Depression: The Realm Series, #4

By C.R. Rice

How quickly she had allowed herself to forget that nightmares often begin as the most pleasant of dreams.

 

Averie should have known better. If things seem too good to be true, they often are. And on the night of the Silver Rose Ball, everything had definitely been too good to be real. The Princess laughed without care, danced as if there was no tomorrow, and let the elation of those around her lower her usually high walls. But in Averie's world, happiness and peace are just beautifully constructed illusions. Because once darkness sets its sight on you, genuine happiness isn't an option.

 

While she smiled out over the crowd, fear swallowed the faces of the ones standing below. Sickly sweet words sounded and pandemonium was unleashed upon the unsuspecting partygoers, painting them red. As Averie struggles to save the ones she can, it may take only a single moment to bring her to her knees.

 

As Averie contends with her grief, can she still be the Princess people expect her to be?

• Language: English
• Publisher: 4 Horsemen Publications
• Release date: Sep 13, 2022
• ISBN: 9781644503171

Book preview

Prologue

There is a darkness—a cavern of nothingness that dwells deep within the bounds of time. It contains nothing and everything all at once. It stretches with infinite possibilities, straddling the fringe of darkness and light. No matter how heavy-footed the daring crusader might be, steps are silent. Breathing is unnecessary, as both life and death cling to it s strands.

There is a room within this nothingness that both does and does not exist. Within this nonexistent room lies a very specific collection of possibilities and outcomes that, if tampered with, could shatter the very idea of time and fate. A room that exists beyond the fabric of time and space, where all worlds are held. A room that is guarded by the very first warriors, beings that were forged by the hands of Darkness and Light.

These mighty creatures drift along the rim of existence, blinking between seen and unseen. Tall as mountains and wide as the eldest trees, the sight of their eyeless faces and mantis arms were enough to paralyze the average mind. Until they turned to the side and were found to be more like an overly large poster. A poster that moved on its own accord, as if it were trapped in an erratic wind that only flowed the length of a single path and back again.

Fingers tap soundlessly together as they stalk the pathway. Their energies colliding in a convoluted swirl of conflict as they pass. A timeless conflict so strong and so potent that it makes any with the misfortune to step amidst the fray simply cease to exist.

However, the figure that dared to cross this threshold was not of time, or space, and was in fact veiled in a very indescribable grey cloak. With its standing, or lack thereof, in time and space, the figure drifted through the Empty with hardly any discord. Grey chuckled at the strange conversation happening between the warriors as it slipped, unnoticed, through the cracked door.

It is strange that I am associated so deeply with the universe’s worth when it is you and all your light that can cause the greatest of damage; the Dark Warrior pondered.

The Light Warrior would have rolled its eyes, if it had any. This wasn’t the first time this conversation had happened. Is it my fault that those who wish to harm have chosen you to use to their advantage? I have merely chosen to open my eyes and see, while you have no desire to look around you and instead remained unseen.

The Dark one stopped its endless stride. You can see? What a strange thing it must be to see. Is it useful? Or does it bring about unnecessary conflict? When one can stay within the darkness and create anything it desires without the harsh light of reality?

Grey moved from the doorway as the glistening light of its prize beckoned it forward. Grey would have smiled if it could, at the ease of its task. Hello lovely, I’ve been looking for you. Inches away, Grey’s hollow eyes fastened upon the shifting and swirling globes, waiting for the perfect moment, for the perfect orb. With slow precision, Grey reached within the bounds of its billowing robes and pulled a smaller, lighter version of the spheres swirling before it. The figure lifted a few inches, as if standing on the very tips of its toes, before swiftly dumping the smaller sphere into a passing larger one.

Grey’s hood dipped lower as a haze of red skates through the emptiness, following the shining streams of a peculiar possibility across the nothingness. In the darkness of the in-between, every shimmering breath of movement echo like a rock falling into a still pond. Red’s large hood shadowed its probable face, leaving what could only be described as a ghost of a smile.

I was wondering where you had wandered to. Red stopped an arm’s length away. Though it spoke, no sound was uttered within the Empty. The words simply were. Like the first raindrops before a storm, they plopped against the mind. Cold and clear.

I am sure you have, Grey muttered. How did you get in here?

The same way as you, I walked through the door. I got your … letter.

The cloak shivered slightly, as if the figure were laughing. Have you come to spy on me? Grey wondered.

The one in Red gave a noise that faintly mirrored that of a laugh. Its hood twisted to the side. Are you planning something that requires such an action?

Grey stood silently; its hood dipped down as its wearer watched the circling light.

Red took a casual stride forward. Just what have you been doing?

Nothing of value. Grey trailed its finger, faintly reminiscent of a shadow, against an orbiting globe, making it ripple. Why? Have you been interfering again? Grey wondered.

Red rippled in agitation and closed the remaining distance. You know the rules, as do I. Every time you intervene, you tilt the scales once more. I will not let this happen again. Red warned.

The Grey turned slightly; the globe shining through its shadowy hood. Who said the scales needed to be balanced?

Red stiffened. The flow of its cloak stilled as it turned its attention to the orbiting globes. The worlds swirled and dipped, events changing and morphing into something new. Red turned, its robe trembling with sudden understanding. What have you done? 

Grey’s hood shifted from side to side, its shoulders lifting in feigned innocence. Whatever do you mean?

Which one?! Red demanded, long, draped sleeves lifting as it frantically searched the circling globes. Which one did you change?!

Grey turned from its manically searching friend, a haunting chuckle severing the rules as it echoed into the void between them. I’ll never tell….

Chapter One

The rumble of thunder resonates throughout the Realm as lightning slashes against the moonless sky. Large and foreboding clouds roll along the expanse, unleashing torrents of heavy droplets to pound relentlessly against the quivering earth. Animals hide deep within their homes. Their bodies pressed tightly together as they search for comfort and protection from the vicious storm outside.

A ferocious bolt of lightning bursts through the clouds to pierce an ancient oak. The connection explodes into the night, overpowering the pounding of rain as it plunges its way through the tip of the largest branch. The bolt rips through the solid oak, its heat searing a deadly, jagged scar straight down its center before disappearing into the ground. An eerie creak joins the storm’s chorus as the tree splits in two. One falls to the left, slamming against the soaked earth. While the other falls to the right, thumping against a large, black mountainside. Embers hiss as the rain continues its assault.

Meanwhile, deep within the mountain, a large group of people wander about, lost in the depths of their thoughts. The sound of the storm a distant white noise. Even the thunderous slam of the broken tree against the mountain wall is missed as, inside, they busy themselves with scrubbing the blood and death from their bodies. Some sit with silent tears streaming down faces splattered red and black. Others weep in fear and loss.

The pop of another bottle echoes as more of the healing green liquid is poured onto the wounded and accented by painful moans and pleas of reprieve as those without grievous injuries rush to aid the injured or provide water and food.

In a distant corner, a separate, stern group of five speaks in heated, hushed tones, punctuated by silence when their eyes stray to the small, hunched form of a woman. Black stains cover her torn white dress. Strands of her wine-colored hair had come loose from their intricate braids to cling to her pale features. She sits frozen. Her eyes locked on the drying blood that defiles her quaking hands.

A prickle of awareness makes the hairs along her arms and the back of her neck rise. Her heart pounding in her chest, she forces her emerald eyes away from the stains on her hands. Her tears burn as they trail through the grime on her face. What did I do?

Sera’s eyes skim over the cracked marble floors with indifference in her crystal eyes. Bodies sheathed in fine threads were mixed among the distorted ones in black. Pools of red swirled into puddles of thick, oozing darkness. Her lips pursed in mild disgust as she gathered the silken fabric of her skirt in her hands and carefully stepped around a particularly large puddle. Giant, spiked vines pierced the floors, lengthening a divide and piquing her interest.

Sera stopped, inches away from the growing void, her lips twisting into a smile. The Shadowed closed in around her. Their muted, hissing voices threatened her victorious feeling.

What do we do now?

Do we go after them?

Lucas stepped from the crowd and to her side. What do you want me to do?

Sera lifted a perfectly manicured brow as she placed her hand against the vines. Smoke rose from her flesh. Nothing.

Do we go after them?

Sera pondered his question for several seconds before finally shaking her head and continuing forward once more. No.

Lucas scoffed. "Nothing? No? What do you mean? We have them."

Do we? she asked. The scent of burning flesh rising into the air. Then where are they?

Lucas glared and tipped his head toward Sera’s smoking hand. Can you please remove that? You are making me hungry.

Sera rolled her eyes but did as he bade. As her charred flesh reverted to a tender pink, her smile widened. Take the castle.

The castle? What’s the point? The town is empty by now.

Sera turned on her heel. The Shadowed parted as she started toward the stairs. The town may be empty, but it is what is in the castle and what it represents that truly matters.

Lucas growled his displeasure. And him? What do we do with him?

Sera stopped at the foot of the scarred staircase. Put his body in the dungeon. I’ll deal with it later.

Tension straightened his shoulders. You heard her. Get to work. This place is filthy.

Chapter Two

Before the Ball - Averie

The cool breeze fanned Averie’s heated cheeks. She was nervous about the night ahead. Something had been building. Her subconscious nagged—no, screamed —that there was something amiss. Try as she might, she had found nothing. Averie released a sigh. A whimper pulled her attention and brought a smile to her lips. 

I was wondering where you two wondered to. Averie dropped to her haunches and took the wolf’s large silver head between her hands. Are you guys going to ever share where you keep disappearing to? Seiko licked her cheek, and Averie giggled. Alright then, keep your secrets.

 Echo placed her enormous paw on Averie’s bent leg, sending her tumbling. Easy there, Echo, I wouldn’t leave you out. She chuckled, petting her head as well. As she leaned back against the stone wall, Seiko and Echo were quick to take their usual places at her sides. Averie lifted a hand to rest on each of the colossal beasts and, for a moment, let herself forget the weight on her shoulders. Instead, she imagined she was back home, enjoying time with her two favorite pets. A smile tugged at her lips as she thought of her mother’s reaction to seeing the giant duo for the first time.

Her mind wandered aimlessly as she became mesmerized by the beast’s smooth, shimmering fur. Echo’s midnight fur captured the setting sun, each strand a different shade of indigo, mauve, and sage. The smooth strands slipped through her fingers, a stark contrast to her pale skin. Conversely, Seiko’s glinting silver coat always made her think of the moon. It was as though Seiko’s fur had been made from its pure rays; white heather and silver melded together seamlessly.

Averie? a gentle voice called. I got your message. Are you still here?

Seiko and Echo lifted their mammoth heads, their ears perking up. Their tails wagged with excitement. Go on, she muttered. 

Immediately, the pair rose from the ground and happily jogged into her bedroom.

Seiko! Echo! How are my favorite pups doing? 

Averie turned the corner to find Solara running her hands along their smooth coats, a delighted smile etched on her face. I think you are the only person who still calls them pups. Averie laughed.

Solara shrugged and gave each wolf one last loving pat. They may seem large to you, but they are actually small compared to some others.

Averie’s eyes widened at the thought. There are more of them? 

Solara giggled, the sound like a long-forgotten melody. Of course there are.

Then where are they? Averie asked, her mind wandering to a world with giant, menacing-looking wolves who enjoyed belly rubs.

I am afraid I do not know. After the divide… Solara shook her head. 

Averie nodded in understanding. The divide changed a lot of things. Got it.

A tense silence followed, making Averie shift with uncertainty. Solara dropped her attention back to the wagging duo. So … you got my message.

Solara looked up with a tentative smile, her eyes running the length of Averie’s tense form before finally meeting her eyes. I did. 

Silence fell once more.

Averie shifted in uncertainty, fidgeting with her hands. The desire to vanquish the awkward silence caused her to blurt out: The Silver Rose Ball is tonight. 

Solara’s smile widened. You are so much like your father. He used to blurt the first thought he had when he felt uncomfortable.

Averie flinched. She had never experienced life with a father. In the eighteen years she had spent with the woman she called mother, Averie had never so much as seen her go out on a date, let alone marry. 

I’m sorry, Solara whispered. It was a very careless thing for me to say.

Averie shook her head. No, it’s … nice to know that some pieces of him are in me. Her mind wandered back to Marcus’s story. Once upon a time, there was a kingdom ruled by a terrible, greedy tyrant of a king…

Solara smiled, her gaze becoming distant. He was kind and loving. But also, hard and determined… Solara stopped herself with a shake of her head. Even though I would love to tell you all about your father, that isn’t why you called me here, is it?

Averie cleared her throat and tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear. "No, it’s not. I wanted to ask you about something else. Or rather someone else." 

Solara made her way over to the couch, patting the seat beside her. As if feeling Averie’s hesitation, Echo nudged her cool nose against her hand, urging her forward. Drawing strength from their presence, Averie sat beside her birth mother. 

Now, ask away, Solara urged, tapping her cool hand against Averie’s fevered one.

Averie nibbled on the inside of her lip as she pulled at the frayed tear in her jeans. I remember you helping me when I was in that place.

Solara smiled. Which time?

When I… Averie cleared her throat. The first.

Ah, Solara nodded. 

You told me how to beat Marcus, but I couldn’t remember everything.

Solara frowned and dipped her head knowingly. That can happen when passing from one place to the next.

Averie waved the words away. It’s fine. It all … kind of worked out.

Solara watched her daughter struggle for words. Averie, what do you really want to know?

What do you know about The Shadow-Sera? she finally asked. 

I’m not sure what you are searching for, Solara admitted. But it is her story to tell.

Averie swallowed her annoyance and rolled her shoulders. Fine. Then what do you know about her abilities?

Solara shook her head. If I’m being honest, I’m not sure I know anything. Why do you ask?

Averie glanced out over the balcony. The party should start soon. Turning back, she released a sigh and began. A couple of nights after we found out Sera was The Shadow, we all came together to strategize…

Is it possible for her to fake memories? Thane asked.

The room fell into silence as they exchanged uncertain glances. What do you mean? Averie asked.

Thane lifted his gaze from the scarred war table to his sister. You said that she showed you Karen’s death. What if it was a lie? What if that never happened?

Thane, mom is dead.

Thane shook his head. No, I know that. That’s not what I’m saying.

Then what are you saying? Callen wondered.

Thane’s tongue flicked across his cracked lip, the faint metallic taste of blood clinging to his taste buds. What if she can change what she shows—add parts in, or take them away? What if she can change any memory or any thought that someone has?

Averie shook her head. No, that’s not possible.

Really? Thane quirked his brow. Because this. He motioned to the room. All of this seemed impossible not too long ago. You and your abilities were an impossibility. The idea of Realms apart from ours seemed impossible.

What does any of that have to do with this? Averie demanded.

Thane rested his elbows on the table. Fox, if she can change memories, who’s to say she can do even half of what people believe she can. What if she can only change, create, or show memories?

Averie slumped into her chair. Her mind raced at the thought. Then we have a better shot than any of us ever thought.

Thane smiled. Exactly.

Callen shook his head. I do not understand. If this were true, then someone would have known. It is not so easy to change memory, especially when you have power flowing through your veins.

Exactly, Thane repeated.

Callen threw his hands up in exasperation. You do not make sense.

Geez Frosting, I thought you were the brains of this operation. Thane chuckled.

Callen frowned, his arms crossing over his broad chest. A vein visibly pulsed in his neck. I am.

Thane held his hands up in surrender. Okay, okay. Calm down. Everyone is allowed to have a rough day. Fill him in, Fox.

Averie shook her head at the squabbling pair. Marcus stole power from over half of the Realm’s citizens. It only takes a handful of the right people saying the same thing to turn something into a belief.

Clarity slammed down upon the trio, as heavy as a mountain. Pieces of the twisted puzzle snapping into place and clearing the picture. Some say it often brings about a feeling of complete and utter dread, as clarity often brings endless mistakes to light. Dread often accompanies clarity, as it shines a light on one’s mistakes. However, at this moment, the expression that pulled at Callen’s face was nothing short of enlightenment. 

Alright Filling, what is our next step?

Isn’t it obvious? We have to find her. We have to find Sera.

Averie watched as Solara’s eyes drifted, her face pinching in concentration while she nibbled at her bottom lip. So? Averie urged. Is it possible?

Solara met Averie’s eyes. Have any of you seen her use any magic?

Averie searched her memory. Her shoulders fell. She possessed a doctor.

Solara shook her head, gripping Averie’s hands. "No, that is different. Have you seen her do anything else?"

Averie frowned. She moved shadows around when we met in the garden.

Solara smiled and rose from the couch. Averie watched as the woman paced, her fingers drumming against her chin as she mumbled to herself. Suddenly, she stopped. I think you might be onto something.

Averie’s eyes widened. Really?

Solara frantically nodded. Yes, I think— The words died upon her lips as music filtered through the door. Oh, my stars, you’re not ready! she exclaimed.

Averie pushed up from the couch, shaking her head. I don’t care! What were you saying?

We can talk and get you ready. Solara’s eyes watered slightly. I would love to help you get ready.

Averie clenched her teeth. How was she supposed to say no now? Forcing a smile, she nodded. Alright. Let’s get ready.

Twenty minutes later, Averie stared into the mirror at someone she no longer recognized. The glimmering white fabric draped her body, accenting her shape and giving her an almost ethereal glow. Her green eyes were vibrant, capturing the light and reflecting it like the gems they so resembled. Solara twisted up the last strands of Averie’s wine-colored hair and stepped back to admire her work.

Solara smiled, tears glittering like diamonds in her golden eyes. Oh, Averie, you look stunning.

Averie forced a smile and ran her hands down the smooth fabric. Thanks. You don’t think it’s too much, do you? I mean, Ella gave me the dress and I couldn’t exactly say no.

Solara shook her head, wiping a rebellious tear from her cheek. It’s perfect. You are going to be the belle of the ball.

Averie felt warmth fill her cheeks. Thank you, she whispered. Can I ask you something?

Of course.

Averie faced her birth mother. Why did you give me your power?

Solara blinked several times in surprise. How did you…?

Snip, Averie answered with a small smile.

Solara nodded. Ah, that boy is a tricky one. The day of the divide, I wanted to do everything I could to protect you.

But you left yourself defenseless! If you hadn’t, maybe Marcus wouldn’t have ki—

Solara closed the distance between them and captured Averie’s hand in a tight grip. "No, I would do it a thousand times over, Averie. I am your mother. I will always do what is best for you. Even if I must lose in the process. That’s what mothers are supposed to do."

Averie swallowed through the well of emotion and nodded her head. Thank you, she whispered. 

Solara cleared her throat and gave Averie a reassuring squeeze. I’m going to look into the things we discussed. Something tells me we need to be more proactive if what you believe is true.

Averie felt a pang of disappointment. Yes, of course. Let me know what you find out.

Enjoy yourself, Averie. After all, it is your birthday.

Averie jerked in surprise. Today? Today is my birthday?

Solara nodded with a beaming smile. You made your arrival just after midnight. Your father was so enthralled with you, he couldn’t let you go for a moment. So, he carried you with him nearly the entire day and introduced you that night, at the last Silver Rose Ball. Solara lost herself in the memory, her distant gaze misting. Shaking herself free, she patted Averie’s arm once more, and with a reassuring smile, faded into nothing.

Chapter Three

Callen

Callen watched Averie twirl around the dance floor and into the arms of her seventh partner of the night. Do you mind if I step in?  he thought, then grunted. R idiculous.

Callen threw back the amber liquid and dropped it on a passing tray. Radnar arched a brow as he sipped from his own. Is everything alright with you? he asked, before turning back to watch the dancers.

Of course, Callen answered, inwardly cringing at his sharp tone.

Radnar chuckled into his glass as he took another sip. It might not be as terrible as you think. 

Unconsciously, Callen’s glanced at Thane as his friend tossed his head back to laugh at something the blonde in his arms said. Her cheeks brightened as he dipped his head to her ear. It is not what you think it is.

Radnar eyed the man. "I know what it is. You forget who you’re speaking with, old friend."

Callen shook his head at the reminder. I would relieve yourself of that glass if I were you.

Radnar’s head snapped back to the dance floor. His eyes widened as Agnes slipped away from her friends and made her way toward him. Masking his movements as an attempt to converse with Callen, he slid the glass from one hand to the other and dropped it on a tray.

Would you care to dance? Agnes asked, laying a hand on his arm. 

Callen’s eyes danced with mirth as Radnar’s cheeks colored. Whether from nearly being caught or the invitation, Callen wasn’t sure. 

Of course, Radnar grunted as he was pulled into the throng.

Callen watched for a moment before he slipped away from the dance floor, unnoticed by the twirling couples. The shadows called to him with their promise of concealment and uninterrupted observation. As he slipped from place to place, using the long velvet draping for shelter, he scanned the room for potential threats, only to find himself drawn back to the girl in white.

What is it today? Skulking or stalking?

Callen stiffened. Snip, what do you want? 

Snip shrugged off the nearby pillar and clutched his chest as if in physical pain. Is that any way to greet a friend? You wound me.

Callen rolled his eyes and turned back to the party. Everything seems calm, too calm.

It’s eerie, isn’t it? Snip asked.

Callen turned and eyed the man. For all outward appearances, he seemed calm—excited even. But Callen knew better. The man’s dark grey