Alora's Rule

By J. L. Bertram

Dive into a mystical world full of powers, idols, war, and trials. Alora's Rule will keep you on the edge of your seat as you uncover death threats as well as love.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Page Publishing, Inc.
• Release date: Jun 9, 2021
• ISBN: 9781662412202

Book preview

Chapter 1

It was a wintry Sunday evening in the Community of Nelind, as the Healer birthed the baby. As soon as she was out, she let out an ear-splitting scream.

She sure has a pair of lungs. The Healer smiled, setting the newborn on her mother’s stomach and beginning to clean her.

That she does. Lola smiled tiredly.

It had been a difficult birth, taking more than eighteen hours.

What are you going to name her? the Priestess Ronna asked, holding a clipboard.

Alora. Lola brought the baby to her breast. When do you want to do the Ceremony, Sibyl?

I was thinking about midafternoon tomorrow. It will give you some time to recover. You and your family should give her the Ritual Bath before coming to the Altar. Remember to use a cloth diaper and nothing else. It will be warm in the Church, the healer said, using Magi to vanish the birthing supplies.

Lola and Dirk both slept in turns as to be awake in case Alora needed anything during the night. The next morning, Lola nursed Alora and then prepared the Ritual Bath that afternoon. Setting out the lavender, chamomile, the cloth diaper, and the cotton towel, she brought Alora over to the tub. Gently she settled her in the warm water and cooed over her. As not to give Alora a chill, Dirk held the cotton towel at the ready for when Lola would hand her to him. After Dirk dried her off and wrapped her in the cloth diaper, he gave her back to her mother. Lola placed her in a carrier against her body and a soft thick wool coat over it. Arriving at the Church, she took off the coat and unwrapped Alora from the carrier, handing her over to the Senior Healer. The Healers took Alora to the Ritual Room and placed her on the Altar with all of the forty-five Totems surrounding her. Four Healers knelt around the Altar and began meditating.

After about half an hour, there was a flash of light and then the Peacock Totem presented itself. The Healers carried the baby back to her parents. Lola and Dirk were very happy to hear about the Totem their daughter wore. She would have semi-immortality, dignity, self-confidence, self-esteem, knowledge, beauty, sexuality, and pride, which meant that she had the potential to be a very powerful person one day. Taking Alora from the Healer, Lola replaced her in the carrier, shrugged into the wool coat, and went home. Once home, Lola and Alora napped while Dirk made dinner and did the dishes. Later that week there would be a feast for all the newborns to be honored.

Over the next week, Lola and Dirk spent most of the time caring for Alora, greeting visitors, and baking for the feast. During that week, Alora’s psychic scent developed, letting everyone know what caste she was. She was an Elder and Weaver, known as a Shadow Elder. She would be trained in etiquette, Power, peacekeeping, and leadership when she reached school age along with learning all the ins and outs of poisons and visions. Being a Weaver and Hunter, respectively, Lola and Dirk were ecstatic to learn what their daughter’s castes was. She was one of the few to be born too those two castes.

She will be a good Elder, and if she is anything like you, Lola, she will be a good Weaver, Dirk said a few days after the birth while eating dinner.

I believe she will. She will also be a beauty, look at her eyes, Lola said adoringly, placing a hand on Alora’s stomach, where she lay asleep in the bassinet next to the table.

Alora had the ruby lips and pale coffee-colored skin like the rest of her race. The thing that set her apart from the rest were the gray eyes. The end of the week came, and the feast was set up at the Meeting Ground; by late afternoon, the guests started arriving. The Healers and Priestesses had cleaned the Grounds, well as much as you could clean a dirt floor. This was a day to give thanks to the Light for all the newborns and to give thanks to the Totems for presenting themselves in the Totem Ceremonies.

The Senior Priestess, Maribel, clapped her hands, commanding the attention of everyone in the Meeting Grounds. Today, we are here to honor the families that have been blessed by the Spirits to have children. As well, we are here to give thanks to the Totems for presenting themselves to the newborns. Please bow your head. Maribel bowed her head and meditated for a few minutes. We give thanks to the Totems for granting their Power to the newborns that were presented to them. Thank you, kind Totems. She placed her crossed arms against her chest and bowed. Now, each family is to present their child to the Spirits. First, we’ll have the Elder’s present their children. She stepped down from the platform.

They went through the Elders, Priestesses, and the Witches, followed by the Weavers and Healers, then the Elite caste. Even the Gens were there to gain blessings. It took about fifteen minutes per child, so it was about two hours before Alora was presented to the Spirits. She was laid on the Altar and her parents meditated around her. There was a soft white light that surrounded her, much like the Totem Ceremony, and then she was given the physical manifestation of the Totem. Alora’s Totem manifested as a Peacock tattoo on the front of her right thigh. It was a gorgeous piece of artwork, done in the Dark Gray that served as her Birth Color. Birth Colors were the innate depth of Power that one carried within their body at birth.

That is beautiful, one of the Healers said. Several hours later when the Ceremony was over.

Yes, it is, Dirk said, beaming.

The entire Community was very family-orientated, so a lot of people were there. The great thing about this Community was that the Elders mingled with the rest of the people. Mostly they didn’t see themselves as above anyone. They always had the odd one out that did have a superiority complex. Believing that they are entitled to command everyone’s Power, regardless of rank, and everyone should kiss their asses. The rest of the feast was spent cooing over the babies, talking and eating. New parents were given five weeks off their respective careers, with pay, to enjoy their newborns. It was nearing 11:00 p.m. when Dirk walked over to Lola and asked her if she was ready to go home.

I was ready a while ago. She laughed.

Me too. I thought you wanted to stay and talk some more. Dirk laughed too.

Picking up the carrier the held a sleeping Alora, they linked arms and walked out of the Meeting Grounds, waving goodbye to everyone. Going home, they put Alora in her crib and went to sleep themselves. Alora slept all the way through that night, much to Lola and Dirk’s delight. The next morning, Lola woke up and made breakfast, keeping an ear out for her daughter. As she was putting the biscuits in the oven, she heard Dirk go into Alora’s room and talk at her. Setting her down on the adjacent changing table, he cleaned and changed her.

Good morning, Lola, he said, looking over at the bedroom door.

Good morning, love. How’s the little one this morning? Lola walked over and kissed Alora on the forehead.

She seems to be doing fine, no fussing. Do you like the purple or green jumper?

I think that the green will go with her eyes, Lola answered, pointing at the jumper in his right hand.

That’s what I thought. He agreed, dressing Alora in the green jumper. I realized something. She will have to take her pants off every time someone asks her what her Totem is.

I had a thought about that. Maybe I could sew a ‘window’ into her pants.

That sounds like a great idea! Dirk grinned as she sat a full plate in front of him.

The rest of the next few days consisted of cleaning; rearranging, storing, and all-around tidying, because during the last few weeks of pregnancy, Lola hadn’t felt good enough to clean the house completely. Dirk helped where he could, but the work had fallen behind. Even with all of that, Dirk never condemned Lola’s lack of cleaning. He knew that the last weeks of pregnancy were very hard on her. He did all of the heavy lifting and rearranging the furniture. What she did mostly was the planning on where everything was to go.

Days later, Lola and Dirk were out shopping for new clothes for Alora, when an Elder came up to them. They bowed in respect.

My Weaver saw your daughter wearing the Black. If she does, she will be the most powerful Shadow Elder in the history of the Adepts, she said.

They stared at her in shock.

But we’ll not know anything for the next twenty-two and a half years! Dirk exclaimed.

I know, I just thought you would like to know. She walked away.

Could that actually happen? Lola wondered.

Alora wearing the Black? Do you think that she can handle it? Dirk asked.

She has a mother that wears the Owl Totem and the Ruby Idol. Along with a father that wears the Lion Totem and the Azure Idol. Not to mention, since we all wear Dark Idols, I can give her ways to help ease her moontime cramps, Lola pointed out, So yes, I believe that she can handle it if she wears the Black in twenty-two years.

Weeks later, Lola and Dirk were checking out day cares for Alora to attend when she turned five weeks old. They decided on a day care called Rainbow of Color. It was twenty minutes away from home. The main caretaker was an older female that wore the Deer Totem and the Magenta Idol.

She will be well taken care of here. We have some of the best teachers and caretakers in the Territory, Mari said.

I, for one, am very impressed. I think that she will do rather well here, Lola said.

I agree, love. I’m very confident about her being here, Dirk said.

They signed the enrollment paperwork and left the day care.

That was an extremely clean place and all the children had individual caretakers. They all looked so happy, both the staff as well as the children, Lola said during dinner that night.

They did. I just hope I can give her up when the time comes. Dirk laughed.

I know what you mean, I can barely put her down. She laughed too.

The last week of maternity and paternity leave flew by. Sunday came all too quickly. Lola packed and repacked the bag that was being taken to the day care, making sure everything that would be needed was in it. She was very nervous about the coming week. After putting Alora to bed, she closed the bedroom door quietly. Going into their bedroom, she got ready for bed.

Chapter 2

Twenty-two and a half years later, Lola and Dirk were in a suite of rooms in the Trial Hall. Alora was taking the final day of the Trial to become certified as a Weaver and Elder.

Spirits, I don’t remember this taking so long, Lola said.

It takes a day for the meditation. She is fine, my love. She was taught well. Dirk slipped an arm around his wife’s waist.

This is the day we find out what Idol she wears. Remember that Elder telling us she may wear the Black? Lola was very nervous.

I remember. But she is who she is. Besides, she has only three other Idols to come out with, the Gold, the Sable, and the Black. She is going to be an extremely powerful Shadow Elder, Dirk said, watching his wife pace the length of the suite they had been put in to wait out the last day of the Trial.

She had her Elder internship with our ruling Elder. She was shown how to create a Council, rule it and the Territory under her leadership. I hope she remembers everything that we have taught her, as well as her studies. Lola worried her wedding ring around her finger.

You are going to make yourself sick, worrying so much. Please come and eat mid-meal, then nap with me. Dirk tugged her down onto his lap.

Okay. Lola started eating.

After eating as much as her stomach could handle, she curled up next to her husband and they both fell asleep. Dirk was roused from sleep by a knocking at the suite door. Pulling on a robe, he tied the sash and answered the door.

Sir, your daughter has completed her Trial. If you and your wife would like to follow me? An Elite indicated the hallway behind him; his name was Pryce.

Allow us to dress and we’ll be right with you. Would you like to come in? Dirk stepped back from the door.

Yes, thank you. Please don’t hurry, she isn’t going anywhere. He laughed as Dirk went into the bedroom to wake Lola.

Lola, my love? He sat on the edge of the bed and stroked her hair.

Mm? She looked at his through sleepy eyes.

Alora is finished, an Elite is here to take us to her, Dirk said.

Finally! She jumped out of bed and hurriedly dressed.

That was fast, Pryce said, chuckling.

I have been so nervous about this day, Lola admitted.

All parents are, Pryce said, leading the way down the hallway away from the residence wing of the building.

They wound their way through the residence wing, the common wing and then arrived at the Trial rooms. There were several rooms for the participants of the Trials to rest and get used to the new Power that flowed within them. They were shown to the second room on the right.

I will go see about dinner. If you need me for anything else, please don’t hesitate to contact me by Transfer. He bowed and left them alone.

Transfers were mind-to-mind communication and could either be done as female to female, male to male, or male to female or done privately or with a group.

Thank you, Pryce, Lola said and bowed back.

Knocking on the door, they waited for Alora to answer. It took a few minutes and she looked tired.

Hi, Mom, Dad. How are you? Alora asked, standing aside to let them in.

Worried about you. How are you? Lola asked, hugging her daughter.

It feels different, but not a lot, Alora said, showing them over to the small table by the window.

What Idol did you come out with? Lola asked.

The Black. She ducked her head, making her long hair fall forward to hide her face, handing her father the necklace that held the Black pendant.

That is wonderful! Lola was so happy for her.

I love the feel of the Power, but I don’t want to be known as the Peacock Elder who wears the Black Idol. People won’t look at me and see me, all they will see Power, she said quietly.

That is with anything, birdie. Those are the people that don’t belong to you. You will find your Council and Territory. Do you remember your training? Lola asked.

How could I not? You have been training me to be a Weaver since I could talk. She laughed.

A bell chimed.

That would be dinner. Shall we go down? Dirk asked, holding his hands out to both females. They took his hands and were escorted to the dining hall.

Alora thought a lot about what she wanted to do for her people, what her ruling style would be. She knew all about the Decree that they all lived by and how it applied when dealing with Champions and every other caste. Like most of their Community, she believed that the Gens were just as important as anyone else, even though they did not wear Totems or Idols of any kind. Nearly everyone in the Community had some Gens in their family. They lived in a rather large community, it had about five thousand people within its borders. About a third of those people were Gens, equaling up to about two thousand people. She didn’t know how she was supposed to find her Council. A Council was made up of nine males, one female, and one Elder. The Triad was a group of people that work with the Elder the closest: the Agent and the Chief. After dinner that night, they went home.

I know that you have a lot to do, now that you have completed your training and Trials. Where are you going to form your Council? Dirk asked, unlocking the front door.

I was thinking about taking the Territory of Etomaw. Their Elder is about to step down due to age, she answered, walking down the central hallway.

Since they belonged to a long-lived race, Melacks, it must have been a long time that the Elder held that Territory.

How old is she? Lola asked, leading the way into the family room.

She’s about to enter her fourteenth century, Alora answered.

I understand why she wants to hand over the territory.

Wait, Etomaw is three Territories away! That’s over four hundred miles from here! Dirk said.

I know. I figured that it wasn’t that far but close enough to come home to visit, Alora said, sitting on the couch. They talked late into the night.

The next two weeks were a blur of activity. There were suitors, Agents, and Chiefs that came over to be interviewed by the new Shadow Elder who wore the Black Idol. The suitor would take a little time to choose. But in the meantime, Alora finally found her Agent and Chief. Setting up a Council was a hard job. Every new Elder was given a dowry to help with the setup. It included a year’s wages for the Council, a year’s wages for the support staff, household items, and a map of the territory that is being reassigned. Since she had already chosen an Agent, Marcus, who wore the Dog Totem and the Ruby Idol, she would let him hire the household help. Looking at the map that she had spread over the table, she tried to find a suitable home Community. Big enough to be self-sufficient but not too big as to be overwhelming to a new Elder.

Running her finger over the very detailed map, she consulted her new Agent, What do you think about this one? Aciand?

I think that is a wonderful choice, Elder. We will head out tomorrow and find a suitable location for the Council. Marcus used Magi to vanish the map and leaned back on the couch.

Is there anything else that needs my attention? she asked.

No, my lady. Nothing urgent, he replied.

Then I will retire for the evening. Good night. She stood up and walked out of the family room.

Good night, Elder! he called after her.

She heard her father leading the Agent to the front door. Sighing, she closed her bedroom door and sagged against the wood.

Long week? her mother asked.

Longer than ever. I didn’t know there would be so many males wanting in my Council. I mean I knew that there would be a lot wanting to serve a Black Idol Elder, but damn, it took me two weeks to cull the number down of males to just nine. I still have to find the female, Alora answered, lying on her bed.

You haven’t chosen a consort? her mother asked.

No, that will take time. I don’t want someone who just wants the position. I want someone who wants me for me. She sighed again, suddenly tired.

Rest awhile, I’m making your favorite cookies, her mother said.

Alora thanked her and dozed off.

She woke up early the next day, as to be awake when Marcus arrived to take her to Aciand to look at the houses. She had already packed her belongings and was just finishing breakfast when Marcus and Renato, her Chief, who wore the Panther Totem and the Azure Idol, arrived to pick her up. The seven other males that made up the Council were all waiting inside the very large covered buggy, drawn by four gorgeous horses. There were a bay mare, a chocolate gelding, a beautiful paint, and a black forest mare. She went around to all the horses, talked to them, and petted them before taking the offered hand up into the buggy. The buggy had a warming spell cast on it so they would all be warm on the over-four-hundred-mile trip. The trip was going to take about a month. Once she was settled into the seat comfortably, the driver urged the horses forward.

Over the month-long journey, they stopped often to let the horses rest, as well as stretch their legs.

Where would you like to dine this evening, Elder? Renato asked.

I was thinking that we can dine in the next Community we are to come across, she asked.

Good idea, my lady. That Community is a third of the way between Ibohann and Etomaw, Marcus answered.

They were standing in the Territory of Gledda, near the Community of Caykith, which was a Territory and a half away from the Etomaw. As they were coming into the Community, they saw the Elder that ruled there, waving at them. Slowing the buggy down, the driver pulled up alongside the other Elder’s buggy. Stepping out of the buggy, Alora was greeted by the Elder.

Hello! I heard that you would be coming through here, so I wanted to introduce myself. I’m Janith, I wear the Porcupine Totem and the Dark Emerald Idol. The Elder bowed to the superior Power.

Pleased to meet you, Janith. I’m Alora, I wear the Peacock Totem and the Black Idol, Alora said. I was wondering what establishment here has the best food?

That would be the Starryness, has the best cobbler you can find inside the Territory, Janith said, pointing across the street.

Thank you, Alora said, clasping hands with Janith. I hate to be rude, but we have been traveling for a while and I’m starved and I’m sure my males are as well. Spirits be with you! Alora headed across the street and into the restaurant. She shrugged out of her coat and vanished it. Since it was about midday, there were quite a few patrons, so there were only a few tables big enough to fit her Council.

Whenever Alora was nervous, she petted her Totem tattoo, as she did now. She never did like undo attention. Everyone in the restaurant was stealing glancing at her and her Council. A waitress, wearing a Dove Totem necklace, who couldn’t have been more the seventeen, came up, bowed, and asked what she and her males would like to eat and drink. The males chose ale with hamburgers. She chose water with the seafood Alfredo pasta. Alora called in her leather-bound journal and started writing about the journey and how she came to choose her Council. She lost track of time and was startled when the waitress came back with the food and drinks, using Magi to carry the tray.

Thank you…what’s your name? Alora asked, vanishing her journal.

Devonna, Elder, she answered, blushing.

That is a beautiful name. Thank you for the meal. Alora smiled.

Devonna smiled back.

Alora and her males dug into their dinner with enthusiasm.

Damn, she muttered several minutes later.

What is it, Elder? Marcus asked, having heard her.

I forgot about the horses and buggy. I should find out about a stable.

The Chief has already seen to it, my lady, Marcus said, biting into his hamburger.

Alora sighed with relief. She adored animals and would hate to see them being mistreated. As the meal continued, conversation flowed around her. Since most of the Community knew that she was there, people started to come into the restaurant for refreshments and to catch a glimpse at the Black Idol Shadow Elder.

I’m not a fucking freak show. Why do people have to stare at me? she said quietly.

No, you’re not. But you are the first Elder to wear the Black Idol in the history of the Adepts, Renato said, taking a swig of ale.

"I know that. But they don’t have to stare at me." Alora was getting annoyed.

Once the meal was finished, Alora asked where the buggy was being kept, so she could go to bed.

We have been invited to stay with the Elder, my lady, Nikola said. He wore the Pelican Totem and the Dark Gray Idol.

That is very nice of her. Please let her know that we are on our way up there, Alora said.

Chapter 3

The next day, Alora woke early and wandered down to the dining room. There was a buffet laid out with coffee.

I still have to find the female for this to be an official Council, she said to the first of her males that walked into the room; it just so happened to be Richard. He wore the Penguin Totem and the Light Emerald Idol.

I have thought about that. I have a contact in the next Territory over that has a very promising young Healer, Richard said, filling a plate of his own before sitting a couple of chairs down from her.

Set up a meeting, please. I would like to meet her when we cross that Territory, Alora said, pushing the food around her plate.

Not long after, the rest of the Council came down for breakfast, the Elder walked into the dining room.

Good morning, Janith! How was your night? Alora asked brightly.

Good morning! My night went very well. Yours? Janith asked.

I slept well. I will be leaving shortly to continue on to Etomaw, Alora answered.

I have had my cook make up a take-away basket for you, Janith said, filling her own plate.

That’s very kind of you, Elder, Alora said, finishing her breakfast. I’m going to shower, then I will be ready to leave.

Yes, my lady, we’ll have everything packed and ready by the time you come back down, Marcus said, bowing.

Alora stood under the spray and let the hot water pound the fatigue out of her muscles. Why am I so tired? she wondered to herself. She had gone to bed early. She didn’t have a lover yet, so that wasn’t it. Then she felt it, the sharp aching in her lower abdomen.

Well, damn, she thought. She had forgotten about her moontime being close. What am I going to do? I can’t wear my Idol for the first two days of my moontime. Do I trust my males to protect me? she thought, turning up the hot water slightly. I trust them, because they all actually belong to me. So why am I hiding in the shower? she scolded herself, and hurriedly turned off the water. The Blood Scent sent the males into a savage state. They got very territorial and very, very protective of the female that considered theirs.

Alora dressed in a soft wool sweater, a pair of soft pants so as not to put pressure on her abdomen and went downstairs. As she passed the house staff, the males would stop and look at her, then go on their way. The reason that they didn’t get fussy over her is because they didn’t belong to her. When she walked out of the Elder’s house and up to the buggy, she felt the psychic punch of aggression.

Elder? Renato slowly walked toward her.

Yes, Renato?

I think that we should stay here for the next two days. It would be safer for you. He stopped a few feet away from her.

We are expected at the Elders in Etomaw within the next couple of weeks. My moontime has nothing to do with our schedule. Protecting me is your job, Alora said.

As you like, Elder. Renato looked at her for a minute, then bowed and turned back to the males. Saddle up, we leave in five minutes.

Climbing into the spacious buggy did little to ease the male’s protective tendencies.

Alora leaned back in the seat and focused on her mother. Mom?

Yes, honey? her mother answered faintly.

My moontime started. The first one with my new males, Alora said.

Did they conduct themselves properly? Her mother sounded worried.

My Chief tried to get me to stay here in Caykith for the first two days. I told him no, we continue on. He stared at me, then agreed. She sighed.

Well, you knew that males get that way. Your father is just as bad. Her mother laughed.

I remember. Tell Dad that I miss him. I miss you too, Mom. Alora ended the conversation and opened her eyes to see all the males looking at her.

What? she asked.

Nothing, Elder. We are just worried about you traveling during this time, Edan said.

Me traveling during my moontime is not as bad as you think. I have all of you here to protect me.

As you say, Elder. We will do everything in our Power to protect you, even giving our lives, Marcus said and the males agreed.

Thank you, everyone. I really appreciate it. Alora closed her eyes again and dozed off. There was an unfamiliar soft touch to her First Inner Boundary that woke her up. She reflexively closed and strengthened her Inner Boundaries.

Yes? she said groggily.

Sorry to wake you, my lady, but we have arrived at another Community and the males would like to eat, Marcus said.

Oh, I didn’t realize that I had slept so long. Please take the males into the Community and eat. Alora stood up and stretched.

We don’t feel comfortable leaving you by yourself, he said, climbing into the buggy.

Why is that? Alora asked.

You are within the first few days of your moontime. You can’t use your Power without causing debilitating pain. We are here to protect and serve you. Please come with us. Besides, you need to eat as well, he said, smiling.

Alora sighed. There is no point in arguing with a male during a female’s moontime. They dig in and won’t budge until there is a compromise or they win, she thought to herself.

The buggy pulled up at a plot of land that was for people to leave their buggies while they shopped or dined. There were always a couple of teens around to watch the horses. Tying off the reins and setting the brakes, everyone piled out of the buggy. It was law in this Territory that anyone who wore an Idol was to have it showing. She called in her necklace with the Black pendant on it. She also called in her wool coat. Going over to the first restaurant that they came across, they sat down and reviewed the menus. A waitress that wore the Magenta Idol came up to the table and bowed. May I serve you, Elder?

I would like a cup of hot chocolate and the soup of the day. She folded the menu and handed it to the waitress. Most of the males ordered hot drinks and soup as well. Marcus was the only one that ordered water and a steak.

At least at this place I’m not being stared at, Alora thought happily, calling in her journal and started writing.

She knew that everyone at that restaurant could catch the Blood Scent, but people were taught from an early age that you ignore it if the female wasn’t a close friend, family, or a part of the Council they served in. Not long after Alora vanished her journal, the food arrived. After thanking the waitress, they all dug into their meal with enthusiasm. Once the dishes were cleared from the table, the waitress offered dessert.

No, thank you. I’m stuffed. Alora laughed.

None of the males ordered dessert either.

Shall we head out, my lady? Traver offered her his hand.

Yes, thank you. She stood up, went up to the counter, and paid for the meal.

Trey went to get the buggy, and while he did that, Alora went down the street and looked at the stores. This is a nice Community. Don’t you think?

I agree. It is clean and well kept, and the shops are diverse, Traver said.

I know. I hope that Aciand has the same feel. She was referring to the psychic feel of the Community. This one actually felt like a Community.

Trey is here with the buggy, Elder, Traver said, stopped, and looked at the buggy making its way through the crowded street.

Great, I’m cold. She laughed.

After she had climbed in and got comfortable, Trey took the buggy back to the restaurant to collect the rest of the males. Alora called in a favorite book, settled herself in a more comfortable position, and started reading. When they arrived at the Community of Niremeth, in the Territory of Gledda, they pulled into the buggy lot.

Richard, where did you tell her to meet us? Alora asked.

She said that she would be meeting us at the Onaedia Tavern. She said you can’t miss it, Richard said.

Nikola was the one that found it. Over here, my lady.

Thank you, Nikola, Alora said and started moving in the restaurant’s direction.

Once inside the tavern, Richard waved at a young female. That’s the Healer I told you about.

Okay, have her meet us at a table, I need to go to the bathroom. Alora walked toward the back of the tavern. After she used the bathroom, she washed her hands and looked at herself in the mirror. You look like you haven’t slept in a week. She laughed and walked out of the bathroom. She stood a ways away from the table, studying the young female that may be her Council Healer. She was a brunette, had delicate features, and wore the Dark Gray Idol on her necklace. Even from here, Alora could feel the Power coming off her. She wouldn’t know if she belonged to her or not until she talked to her. All the males stood up and Xavier, who wore the Goat Totem and the Azure Idol, pulled out her chair.

Thank you, Alora said.

You are welcome, my lady. He sat back down.

She offered her hand, I’m Alora Tulin.

The female took the offered hand, shook it and let go, I’m Karlene Bernfield. Richard has told me some about you.

Oh, has he now? Alora laughed.

The waiter came over and took down their drink order.

Now, when did you complete your Trial? Alora asked.

I completed it six months ago, I have been working freelance since. I have helped birth two children, Karlene said.

Alora said, sipping her water, You wear the Dark Gray Idol, correct?

Yes, Elder, I do.

Did you find it comfortable to wear after you got it?

My Birth Color was Ruby. It was as comfortable to wear as my Totem.

They talked for a while.

Marcus, what do you think about her? Alora sent.

I like her. She seems confident in her Power. I believe that she will serve you well, and if not, then you can release her or kill her, Marcus replied.

Alora stood up, stretched, and looked down at Karlene, Would you like to join my Council, Ms. Bernfield?

It would be an honor, my lady! She gave a brilliant smile.

In joining my Council, you will be required to move with us. Do you have your things packed?

Yes, Elder. I packed in anticipation of going with you. She blushed.

Good. Now I think that we should order dinner and then retire for the night, Alora said. Plus my cramps are getting really bad, she thought to herself.

They all ordered and ate a wonderful meal. It was about ten when Alora stood up and said good night. She also saw the way Karlene was eyeing her.

Is your moontime this hard normally? Karlene sent.

Sometimes, I think it’s because of the traveling. Do you have a tonic that will ease the cramps? Alora continued to walk toward the door.

Karlene caught up to her just outside the tavern. Yes, I do. If you will be awake for about the next five minutes, I will go grab my things and meet you at your buggy.

I will be awake. I can barely sleep with these cramps, Alora said, pressing a hand to her lower abdomen.

I will be quick, Karlene said, bowed, and moved swiftly down the street.

Karlene walked back toward the buggy lot and felt for the distinctive Power that was Alora. Finding it, she knocked on the buggy wall and waited for Alora to open the flap.

Thank the Spirits! I don’t think I could stand these cramps for another minute, Alora said gratefully.

Karlene called in a large vial and handed it to her. Alora pulled the stopper off the vial and downed the contents in two gulps before handing it back.

Thank you so very much, Alora said.

This is a really large buggy. Where did you get it? Karlene asked.

It was a gift from the Elder that rules over my home Territory. It is the perfect size for my Council.

Well, I have a room at the inn, so I will leave you till tomorrow, Karlene said and climbed out of the buggy.

Good night, Karlene, Alora said sleepily.

Chapter 4

With the help of Karlene’s tonic, Alora was able to sleep through the night. Getting up the next morning, Alora went straight to the tavern, ordered breakfast, and used the bathroom. Some of the Council were already eating breakfast when she arrived. They quickly moved to the largest table in the room, waiting for her.

Thank you, gentlemen. Alora sat down just as the waitress brought her breakfast.

Thank you, Jelihan. This look delicious. Alora gave her a bright smile and started eating.

How are you feeling this morning, my lady? Karlene sent.

I still hurt a lot, but not as bad as yesterday. Thank you for the tonic, Alora answered.

That’s what I’m here for. Karlene walked into the tavern.

Come join us, Karlene, Richard said, waving her over.

That afternoon when they set off for the last leg of the journey, Alora said, I miss my home. But I’m excited to start a new life with a people that hopefully will like me.

They are going to love you, Elder. Not to mention, who is going to oppose you? Xavier laughed.

"I don’t want people to bow to my will just because I wear the Black. I want them to want to bow to me. I want to find a consort that will want me for me, not just the clout that the position will give him. That is why I didn’t choose anyone back home. I could tell that they just wanted the Power, not me." She sighed and laid her head back against the seat.

You will find that one day, my lady. You just have to let him find you, Tray said, laying his hand over hers.

The next couple of weeks flew by while Alora finally had another female to help balance out the male presence.

What are you going to do as your first command? Karlene asked one morning.

I don’t really know. I will have to see what needs to be done, Alora said, sipping her hot chocolate.

You don’t have any preset rules? Nikola asked.

No. I was taught that you don’t go into a Territory with set ideas. You wait till you get there and talk to the former Council. See what their vision had been for that Territory. Incorporate it into your own vision, she answered.

That is another reason we are proud to belong to you, my lady, Traver said.

Thank you, that makes me feel safe and worthy. Alora grinned.

"You know that everyone of us would die for you. But to know that you see us as people instead of fodder for schemes, makes us feel safe," Trey said.

They stopped for the mid-meal at the Community of Eowev, in the Territory of Grigode. It was another two weeks before they pulled into the Elder Residence driveway and piled out of the buggy. The front door opened before Alora could knock.

A butler stood in the doorway; he wore the Aqua Idol on his necklace. May I help you?

I’m Alora Tulin. I believe the Elder is expecting me, Alora said politely.

Yes, she is. If you would please follow me? He backed away from the door. He went up to a door, knocked, and announced them. He stepped back and ushered them into a very large receiving room.

Alora! I have been looking forward to meeting you, the Elder, Marijane, said from the couch that was positioned in the center of the room along with two chairs on either side of the couch and another couch facing the other one, with a low table in the center.

Please make yourself comfortable, she said.

Alora and Karlene were the only ones to sit down on the opposite couch. The males all stayed standing.

So you are the one that wears the Black? Marijane asked.

Why do you sound surprised? Alora asked.

I thought you would be older, she answered.

I just finished my Trial five weeks ago. I’m twenty-three. I would also like to point out that you took over this Territory at the same age.

What are your plans for the Territory?

Was that a snide tone? Alora wondered but answered, I will evaluate what needs to be done before taking action.

You like to plan? No spontaneous actions? She sounded just this side of rude.

Yes, I like to plan, but I also like to have some spontaneity in my life. What is the point of these questions? Alora was really trying to stay civil. She also felt the rising temper coming from her males.

When would you like to take over? Marijane asked, ignoring her question.

As soon as possible.

Soon after that the conversation ended, and Marijane went up to the residence wing of the mansion and packed her remaining belongings, and after going to the Senior Priestess and signing the appropriate paperwork, she had control over the Territory.

I thought it would take longer, Karlene said.

Usually it does. She was trying to get a rise out of me. I refused to let her, so she got bored and left. Manipulation does not work on Weavers. We are taught to read visions and you cannot do that if you are easily manipulated. Alora turned away from the window.

The next week was busy with meetings and organizing interviews with the new staff. Alora even had a couple of suitors come looking to gain the social status by being her consort. She politely refused their offers. One of them got mad and tried to intimidate her.

Look, you wear the Light Emerald Idol, I wear the Black. Who’s going to win this pissing contest? She laughed.

He made a stupid move and lunged at her. He ended up on the floor with Nikola pulling his arms behind his back painfully.

What were you hoping to gain? You would never have beaten me in a fight, fair or not. One blast from the Black and I would have broken your back to your Totem or killed you, Alora said calmly.

You’re hurting me! he wailed from the floor.

You deserve more! Nikola snarled. You tried to hurt my Elder, I should kill you for it! He tightened his grip, making the younger male wail even more.

Now, do you want to walk away intact, or would you like to meet my Chief? Alora asked.

I will leave! he cried.

Good choice. Release him, Nikola. She dismissed the young male, who promptly bolted for the door.

He just got that Idol within the last week, I will bet, Karlene said.

Most likely. Thought himself the Spirits’ gift to females. When I rejected him, he was shocked and lashed out in a very bad way.

His stupidity nearly got him killed. If you didn’t hold Nikola’s leash, that young male would have been dead.

I’m not surprised that he did it. I have had others do the same thing back home, but never had one lunge at me.

Were you scared? Karlene asked, pouring a cup of tea.

Not really, his Idol is seven levels below mine. He wears a Light Idol. He’s just arrogant, Alora said, accepting the tea and sitting on the couch next to Karlene.

My lady? Would you like to see another suitor? the new butler, Julian, asked. He wore a Gorilla Totem and a Dark Emerald Idol.

Sure, please show him in, Alora said, taking a position behind the large oak desk. The male that walked in was a Champion and wore the Ruby Idol. Good morning, my lady. How has your day gone thus far? He bowed.

My day has gone well, thank you. How may I help you? Alora asked, leaning her forearms on the desk.

I was looking to apply for the consort position, he said.

Why? What is your name? she asked.

My name is Byron Selik. I would like to get to know you better, he answered.

Renato, would you and Marcus join me in the study? Alora sent.

There was a soft knock on the door. Come, Alora said.

Marcus and Renato walked in.

My lady? Marcus asked.

Please stay here, she said and turned back to Byron, Why do you want to get to know me?

I want to see if we get along, if not, I will walk away, he said.

I will consider your offer. I will contact you later this week. Alora dismissed him.

He bowed and followed the butler out of the room.

What did you think about him? Alora asked the room.

I didn’t like the slick feel to him. He is hiding something. I doubt that he will ever actually care for you. I think that he only wants the prestige and status, Karlene said.

That is my assessment as well, Renato said.

I thought so, I wanted to know that it wasn’t just me. Alora sighed. This is going to be harder to find a consort than I thought.

Come on, Alora, let’s go eat mid-meal, Karlene said, standing in front of the desk.

Good idea. She stood up and followed the Healer out of the room.

Everything started to settle down after the household staff had been hired. There was a routine now, even though everything still revolved around her and what she wanted. Marcus had reams of paperwork to go over with her, and all of it was bad. The previous Elder had nearly drained the Community dry. The shopkeepers were sending bills. The previous Elder had quite a bit of a spending habit—for the last fourteen hundred years.

Well, damn. It will take us about ten years to pay off all the debt that Marijane acquired, Marcus said one morning.

I know. Thank the Spirits that the dowry held enough funds to support the staff and Council for a year. We will need to put everything back into the Community that we can. When is the planting season? she asked.

I believe that it is in about a week, my lady, he answered.

I want to give the Favor to the land. I need to know who to talk to about that, Alora said, referring to the Favor that every Elder was taught. It replenished the soil and made the land healthier.

I will talk to the Senior Priestess, he said.

Later that day, the Senior Priestess/Healer, which was called a Sorcerer, came to the mansion and asked for an audience.

How may I be of assistance, Sorcerer Glori? Alora asked, from behind her desk.

I was asked to come up here by your Agent because you had a question? She sat down in one of the visitor’s chair that faced the desk.

I did. When is the next planting? Alora asked.

Next week, we hold a festival every year, she replied.

Good, I would like to give the Favor then, Alora said happily.

The Favor? Glori asked, looking confused.

Haven’t you heard about the Favor an Elder gives to the land? Alora was shocked.

Can’t say that I have, Elder. Would you explain it to me, please? Glori looked guarded.

The Favor is a Power that an Elder gives to the land to replenish the soil and help with the harvest. All Elders are taught this. Didn’t Marijane do this? Alora knew the answer.

No, Elder, she didn’t seem to care about helping the Community, Glori said quietly.

They talked late into the afternoon.

Alora held her head in her hands well after the Priestess left.

Mom? Alora sent.

What’s wrong honey? Lola answered.

The previous Elder refused to give the Favor to the land. It hasn’t had any love in nearly fourteen hundred years. How am I supposed to do it without draining myself to death?

I don’t know, honey. Why don’t you contact a couple of other Elders in your area and see if they will help?

I never thought about that. Thank you, Mom. Love you and Dad. Alora let the link fade.

That is how Karlene found her, Are you all right?

Yes, slight headache. Did you know that Marijane refused to give the Favor to the land? She didn’t care enough about the land and its people to help with the harvest. This land has not had any love for fourteen hundred years. Already I can feel it crying out, Alora said, looking bleak.

You are here now and can help the land regain its balance, Karlene said, calling in a vial and handing it to Alora.

She twisted off the stopper and downed the tonic in one gulp, then coughed. What’s in that?

Tonic to help with headaches, the Healer replied.

Thank you, Alora said, handing back the vial.

My mother had a great idea. I should gather the other Elders in the area and ask them to help me, Alora said, later that day.

With? Renato asked.

The Elder’s Favor. Marijane refused to love the land and its people for nearly fourteen hundred years. This land is all but dying. I talked to the Senior Priestess for a few hours today, and she told me all of this. She didn’t even know what the Favor was. I had to explain it to her, and she looked so eager for me to do it. She also told me that Aciand hasn’t had a major harvest in the entire time that Marijane was Elder. That means that Aciand has barely had enough food to feed the people living here, let alone for an Elder that loved luxury, Alora said.

What have they people been doing for food? Marcus asked, calling in a map of the surrounding areas.

They have been sending the tithe to the Elder and scrounging for themselves. She had the tithe raised so fucking high that the people barely had any credits for their own table, Alora said angrily.

Spirits, help these people, Trey said.

Agreed. Now let me see that map, please. Alora, Renato, and Marcus spent the rest of the evening pouring over the map and trying to figure out how to schedule going around to the whole Territory and give the Favor to its people.

Alora went to bed that night with a mind full of plans. She barely slept. They had decided that she would go around to the larger Communities for now and send food to the smaller Communities until the next harvest. There were still a lot of Communities to visit. She drifted off to sleep with thoughts of her Territory dying without her help.

Chapter 5

A few days later, well after mid-meal, Julian asked, My lady, Lord Byron is here again. Would you like to see him, or would you like me to show him out?

He’s persistent, Karlene said.

Should I see him? I know that none of us liked the feel of him, Alora said.

I wouldn’t risk it honestly, Elder, Renato said, pushing his chair away from the desk.

Julian, send him away. I don’t want to see him, she said.

As you like, my lady. Julian bowed and left.

Marcus, what do we have to review today? Alora asked.

"We need to