Magic Forbidden: Aberrant, #3

By Ruth Silver

She'll risk everything to save him…

Forced to journey into the Gravelands, Olivia puts together a search-and-rescue mission to bring back one of her closest allies.

If traveling through outlaw territory isn't frightening enough, Olivia discovers that she has exposed her secret and is hunted by those she trusted most of all.

This dystopian fantasy adventure is the third book in the series. This is not a standalone novel.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Slow Burn Publishing
• Release date: Jan 26, 2022
• ISBN: 9798201871307

Book preview

1

I wasn't good with waiting. I paced the length of the atrium. My feet bounced along the tiled floor. Every few moments I glanced back at the closed doors. I wanted to be a part of the meeting, but I understood my place. I wasn't a representative of any of the cities. I had been there along with Joshua as an honorary member. Our work here had been done, and we had been told we could leave.

Clearly, Craynor had entered the city of Torv and had known what was going on. Of course it hadn't been a secret! How could it have been? The entire nation of Cabal had known about the upcoming election and restructuring of the government.

I had hoped the bombing of the Governor's Mansion had ended Craynor's life, but I'd been mistaken. I should have known he would come back into our lives. My life was never that simple. How had he escaped? Was it sheer luck, or had someone alerted him of our plan?

I didn't know what I could do. A madman had taken Joshua. There was no other way to describe Craynor, who no longer acted as Governor. Kidnapping Joshua wasn't about reinstating his position in the political system. He wanted to get even with me. I just wasn't sure if it was because I was aberrant or that he'd figured out I'd been Jacqueline in the mansion. He did this to hurt me, because I'd caused him a great deal of trouble.

My stomach tensed as Chancellor Collins opened the wooden doors. I jumped at the sound and came rushing in their direction to see Collins walking toward me. His face looked solemn, grave. His expression added to the anxiety I already faced. My fingers twitched, and I opened my mouth to ask what would happen, when he spoke.

They've asked for you. Why didn't he relay me the information on his own? I followed him back inside and stood there awkwardly, wanting to know what they planned to do about Craynor and how we'd find Joshua.

Olivia. Someone at the far end of the table spoke up: Isaura. I'd briefly met her at the meeting a few days ago. She was one of the new delegates in Torv. She had dark green eyes, and jet-black hair against pale ivory skin. There is much for our new body of government to be involved in. So much of the current system has remained in shambles for centuries. We recognize Craynor is not the only enemy we must face. There are people who do not agree with our ways, and we fear they will demonstrate against us. She sighed, tapping her fingers together. This doesn't come lightly in our decision. It was not unanimous. Many of us recognize the effort Joshua has played in the revolution. However, we can't afford to send any resources to look for him. There are factions rising as we speak. For each day we spend forming laws, they build stronger armies to retaliate. Not everyone believes in what we do, she explained to me. Some wish us to fall as quickly as we rose. If we do that, complete chaos will ensue. You understand that, don't you, Olivia?

I recognized what they said, but I didn't understand what that meant for Joshua. You're giving up, letting a madman take refuge in the city and kidnap anyone he chooses? I was appalled. I refused to let Craynor win. If I had to find Joshua on my own, I would.

We understand you're upset, Olivia. We've decided to let any law-abiding citizens volunteer to aide you in your search for Joshua, she explained. These citizens will be under your command. You will be responsible for leading them. I take it you can handle a search and rescue mission? We cannot, however, demand anyone to help you, nor will we take away their free choice. Is that not what we've been fighting for? she reminded me harshly. I understand Craynor is more than a subtle nuisance. She glanced beside her at another representative. With time we will devise rules and consequences for such actions he's partaken. Until then, you must act on your own and do what you must to rescue Joshua.

Relieved they didn't forbid me from looking for him, the truth was they couldn't stop me. Even if they tried. I was disheartened that they wouldn't be assigning anyone to help, but I would go at it alone if that was the case. Nothing would stop me from finding him.

I wish we could offer you more, Olivia, but until we have our own matters settled and in control, this is all we can do. They hadn't provided me with anything except the mere permission to go. At least I wouldn't have them trying to stop me.

It'll be fine. I was better trained than most in Torv, though it didn't mean I felt any less nervous. Joshua was out there, with a man out for revenge, and I didn't even know where to start looking.

2

If Joshua was in Torv, I couldn't leave. Every moment I wasted traveling between Torv and Shadow for reinforcements could mean his death. I hated to think I had to wait for Craynor to make the next move, but I was at a loss for what else to do.

After meeting with the representatives of the cities, I rushed back to Josh's room to make sure no other clues were left behind. I was told at three o'clock, an hour and a half from now, additional members of Torv would be on hand to help search for Joshua. I didn't know what to think. It wasn't going to be easy. At least in Shadow we had special talents, abilities that might help us track and find Craynor. I couldn't use them, not with anyone from Torv watching. Too much was at risk. Joshua wouldn't want me to; he'd made it clear.

I walked through the small room, my fingers grazing over his clothes. The small space smelled of Joshua. The perfect scent of masculinity and warmth, of home even when I was far from it. I sat on his bed, wishing I knew how to find him. Joshua, please tell me where you are. I didn't expect him to answer. If he were capable of answering, he'd have contacted me already. He could be anywhere.

I tried to think. Tried to reason where Craynor would go. We'd destroyed his home. He wouldn't be stupid enough to travel back to Genesis. I doubted he had a vehicle, unless he commandeered one in Torv. The nearest town to Torv was Haven. It had been destroyed months ago, and though I hadn't been back there, I couldn't fathom that anything remained standing. Maybe I should consider checking it out.

Someone cleared his throat, startling me. I whirled around, scowling at the man just outside the door. I shook my head in confusion. He wasn't one of the representatives of Torv. He was my father. How? What are you doing here? I snapped less than graciously.

You're asking for volunteers, right? Gavin raised an eyebrow. You want me to come along?

I didn't want him, but I also knew I needed all the help I could get. Craynor could be anywhere, and Joshua's life was in danger. I am. I sighed. My fingers held one of his t-shirts. I swallowed the lump in my throat. I would not cry. Joshua could still be alive. He might be fine, just asleep. I was trying to reassure myself of the unknown. If he was awake, he'd have communicated with me telepathically by now.

So, what's the verdict? Gavin remarked, watching me. You want my help or not?

I would take anyone's help. Even if I didn't like Gavin, I trusted he wouldn't betray me. I didn't know why, but I knew he wouldn't. Just don't piss me off, okay? I said. I was on edge. I already felt so much emotion. Not only had Craynor taken my best friend, but also my husband, the love of my life. I could not imagine the rest of my life without him there beside me.

I'll do my best, Gavin agreed. Come on, I've got some other people I know who want to help.

You do? I asked, feeling the slightest bit of hope, as I took Joshua's shirt with me. I shoved it into my bag and tossed the rest of Joshua's clothes into his bag and zipped it. Carry this for me. I handed him Joshua's bag. When we found Josh, he'd want his things returned to him. I'd have them for him.

Gavin didn't object. He took the bag and slung it over his shoulder. Let's go. He gestured and walked toward the elevator. I didn't waste any time. Once we stepped outside I saw what Gavin had spoken about. Already two others stood nearby. I wasn't sure they looked the most capable of soldiers, but this wasn't a war. We only had to deal with one man. I doubted Craynor had an army of his own. If I was lucky, the fact Craynor was still alive, someone would see him, recognize him.

We're all here to help, a female voice chimed in. I'm Rane. She held out her hand. I remembered her. She had been the girl on Joshua's bed in Haven.

You're alive? I was flabbergasted.

Rane laughed. Seems I am. She smiled. Don't worry I'm not here to steal away your husband. I heard you and Joshua got married. Congratulations. Rane shook my hand.

Thank you. I smiled politely, unsure how I felt about her joining Gavin and the rest of the task force assigned to find Joshua. I didn't hate her. I trusted Joshua enough to know nothing had happened between them, and at the same time, staring at her, she was the absolutely picture-perfect essence of real beauty. She was everything I wasn't. I had no reason to be jealous, but it was difficult not to be. I swallowed my pride. Thank you for joining us.

Of course, Rane answered. Joshua is a great guy.

Gavin gestured toward Collins and Elsa approaching us. Looks like we have a few extra hands.

I can either stay and fight alongside of you, Elsa told me. Or travel back to Shadow for reinforcements.

The answer was obvious. Go. I didn't want her to waste a moment thinking she'd be helpful by staying. The bigger the army, the stronger chance we had against Craynor. I had no idea what his end game was, and that scared me.

You'll have whatever you need from our end. Weapons, transportation, you name it, Elsa assured me.

I'm sorry I can't join you. Collins frowned. With Elsa away, someone from Shadow needs to remain in Torv.

I know. He didn't owe me an explanation and I hadn't asked for one. Thank you. I felt my body shiver and glanced up at the cloudy sky. I hoped the weather would cooperate. It was getting darker and grayer with each passing minute. Thank you all for agreeing to help.

Where do we start? another voice echoed. I didn't recognize him and introduced myself.

I'm Olivia.

Cole, he responded, shaking my hand. Rane mentioned you could use another body.

Gavin laughed. You're it? Cole was considerably scrawny compared to Gavin. I didn't care; at least he was another person to help. I wasn't particularly surprised that was all who'd volunteered. I was grateful Rane and Gavin had joined me. I wasn't even sure the four of us were enough to search all of Cabal, but it was a start.

Cole shrugged. Sierra bailed the minute she found out it involved Craynor. She wanted to help, but she fears him. She was from Genesis. Cole glanced at me. I'm it, sorry.

It's fine. I tried a smile, unsuccessfully. At least I had his help along with the other volunteers.

Collins looked me over. Cate left for Shadow a few hours ago. If I'd have known, we could have sent her for reinforcements. In the meantime, I recommend you train these three until they get here.

We don't have time, I said.

You train us? No offense, but what exactly are you trained in? Gavin asked.

I didn't blame him for not knowing what we were capable of back in Shadow. It wasn't, as though we could administer Mindonsiphan and prepare them in the way we'd been prepared for war. Rane was the closest in age, but it would take time and be too great of a risk. I doubted Shadow even offered Mindonsiphan anymore. There was no need for it. At least I hoped it wasn't being given to adolescents. Would I even know? Right now it wasn't at the top of my priority list. Finding Joshua was the first thing I needed to do. I still didn't know where to start.

I pulled out the note from Craynor, showing it to the group. This is all I have to go on.

They each studied it as I felt the first drop of moisture fall from the sky. We ducked into the atrium, seeking shelter. Rane looked it over twice before speaking first. Whoever wrote this has been in Torv long enough to stop at the paper. This is newsprint. It hadn't been printed on, but the texture and thickness appeared similar. It was trimmed down, but I'm confident it was from a newspaper facility.

Gavin agreed. "I know the printer at the Genesis Times. I can ask him…"

Craynor's not stupid, I interrupted them. He's not going to stay in Torv. He knows we're looking for him. He also knows the guard posts have been down for weeks and he can come and go out of the city without anyone noticing. He's planned this for a while, I remarked. He knew when to grab Joshua without anyone witnessing it. I turned to Rane. How familiar are you with the buildings in Torv?

Cole chimed in. What are you thinking? That he hasn't left yet?

I shook my head. The opposite. How could he have left without being seen? There were underground tunnels. I took them from Genesis to Haven. There were two other tunnels that led to nearby allying cities. I can only assume it was Torv, and Spade, the other city north of here.

You think he's in Spade? Cole tried to make sense of my words.

I don't know. I threw my arms in the air. Right now I'm trying to wrap my head around how he could have left the building we were in unseen.

The stairwell, Gavin suggested. No one takes it.

I glanced at Rane. Maybe so, but Craynor wasn't particularly well-built. He couldn't have carried Joshua alone down twenty-eight flights of stairs. At least, I doubted he would have done so, and Joshua would not have gone willingly.

Rane's eyes lit up. There's a service elevator. I should have thought of it sooner! She ran from the foyer to the back of the building where the service elevator was situated. Gavin, Cole and I followed her. Elsa and Collins returned back to the representatives to continue their discussions.

Reaching the service elevator, the doors opened and I stepped inside, seeing a small amount of blood. I didn't want to think what that meant.

I felt a warm arm on my shoulder. He'll be okay, Gavin assured me. Joshua was always strong.

Do we know where the underground entrance is? I asked them. Everyone shook their head no. It can't be far, I reasoned. Look here! The slightest trail of blood led toward a dark hallway and back exit.

They're gone, Gavin answered, none too surprised.

Stepping outside into the rain, I didn't care as it soaked me. I was beyond frustrated. Craynor likely had stolen a vehicle. What chance did I have of finding Joshua? I couldn't wait around for reinforcements to come from Shadow. I turned around, letting rain seep into my pores, as I turned toward the others standing inside, but watching me from the door. We should get a vehicle and travel to Haven.

Cole frowned. I thought you said Craynor took Joshua to the underground tunnels.

I stepped inside, soaking the carpet. It was a theory. I stared at Cole. Clearly Craynor came this way. The blood is evidence of that, I reasoned.

Olivia's right, Gavin agreed. We need a car. Anyone have one? He sounded hopeful.

Cate and Elsa both took vehicles to Shadow already. I can't wait any longer. I brushed past them, growing short-tempered.

Olivia.

I heard his voice and stopped walking, feeling Rane slam into me from behind. I grimaced as I turned around. Wait there, I held up a hand. Where are you?

I don't know. There was a moment of silence when I assumed Joshua tried to figure out where he was. I'm in the trunk. We're driving somewhere, fast.

Craynor definitely stole a vehicle. I stepped outside into the rain once again, this time at the front of the building, as my eyes darted around, searching for a truck.

Cole finally spoke up. He'd been quiet. Too quiet. You can borrow my car. He pulled the keys from his pocket, handing them to me. How long would he have held out? I snatched the keys from his hands.

Which way? I asked.

I was thankful it wasn't at all like the vehicle Joshua and I had driven in. It had a solid roof shielding us from rain as Gavin, Rane, and I piled into the car. I need you to stay here. When reinforcements come, they'll need to know we're going to Haven, I instructed Cole. Send them up north. I hoped that was where Craynor had taken Joshua. Although Haven had been destroyed, it was possible a building or two could have remained standing. Enough of a place for Craynor to hide and no one else to find or recognize him.

Cole didn't complain. He seemed relieved he got to stay behind in Torv. I tossed my soaking bag in the backseat and shut the door. A moment later, we headed out of