Mark of Brikyif Etenrax Coronation

By MM Sudie

Xury celebrates the coronation of its new Ubell Amitear, but that celebration is cut short when Aurora learns she must travel again. Kerr and Thuban follow her without hesitation, but Wolvow is fearful of what they will encounter in Etenrax. He will follow Aurora, but there is a secret his people have kept about the land that will complicate Aurora's journey. Aurora doesn't blame Wolvow or his people for keeping this secret, but it does make traveling with an Elf a little more complicated. A ray of light starts to shine through when Aurora and her friends learn of a secret the Immortal Elves have hidden. The knowledge of this secret heartens all of them, until the night they meet a terrified and angry girl.

• Language: English
• Publisher: BookBaby
• Release date: May 13, 2024
• ISBN: 9781947109148

MM Sudie

MM Sudie is the author of the Mark of Brikyif Fantasy series. This series follows the adventures of Aurora and her friends through the lands of Zarofell. MM started writing when she was thirteen and started Aurora's adventures when she was eighteen. The scenery in Aurora's adventures is based off places MM has been or some of the things she sees throughout the year in her home of Minnesota.

Book preview

Prologue

Kyloc looked up as the door opened. Hibvat was entering with another figure following him, whom Kyloc did not know. This was unheard of. The figure behind Hibvat dropped down to his knees and bowed. Who is this? Kyloc demanded before the door shut. You know I do not tolerate anyone aside from you, Tyrelardo, and Rab’lah walking in unannounced.

"Yes, Cinglf Kyloc. (Lord Kyloc.) Hibvat bowed low. But this is a very special case, which will please you greatly."

Kyloc frowned and looked at the figure who had followed Hibvat into his throne room. The figure was on his knees and had his head bowed so low that it was nearly touching the floor. At least whoever Hibvat’s companion was, he knew to show Kyloc respect. Explain, Kyloc commanded.

This is Ani’ilur, Rab’lah’s newest and now favorite spy. Hibvat kept his voice level. He has some very pleasing news.

He’d already said that. Kyloc crossed his arms. What is this news?

Hibvat shook his head. I will not rob Ani’ilur of gaining honor in your sight. He has earned the right to deliver this himself.

Kyloc did not let his expression change, but he was highly intrigued. He’d known Hibvat for an extremely long time and never once had his advisor insisted on letting someone else gain favor, let alone honor. Normally, Hibvat stole those things for himself, as did all of Kyloc’s people, because it was their way. Doing anything else was a sign of weakness, but this time, Kyloc had a feeling it was not weakness. He’d also noted how Hibvat had made a point of saying Ani’ilur was not only one of Rab’lah’s spies but had become her favorite spy. Rab’lah was very hard to please, and countless of his people had died in the attempt. This Ani’ilur had to be something very special. For a moment, Kyloc studied the new figure on the floor behind Hibvat. Very well. Kyloc looked down at Ani’ilur. Raise your head and speak.

Ani’ilur looked up at him. "Kliss Issfi Kyloc. (My King Kyloc.) You have directed Aurora’s attention to Etenrax because the Kiturm are there. What you were unaware of is how brilliant it was. The Shadow Elves have a secret buried in that land, which they will be reluctant to let out."

A chance to hurt the Shadow Elves? Kyloc allowed himself a slight smile at the idea of those mortal Elves being forced to reveal a dark secret. You may rise to your feet and tell me more.

Ani’ilur did not rush to his feet but stood carefully. The Shadow Elves have never told their allies about the Kiturm, nor how the Kiturm were taken to Etenrax. Ani’ilur bowed his head. This secret may not break many alliances, but it should damage the alliance between the Shadow Elves and Vintear.

Hurting an alliance was better than outright destroying it because it allowed doubt to grow. Ani’ilur, you have given us a great weapon against a people we wish to eliminate. Tell me, how did you come by such a gem of information?

The spy bowed respectfully. Chronicler Dowren trusts my alternate form completely, which, in turn, makes all Shadow Elves trust me. He looked up again. The secret I have just told you was told to me before your people saved me from my pitiful mortal existence. He smiled. It is common knowledge to all Shadow Elves because it is history, but they refuse to share it with their allies. I am glad to give you this information, and it would be my honor to return to Labyrinth and continue to feed you the secrets of the Shadow Elves.

Kyloc was very pleased. He had a spy whom Rab’lah and Hibvat would vouch for, and this spy was eager to complete his duties. Hibvat spoke up again. Ani’ilur, you have not yet told him the greatest part of your alternate appearance. He turned to Kyloc. This is better than the information he’s given to you.

Perhaps, we will see. Kyloc looked at the new spy. Speak, Ani’ilur.

As Hibvat said, this is a great thing that I will gladly use for you; Aurora thinks of my Elf form as a friend. Ani’ilur’s smile grew. As do her companions.

Kyloc nodded but did not let his smile grow as he wanted to. Ani’ilur was worth more than gold with the connections he had to Aurora and Dowren. Spies like him were the kind he needed to bring darkness to the world for his people. I will make use of all you have, said Kyloc. Now go; I have other matters to attend to, but I will speak with you more later about the Shadow Elves’ secret.

Ani’ilur bowed. "Yes, Kliss Issfi."

He backed out of the room without raising his head. Kyloc waited for the doors to close before he turned to Hibvat. How did Rab’lah find such a valuable resource?

It was a stroke of luck she found him, Hibvat replied. She and her spies took a group of four Shadow Elves and tortured them for any useful information. Our new spy had the most and best information. He’s also the only one who survived, so Rab’lah made him become one of us and tested his usability. Hibvat looked at the doors with a bigger than normal twisted smile. He will be essential to us now.

Kyloc nodded as he began to walk to his throne. The many ways they could make use of Ani’ilur were filling his mind and putting him in a good mood. Two years ago, he’d had a miserable failure from another spy named Yin’rith, but Yin’rith had also never held half the promise Ani’ilur had. Kyloc had to remind himself not to get too excited about this new opportunity. They had to be careful to ensure they were not detected. He sat on his throne and turned to Hibvat. Is Ani’ilur the first of his kind we have recruited?

He is, Hibvat replied with a nod. Before we turn anymore, I would recommend we watch Ani’ilur for a little while. If he works out, then we can force more to join us. He stopped to give a dark laugh. I believe Ani’ilur would be very eager to help us choose who to take.

He is very excited to please me. Kyloc thought for a moment. Tell me, how strong is his hatred? From what I’ve been told, his kind do not even use the word.

Hibvat nodded. I was waiting for you to ask me that. He waved a hand to make the doors open. I have the expert here to provide you with an answer.

Tyrelardo walked through the doors and bowed to Kyloc. "Kliss Cinglf." (My Lord.)

You know the question I asked Hibvat? Kyloc asked, not getting to his feet.

I do, and I have an answer you will like. Tyrelardo walked closer to the throne. Ani’ilur had great love for Aurora before we turned him into one of our own. Now, he longs for the day we crush and break her. Tyrelardo stopped and smiled as he pulled out a scroll. He gave me several weaknesses Aurora has and the best ways to exploit them.

Kyloc waved a hand to summon the scroll. Did you ensure he understands not to harm Aurora yet? My plan requires her to live for the moment.

Ani’ilur understands and will not act until you personally give him permission, Tyrelardo assured him. And if he finds more weaknesses, he will report them to you at once.

Kyloc was glad to hear Ani’ilur would wait because he didn’t want to kill such an eager spy. He would keep an eye on his new spy’s progress.

Chapter 1 Home Among Willows

No other city could ever compare to Xury in beauty. The rebuilt city of Ril Cato was pretty; Fine Lu Rah had a unique beauty of its own; and Labyrinth was a dark city filled with light, but none of them were anything like Xury. Many of the trees in Xury were taller than a castle’s towers and thick enough to withstand any siege. A lot of the trees had scars from the two battles over Xury, but only saplings had been broken. All the houses were built on top of the trees, just like they were in every other Valkwell city. What really set the houses in Xury apart was how every house had stairs, but instead of simply going up, the steps were spiraled around the trees. The rails on the stairs were wrapped in ivy and morning glory. Surrounding and towering over the city were willow trees. The sunlight had a greenish tinge as it fell on the mossy stone paths, the soft grass, and the brilliantly colored flowers. Aurora may have missed Thyith, but she loved everything about Xury. Three years ago, while Aurora had been in Wamtell with Kerr, Tershi, Thuban, and Wolvow, Xury had been taken back from the Azyrie and Azacy through the combined efforts of the Valkwell, Dwarves, Centaurs, and Shadow Elves. Xury was the first city that was truly a city for all races to share. Most of the Dwarves who lived in the city were Arita Guards, blacksmiths, and their families. There were not many Centaurs living in Xury—just the ambassador, his aids, their families, and a few warriors. The only Shadow Elves in the city were either Shadow Warriors or Shadow Guards. An equal number of Valkyrie and Valkacy lived in the city, representing a wide variety of Valkwell. Aurora smiled. Humans were talking with the Dwarves, Valkwell, Centaurs, and Shadow Elves. She had been gone when they began talking, but she was excited to know Saylon really was coming together. It wasn’t just the inhabitants of Saylon that were starting to get along, though. About six months after Aurora and the others had returned from Wamtell, a rather large group of Vintear had come to Saylon to offer aid to the Valkwell, Dwarves, Humans, and Centaurs. It had been difficult to convince the Vintear to at least speak with the Shadow Elves. Even though she knew the reason, Aurora did not like how the Vintear were often rude to the Shadow Elves just because they were Elves. Things had slowly been getting better between the two races the longer the Vintear were in Saylon. The Vintear had proved themselves to be very useful allies because of how fast they could get messages across Saylon. They were faster in the air than the Valkwell which said a lot since the Valkwell were more than twice as fast as Humans and Shadow Elves. Aurora looked around the city from the balcony of her home. The tree her home was built above was tall, but several willow trees in Xury were even taller. Aurora smiled at the morning before looking down into the yard. Her calico aritum, Kyif, was contentedly rolling in the grass, being careful to avoid the garden of lacillas. Seeing Kyif so happy made Aurora smile more. She turned and walked back into the house. Jules leaned out of the kitchen when Aurora opened the door. Her husband had thick black hair, which never seemed to stop growing, and brown eyes. Just in time, Jules said. The tea’s finished.

I forgot you started it. Aurora walked over to the kitchen. I was planning on making some.

Jules laughed. You’re the one who started it, he said, shaking his head. I think you enjoy the view from the porch too much.

Maybe, Aurora agreed as she began to pour tea into a cup. I always loved to be in the woods, and here in Xury, we’re living in and above them. She paused for a moment, then gave a slight laugh. It’s almost a magical view.

Jules nodded as he walked toward the dining room. Xury is a beautiful city, but that’s not why I love living here so much.

Aurora walked into the dining room and sat down beside Jules. Oh? Then why do you love living here? Is it because of how happy the boys are?

That’s part of the reason, but it isn’t the one I was thinking of. Jules paused to take a drink of his tea. This place makes you smile every day. He smiled at her. And seeing you smile makes every day perfect.

Aurora put her arm around Jules but wasn’t quite sure what to say. She was spared having to say anything when two boys came running into the room. One was Terrant, Aurora’s oldest, and the other was Wy’gro, Wolvow, and Nova’s oldest son. Terrant looked a lot like Jules; only his hair was dark brown, and he had rust eyes. Wy’gro had his father’s pale skin and pointed ears and his mother’s red hair and green eyes. Even with his Shadow Elf features, Wy’gro looked slightly more Valkwell because of his large turquoise wings. Terrant smiled when he saw Aurora and Jules. Morning, Daddy, and Mommy.

Wy’gro smiled too. "Nical, Amtknel Aurora, Kovcil Jules." (Morning, Aunt Aurora, Uncle Jules.)

Aurora could remember the day she and the others talked about how they would introduce their children to each other. The only one in the group who had not become an aunt or uncle was Thuban, because he was so much older than the rest of them. All their children called Thuban grandfather. Good morning, Terrant and Wy’gro. Aurora set her cup on the table, then turned to the two boys. Did you sleep well?

Terrant nodded with a smile as he sat down at the table. Yes.

Wy’gro sat next to Terrant. How did you sleep?

We slept very well, said Jules as he turned to Terrant. Where’s your little brother?

In bed, Terrant replied. I can go get him.

No, said Jules, before Terrant could move. Let him sleep. Are you hungry?

Terrant nodded as he got up. Can we help make eggs?

Aurora smiled. Terrant loved helping make eggs for breakfast, and every time Wy’gro stayed over, he insisted on helping too. They’d been having eggs almost every morning because Terrant loved being able to help. You can help cook, but let’s teach you something new today.

But I like eggs, said Terrant.

Me too, said Wy’gro as he flew out of his seat. And I brought eggs yesterday.

Aurora nodded. Wolvow and Nova lived on the edge of Xury, where there was room to keep animals. Wy’gro was obsessed with being able to collect eggs every day and loved bringing them to Aurora and Jules. Aurora got to her feet. I know, and I love how you bring us eggs so often. She waved at Wy’gro to land, then knelt in front of the boys. Why don’t we teach you to make hotcakes? We need eggs to make those.

Terrant and Wy’gro looked at each other, then nodded. Okay. Terrant paused for a second then added. We can have syrup on them, right?

Jules laughed. Of course we can. You can’t eat hotcakes without syrup. He got up, then lifted Terrant. Come on; let’s get started.

As Jules took Terrant and Wy’gro into the kitchen, Aurora heard Wy’gro saying, "Qwiket shall be so surprised. She loves hotcakes."

Aurora smiled as she walked back to the table and grabbed her cup. It was hard to believe her little Terrant was already five years old. Aurora knew her son had to grow, but she hated having to miss out on so much of it. It seemed like only yesterday her son and Wy’gro had been babies. Both boys were eager to help in any way they could and loved to cook. Aurora smiled down at her mug. Wy’gro wasn’t one of her sons, but he was close enough to being one. Sometimes Epity, one of Wy’gro’s little brothers, would come over as well. Aurora couldn’t help letting out a small laugh as she thought of all of Wolvow and Nova’s children. The two were up to seven children, and it was very likely they’d have more. Every time Nova and Wolvow had even a day alone, Nova ended up pregnant. Aurora had never known anyone to have children as fast as Nova and Wolvow did. She knew the two never regretted having so many children and loved all of them equally. Aurora drained her mug, then set it on the table before leaving the dining room. Jules would have no trouble making breakfast, so Aurora headed for the bedrooms. When she reached Konlan’s room, she leaned in the doorway to watch her youngest. Her son was still asleep. Aurora walked into the room and stood by Konlan’s bed. Konlan had brown hair, and when his eyes were open, they were a dead match to Jules’ brown eyes. It wasn’t likely for her and Jules to get the large family they wanted, but every time she saw Terrant and Konlan, Aurora didn’t care. Dreams changed, but quite often they changed for the better. As long as she had Jules, Terrant, and Konlan, she would always be living in a dream. After a few minutes, Aurora turned away from her sleeping son and headed for the kitchen to see how Jules, Terrant, and Wy’gro were doing. As she approached the kitchen door, she could hear laughter from all three of them. Aurora smiled to herself before she walked into the kitchen to see what was making them laugh. She half expected to see a mess, but the kitchen was as clean as usual. Jules was cooking the hotcakes, Terrant was on a stool, and Wy’gro flew a little behind Terrant. Aurora walked over to them. How’s it going?

Jules turned to her with a smile. We’re doing good. He waved at the pan he was cooking on. The boys have been helping me pour the batter.

Aurora looked at the hotcakes. There were three in the pan—a round one, a long one, and a shapeless blob. She smiled and turned to Terrant and Wy’gro. Good job. You two’ll be cooking these on your own in no time.

Terrant smiled, and Wy’gro showed Aurora the small stack of finished hotcakes. All of them were just as misshapen as the ones on the pan, but both boys seemed proud. Wanna try one?

Not yet. I’ll wait for you three to finish cooking, said Aurora. They look delicious.

Wy’gro nodded while Terrant looked at the hotcakes on the pan. They’re ready to flip.

Jules glanced down, then shook his head. Not quite yet.

Terrant didn’t say anything as he watched the hotcakes cook. For a few moments, Aurora watched her son and Wy’gro. A cry from one of the bedrooms announced Konlan was awake. She left the room without saying a word and headed for Konlan’s room. Konlan smiled when Aurora walked into the room. Good morning, said Aurora as she lifted her son out of bed. How are you feeling?

Mama.

Every time Konlan called her mama, Aurora felt the urge to cry. She had missed out on Terrant learning to talk, so even though Konlan was her second child, everything she did with him seemed like the first time. Aurora smiled and hugged her son. Let’s go see Terrant, Wy’gro, and Daddy. They made breakfast again this morning. She walked out of the room with Konlan. But they didn’t make eggs today; they made hotcakes. Those two are pretty good at it. Maybe someday, they’ll teach you how to make them.

Konlan hadn’t understood a word she’d said, but he was happy to have her talking to him. Aurora hugged Konlan as she walked. She loved being able to hold and carry him. It had been more than two years since she’d come back from Wamtell. During that time, the Valkwell, Dwarves, Shadow Elves, Humans, Centaurs, and Vintear had been gathering all the information they could about all the lands surrounding Saylon. Aurora knew she would be leaving her family once more, but she didn’t know when. If only she’d never learned about Tania’s prophecy, she might have been able to make herself believe she was done traveling. Konlan wrapped his hand around two of her fingers. Aurora looked down at him and smiled. You’re right. I shouldn’t think about sad things when I’m holding you. I should enjoy holding you while I can.

She gently moved her fingers on Konlan’s stomach, making him laugh. Seeing her son laugh made Aurora feel like the world was perfect. As she was passing through the living room, there was a knock on the front door. Who would be coming to visit her before midmorning? Aurora switched Konlan over to one arm and walked up to answer the door. She smiled as she opened the door to see a Shadow Elf with blue-hazel eyes. Aurora still couldn’t believe Shaw’lab was eighteen. Every time she saw him, she still saw the cute little boy she’d met nine years ago, even though he was six feet, nine-inches tall now. Hello, Shaw’lab. What are you doing here?

Shaw’lab looked more excited than usual as he smiled. It wasn’t rare to see a Shadow Elf smile, but it was rare to see an emotion take up most of their face. It’s my day off, so I came to say hi. He didn’t come in. I’m not interrupting you or waking anyone up, am I?

Aurora shook her head. Of course not. She nodded at Konlan. He was the last one to get up this morning. She moved aside. Come on in.

Thank you, Shaw’lab walked in the door, then turned to Konlan. Good morning.

Konlan smiled and babbled, making Shaw’lab smile. Unlike Terrant, Konlan had never had a problem with how Shadow Elves looked. Aurora held her son out to Shaw’lab. You can hold him for a minute.

Shaw’lab smiled. All right. He took Konlan with a smile before he turned to Aurora. Where are Jules and Terrant?

Making breakfast along with Wy’gro. Aurora shut the door, and waved for Shaw’lab to follow her. Come on.

Wy’gro’s here again? Shaw’lab paused. I don’t want to interrupt your meal, Aurora.

You’re not interrupting, Aurora assured him. We haven’t started eating. She paused for a moment. Living in Xury does give me the advantage of inviting friends to stay for meals.

Okay then. Shaw’lab followed her. What are Jules and the boys making?

Jules is teaching them how to make hotcakes. Aurora smiled as they walked into the dining room. The shapes are a little off, but Terrant and Wy’gro are so happy to be able to help.

Shaw’lab nodded. I have two younger brothers and a younger sister. All three of them were very proud to be able to help with cooking whenever they could. He paused for a moment. I miss Ant’ka, Opel’ota and Ben’riph.

Aurora had met all of Shaw’lab’s siblings as well as his parents. His mother was Chronicler Dowren, but he didn’t often say that to others because he did not want to be treated differently for being the Chronicler’s son. Shaw’lab also didn’t want everyone to find out Wolvow, one of the most looked up to and admired Shadow Elves, was his uncle. Jules walked out into the dining room, closely followed by Terrant and Wy’gro. Shaw’lab! both boys cried excitedly before rushing over with huge smiles.

Hearing Terrant say Shaw’lab’s name without a lisp made Aurora smile. Two years ago, when she’d come home from Wamtell, Terrant had been unable to make the sh sound. A year ago, he’d finally been able to make the sound, and he’d never had a problem with it since. Terrant looked up at Shaw’lab. Are you staying for breakfast?

Yes. Shaw’lab smiled. Aurora told me you two helped cook this morning.

We did! said Terrant excitedly as he sat down next to Shaw’lab. Hotcakes are easy to make.

Wy’gro nodded in agreement as he sat down on the other side of Shaw’lab. Now we can make eggs and hotcakes.

Aurora smiled as she watched Terrant and Wy’gro tell Shaw’lab all about making hotcakes. It was a little hard to believe that Shaw’lab was Wy’gro’s cousin because there was such a gap between their ages and they looked very different. Jules put a hand on Aurora’s shoulder. Aurora, you wanna come give me a hand real quick?

Sure. Aurora got up, then turned to Shaw’lab. Will you be okay with the boys for a few minutes?

Shaw’lab nodded with a smile. Of course.

Aurora smiled, then hurried into the kitchen to see what Jules wanted. When they entered the kitchen, Aurora had to work hard to keep from laughing at the sight of batter all over the floor. How did this happen?

We heard you talking to someone, so we turned to see if we could find out who it was. We didn’t pay very good attention, and Wy’gro bumped the bowl with one of his wings, Jules smiled. But Terrant and Wy’gro promised to clean it up after breakfast. Help me grab the plates, silverware, and syrup.

Of course. Aurora reached up to grab a few plates out of the cabinet. Those two are going to make an even bigger mess with the syrup.

Jules smiled. Maybe, but they’ll be happy.

Aurora led the way out of the kitchen and set the plates down on the table. Terrant and Wy’gro got up when Aurora set the plates down and began setting the table. Aurora smiled as she watched the boys start sorting out the silverware. She took Konlan from Shaw’lab, then began cutting a hotcake into very small pieces. Jules sat down across from Shaw’lab. So, what made you so excited, Shaw’lab?

Aurora had noticed that Shaw’lab was excited about something too. When the Shadow Elf didn’t answer, she spoke, Are you really going to try telling us you’re not excited? That might work on Jules and the boys, but you can’t lie to me. You’re easier to read than Wolvow and Nes’eve are.

Shaw’lab shook his head. That isn’t saying much, Aurora. Wolvow and Nes’eve are the most accomplished Shadow Warrior and Shadow Guard. He paused and took a bite of his breakfast before answering the question. I’ve taken the next step to becoming a Shadow Warrior; I’m now a Mist Combatant.

Aurora was shocked. I thought Elves didn’t become Mist Combatants until they were at least twenty.

Nes’eve was a Mist Combatant when he was eighteen. Not counting Wolvow, Nes’eve was the only one to become a Mist Combatant so soon. Shaw’lab smiled. Being able to compete with Nes’eve’s record was unheard of until yesterday.

Aurora nodded. She didn’t know everything about Shadow Elf culture, but she knew quite a bit about the process they had to go through to become Shadow Warriors. So will you be going to Labyrinth in about a year to become a Shadow Warrior? she asked.

Shaw’lab shrugged. I don’t know. Not counting my uncle, no Shadow Elf has lived outside Labyrinth before now. Since I’m not a full warrior yet, I don’t know what will happen when they believe I’m ready for the final test. Shaw’lab paused as he took a few bites of his hotcakes. I’ll bet Wolvow knows what the plan is.

Wy’gro nodded. "Xaphuni does know, but he says I’m not allowed to tell you."

Good. Shaw’lab ruffled his cousin’s red hair. Because I should not know what is coming.

Jules nodded. Who’s in charge of the Shadow Warriors and Shadow Guards here in Xury? I know Salvdow and Timz’oz have gone back to Labyrinth.

Yoth’illow is the head of the Shadow Warriors here in Xury, Shaw’lab replied.

Aurora had met Yoth’illow before and knew why the Elf had been given her position. I had a feeling Yoth’illow would be put in charge. She’s a good leader.

An excellent leader. Shaw’lab paused for a moment before going on. Head of the Shadow Guards here is Mat’riz. I’m a little surprised Timz’oz let him have the job.

Aurora didn’t recognize the name. I’ve never met Mat’riz.

You haven’t met him? Shaw’lab looked shocked.

Aurora shook her head. No, should I have?

Shaw’lab nodded, seeming to forget about the hotcakes in front of him. Yes. The Chronicler wants all Shadow Guards here to know where your family is, Shaw’lab explained. In addition to protecting Xury and its inhabitants, all Shadow Guards are to protect your family as well.

Aurora nodded as she looked down at her plate. She should have known Dowren would want to be sure she was kept safe. It was nice to know Dowren also wanted to ensure the safety of her family. Shaw’lab put a hand on Aurora’s shoulder. "Don’t worry; you’re not being singled out. Wolvow and Kerr’s families are also top priorities for the Shadow Guards. Once Bell Amitear Ruin and Bell Kover Antil name the Ubell Amitear for Xury, she will be top priority as well."

Aurora started to nod at Shaw’lab’s words when she realized something. "Bell Kover Antil is here? How long has he been in the city?"

Shaw’lab nodded. Yes, he got here yesterday. He turned back to his plate, then looked up almost at once. That reminds me, Ambassador Fina would like to see you.

Aurora wondered if Shaw’lab ever found it strange to call his older sister Ambassador. If he did, then he was good at hiding it. Aurora knew she felt strange saying Ambassador Fina because she’d met Fina well before she’d become an ambassador. She wondered what Fina wanted. If there was news about other lands, then it would have been the Bell Amitear asking to see her. It couldn’t be too big of a thing if Fina was sending her brother to request Aurora come see her. I’ll go see her once we’ve finished our meal. Could you make sure Wy’gro gets home for me?

Yes, I was heading that way anyway. Shaw’lab smiled. I haven’t told them I’m a Mist Combatant yet, but I suspect Uncle Wolvow already knows.

Aurora nodded as she turned to her plate. Wolvow did not hold any position beyond simply being a Shadow Warrior, but he was still looked up to by all his people because of his skill. There was also his rank—captain—but Wolvow did not like his rank. Aurora could understand holding a title that made everyone look up to her, and she knew how uncomfortable it could be. She didn’t want to think about what she was called, though, so she turned to Shaw’lab once more. Can you tell me more about Mat’riz?

He’s been a Shadow Guard for nearly thirty years. I haven’t talked to him much since I chose to become a warrior. Shaw’lab paused to think. He knows who you are already, but then everyone in Labyrinth knows your name.

Everyone from every race knew her name. That doesn’t surprise me. Where can I find him?

Either in the Elf barracks or at Ambassador Fina’s residence, Shaw’lab replied as he finished what was on his plate. Mat’riz really should have come to see you by now. I wonder what’s kept him.

Aurora shook her head. A lifetime ago, she had only been known as the blacksmith’s youngest daughter and wasn’t thought to be anything special. Everything changed nearly ten years ago, and now she was on a first-name basis with several rulers. Jules must have realized she didn’t want to think about how much her life had changed because he changed the subject. Shaw’lab, how do Shadow Elves choose between being a Shadow Warrior or Shadow Guard?

It’s really quite simple, Shaw’lab began to explain.

Wy’gro jumped into the conversation as well. "Xaphuni told us all about it." He sounded excited and proud as he began to explain with Shaw’lab’s help.

Chapter 2 Sad Necessity

Xury, the city, was so enchanting and calming that it was hard to believe a fierce battle had ever taken place in it, much less two. There were scars on many of the thick trees, but they almost looked artistically done. The willows surrounding the city weren’t enough to make it seem like twilight, but they did give Xury a nearly magical atmosphere. It felt strange to live above the trees instead of in them, but the view was always pretty. Wolvow looked down into the backyard, where Jwimolla and Epity were collecting eggs from the large white ducks. Even with a large growing family, they had far more eggs than they could use, so they