Satisfied with it, she slid it back into its sheath followed by the rest of the weapons before turning. Green-gold eyes glittered in the light as she studied Ash, her calloused fingers gently running through his hair. There is plenty of breakfast left. Emil and Emaris have not returned this morning. Again.

The tension across his shoulders eased and he let out the breath he held with relief she did not ask him what had woken him. He smiled, caressing the metallic marks on her cheek before he got out of bed. I am sure they are depriving someone else of their allotment of food.

The woman sniffed. Of that, I have no doubt. She waited to claim his hand after he finished dressing. Before she opened the door, he pulled her close to kiss. His smile faltered when she gently but firmly pushed him away.

They had not gotten two steps out of the room before Izkynder ran up. The boy wrapped an arm around one of their legs each, hugging them together. His tiny winged reptilian pet Chitta flapped his wings and made all sorts of protesting noise. His mother walked over to detach him. Dear, let our Alanis come to the table so they can have breakfast with the rest of us.

I am not bothered. Storm ruffled the boy’s hair. I am not hungry.

Did you eat at all today? The healer’s voice was both stern and affectionate. The Desanti woman did not answer or meet her gaze. Mm hm. I thought not. Taylin picked up a meat-filled roll, took a small bite, and placed it on Storm’s plate.

I said I am not hungry. Storm sat back in her chair and ate the roll with tiny bites.

You are never hungry, Mureln pointed out, his nonchalance counterpoint to Storm’s testiness. Those few times you say you are, the servants bring enough that even Emil and Emaris cannot finish. He wagged his butter knife. And that is quite an accomplishment.

It is a waste of food. Storm narrowed her eyes when everyone spoke the same statement in unison with her. She humphed, crossing her arms while they laughed.

"Where are those two bottomless pits? Bella asked as she settled between Jaison and Lyra. I admit, it is nice not fearing I may lose a finger reaching for anything. I have few enough useful ones as it is. She wiggled the appendages, then adjusted the sling her paralyzed arm rested in. She bumped Lyra’s shoulder lightly. I told you to stop blaming yourself. You did what was necessary. Most would have killed me."

And I am working on improving my skill enough so I can mend the damage, the healer assured. It will be fine.

Gaze still downcast, Lyra nodded. If you say so.

Storm narrowed her eyes at her. Taylin, you must check Lyra’s hearing. She questions she heard you. The blond archer looked up, then turned bright red when the woman smiled in satisfaction at her reflexive desire to correct her Desanti literalness.

Ash yawned as Terrence and Ophilia joined the rest at the table. Did you not sleep well? the younger man asked.

Hm? Oh, I just stayed up later than I should have writing yesterday’s journal entry. He ignored the skeptical looks he got from both his lifemate and former apprentice. I will not return until late from the archives again tonight.

I do not understand what you think you are going find there, Storm grumbled as she finished her food. She took her glass of water and drained half of it. What has happened, has happened. What will happen, will happen. Knowing why is unnecessary.

Ash pinched the bridge of his nose, sighing. We have had this discussion before.

No. It has not been a discussion yet! It is you telling me why I am wrong to be angry and you still spending every waking moment among dead books. She stood and pointed at Jaison and Bella. And do not tell me they are not quite dead!

The man held up both hands. She hid her smile behind her glass, hair slipping forward to conceal her face. I would not dream of it, Alanis na’Zhekali.

Alanis! A sharp gesture toward Ash followed Storm’s exclamation. We are supposed to be Alanis na’Zhekali together, but I may as well be alone! You said you would help me, but you are doing nothing. Nothing! Is it your Forentan blood that drives you to lie?

Lie? He stood up, his pride pricked and stung by the truth within her accusations. His cheeks were flush with shame. I did not lie to you!

You do. Her hand slashed the air between them in a decisive gesture. You lie to yourself as well! She spun on her heel and stalked to the grassy ledge, the drizar dropping from above. I go to commune with Thandar. I will return. Eventually. She climbed onto the beast’s back and they leapt away.

Izkynder broke the silence that had taken over the room. Mama? Aunt Storm owie?

No, sweetie, she assured, hugging him with one arm. She is only a little grumpy. His skeptical expression and crossed arms were so comical, the adults could not help but laugh.

Ash remained silent, lost in thought. Before he could speak, everyone got up, heading out to various destinations or activities. Lips pressed together, the mage sat back with a frown. She is right.

32246

Terrence grunted, his feet sliding a few inches as he blocked Skyfire’s blow with both arms. He tried to ignore the yells from those watching as he could only defend himself from the onslaught of punches and kicks. He grimaced at the shrill noises of Petal and Chitta as the forest sprite and desert chitan circled around them. He raised his forearms to protect his face, bracing himself.

Skyfire’s fist merely bumped him. As Terrence unfolded from his protective huddle, the tall Desanti man grunted. No more training for today. It would do neither of us any good. I have no need to hurt you and you are beyond learning anything from my attacks. He frowned. You are more distracted than usual. Is something wrong?

I do not know, he admitted, catching the towel a watching Unsvet Guardian tossed to him. He wiped his bare chest and arms, pausing to look at his bare right shoulder with chagrin. With the Githalin mark divinely concealed, no one beyond the tribe knew the significance of his circular pendant emblazoned with crossed swords. The sight of his Illaini mark covering his forearm caused more than enough of a stir. I have been restless since we returned from testing.

I have noticed. He looked to their audience. Train. Or don’t. Tomorrow, Storm will test your progress. The Unsvets and Adepts traded looks as the pair headed toward the main tunnel entrance.

The sound of combat drifted after the pair of men as they walked away. Terrence could not help but smile. Do you think they will keep up with training once we are out of sight?

The taller man shrugged one shoulder. Some of them. They are better than they were when we first arrived. It is an improvement even if they don’t reach Swordanzen standards.

"If Storm’s expecting anyone to attain her level of skill," he began.

She does not. It takes a lifetime of dedication to do that. Skyfire’s teeth flashed in a brief smile. I am the only one who ever matched her, and she pushed me to it.

Terrence wanted to laugh, but could only sigh. The other studied his profile, concerned. What is wrong, Sumyr?

Am I a disappointment to you and Storm, Skyfire?

Of course not. Why would you even think that? He stopped, turning to wave a hand toward the training yard. Because you are not at their level? Psh. He crossed his arms. She is critical of the Unsvets’ skills because many are near a hundred years in age. A Desanti craftsman has better techniques than most of them.

Or a Forentan mage?

Skyfire frowned. "I know we can seem unreasonable, Sumyr. But we do not think poorly of you. We began learning to fight the moment we start to walk. You only began real training after Dzee stabilized her bond to you in Forenta. Those idiots have decades on both of us, and most fail to compare to the least martial of our people. We are proud of your progress. We do not judge you as we do them."

You are a mage, not a Swordanzen. Both men turned to Jaison as he approached them. Give yourself some credit. The distant kinsman of Storm’s birth tribe considered the young man. Who has been filling your head with nonsense about not comparing to the warrior whose temper even gods dare not cross?

Skyfire studied Terrence as the mage looked away and crossed his arms. Ophilia?

No! He colored. Well. Not directly. I would discuss my restlessness and she thought maybe I’m worrying about trying to prove I’m worthy to bear a Desanti blessing.

Jaison shook his head. "I do not recommend saying that to Storm. You know how she feels about questioning the Totani’s choices."

"Dzee gave me the choice to be her Githalin. She did not force it on me. I chose to keep it. Unfortunately, she had been lost for so long, none remember her. But when they do accept her as one of Lord Desantiva’s divine servants, the Desanti people will have expectations of me and challenge me to prove my worth. If I cannot prove myself worthy as a warrior—"

Skyfire considered. By the time we become adults, we have nearly a decade of learning how to fight. Even when you are distracted, you are on the same level as a child ready to seek their adult name from the Totani. He sighed. But, we have believed only Githalin could be Swordanzen, which you are not. You are right to be concerned. The challenges will be relentless unless your victories are decisive.

Petal circled the three before landing atop Terrence’s head. She hung onto his hair and lowered herself to look in one eye. You are not warrior. You are mage. You must learn to fight as mage.

But mages don’t fight, Terrence argued, irritably trying to remove her, grimacing as she held on tight. Would you let go? You know it irritates me when you are so near my eyes.

Warriors can learn reading and writing. Mages can learn fight, she pointed out. The forest sprite loosened her grip. Unprepared for the sudden release, Terrence flung her away. She tumbled, then stopped, hovering a moment before circling back. Same things, different paths.

Skyfire made a face. The bug has a point. As much as I dislike northern literacy, it has its uses. He considered. I had not thought about it, but Ash used magic to fight. Quite often. A faint smile touched his lips. Anything can be a weapon. Perhaps he would be a better instructor than Storm, Jaison or I. He knows what mages are capable of better than any of us and ways to use it in situations not taught in your Magus Academy.

Ask Ash? Terrence bit his lip, ignoring Petal as she resumed her perch atop his head. He fidgeted with uncertainty as the three resumed walking back to their dormitory. I don’t know. He’s been busy in the archives of late and I don’t want to be a bother—

Terrence, what would irritate him more? Jaison asked in bland tones. You bothering him for help with something or you not going to him at all? He ruffled the younger man’s hair with affection, sending the forest sprite into the air with a squeak. If I remember correctly, he felt particularly bad he did not give you the attention you deserved when you were still an apprentice. To deprive him of the chance to make up for that—

Terrence waved his arms in irritation. All right, all right! I’ll go talk to him. After I get a bath. He made a show of sniffing himself then wrinkling his nose. I reek after today’s training. His pace increased to escape the brotherly torment of the two warriors.

When the young mage was out of sight, Jaison glanced sideways at Skyfire. Do you think he will?

I do not know. He is as difficult to predict as Storm. The darker man smiled. But I do know he is very clever, especially when there is no time to worry about Forentan ‘propriety’ or perceived limits on his abilities and strength. If the idea is in his mind that his mage arts could be used in what is viewed as warrior activities, he may explore the possibilities himself.

Jaison made an agreeable grunt in response. I do not envy him. It is daunting enough being the only one of your kind when there were others before you. At least there are histories to guide your way. I cannot imagine not having anyone come before you. Skyfire sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose, drawing a concerned look from his companion. You okay?

No. But I do not wish to talk about it. Jaison frowned, but did not press the matter. We should continue your practice of the Desanti tongue.

The man studied the rock in front of them as they walked. When should I go to find my adult name? What will I need to do when—

You’ll know when. As to what you will need to do? I have no idea. The trial is as ambiguous as the testing to become a Guardian of Time.

It fits the individual. Which means I could fail, even as long as I have lived.

Any test can be failed. Skyfire looked at him, his expression serious. It is less a matter of age than of self-discovery. For some, it is more physical. Others, not as much. But once the trial is begun, you cannot return without your name. He resumed walking, Jaison lagging behind a pace. That is what may kill you. The land is unforgiving.

32303

Taylin stormed out of her and Mureln’s bedroom, hands on her hips. Emil na’Zhekali! Where are you? I swear, I will tan your hide when I get a hold of you. Seeing no one in the dormitory, she headed down the tunnel in search of the gypsy man. What are you teaching my son? He is too young to learn about brothels!

With Izkynder settled on his hip, Mureln walked out of the bedroom, his expression bemused. Mama mad, the boy observed.

Yes, she is. The master bard wagged a finger. Just because you know how to make her angry does not mean you should.

One of the other doors squeaked as it opened a crack. Is she gone? Emil asked in a quiet voice.

For now, Mureln assured. She should be calmer by the time she returns. His regard held no sympathy. I warned you not to talk about pleasure houses in front of Izkynder. He is not only a sponge but a mirror for everything he observes around him.

The wiry gypsy walked into the main room, holding his hands out helplessly. He ain’t that old. Like, what? A year? I know you Vodani grow up faster than us and Desanti faster still! I dinna think he understood! Behind him, Emaris snorted and shook his head. The smaller man scowled over his shoulder. Ye don’t need ta add yer two coppers, ye lunk.

Emil lunk! the boy crowed, clapping his hands.

The wiry gypsy stared at him. The men unable to repress their laughter. He put his hands on his hips, trying to look angry but failed miserably. Yer gonna keep us all on our toes, ain’t ye, lad? Izkynder smiled charmingly. He be yer boy, Mureln. No doubt about it.

Emil thumped his brother’s shoulder. C’mon, I wanna visit Itena t’day. Gods know when Storm an’ Ash’ll decide it’ll be time t’ head out. It’s gotta be b’fore the weather starts gettin’ cold again. He mock shivered. Jus’ thinkin’ ‘bout winter travelin’ makes me want Itena t’ warm me up. Bet ye want yer lass warmin’ ye up, too, eh? The mute giant nodded, happily following his smaller brother out into the tunnel.

The bard studied the youngster, continuing to wear a smile. Indeed he is my son. He leaned close to kiss the boy’s cheek, pausing to murmur in his ear. Hide how much you know if you want, but do not pretend to be stupid.

Izkynder looked at his father, pure curiosity in his eyes. Why not?

Because people can get very angry when they find out you are smart, especially if you are smarter than them.

Why?

Oh, there are lots of reasons. He shifted the boy to ride piggyback. Mostly because they don’t like feeling tricked. Many trust what they see on the outside is what is on the inside, too. When you pretend to be stupid instead of just hiding your intelligence, and then they find out you are smart, possibly smarter than them, they think you were mocking them.

The boy frowned, pursing his lips. I don’t mean to make fun of anyone. That makes heart owies and I don’t like those.

Mureln smiled. I know. I don’t like them, either.

The two rounded a bend and stepped out onto one of the upper ledges where a spring-fed fountain poured over into another farther below. Izkynder asked, Will Mama hate Uncle Emil because of me?

Hate him? The man shifted to let his son slide down to the edge of the pool. I don’t think so. The pair sat on the thick grass, looking out toward the distant World Spine mountain range. But we don’t want her mad at him all the time, or she might like him less and less.

Izkynder pursed his lips. That’s bad. Emil is family. Family should love family. That is what Aunt Storm and Uncle Ash say.

Mureln leaned back on his hands, crossing his ankles. He smiled when his son imitated his pose. Family always loving family would be ideal, yes. It doesn’t always happen like that though. Not everyone is perfect. But neither of them really had families, so they never had anything but dreams of having one of their own. Dreams have a bad habit of being without flaws.

Bad things killed their families. He crossed his arms. I hate the bad things. He looked up at Mureln. Aren’t we their family now?

The bard chuckled. It’s rather complicated. I’ll explain it to you after I understand all of it better myself.

Chin jutting out, Izkynder scrutinized his father, his eyes sparkling with gold flecks, similar to Skyfire when he focused on his spiritwalker vision. He sighed dramatically. Oh, okay, he finally agreed. He rolled over, picking at the grass. Would everyone hate me if they knew how weird I was?

Weird in what way? Mureln returned, with a maddening serenity.

The boy flopped onto his back. I’m growing up too fast. Especially here. He tapped his temple. They all talk about it when they think I’m not listening. Mama worries about how she’ll explain me to everyone when we leave. And Aunt Storm and Uncle Skyfire always act like they did something horrible and feel bad about it. He sat up, hugging his knees against his chest. I wish I was never born, then no one would be unhappy.

Mureln’s easygoing expression evaporated, and he moved closer to his son, pulling him into a one-armed embrace. Shards, Izkynder, don’t think that way. No one is unhappy because of you. They’re unhappy because of themselves. And staying here longer than we had intended is only giving them time to feel unhappier because they focus on what they think they did wrong.

The boy looked up with a frown. I don’t understand. They didn’t do anything wrong. He tugged the blood crystal pendant out. If Aunt Storm and Uncle Skyfire hadn’t protected me and Mama, then Uncle Almek would have died. That would have been bad because that would make the Timeless One real sad. It’s not good when gods are sad. Uncle Emil said so.

The man’s eyes crinkled in amusement. Uncle Emil can be very wise when he lets himself. Mureln hugged the boy tighter for a moment. They love you very, very much and want you to have a better childhood than them. He leaned closer to stage whisper, You know Aunt Storm challenged Uncle Tyrsan when he was Dulain and chased off the midwife? All because they talked about taking you away after you were born?

His eyes went very wide. She did?

Mm hm. She didn’t get to be a child very long, and sometimes she couldn’t save other children from bad things. He tapped the blood crystal. You were important to both her and Uncle Skyfire. Enough they were willing to give their own lives to protect you so you could be born. They very nearly did. After your mother saved Almek, they almost didn’t wake up again.

The boy’s eyes widened. He looked down at the pendant he cradled. I am glad they didn’t die, he said in a small voice.

We all are. He kissed the top of his son’s hair lightly. We all are.

So why is everyone unhappy? Uncle Almek is okay and Mama is okay and Aunt Storm and Uncle Skyfire are okay and I am okay…I don’t understand.

Mureln quirked a wry smile. Because they think they might have done something wrong because everything they did to keep you safe made you different. Not that different is bad, he said before Izkynder could speak. But none of them had happy childhoods. If they realized how fast you are growing up, they might believe they stole your childhood away, too. A time when you can feel safe and protected and play without a worry in the world. At least, that is the ideal they imagine childhood to be. And that is why they feel bad.

You don’t? Uncle Emil told the Unsvet guardsmen that I was born because you weren’t paying attention. Mureln arched an eyebrow. He wasn’t lying! I checked.

Just because I wasn’t paying attention doesn’t mean I didn’t want you. And no, I don’t feel bad you are growing up so fast. He put his hand over his heart. It means more to me that I didn’t lose you at all. Growing up doesn’t mean never playing or not being silly. It just means knowing when you need to be serious.

Like you, Papa?

Mureln pulled Izkynder into a full on bear hug, making him squeak and then squirm with peals of laughter as he tickled him. Like me, my son. He looked into the boy’s eyes. We have to teach the others what we both know. Fun is not age restricted. And neither is responsibility. Okay? Izkynder smiled brightly and nodded vigorously. Good.

32361

The soft glow of lichens illuminated the chamber of the Timeless One. Faceted sunstones brightened as a silent figure made its way down the stairs. Green-gold eyes narrowed with irritation at the torch-like fixtures as they glowed brighter with her presence.

A splash announced the arrival of the goddess’s handmaiden. Welcome, Dusvet Guardian Storm il’Thandar, Selina greeted. She sat on the edge of the pool across from the statue of the goddess behind her. A small smile touched her normally impassive countenance at Storm’s irritation. Your skills of stealth are renown, but you cannot conceal your very life force from the sunstones and moonstones.

All things can be concealed, the slight woman stated in flat tones. She moved her glare away from the glowing rocks to the mermaid, less irritation in her expression. I wish to speak with the Timeless One. Please.

I have already told Her you were approaching. She expected you would find your way here before the others. She gestured to the place at her side. She suspects it is a result of being so close to Desantiva and His divine servants from so young an age.

"Not because I was once