Daughter of Tarragon

By M. W. Morrison

Orphaned at a young age, Rowena is adopted and raised in the fabled Tarragon Forest. She is an outsider among Elven kind, but the time will come for her to step up and represent them.

Vance is second in line for the throne of White Phoenix, and he could care less. Unfortunately, with age comes responsibility. Second Prince or not, he will have to start making some important decisions; Ones that could change the lives of thousands.

He will realize that the stories of Tarragon are true, while she finds that being an outsider is not all bad. But can they bring their sides together, or will old prejudices win out?

They and their kin will come to find that not all tales are imagined, and not all boundaries are permanent.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu.com
• Release date: May 2, 2023
• ISBN: 9781312603660

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Daughter of Tarragon

ISBN 978-1-312-64418-2

©2015, 2023 M.W.Morrison All rights reserved.

All of the characters in this book are fictitious. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.

Printed and bound in the United States of America

Condition of Sale

No part of this document may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without prior written permission of M. W. Morrison.

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CHAPTER ONE

Rare Flowers

The child’s eyes widened as she noticed a bouquet of white flowers on the table. They were a shining beacon within the small, darkened house, and she could not help but investigate. Her bare feet slapped across the floor as she broke into a trot in order to reach the place faster, knowing they would not last long. The flowers were fresh and the scent was familiar, but exotic. These were special.

It did not matter that flowers grew all around them. Even children grew used to their surroundings as the months and years went by. Special things came from faraway places, and secret spots that were nearly impossible to get to. Such was the case with Sun and Moon Lilies. Those flowers were only in bloom a few times per year, and could only be found in a place far from the area she lived in.

Rowena! Don’t run in the house!

The little girl stopped running as her father’s commanding voice reached her ears. Instead, she crept soundlessly over to the table, reaching a small hand towards the bouquet.

Those are for the trade, small lady. Her father said again, in a softer voice.

She withdrew her hand quickly and turned to face him, unable to keep the guilty look from her face. He smiled, and knelt to her level.

Your mother works hard to retrieve them. The customers only buy them if they are fresh and clean, do you understand? He asked, knowing she was still very young, and certain things did not cross her mind in the same way.

Rowena nodded, nonetheless.

His blue eyes shifted to the bouquet on the table, and his lips pursed as he stood. Rowena watched him reach over her head and then bow towards her, offering a single white flower.

She smiled broadly and took it, keeping gentle fingers wrapped around the stem as if it would break at any moment.

Thank you! she said, remembering her manners. Her father obviously found that acceptable, and smiled down at her as he stood up.

She’ll be back soon. Best be off before she sees you with that. he winked, and watched as Rowena trotted towards the front door of the small cabin.

She knew where she was going, of course. Into the thick wooded area that was beyond the crops in the back yard of her house. Along a trail she herself had memorized, and across a small stream that wasn’t very hard for her small legs to take her through. The path led over a large rock, and across a root patch that she had learned weeks ago to slow down before climbing over. Rowena came to a stop before an enormous tree, and knelt down on the soft earth.

With hands that seemed too gentle for one of her age, she laid the Moon Lily down and began to dig a tiny hole next to it. Once finished, she lifted the flower gently, placing it into the hole with one hand, and using another to cover it with dirt. Having effectively planted the flower into the earth, she sat back and admired her work. Her childlike features scrunched a bit, and she reached forward to adjust the slightly drooping flower.

Rowena wiped the dirt from her hands and sat back, smiling at the lone Moon Lily. Of course, it would never survive. Having been cut along the stem, and transplanted in an area where it wasn’t indigenous, the chances of its survival were very low. The young girl had no idea of these things though, and merely saw that the flower stood tall. She had given it a second chance, and a new home.

Smiling, the girl got to her feet, and looked down again at the flower. Her brown eyes were drawn upward as a flash of white caught her attention. Rowena mouth dropped open in surprise at what she saw. A large, white horse stood mere feet from her, watching her as she watched it. Beside the horse was a girl of about her height, and presumably the same age, though something about her seemed much older. The girl’s hair was long and almost as white as the horse’s mane. Like the horse, the girl also stood and watched her with a curious expression.

There was no exchange of words, only the searching gazes of all three parties, standing still in the summer breeze. Rowena was fascinated to note that both the girl and the horse had extremely pretty blue eyes. She had never seen such color in the eyes of either species, and she guessed that these two were not of her land. Like the Moon Lilies, they seemed to shine even brighter than the picturesque landscape around them.

After a few moments, the horse turned and left. The girl nodded toward her once before doing the same. Rowena thought of going after them. In fact,

something in her yearned to follow, but she knew where she must go. With a final glance at the Moon Lily, Rowena turned and began her run back towards her home. Her mind was filled with nothing more than telling her story.

- - - - - - - - - -

What did I tell you about those woods? The stories we’ve heard are true, Michael.

You’re worried over nothing. The girl has a vivid imagination, just like we did when we were her age. Are we to forbid her from going beyond the crop fences?

Rowena’s frown deepened. Her parents rarely fought, and she understood that this fight was about her. They seemed too caught up to even notice that she was peering around the corner.

She says she’s spoken to a girl and a horse! her mother’s voice was getting louder. Not only are there no other children her age in our area, but no white horses, and certainly not horses that speak!

Renee, she’s just a girl. She doesn’t have any friends, so she’s made friends of her own. Didn’t you do the same at her age?

I don’t remember being her age.

There was a sighing noise, and a chair scraping. Rowena ducked further behind the wall.

I’ll speak to her in the morning. I won’t forbid her from going into the woods, but I will tell her that she can’t go as far. Michael said. Is that fair to you?

She must have agreed.

Alright. Come on. We both need to be up with the sun.

Rowena trotted back to her room with practiced grace. She was into her bed and covered before her parents made their routine check on her before they retired. It took some time for her to sleep, however. The words her parents had spoken had made enough sense to worry her.

Luckily, her aforementioned imagination took her beyond her worries and into her memories. The child drifted off dreaming of her new friends. As she had told her father and mother, she knew their names. Spirit was the horse, and the girl was Silna.

- - - - - - - - - -

She was being lifted and pulled into a tight embrace.

Get her sweater! said her father’s voice. He was the one holding her.

Michael we’re not going to make it! They’re here already! her mother’s voice called desperately.

She was set down on her feet just as her eyes opened. There were orange lights flashing above her father’s face as he knelt by her. She woke up more as he lifted her arms and pulled on her sweater.

Rowena. I need you to run from here.

She did not understand. Her mother was crying and looking from the window to the two of them. The flowers were still sitting on the table.

Small lady!

Rowena met her father’s eyes again at the mention of her nickname. He was scared, and that made her even more frightened. What was going on?

You go to see the horse again, ok? You go see your new friends! Silna, and Spirit. she said in a sleep drugged voice.

Yes, you go to Silna and Spirit as fast as you can!

But it’s night-time! she said, remembering the rules that she must never leave the house after dark. Her mother had always told her that night-time was for sleeping, not running.

Rowena, it’s ok! her mother was kneeling by her now. Just this once, we need you to go to them and wait for them to come!

Her mother took her by the hand and lead her to the back door. There were shouting noises and hoofbeats behind them, and Rowena felt the floor vibrate beneath her feet.

Go, small lady!

She trotted a few steps, feeling the cold dew on her skin, before turning back towards her parents. Both stood watching, still wearing their own sleeping clothes, and watching her with wild looks in their eyes. This wasn’t right. She was not allowed out at night. She was not allowed out in bare feet.

Go Rowena! Find them! her mother’s voice yelled in a way that demanded no contest.

At that order, she turned and ran. Rowena knew the forest well, and though she couldn’t see, she made her way back to her normal spot. She heard yelling and voices from far off, but she ran. As her mother and father had told her to, she ran to the spot. She stumbled over the roots and fell to her knees by the spot she called her own. Her eyes filled with tears as the pain got to her, and she glimpsed the Moon Lily she had planted earlier. It was wilting.

Rowena sobbed softly, sitting with her back to the huge tree, and curling into herself tightly as the cold began to seep through her sweater. Fall’s chill was already settling into the summer nights.

"Come now, what hurts?"

She stopped crying at once when she heard the words, but no voice seemed to be speaking them. Rowena looked up to see the same two she had met earlier; the large white horse, Spirit, and the small little girl, Silna.

"Why do you call so loudly?" the words again filled her mind, though neither girl nor horse moved their lips.

However strange it was, Rowena was not surprised by this, since it was how she had learned their names.

I... my Dad and Ma       she took in a shuddering breath and felt the sting of

tears again, letting her mind play over the past few minutes of her life. Though she did not fully understand, Rowena knew deep down that something had gone horribly wrong.

Silna stepped forward and tilted her head. The horse’s head bobbed once, sending her white mane floating in different directions.

"They are protecting you from danger."

Rowena sniffed and looked up at the two again. Silna held out her hand and said something unintelligible.

Rowena’s brows lowered in confusion.

"She says she will help you. Your mother and father sent you here, yes? You will be safe with us." Spirit’s words came in a feminine tone.

Gathering herself, Rowena stood and walked toward them. Spirit lowered herself to the ground and Silna gave a little hop to mount the horse. She offered her hand to Rowena, who climbed up in a more careful manner.

Spirit stood and Rowena nearly gasped. She had always been fascinated with horses but her parents would never let her ride one. The horses they owned were not for riding, and she was too young for lessons of any kind.

She nearly forgot her thoughts as the world passed her by. She straightened her back, feeling tired as the horse’s slow gait rocked her, but trying to catch her surroundings at the same time.

"Sleep if you must," Spirit said into her mind.

Rowena let herself droop over Spirit’s neck as her mind filled with soft thoughts and blurred into sleep.

- - - - - - - - - - -

The night sounds of the forest usually calmed him, keeping him from even his most angry moods. Tonight, however, the sounds seemed muted. It was as if the forest worried in the same way he did, though for much different reasons. His deep blue eyes scanned sharply over the trees. The darkness did not stunt his vision, and he seemed to have a grasp on exactly where he needed to look.

Again? said a soft voice from behind him.

He nodded, not needing to turn and look. He knew she would be standing behind him, wearing silken resting robes. Her hair would be down, flowing gracefully in the slight breeze, and her ocean blue eyes would be as concerned as his own.

This is the third night in a row, A’dair. She cannot keep doing this.

She will do this, as long as she is Lae’ra’s daughter, he replied, letting his lips turn up a bit as he felt her sardonic look. I will follow her trail if she is gone for much longer.

He felt her hand slide across his back, and she stood close to him for a few moments. After a long, yet comfortable silence, Lae’ra left his side, seeming to accept his decision.

A’dair waited exactly a half hour before dropping from the overhang that served at their watching-porch. He touched ground without a sound, and began his smooth trek into the trees that surrounded their home.

He hadn’t gone more than a handful of steps before he saw the familiar white form of Spirit stepping into his path.

How you travel in such darkness without cover is beyond me, he commented softly, directing his thoughts toward Spirit.

The horse’s head lifted, regarding him before she moved a few more steps to the side, showing him her ‘cargo’. A’dair smiled at his daughter, but his elven eyes quickly picked up the second form that sat in front of her.

Silna, what have I told you- he whispered, focusing on the sleeping female.

Spirit crouched, and lay down on her belly to allow Silna to slide off, and A’dair kept his eyes on the other small child. It appeared to be female, with dark hair splayed across her face, and from her lack of motion, he could tell that she was asleep.

This is Rowena, father, Silna offered cordially.

Spirit moved her head to the side, nosing the girl and no doubt giving her a mental nudge as well. A’dair watched as the girl awoke, and sat up in a defensive motion. She moved her hand up to shift her black hair out of the way, and rub her eyes. Only when she opened them did he take full awareness of her species.

Silna, he warned in a soft voice. Do not tell me you’ve brought a human child to our home.

Silna seemed to shift, and a rare guilty look passed over her features.

Ohhh the fates made you a daring one, A’dair whispered again, more to himself that time.

The tall elf knelt down to watch the small human slide from Spirit’s back. He wasn’t able to ask any more questions, for Spirit stood, and filled his mind with her own thoughts.

"She was the one Silna has been watching, and this evening her home and family were destroyed by raiders. "

A’dair stood again as the horse spoke into his mind and tilted his head slightly as he picked up the unmistakable sounds of his life-mate on the overhang above. .

She’s alone father. She has nowhere to go! Silna protested from his side. What’s going on? Lae’ra said from above.

A’dair tried compose his own feelings, remembering that Spirit herself was a wise being. Had it been a mistake, she would have sounded much less confident in her choice. Looking upward, he did his best to explain.

Silna has brought a human girl to us. Apparently she was orphaned this evening. Her family killed, and- he stopped for a moment when Lae’ra dropped down soundlessly a few feet from him, her eyes finding the human girl immediately. Spirit seems to be of a mind to have aided her.

"Her home was destroyed. I believe her parents were as well." Spirit said into both of their minds.

Lae’ra seemed speechless, so A’dair took over once again.

And how to do you suppose the elders will react to a human trespassing this far into the lands, much less being invited by our own kin? Human troubles do not belong here.

A sniff brought his attention back to Rowena. Tears were welling up into her eyes.

I can’t hear what you are saying!!! she said in her own language, and A’dair took a step back as he realized that her words were lost in translation in his ears.

It seemed to solidify the fact that they were indeed dealing with a genuine human child. Looking over, he saw a similar expression in Lae’ra’s eyes. Two small girls of very opposite kinds looked up at him with pleading eyes. The soft eyes of a certain white horse didn’t exactly help either.

Clenching his teeth, A’dair sighed.

Silna, take her to your room. Do not leave the house for the rest of this night.

Do not leave the house until you are told you are able to. Lae’ra put in after him, and he smirked.

Silna nodded hard, knowing she had just been let off of a decent punishment, and took Rowena by the hand. She led the girl up the steep tree trunk, showing her slowly how to climb without falling.

Word of this cannot go beyond our vale until I am able to speak with Ta’llevny, A’dair said absently, turning to watch the girls.

Lae’ra did not respond, which tended to signal her agreement. The two adult elves watched the young ones ascend into their modest home, listening to Spirit’s soft hoof-beats recede back into the trees. The horse seemed to walk the forest as an apparition.

Many things will change if she is to stay here. Lae’ra said at a length.

A’dair focused on his life-mate, his eyes widening fractionally. As much as they both feared the consequences, they somehow knew that a second daughter had just been adopted.

CHAPTER TWO

Friends and Apparitions

Her legs never could carry her quite as fast as she wanted to go, especially when she knew she was late. It always happened that way. She would get far too carried away with trivial things, and completely forget about the things that were important. Was that normal?

Rowena! a harsh whisper stopped her in her tracks.

With practiced skill, she kept even the sharp skidding of her bare feet to a near silent move. She turned in one motion and focused her brown eyes on the source of the voice.

Dolen!

A male elf seemed to step out of the wooded backdrop as he moved to cross her path, looking as ethereal as one of his kind always did.

Late again? he asked, eyeing her for a moment before stopping.

She smiled and moved towards him, stopping a step from him and meeting his gaze. It had been weeks since she last saw him, and he looked just as he had when he left. Tall and lithe, he had brown hair that was high-lighted and low- lighted in a way that it blended in well with his surroundings. His clothing was similarly chosen to blend; All layers of brown and green. Overall, he seemed to make sure his appearance was almost dull, except for the bright green of his eyes. They seemed to glow of their own accord, as if fighting for the chance to prove his heritage. Rowena had always loved Dolen’s eyes.

Bowing in proper manner, she greeted him as she was taught to. However, halfway through the bow, she gave up and stepped forward to wrap her arms around his neck.

Have you no manners? he asked breathlessly, hesitating a moment before pulling back.

When Rowena stepped back again, she grinned. Just happy that you’ve returned unharmed.

Only his eyes lightened, showing that he wasn’t as angry as his perpetual pout made him out to be. Nodding, he eyed her before moving forward, pulling his his pack tightly over his shoulder.

The moon is rising. I fear we’re both late, he said in a soft tone.

She trotted a few steps to catch up, and thanked the fates that she had grown into her long legs. It was not often that a human reached an elf’s height, and Rowena had grown into a fairly tall young woman. If one could get past her rounded, wide eyes, and the lack of pointed, elven ears, she could almost pass for one of her adopted kin.

Adopted was a good word for Rowena’s status, for she was the one of very few humans to ever set foot in Tarragon Forest. As far as she knew, she was the only one of those few who had been invited to join a family and allowed to inhabit the forest permanently.

"Best to take the... adornments from your hair, Dolen said, keeping his gaze ahead of him. They will know you’ve been dawdling with the fairyfolk again."

Making a face, she gave him a small noise of acknowledgment and did as he suggested. There was not much she could hide from Dolen. He made his life as an observer, keeping watch on the main perimeter of the forest. It was a lonely existence, but he seemed to bask in it.

She finished undoing the braids and pulling out the last of the tiny flowers, and tucked hair behind her ear. Their walk was mostly silent, but that was how the two spent most of their time. Dolen, while not often around, was one of the few elves who had learned to accept her. Although A’dair had received permission from Ta’llevny himself, there were many who objected to her very presence. Rowena had been through many trials and errors, but over the years, she had finally learned to cherish the few friends she had.

Any news? she asked in a softer voice, once the forest sounds started up again.

Tracks from more human scouts, but they are a week or more old. I have yet to see one with my own eyes, he answered, deftly moving under a low branch.

She was about to make a joking comment about her own heritage when she saw his head turn quickly to their left. Knowing his sharp hearing had picked up what hers could not, she followed his gaze while both continued walking.

Rowena let out a short breath when she saw what Dolen had apparently sensed. It seemed as if the trees were parting for a cloaked figure that moved parallel to them. From the height and motion, she could tell he was atop a horse, though to her neither were making a sound.

She recognized the nearly invisible manner in which they moved, and knew it was one of Ta’llevny’s riders. Only a handful could admit to having the honor of such a job, and this was a pristine example. The group served as the forest leader’s eyes and ears, as well as guards to the highly magical area where he kept his own home. They were rarely seen, but dangerous enough to make others tell tales of them. It was as if a character from one of Silna’s stories was brought to life. Those same tales had given her nightmares of riders in dark flowing robes, coming to steal her from her bed because she was human.

Faster, Dolen broke her stare and caused her to stumble a bit. If one of his riders is here, I fear we are late for an important gathering, he said in another harsh whisper.

He’s just as late then, she daringly replied, not bothering to cover her voice.

Their feet touched a harder surface as they came upon the meeting place. The great tree trunks and undergrowth had parted to reveal a stony clearing. It was decorated with smaller trees and bushes, which were arranged so that both night and day bloomers were pleasing to the eye. In addition to those, there were many stone statues of elven legends, including forest animals. Deer, rabbits, and owls looked at them from ghost eyes, all carved with an otherworldly talent. In the very center of the stone patio was a pond. It seemed to emanate light on its own, and every once in a while the water’s surface

moved with the reflections of large colorful aquatic creatures. This was a place of refuge; a peaceful gathering place for a troubled mind and a quiet get-away for a lovers.

Now, however, the clearing was filled with just about every neighbor Rowena had known to live near her (and some she had never seen). Rowena felt a pull on her sleeve, and turned to see Silna. With a final nod in Dolen’s direction, Rowena followed her childhood friend and adopted sister, taking her place amongst the back of a gathering of elves.

You wonder why they all stare at you, you’re practically glowing with fairy magic! Silna whispered close to her ear.

It was a gesture she considered mannerly, and though she knew it was not normal conduct, the human girl appreciated it. She ducked, but did nothave to go so far, as the two females were nearly the same height. The little girl Rowena had known had grown about as fast as she had, though by all tellings, Silna was still a child.

And you were with him again? You’ll start tales, Rowena.

I’ll have you know I was only with the fairies for a short time! And he was as late as I... Rowena whispered back, hurrying through the denial and nodding in the direction of the elder leaders. Look!

Silna’s soft eyes followed and widened at the sight of the dark-cloaked figure, who had apparently dismounted and was standing off to the side.

It must be important, she said in a distracted voice. The female’s ocean blue eyes seemed trained on the newcomer. I’ve never seen one of them in true form.

The elves gathered in a large audience, all facing a handful of what one would assume to be elders (though besides their dress and demeanor, one would not be able to guess that they were centuries older than the rest). Soft light fell from the moon itself, as well as the trees that surrounded them. The fireflies had been gently compelled to stay put and light up in a specific area, creating a very ethereal atmosphere. Then again, Tarragon forest was essentially the very example of earthly elegance and peace.

Rowena felt as much as saw Silna’s reaction when the newcomer pulled down his hood. The elf who seemed to have hidden himself within layers of forest colored cloth was now standing beside his equally cloaked horse. Once the cowl of his cloak had dropped, she knew why her friend was so enraptured.

He was simply gorgeous. Of course, all elves were through Rowena’s eyes, but she had learned to see beauty through their eyes and standards. By all, this one was a fine example. His hair was a rare color, nearly black as midnight, and down to his waist. In contrast, his eyes were clear blue and glowed as brightly as Dolen’s did.

Rowena heard the call to order, and the voices of the elders begin speaking, but her mind had run away with her, just as Silna’s had. She shifted her focus to the rider’s horse, and tilted her head, wondering what thoughts she could pull from it’s.... his... mind.

Mind-speaking was a skill that she had apparently had all her life, that had manifested once Tarragon’s magic had seeped into her. It was also the skill that had been her ticket to life within the elven culture. Most elves could mind-speak to animals, though only the more gifted ones could form sentences. Rowena had the ability to speak to them clearly. As a human, that was extremely rare.

"I fear your friend will miss an important meeting if her mind remains so occupied."

Rowena would have jumped, had she not grown used to the rich sounding voices that came from horses. Of all creatures, only the horses and forest cats were that strong. Focusing her gaze, she realized that the deep brown eyes of the horse she was gazing at were now focused on her. She knew he was speaking of Silna’s blatant stare, and elbowed her companion lightly.

He is fascinating. Silna said, using the language that Rowena had taught her years ago.

Once Rowena had picked up their elven tongue, Silna had requested to learn Rowena’s human language. It had come in handy many times over the years, especially when one did not want a conversation overheard, much less understood.

He is one of Ta’llevny’s riders! Rowena responded in kind. And his horse has a strong mind. He sounds as clear as Spirit does to me!

Several blue and gray toned eyes shifted in their direction, all glinting with annoyance. Not wanting to draw any more attention to themselves, both females lowered their voices to whispers.

He says to pay attention. We’ll miss something important, Rowena whispered, lifting her gaze toward the horse.

We have a human in our midst! Why not send her as a spy? a deep voice cried out in elvish, making both females straighten up and listen.

She will make no better a spy than any of us, A’dair’s voice called out in response, somewhere to the left of the elders.

Silna’s brows drew down over her eyes, and Rowena took that as a warning. There had been many instances over the years where the elven female understood the slightest nuances in a being’s voice or gestures. Her response to the subject did not bode well.

Rowena swallowed hard as she realized the conversation was heading in a tense direction. Once again, it was all about her. The outcast. Her eyes met Dolen’s as they passed over the elder’s, and she held his gaze for a moment before moving on.

Rowena was raised amongst us, and knows only of our culture. She will not go unnoticed in a human community, A’dair continued, and when Rowena focused on him, she noticed Spirit standing not far from him.

The white horse’s ears were perked, and her head was held high in the air. Something told Rowena that Silna and Spirit were looking in a similar direction. It was tempting to interrupt, but her mind was on more persistent issues. Especially now that her name had been spoken.

She still knows of their language! She will need only to hear of their plans and report them back to us, another voice, this one very close to them, said.

Silna and Rowena exchanged satyrical glances, knowing they had been overheard.

We’ll not send spies this early on, one of the elders, Aizel (who happened to be A’dair’s father), said clearly.

Another elder leaned in to speak in soft tones to Ta’llevny’s representative. The two exchanged a few words before the elder nodded and stood back to speak.

Ta’llevny has taken notice of these human trackers, and will be watching from his own post. He has set his riders on the task of reporting activity beneath the canopy to him. It is in my opinion that we merely assign more perimeter watchers, and keep in contact with our forest companions on the matter, he finished, and when there was no objection, nodded his head.

This gathering is at its end. I will ask that any watchers stay behind for assignments, and the rest of you keep your mind’s eye open wide.

With his last few words he focused his gray gaze on Rowena, and she felt her own eyes go wide. They often looked on her as an eyesore, but the look Aizel had given her was purposeful. She, for once, had a task.

"That you do, child. And tell your white mistress that my name is Whisper," said the horse’s voice in her mind again. "If your elven sister is as curious, the one I carry is called Tey’ven."

Rowena nodded and suddenly grinned at the horse. Part of her was annoyed that she had again forgotten to close her thoughts up, but she did enjoy the sound of the wise male in her mind. She turned her body towards Silna and continued to smile, her eyebrows dropping in a knowing fashion.

Don’t give me that look, Silna said, narrowing her eyes and sidestepping past Rowena.

She knew she had been caught with her tongue hanging out. For Silna, that was rare. The ever-hardened warrior was not one to be caught off guard.

Rowena let out a short laugh and trotted after Silna, avoiding the retreating bodies of her neighbors. As they both approached A’dair, Rowena tugged on her friend’s hair lightly, and spoke again in her human language.

His name is Tey’ven. she said, gaining a double take from her slightly taller friend.

I wish you both would stop with the secrets, A’dair cut in. At least around me.

It’s no secret, father! We were just inquiring about Ta’llevny’s rider! Rowena said, still smiling from ear to ear.

Smiling was one of few habits that set her apart from them. The elves smiled, but rarely. Their eyes conveyed emotions more often than not. At the moment, Silna’s looked ready to pop out of her head.

Tey’ven, A’dair mused. He the newest of Ta’llevny’s riders. he continued matter-of-factly.

All three watched as said elf effortlessly mounted Whisper and pulled his cowl up. The darkness seemed to swallow them both as they made their way back out of the area.

Do not strain your eyes searching for him though. A’dair said in a softer tone, turning as back towards their home. Rowena turned her head to watch him go, but Silna stayed where she was. An honorable being, yes, but a ghost to the rest of us.

Rowena let out a soft breath, watching the fireflies lift from their leaves and float off deeper into the trees. Their surroundings slowly darkened, and very few remained in the small clearing where the meeting had taken place. If it was one thing she wished she could share with the elves, it was their eyesight.

His horse’s name is Whisper, Rowena said at a length, and Silna shook her head and turned quickly.

I’m to train at sunrise. We should get back, she said.

The two moved to follow that path that Rowena had memorized over the years. Rowena cursed in her own language and craned her neck as if trying to see further n the dark. At Silnas questioning look, she shrugged and tugged her wavy dark hair behind her ears.

I forgot to say goodbye to Dolen.

Silna scoffed. What did I tell you! You’ll start tales, she said, lifting her arms animatedly Have you heard, that human girl and the mute hermit!

Oh stop! He speaks. They know he speaks!

They are gossipers, Silna admitted, taking her sister’s side in the end. The lot of them. They’ve nothing worthwhile to do but grow the plants and gather the food.

I’d say that’s worthwhile, Rowena replied, unconsciously wrapping her arms around herself and shivering. Chilly night winds were a reminder that fall was on it’s way out, and winter would be fast approaching.

We’ll both have more worthwhile tasks this season, Silna said as they reached the large tree that had accommodated their family for years.

It would not be long before both Silna and Rowena would be expected to find their own places to reside, but for the time, they all felt more secure in such close quarters.

Once the two had washed, changed, and had a short meal, the subject of Ta’llevny’s rider came about once more. Silna was reclined against her bedding, polishing the sword she would need to use the next day, and Rowena was stretched to her full capacity, enjoying the sounds of the forest that her human ears could pick up.

Whisper and Tey’ven, Silna said softly, and Rowena’s head turned over towards her.

Father said they’re ghosts, she said in a soft tone.

Silna stopped polishing and focused her eyes out through their window. Even in the darkness, her eyes had a light of their own.

They looked quite alive to me.

CHAPTER THREE

Ire Raised

There was always a certain pattern to things. As every day passed, tasks were completed, news was received and passed on, and the sun rose and set as it had the day before. On some days plans would change, but today was another just like the one before it.

In a usually serene area, a particularly large tree stood gallantly, reaching upward above its more subtle neighbors. The bark was smooth, except for thin indentations and holes where it seemed to have been used as a target. Within moments, all birdsong was stopped as a knife’s blade scuffed against the trunk, skipped, and landed on the ground with a soft thud.

Damn! A male voice broke the air.

His heavy steps indicated his mood, and if anyone were around to see his glaring brown eyes and frowning lips, they would have gladly given him a wide berth. He picked up the knife with a quick motion and slid the short blade into the sheath on his belt. Lifting both arms, the male slid his hands over either side of his head and back down over the short ponytail at the back. It was a futile motion, since it did not do a very good job of keeping his wispy, sand-colored hair out of his eyes.

The saddled black stallion he had tied to a nearby tree lifted his head when he saw his rider approaching. Muscles in the steed’s legs tensed as he prepared himself for the rider’s easy mount, and swift kick. The stallion seemed very used to the frustrated mood his rider was in. He did as he was trained, accepting and carrying out the commands as they were given, even when he found himself galloping far beyond the reaches of the warm stable he called his home.

When the rider finally pulled him to a slow stop, the stallion could also see why.

What are they doing this far out? the male whispered as he dismounted, and pulled the stallion off to a small copse of trees.

Once well hidden, he peered through the leaves at a group of five men on horseback, all wearing the badge of his lands. They were riding in a line, using telescopes, and looking as if they were on business. The male stood up taller and finally saw why. He had not realized how far he had ridden in his own frustration. They were on the very edge of his home’s territory, and the group of men on horseback were clearly eyeing up the fabled forest of Tarragon. It certainly did not look to be a fable from where he stood.

Tarragon Forest huh? he spoke directly to the stallion, though keeping his eyes on the forest.

The trees were as large and ancient as the stories had told, and there seemed to be no way into the forest through the thick underbrush. It was as though the tangled branches and bushes had been planted exactly along the border, for they strayed no further than the territory’s edge. The hills turned to mountains further down the forest’s line, which made it nearly impossible to enter anywhere other than this serene place.

Do you think there are faires in there as the stories say? the male smiled and shook his head.

Master Vance, your father will have your head when he hears you’ve taken Dancer out this far.

The male, Vance, jumped and spun quickly on his heel. He cursed mentally when he realized that he should have checked for a flagbearer. They always came with a group of riders on business.

Vance settled into an annoyed calm now that he knew who he was dealing with. Nodding, he offered the man in uniform a sardonic smile, and lifted his brows under the stray hair that was likely framing his face.

How is it that I am to meet with one of you wherever I go? Even at the very edges of our land, I’m hunted like a fox.

Vance mounted the tall horse and watched with silent amusement as the flagbearer grit his teeth and frowned. The horse was one of his father’s prized performers, and though he often rode him, this was only the third time he had been caught.

That horse is meant for an arena, not as a toy for a prince.

Vance scowled again (it seemed to be a perpetual look on his face), and spun Dancer with a slight tug on the reigns.

This horse is far from a plaything. There is a hardly a need for reins when one rides him, and he’d be perfect for a battlefield as much as an arena, Vance shot back. And I am no prince worth speaking of. Why do you not stalk Ferin? He’s the golden child. he said, waving his hands animatedly as Dancer walked slowly around the flagbearer’s smaller horse.

You father does not permit either of his sons this far out -

Yes, yes! I know! However, what you do not seem to understand is that he will not notice! If you were to storm straight up to him and tell him exactly what is happening right now, he’ll nod, thank you, and turn away, Vance hissed. It was turning into a very good way to release his anger. "You seem to forget whom you are dealing with! I am the second son, not the first. I do not take the throne when father-" he stopped when he heard several galloping hoofs coming in fast from behind him.

Dancer spun around at about that time.

-and what are you all doing so far out? Have you discovered fairies in the forest? Vance yelled, not even giving the other riders a chance to question him.

One stumbled over his words before finally coming to explain.

We’re scouting. Our border lies on the edge of this forest, and we are to mark any areas worth expanding, and check for unauthorized inhabitants.

Vance rolled his eyes and turned Dancer about. The stallions shaggy feet lifted high in the air as he did so, giving meaning to his name.

Oh, and I suppose we’re to burn the nests of any stray birds who aren’t paying their taxes.

Young master! You are not to speak in such jest of your father’s law! one of the riders yelled, while the others seemed outright disgusted.

I’m sure you all have business to attend to. Vance said softly, looking down to prevent any of them from seeing the look on his face. When you’re done telling tales of my horrible treason, please let my father know that I will keep perimeter guard this night.

Vance looked up and nodded to them all with a serious look on his face. I will report any sign of treasonous birds or fairies.

Master Vance, forgive me for saying so, but you must learn proper etiquette, the flagbearer said with as much dignity as he possibly could, turning his horse and kicking it into a canter.

The other riders followed suit after a moment’s hesitation.

Vance gave a false salute to all of their backs, and slumped in his saddle. He truly was apprehensive about returning now. Though most of his words were true, he knew he would receive a serious talking-to when he returned home. It was one thing to be confined within the kingdom, but to be barred inside was pure hell.

The sun was casting an orange glow on the area as he dismounted and began to untack Dancer. He made a small bed from the saddle pad and blanket, and pulled the only food he had thought to pack out of the saddle bag; a single apple. The knife’s blade split the apple in two, and by the time the sun set, both horse and rider were feasting on their meager supper.

An hour or so after sunset, Vance was left wishing he had thought to start a fire. There would surely be a frost by morning, and he was shivering with cold. He was miserable as always, even in his own rebellion. The young man was rocking slightly to relieve the cold when he saw the first light in the forest.

His light brown eyes widened and he stopped rocking, thinking it was his own imagination. Moments later, another light began fading in and out. It was far too cold for fireflies, but even so, the human knew fireflies did not make light so brilliantly. The show went on for another hour, and Vance kept watch, keeping his eyes on the fluctuating light and wondering if it was his imagination playing tricks on him. Deep down, he knew that it was not.

By the time sleep claimed him,Vance was beginning to wonder if he actually would need to report this to his father. Moreover, he wondered if he really wanted to.

- - - - - - - - -

It was the only place she would ever let another being hear her voice in song. The atmosphere seemed to tame her inhibitions, and she hummed and sang wordlessly along with the beings around her.

Rowena’s hair was again braided and twisted and adorned with flowers. She still felt the soft pull from the back of her head, meaning that the fairies were still at work.

There were nights upon nights like this one. Rowena knew it was looked down upon, and even considered dangerous to mingle with the fairy-folk. It was said that their songs could intoxicate, and that their demeanors could turn vicious at any time. They weren’t to be trusted. Rowena had chosen to find out for herself, and had only been welcomed.

In elven gatherings, she would be eyed up and mostly avoided (though she did love to attend them). The music was wonderful, and the lights and decorations mesmerized her as they always had. However, even when she had Silna to talk to, she felt alone. She would not sing or play an instrument, or join in a dance of any sort. There was a place for her in their society, and it was not with the musicians.

With the fairies, Rowena felt special. They thought her exotic and fascinating, and she thought the same of them. The small beings glowed with life; their tiny wings came in all different colors and shapes, and many had brightly colored hair to match. Their songs were as melodic and entrancing as the elvish ones, enough to make her sing along! Almost nightly she would sit amongst them, huge compared to their sizes. Some would sit in trees and on rocks, while others sang and flew and danced by her. Many tried to show off their skills in flight or on instruments, while a few more took up the task of putting ornate designs in her hair. Their wings tickled when they touched her, and their voices were accepting and always happy.

To Rowena, this place was pure therapy.

This night, she was stretched out with a large blanket of fur in her hands. She stitched slowly, making what would be a white winter shawl for herself. Her voice carried along with the fairies as they sang and danced and played. When

she looked up, she was often distracted by the sights. The colors of their wings left trails when they flew fast, and she could almost see the looks on their faces as couples danced together. Her brown eyes would quickly return to her work when she caught sight of specific movements. Fairies were not modest when it came to their love-making.

Lady, the moon is nearly to its peak! spoke a tiny voice from her side.

She recognized the red, scruffy hair of Wylden. He was one of the many who held conversations with her on a normal basis. Though their cultures differed immensely, they had somehow managed to learn a good deal of elvish.

I’ll stay just a bit longer then, Rowena smiled, pulling a thread tight on the fur.

She sighed as they resumed their work on her hair, lamenting that it would never be seen. Only Silna, Dolen, and her mother and father had even seen her after the fairies had finished, and they were never happy to know where she had been.

Oh, you’ll upset your family then, Lady. They do not care for us, those folks, Wylden said again, dancing around in front of her. They never seemed to stop moving.

They’ll not know. They are all day walkers.

You walk both the day and the night, Lady! he said in a higher voice, grinning from ear to ear.

He had a handsome face. In fact, all of them did. It was another trait they shared with the elves.

I cannot walk the night for long without tiring, but I will stay a bit longer, she replied, leaning back and taking a deep breath.

Even the air seemed clearer in the grove. The lights of fairies high above her swirled in her vision, and the canopy of the huge trees seemed to get further and further away. She was so very relaxed. The fur kept her warm, and the soft voices seemed to calm her muscles.

"Human girl, you’ll never learn to fit in if you continue to rebel."

Rowena sat up with a short intake of breath. Looking all around, she realized that she was alone, and it was very, very cold out. Her eyes focused in the soft light of the coming dawn, and a white form above her made her understand what had happened. The words had come from within her own mind, and if Spirit was there, it meant...

No! I fell asleep! she gasped as she got up slowly, trying to keep her balance in a sleepy haze.

"Indeed. And you are needed in the paddock."

Oh no, Rowena whined, sniffling a bit and running a hand over her hair. Ohhh no. Why is it that they only ask for me when I am in the worst conditions? she began walking back down the tiny path she used the night before, Spirit following behind.

"You are far too worried about your own appearance. Luckily, your current client is a similarly rebellious individual, Spirit said in almost an amused tone. Let me give you a ride, it will be faster."

Rowena’s brows drew together as she deftly mounted Spirit and smoothed out her clothing. She was glad she had at least finished the white fur shawl the night before. It was still