Rogues of Magic 5-8: Rogues of magic collection, #12

By Tiffany Shand

Inlcudes Dark Deception, Sins of the Past, Reign of Darkness and Archdruid's Return.

Her parents slain. Her throne taken. Now everyone thinks she's the murderer.

Ann was destined to become the Archdruid—now she's spent five years as a rogue where magic has been outlawed by her usurper, Orla, the demon who ruined her life. Ann's bloodline holds the key Orla needs to throw the five lands of Almara into complete and utter chaos—but she'll have to catch her first.

While on the run with her brother Xander and her best friend Edward Rohn, Ann collects the rogues of magic to her cause.

Magic might be outlawed, but this isn't the first time the five lands has been ruled by a tyrant, but it is the first time Ann is here to lead a rebellion of magical outcasts. It's finally time to fight back.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Tiffany Shand
• Release date: Jul 14, 2025
• ISBN: 9798227613080

Tiffany Shand

Tiffany Shand was born in Essex, UK and started writing short stories when she was a child. She has always done writing in one form or another and started writing novels in her early teens. She writes both non-fiction and fiction, but mostly fantasy and paranormal romance. After doing a creative writing course in her early 20s she is now a freelance writer and professional proofreader. Tiffany lives in Essex with her two spoiled cats and one very nutty hamster.

Book preview

​​​​Chapter 1

Ann Valeran tucked her long blond hair up underneath the hood of her cloak. She had foregone her usual glamour, but kept her face hidden underneath her hood. Smoke filled the cobblestone street, which reeked of ale and sweat. The night sky hung overhead like a heavy blanket of darkness.

Why of all the places in the five lands did we have to come here? Her friend and fellow rogue Ceara Masone grumbled. Ceara stood out with her porcelain skin, mop of long raven hair, and almost-black eyes. She pulled her long cloak tighter over her tunic.

Because this was the easiest place to meet my resistance contact. And Reevus said this was Edmunds’ last known location, so our search starts here, Ann replied. She trusted her father’s old general enough to believe he would give her good intel on the whereabouts of the man she was looking for; she just hoped they found him fast and got out of there before anyone recognised her as the rogue Archdruid who had a huge price on her head.

Rain pattered down on them, making Ceara grumble even more. But Insidion? This is the worst place to come in all five lands. Probably even worse than wandering around the Wasteland. Even that would be more fun than this cesspit. She pushed her wet hair off her face. What does your contact want?

I don’t know, but the message said it was urgent. Ann knew the resistance wouldn’t have sent a message all the way to Lulrien unless it was important. She hoped another member hadn’t been killed.

Insidion, a city close to the border of Asral, was considered neutral territory. It was somewhere not-so-nice people liked to hang out. Such as thieves, pirates, and people who didn’t like to be found. It seemed the easiest place to meet anyone in this realm.

Filth rushed along the overflowing gutters through the streets as they walked past several beggars. Ann reached into her pocket for some coin when she spotted a child huddled among several people lining outside a row of houses. Their once white walls were black with age and flecked with decay. Ceara grabbed her wrist.

No, you said we were coming here to meet your contact and find one of your father’s old captains. You’re not glamoured, which means someone might recognise you. We can’t afford to draw any unwanted attention to ourselves. She released Ann’s wrist. Let’s find the people we need, talk to them and get out of here. Doesn’t the death of a resistance member take precedence?

Yes, that’s why Ed and Jax went to investigate. Ann sighed and let her hand fall to her side. She had to admit Ceara had a point; they couldn’t risk being recognised. "Fine. Let’s go find the Flying Nymph. That’s where most people here go out after dark. There’s a good chance Edmunds will be there, and I told my contact to meet us there at midnight."

She’d only been to Insidion a couple of times, and it didn’t look any different. Back in the early days of life on the run, she, Ed and her brother, Xander, had stayed here whilst hiding from Orla’s forces.

Before she could reply, a man bumped into Ceara. Hey, watch where you’re going, you idiot, she snapped.

The man’s greasy black hair peeked out from under his hood, and his dark eyes glared at her. What was that, bitch? His hand went to a knife at his hip.

Ceara’s hand shot out, and she grabbed him by the throat. Light pulsated from her forehead as her empathic power flared to life. Apologise to me or I’ll make you sorry, you...

As a Gliss, Ceara could sense and influence the emotions of other people and tap into their abilities. She could also turn someone’s emotions against them by reflecting them back at them. This could lead to unpredictable consequences, including death.

Ann winced as the feel of Ceara’s power rattled against her bones. Heat flared between her own fingers as she drew magic. Don’t, she hissed. Leave him be. We didn’t come here for him.

The man gasped, his body shuddering under the force of Ceara’s power. I’m—I’m sorry...

Ceara! What are you doing? Ann snapped. We’re supposed to be laying low.

Good, now forget you ever saw us. Ceara released him and he staggered away. Her lip curled in disgust. What an idiot. I should have brought my shock rods with me. Perhaps then he would have realised what I am and had the decency not to come near me.

What was that? Ann demanded. Although she had no doubt Ceara’s magic would have worked on him, she’d rather people not know there was a Gliss here in Insidion. Ceara no doubt had a price on her head too for being a rogue—someone who was unaffiliated with any of the five lands of Almara and considered an enemy of the elders.

Ceara shrugged. What? He deserved it. I saw what he is capable of. She shuddered. Trust me, you wouldn’t want to go walking around in his mind. He’s done some awful things. It would have been a mercy for everyone in this city if I had killed him.

Ann grabbed her arm, then dragged her down the street. You shouldn’t advertise that  you’re a Gliss. If someone recognises us, it will lead to more unwanted trouble.

Fine, sorry, Ceara muttered. Out of curiosity, why aren’t you wearing your glamour? I might get away with not being recognised, but the Crimson probably consider you their highest priority after our last few encounters with them. She pulled the hood of her cloak over her face to shield herself from the rain. Do you think this Edmunds will really help?

He was close to my father. Reevus didn’t know much about the woman who gave birth to me. So I hope Edmunds might know more. After the emergence of some strange new abilities, Ann knew she had to find out the identity of the woman who had given birth to her. Although she had known for several years her father’s wife, Deanna, wasn’t her birth mother, she’d never felt the need to find out the woman’s identity before now. And the contact won’t recognise me if I have my glamour up.

They moved through the crowded street, pushing past a group of drunks who leered at them and a few hawkers selling their wares. The hawkers called out to them as the rain dripped down their faces and the canopies that covered some of their stalls.

You always said you didn’t care about the woman who gave birth to you. Deanna was your mother.

Ann shook her head. I need to know about the other side of my power. I can barely control how and when I walk between realms; I need someone to teach me. Besides that, Deanna had never been much of a mother to her. She had always favoured Xander, but that had been just fine to Ann. She had been much closer to her father, Darius, and hadn’t ever thought she needed a mother. Things had changed since then. Jer parents had been murdered five years earlier—a crime most people in the five lands believed she had committed.

Doesn’t being with Ed help?

Ann’s face flushed at the mention of her lifemate and best friend. My link to him helps a little, but I still need to understand this power. She spotted a sign swaying in the window of one of the buildings lining the street with a half-naked woman with long red hair—a nymph—who appeared to be flying on it. This is it.

One of the Black comes here?

I don’t know. Reevus said he found work as a mercenary, so this is the most likely place to find him. If not, I’m hoping we’ll at least find someone who knows him. Ann pushed through the door. The stench of ale and sweaty bodies almost made her gag as she did. After a few people glanced their way, she pulled her hood down lower.

Let’s make this quick. Being around these people gives me a migraine. Ceara rubbed her temples. People should learn to keep their emotions to themselves.

Ann frowned. Are you feeling alright? You’ve been strange for the past couple of days.

I’m fine. Let’s find the man. What does he look like?

Tall, dark, blue eyes. Had a scar over his left eye. I didn’t know him very well. She scanned the tavern’s patrons. A few leering glances came their way, but she didn’t spot anyone she recognised. In truth, she had no idea what Edmunds might look like now. She only had a vague recollection of him from when she was a young child. There had been so many men within her father’s Black Guard that it was difficult to remember all of them. Reevus was one of the few who had stayed by her father’s side for decades when he was the ruling Archdruid.

Wonderful. We’ll be attracting unwanted attention all night. Ceara scowled. My head hurts too much for this. I still don’t know why you couldn’t have brought Ed with you, or even bird boy.

I thought you’d be happy. You haven’t had any male company since we stayed with the lykae pack. Ann smiled. Besides, I needed Ed to meet with the resistance, and you kept complaining about how you don’t like being stuck with Jax all the time. I thought you would welcome the chance to go somewhere different.

Nor am I in the mood for any male company. Plus, Insidion isn’t somewhere anyone would want to go. I’ve seen nicer looking pig sties than this place.

Ann headed over to the bar where a giant with a balding head stood. His left eye looked crooked from being hit too many times and several of his front teeth were missing. What can I get yer? His baritone voice sounded like a growl.

Nothing, thanks. We are looking for someone.

You need coin to get anything around here, sweet thing. Another man, this one with long straggly blond hair, leaned against the bar and flashed her a toothy grin. Let me get you a drink.

I doubt we’d like anything this place has to offer, Ceara muttered. Unless we feel like burning our stomachs out.

Thanks, Ann said, then turned back to the giant. I’m looking for a man. Dark hair, around fifty, scar across his—

I can be all the man ya need, sweet thing. The second man slapped her backside.

Ann gritted her teeth and rounded on him, shoving Ceara behind her as the Gliss raised her hand. Don’t touch me again. Go find someone else to spend the night with.

Why would I need someone else when I can have you, sweet thing?

Another man sidled up to Ceara. Hello, beautiful, how about keeping me company?

Oh, for the love of the spirits! Ceara, don’t use your powers, Ann warned in thought, and a fireball formed in her hand.

Call me sweet thing one more time and you’ll be sorry. Now do yourself a favour and get lost, Ann snapped at her would-be suitor.

Right. Ceara slipped her arm around Ann’s shoulder. We don’t like men. Sorry, boys, you’re wasting your time here.

Like she said, sorry, boys. You are barking in the wrong forest. Ann put her arm around Ceara’s waist.

The men glanced each other and stalked off in disgust.

Ann pulled away from Ceara. I need a drink now.

I wouldn’t recommend it. Poison would be safer. The stuff they serve in this place is awful.

Ann arched an eyebrow. You’ve been here before?

A couple of times, but that was a long time ago.

Odd, Ceara never talked about her time working for Orla. Or had it been before that?

Good thinking just now.

You said I couldn’t use my powers or my fists. She grinned. Aren’t I good enough for you then?

I’m sure if I fancied women, I’d find you attractive. Ann laughed. I’m already spoken for by your brother.

Being with a woman isn’t so bad. Better than slimy men. Ceara glared after their would-be suitors. I wouldn’t want you anyway. You’re like a sister to me, so I wouldn’t fancy you.

Ann moved back to the bar and motioned the giant over. Do you know Edmunds? Dark hair, scar over his left eye?

The giant jerked his thumb to the opposite end of the bar. He sits in that corner. But I’d say you ladies shouldn’t stick around. The punters aren’t used to women like you around here. You will attract a lot of attention.

Ceara’s lip curled. Why? Because we don’t look like whores?

Thanks. Ann headed to the other side of the room. Ceara made a move to follow. Ann switched to talking in thought in case they were overheard. It’d be better if I do this alone. Seeing you might scare him off. Stay by the bar.

Fine, I’ll drink the fake booze. Ceara hopped onto a stool. If anyone touches me, they will suffer. So don’t hold me accountable for my actions. Don’t be long, it’s only an hour before your contact arrives.

Just don’t use your powers. I’ll be ready for them when they get here.

Hurry up. I can’t be around these people for long. Ceara turned her attention back to the bar and ordered a jug of ale.

Ann approached the cloaked stranger. Excuse me, are you Ralph Edmunds?

Who wants to know? came the gruff reply.

Someone from your past. She reached out him with her mind. Sure enough, a tendril of power linked her to him as one of the Black Guard.

It’s him, she told Ceara. I found him.

Good, make it quick. Once your contact comes, we can leave.

Unless you’ve got good coin, I don’t need anything from you. Edmunds gulped down his ale.

Ann smelt it heavy on his breath and wondered if he’d be much help to her in this state. You used to be one of the Black Guard. I need to ask you a few questions about—

He gave a harsh laugh. The Black Guard are all dead, along with the Valeran house after that demon bitch took power.

Not all of them died. Ann pushed her hood back enough to reveal her face.

Liquid spewed out of Edmunds’ mouth as he gaped at her. You. You’re alive.

Yes, now—

Rhiannon Valeran. The Archdruid is here! he yelled, then tripped over a stool as he ran.

All eyes turned on Ann. Several men drew their swords, and one man’s hand flared with light.

Fine, I’ll play rough. She waved her arm and sent Edmunds crashing into a wall. That should be enough to knock him out.

She raised her hand. Reoth. Orbs of light pulsed through to the air as everyone in the bar froze in place. That’s much better. I should have done that earlier.

Ceara slid off the stool. Hey, how come you get to use magic and I don’t?

My magic doesn’t usually harm people. Let’s grab him and get out of here.

The giant moved around the bar, unaffected by her magic, with a club in his hand. Archdruid, I have no quarrel with you. But I’m gonna have to ask you to leave.

I have no quarrel with you either. She didn’t want to have to use her powers. Giants were immune to a lot of magics, and they weren’t easy to kill either. It’d be safer for all of them if they could get in and out without fighting.

He glanced over at Ceara. That a Gliss?

You bet. Ceara grinned and raised her jug of ale to him. One of the last ones on Erthea, no doubt.

I came for our friend over there. A former member of the Black Guard. If you let us go, we won’t cause you any trouble, Ann said.

Edmunds has got a room upstairs. You can take him in there to sober up. He jerked his head toward a staircase behind him. Be quick. This lot will be riled up, and that’s never a good thing given the bounty on your head. A lot of them would try to cash in on it.

Ceara’s eyes narrowed. "Why are you not tempted to turn her over to the city guard? She’s the Archdruid."

Ceara, Ann hissed. Let’s go.

The giant shook his head. Because I know of the work she’s done for the resistance, and I got no problem with her.

Ann put her hand under Edmunds’ shoulder. Ceara, give me a hand.

I’d rather fight that lot than carry that pile of shit anywhere, she grumbled.

I’ll transport us up there. Grab his other arm.

Ceara grunted, then complied. Orbs of light flashed around them as they reappeared in a tiny room. It contained little more than a makeshift bed, a battered old trunk, and a small bowl of dirty water next to the bed that he must have used for washing.

This place smells almost as bad as him. Ceara scrunched up her nose as they dragged him over to the bed. He’s drunk. You won’t get anything out of him tonight.

I’ll sober him up, but I may have to stay here overnight. Given the dirt that covered the floor and dust that lined the few objects in the room, Ann knew it wouldn’t be a very pleasant experience.

Oh no, no, no. Ceara raised her hands in protest as Edmunds flopped onto the bed. I’m not staying in this fleapit all night. You said we’d talk to your contact and Stinky Boy over here, then we’d leave. Besides, we need to regroup with the others.

She sighed. I’ll purge the alcohol from him. Make yourself comfortable. It might take at least a couple of hours.

What about the meeting with the contact? Ceara put her hands on her hips.

You can talk to them.

I’m not the Archdruid.

No, you’re a rogue like me and you’ve been helping the resistance for years. Just talk to them and I’ll be there when I can.

Fine, but you owe me for this. I’ll be down at the bar; call me if you need me to get the truth out of him. Ceara turned and slammed the door shut behind her.

Ann placed her hand on Edmunds’ forehead, fingers flaring with golden light. She forced her power into him and grabbed the bowl from next to the bed. Staring at its filthy contents, she walked over to the open window and tossed the water outside.

Edmunds’ eyes flew open as he vomited into the bowl. Ann covered her nose in disgust. What did you do to me? He clutched his head and groaned.

Purged the crap from your body. I need you sober. Don’t bother trying to run. She fumbled in her bag and pulled out a small vial. Here, drink this.

Come to poison me, have you? He glared at her. I thought you’d set me on fire. You did that to some of your father’s enemies when you were a little girl.

I only set people on fire if they meant me or my father harm. She crossed her arms. If I wanted you dead, you would be. Drink up. It will help with the headache.

I’d rather sleep it off. Get out. He rolled over onto his side and buried his face under the covers.

Why would I want to kill you? I haven’t seen you in over a decade.

I’m a deserter. After you killed your parents—

Heat flared between her fingers. You mean after my brother killed my parents. I never hurt them, and you damn well know it. After almost six years, the accusations shouldn’t bother her anymore. The resistance, the druids and the surviving members of the Black all believed her innocence now. She didn’t have to justify herself to someone like Edmunds, but his words still made her heart clench.

Doesn’t matter. I wasted enough of my life on your family. Get out. I have nothing to say to you. His voice sounded muffled underneath the thin blanket.

I just need you to tell me who my birth mother is, she said. You can wallow away for all I care, but at least tell me that.

Your what? He gaped at her as he moved the blanket aside.

Ann gritted her teeth. She couldn’t understand why he despised her so much. She had done nothing to him, and barely even knew him. He hadn’t been one of her father’s favoured men. Darius had only trusted Reevus above all others.

The woman who gave birth to me. Come on, all of my father’s men knew about his numerous affairs. Tell me what you know.

You’re serious. Edmunds rubbed his eyes. She was probably just another whore. Darius had a different woman in his bed every night. Sometimes twice a night. He tossed her vial to the floor. It clattered and rolled across the dirty wood.

Okay. I could berate you for being a deserter, but I couldn’t care less about that. Reevus was right when he told me you were a waste of time. She went and picked up the vial.

Reevus is living it up on the other side. Whilst I’m stuck in squalor.

Reevus is at Fairhaven with the rest of the Black—those who survived anyway.

Now I know you’re lying.

She grabbed his arm.

Ceara, Edmunds and I are taking a quick trip. I’ll be back for you later. She gripped Edmunds’ shoulder as she transported them out.

Edmunds cried out as light flashed around them. They reappeared in a large hall filled with men and women. There were a lot more people here than Ann had expected. At least it looked like Xander’s plan of turning their grandmother’s former estate into a healing house was moving along well. She recognised the faces of members of the Black as they ate dinner together with other people she didn’t recognise.

Where are we? he demanded.

At Fairhaven. Look. She inclined her head across the room. Reevus, no doubt sensing her presence, glanced over at them. He was a tall, imposing man with dark, tanned skin, a neatly trimmed beard, and long black hair braided at the nape of his neck. He still wore the insignia of the Black Guard over his left breast.

Reevus and the... Edmunds gasped.

The surviving Black, yes. Just to prove I’m not a liar. You can say hello to them if you’d like. She nodded to Reevus as he continued to stare at them.

Edmunds rubbed his temples. No. He gripped her arm. Take me back to my room.

Reevus gave her a questioning look but made no move to join them.

Take me back, Edmunds insisted. I’ll answer your questions if you give me something for my head.

Okay. Light flashed again as Ann took them back to his room. She pulled out another vial and handed it to him.

He popped the cork and gulped down its contents with a grimace. What do you want to know?

Why you’re here, for starters. She pulled her cloak tighter. You didn’t seem too keen to see the others. He might not want to be part of the Black anymore, but Ann recognised a lost soul when she saw one. Maybe she could help him somehow.

I’m here because it’s better than being stuck on the streets. You didn’t come to ask about my messy life, so ask what you want to know, then leave. He tossed the vial aside, and it smashed into pieces on the floor.

Reevus told me you were one of my father’s guards around the time I was born. Do you know who gave birth to me? Ann asked again now Edmunds seemed subdued. She resisted the first ray of hope that filled that her heart. She had been disappointed too many times because of her father but knew it wouldn’t be easy to get answers . He wouldn’t even come to talk to her when she’d tried to summon his spirit numerous times. Ann had no idea why Darius was so determined to keep the woman’s identity a secret. What did it matter now he was dead?

I’d rather forget the years I spent working for your father. I still have nightmares about the battles—the things we did. He rubbed his chin. Let’s see. Deanna wasn’t around when you were born. None of us had even heard of her back then. She only appeared after you were born; when Darius brought you to Caselhelm after his father died and he became the Archdruid. Only Reevus and I knew the truth. All of the Black suspected she wasn’t your mama, but Darius gave us an order—a spelled order—so we could never reveal the truth to anyone.

Ann nodded. She had guessed as much. Darius always went to extreme lengths to keep his secrets hidden. No one would have questioned him when he first became the Archdruid, even if they had suspected Deanna wasn’t her mother. Ann didn’t know much about the very early years of her childhood. She only remembered growing up in Caselhelm. Reevus had told her no one had seen her much during the first year of her life. Had she been with her real mother then? She still had so many questions, and very few answers. Too bad the one person who could give them to her wouldn’t speak with her, no matter how hard she tried.

Back in the days before he took over from his father as Archdruid, Darius didn’t live in Caselhelm, Edmunds continued. He delegated his duties to others when he could—his father hated him for it, having expected him to be a dutiful heir. It drove your grandfather mad.

Didn’t the Black know where he went, or who she was? She frowned. I know he used to have them check his mistresses to make sure they weren’t spies. Ann had always hated her father’s infidelities and how women used to throw themselves at him. Deanna once said the only woman he was faithful to was Ann herself.

This was back in the early days when most of the Black Guard were in training. Your grandfather had his forces, but Darius wanted his own trusted, elite squad. That’s why he recruited Reevus and created the Black. Edmunds scratched his chin. To be honest, I don’t remember him having many women back then. Not until after he married Deanna. Reevus covered for him as best he could but Deanna was no fool. We knew a mistress had to be involved. The woman deserved better.

He never brought her to the palace? The sliver of hope Ann had felt ebbed away.

His brow creased. No, he slept with others but whoever gave birth to you was a mystery to us.

Didn’t you or the other Black try to follow him when he left, or find out where he went?

He snorted. No one could stop Darius from doing whatever he wanted to do. The Black were newly formed back then, there weren’t many of us. Besides, he was only the heir to the Archdruid. He had a lot more freedom then than he did when he took the throne.

Come on, think. You must know something about her. Wouldn’t she have been a security risk? If her mother had been one of Darius’ numerous mistresses, Ann knew that someone must remember her. He would have kept the woman around at least until Ann herself was born.

Edmunds laughed. Oh, Darius knew who he took to his bed. He was no fool. We never met that mistress. It’s possible she came from Asral.

Thanks. Ann sighed. She had might have narrowed her mother’s origin down from five lands to just one. One way or another, she’d find the woman who had given birth to her and find out the truth about her unusual new ability.

Edmund slumped over into unconsciousness. Now  she would have to wait until morning to see if she could get anything else out of him.

​​​​​Chapter 2

Ceara gulped down some more of her foul-tasting ale. Holy spirits, who brewed this stuff? It was piss-poor and didn’t taste like the good quality stuff she was used to. Heck, most of it probably came from the city’s water supply and had other crap mixed in to make it look like wine. What she wouldn’t give for some decent wine.

Why couldn’t that stupid captain have holed up somewhere nice? Even the lush forests of Lulrien would have been better than this place. But no, Ann wanted to ask questions about her mother, and they still had to wait for the resistance contact to appear.

Although Ceara had helped the resistance over the years by staying with Orla, she preferred aiding them at a distance. It hadn’t been hard for her to drop a few coins or to pass on intel to her contacts whenever she could. Orla had given her free rein most of the time, having been too intent on getting Urien back to pay much attention to Ceara.

Ceara gulped down a little more of the foul brew as she waited for the contact to arrive. It was unlike Ann to trust her with something like this, and the decision should have pleased her. She wondered if she’d ever regain Ann’s trust—or her brothers’—after everything she’d done.

You don’t deserve their trust, a voice whispered inside her mind.

Ceara shook her head. Spirits, why did the voice keep bothering her so much these last few days? Maybe it was because she and the other rogues had finally had a few days back in Lulrien to lay low; she had managed to push the voice away the rest of the time.

The tavern’s door swung open and a cloaked figure came in. A woman pulled back her hood, droplets of water splashed over her pretty face. Long blond hair fell free, and her sea-blue eyes narrowed as she scanned the tavern’s occupants. This must be the person Ann was supposed to meet.

Ceara waved her hand, motioned her over and groaned. It would have to be Vixen. Why couldn’t it be Nadia, Ceara’s old contact? Or better yet, Phineas?

She never liked Vixen, although she had only dealt with her a couple of times in the past. Ceara didn’t know much about the woman other than the fact she was a Naiad—a water fae. Nor did she care to know much else. Vixen was a bitch, plain and simple.

Vixen scowled when she came over. You are not the—

Keep your voice down, Ceara hissed. No, I’m not Ann. What did you want to talk to her about?

I came to talk to the Archdruid, not you. Vixen crossed her arms. Why are you here? Do you work for—?

Ceara’s power rushed to the surface again. It ached to get out, despite her fatigue from earlier. Holy spirits, why had she offered to help Ann? Ann should be doing this, not her. Ceara should have stayed in Lulrien.

Just give me the bloody message, Ceara snapped. Ann is busy.

Vixen’s lip curled. Doing what? She’s a fugitive.

She’s a lot nicer woman than you are, even if she is a pain in the backside for meeting with you. Ceara fought the urge to keep her power locked in. Vixen’s energy was harsh and violent like a storm. Although her emotions didn’t buzz at the edge of Ceara’s senses—much to Ceara’s relief.

That’s none of your business. She’s a busy woman. Now give me the message.

Vixen shook her head. What I have to say is for the Archdruid only, not for the likes of you.

Ceara’s eyes flashed and energy seared across her forehead. Ann may have told her not to use her powers, but by the spirits, this bitch was asking for it.

Ann couldn’t make it. So tell me what you know—or do I have to drag it out of you?

Vixen turned her attention to the barkeep and ordered a jug of wine. A resistance member has been killed. We’re worried someone may have betrayed us. That means our meeting that’s scheduled for—

What does that have to do with Ann? Ceara interrupted. If the meeting’s been cancelled, then why bother coming here?

Vixen glowered at her. The other leaders refused to cancel it. They want the— She stopped when Ceara’s brow flared with light. I mean, Rhiannon, to investigate.

Why? Ceara rubbed her temples, already bored of this conversation.

If someone is killing off resistance members, we’re all at risk. Vixen huffed. Yet the fools are so determined to see this meeting take place. They say Rhiannon can help. She scoffed at that. Now I’ve passed on the message, why don’t you tell me why you’re here? You work for Orl—

She’s dead. End of story. Ceara gulped down more ale. Who was killed? I’ll tell Ann to—

He was killed on the way to the meeting spot. Vixen sipped her wine and coughed. Gods, this is not wine.

Ceara suppressed a smile. Good, it was the least Vixen deserved.

Vixen lowered her voice. You need to bring her here.

Like I said, she’s busy.

Ann, are you done yet? Ceara asked. We’ve got a problem.

Not yet. I’m busy, Ann replied.

The resistance needs you. They want you to investigate someone’s death, and Vixen here wants you to go back with her to do it.

Ann groaned. Oh no, not Vixen.

Ceara grinned, even though  Ann wouldn’t see it. The very person.

Tell her we’ll travel there tomorrow; I need to stay here until I get some information out of Edmunds, she said. Better yet, I’ll call Ed and tell him to go. He can handle things until I’m done here. I’ve rented the room next to his for you to sleep in.

Ceara cringed. She did not want to spend a night in this godforsaken city. Just being in it brought back memories she would rather forget.

Ann ended the connection.

Ann says she’ll be there tomorrow, Ceara told Vixen.

The Naiad slammed her jug down and splashed red liquid all over the bar. We need her there now!

A few curious glances came their way. The feel of the other occupants’ curiosity only made Ceara’s head ache more.

She’ll be there. Holy spirits, it’s not like we have to travel over land to get there. We don’t need to leave right now. She gulped down more ale and wished it would numb her senses.

Vixen hissed out breath. Fine. While I’m here I need to look for another member who was passing through. A water sprite named Melody. She turned to Ceara. Maybe you can find her.

I’m not Ann’s servant. Ceara gulped down the rest of her drink and motioned to the giant barkeep for another one.

Vixen stayed a while longer and more booze flowed. Vixen carried on grumbling about how the resistance didn’t appreciate her and how this meeting would be a disaster. Ceara only half listened.

In the early hours of the morning, she stumbled into the street when Vixen finally left. They said misery liked company, but she was glad Vixen had gone.

A few men called out for her, so Ceara pulled her cloak tighter around her, glad the ale had finally taken some of the edge off so she wouldn’t have to feel every emotion around her. Ann hadn’t called again, but it didn’t seem to matter.

In an alcohol-infused fog, Ceara made her way through the familiar streets. She’d run through here with Jax when they were kids. It had been easy using her powers to compel people to hand over whatever they wanted back then. Jax had been her only real friend. They were both street rats, unwanted and trying to find their way in the world. They had both struggled with their powers. He had become her brother even back then, and they had enjoyed making fun of each other to get through their awful days of living in squalor.

Ceara preferred to block all memories of those terrible years out; they weren’t worth remembering. She always said their lives had begun the day Flora had taken them in. Yet, she found herself moving back through the all-too-familiar streets until she reached a small house crammed in between much larger buildings. This was where she had lived for the first few years of her life, but it had never felt like home. Home meant a place of safety and love. She had never felt either of those things here.

Her mam had never had time for her, only time for the numerous men who came and went at all hours of the day and night. Men who often stared at Ceara in a way she didn’t like.

Ceara forced those memories away. Her power had been the only thing that kept her safe. She was six the first time she’d used it to defend herself. One of her mam’s regulars had come in drunk, and Mam was already in bed with someone else. He had been angry and turned his attention on Ceara instead.

She’d always been able to sense bits and pieces of emotions, but this was when her gift fully manifested. She’d felt all the horrible things he felt and reflected them back on him. The man had screamed and gone half mad, and Mam had come running. When Mam had seen what Ceara had done, she’d beaten her black and blue.

Ceara had stayed with her another year before she threatened to use her power on Mam herself. Her mam never touched her, and the men had been too scared to come near her. That didn’t stop them from badmouthing her.

After that, she’d left, running around with Jax for a few months until Darius had been passing through the city with the Black Guard, and his general had looked for unwanted kids they could train. Most of them the Guard returned with had been taken in by Flora and some of the other druids after Flora had told Darius they were too young to train, and instead deserved proper homes.

Ceara stood staring at the little ramshackle house. She hadn’t thought of her mam since Flora had found her. Flora was the mother she had always wanted, so different from her own mam. Ceara had never known who her father was. She doubted Mam knew either.

A hunched woman in a red dress came out holding a chamber pot, and Ceara froze.

No, it couldn’t be her...

What are you looking at? the woman hissed. Her black hair had turned grey and her dark eyes looked weary. Ceara hated how much she still resembled the bitch who had given her life. I’m...

What did it matter? Mam had despised her since the day she was born. She’d seen Ceara as an inconvenience, not a child. All of Ann’s searching for her mother and Ed’s reunion with his own parents had made her wonder what it’d be like if she ever came back here.

Get outta here, Mam snapped. There ain’t nothing worth stealing.

Mam turned away, and Ceara found herself following her to the door. Mam? The word sounded strange on her tongue.

Her mam spun around; eyes narrowed. What did you say?

Ceara pulled back her hood. It’s me, Ceara. She pushed her damp hair off her face.

Mam put her hand to her chest and muttered a curse. No! No, you’re dead. I ain’t got no daughter. She shook her head and made a shooing motion. Get away!

Ceara gave a harsh laugh. Why am I not surprised to hear that?

Mam’s expression went wild with emotion—if Ceara hadn’t known any better it might’ve been fear. Get out, you’re not welcome here. Freak! Unholy thing! she cried. Get out, before I call the Guard.

Ceara’s power flared to life. It pulsed through the air and hit her mam. Who is my father?

She didn’t know why she wanted to know. Must be all Ann and Ed’s talk of family.

Mam stood there in a daze. I...I don’t know. Never did.

Ceara looked away. Just as she had suspected.

Why are you here, Ceara? Mam asked, to her surprise.

Guess my power is better at loosening tongues than I thought.

I don’t know, she admitted. I know you’re not my family. I have a family now—a real one. And I wouldn’t trade them for anything.

She returned down the street, back toward the tavern. Her power thrummed through her. Whilst she was at it, she might as well look for that woman Melody. It would distract her from the barrage of unwanted memories going through her mind.

​​​​Chapter 3

I t’s been a while since all the resistance met together like this, Edward Rohn remarked. Usually they consider it too dangerous to meet. Orla and the other Crimson members have attacked meetings before.

He and Jax moved through a thick mass of trees. Ed was glad to be outside again. After the last mission at Fairhaven, he, Ann, and his foster siblings had been forced to move around a lot to stay one step ahead of the Crimson Alliance. The Crimson hadn’t been happy when they had heard Ann had destroyed an ancient spirit who had once been a slave to them, but had been stolen by her father, Darius, before he betrayed them.

Ed was glad the events of Fairhaven were finally over. Still, he longed to be back with Ann again. He knew she was still suffering from the betrayal of her grandmother, who’d tried to regain the Crimson’s favour by tricking her brother Xander into releasing the spirit.

Why did we get stuck at a meeting then? The voice of his foster brother, Julius Jaxson, broke him out of his thoughts. With his dark clothing, obsidian skin, dark eyes and bald head, Jax almost blended into the tree line.

Ed himself had long golden-brown hair and brown eyes. Ann said one of her resistance contacts needed us to come here. But she has gone to talk to someone who might be able to tell her about her birth mother. People have gone missing. He frowned at Jax. You’ve been grumpy since you came back from visiting Sam.

Sam was a fellow brother in the Black Guard and had been Jax’s lover in the old days before they had become rogues.

Jax scowled. I’m not grumpy. That’s Ceara. Who has gone missing?

Ceara is just cranky. That’s the way she is. Ed dodged a branch as it almost hit his head. I don’t know any details yet, but Ann said it was urgent. We need to get to the meeting spot and find out what’s going on with the resistance.

Jax leaned on his staff. As for Sam, yes, I miss him. But we’ll see each other again soon. He stumbled as he almost knocked his head on a branch. I’m not surprised Deanna isn’t her mama either; they look nothing alike. Who do you think her mama was?

Ed shrugged. Darius had a lot of women. It could have been anyone. He knew Ann still struggled with the idea of someone else being her mother. He hoped the search would bring her some answers and closure.

Still, you’d think someone would have come forward claiming to be her mother before now.

Ed shook his head. Not if Darius didn’t let them. It didn’t surprise Ed to learn Darius had had even more secrets. The man had hidden so many things Ed knew they would probably still be making discoveries about him for years to come. He didn’t understand why Darius had kept Ann’s true mother a secret though. There could be any number of reasons.

You think he killed her? He was a ruthless bastard at times.

I don’t know. Guess it depends on who she was. Ed pushed through the trees. They were getting close to the meeting spot.

Do you think her mama might have been one of the Crimson? Jax muttered a curse as a branch hit him in the face. Given her unusual power, she could be half elder.

Ed stopped, frown deepening. He’d considered the possibility, given Darius’ involvement with the Crimson Alliance. It’s possible. But given how powerful they are, why wouldn’t they come forward? The Crimson are always vying for power. Having the Archdruid herself on their side would give them a huge advantage over the others, he said. Have you ever thought about finding your mother? Or your real parents?

Jax scowled. No. I lost them a long time ago. There is no one left to find.

I never thought I wanted to find my parents either. Now I can’t imagine not knowing them. I wouldn’t even know what I really am if I hadn’t gone back to Lulrien. Ed hoped he’d get to return to Lulrien soon. He missed his parents. But he was relieved the two of them were back together and the lykae and wyverns were finally getting along after decades of animosity.

I know what I am. Your parents spent decades warning against each other; Mine are dead, Jax said. You, Ann, and Ceara are my true family.

Jax rarely ever talked about his own family or where he’d come from before he ended up as one of Flora’s fosterlings. Ed knew from what Ceara had told him they had grown up on the streets together. Ed decided not to press the matter further. Ed smiled. He and Jax might not be the same blood or race, but they were brothers in every way that mattered.

Ed pushed through the tree line and breathed in the familiar scent of grass, wood, and earth. He crouched low. The misty mountains loomed up ahead.  The great peaks stood like jagged knives crowned with white amid a haze of mist. Many battles had been fought and lost here over the centuries. The people who once dwelled here had either left or been wiped out in the many realm wars. That made it the perfect meeting spot for the resistance to use. Meeting in the cavern below ground seemed like a good idea in theory, but it made his lykae side uneasy, though his wyvern side didn’t mind. An icy wind hit his face, but his hybrid nature meant he didn’t feel the cold very much.

Jax, although a crow shifter himself and possessing stone magic, still shivered underneath his long black cloak. Did their message say what they wanted? Jax crouched beside him.

No, they didn’t give any specifics. Ed hadn’t met with any of the resistance in almost a year now; not since before he’d rediscovered his lykae nature. He and Ann had joined the resistance after her father’s murder. When they’d been forced to go on the run and become rogues. It had offered them refuge for a little while. Ed had been disappointed they hadn’t been able to stay with them longer, but at least they had given Ann something worth fighting for instead of being consumed by avenging her parents.

Do you think they’ll accept our help instead of Ann’s? Jax laid his staff down on the ground in front of them.

I’ve dealt with them before, so I don’t see why not.

How do you think they’ll react to us? We’re still rogues. I don’t remember the resistance liking us much either

Ed had always wondered if Jax had had any dealings with the resistance during the five years they’d been apart. We’re all fighting for a better future. One where everyone is accepted. He and Ann hadn’t been able to stay with the resistance for long, but that hadn’t stopped them from working for their cause.

Jax didn’t look convinced. Old prejudices still exist.

Ed rose. Several heartbeats emanated from inside the cavern. Let’s be on our guard. The resistance have been attacked before. The Crimson are out for blood after all the problems we’ve been causing them.

I hope it’s not a demon bitch again. Or another elder. Those spirits we encountered back at Fairhaven scared me, Jax said and shuddered. Sam and the other Black are doing okay, though.

Good, I’m glad.

Ed headed inside, where two giants stood guard. Both had dark hair and dark eyes, and they smelt of dirt and sweat. Just the sight of them made Ed’s beast growl inside his mind.

One held a battle axe, the other a club. Both wore dark coloured clothing that Ed guessed helped them to blend in with their surroundings better, although he doubted they needed to do that for protection. Giants were one of the most formidable races of Magickind.

We’re here to see Xavier. I’m Edward Rohn, lifemate and overseer to the Archdruid.

Jax arched an eyebrow. Lifemate?

It still sounded odd to use the term, but Ed and Ann had been bound to each other since they were children. A bond went way beyond a normal marriage. Since fully sealing their bond a few weeks earlier, their souls were now joined, linking not only their lives but their powers.

Shush. Ann and I agreed we’d say that. Besides, we are a couple, Ed replied.

I know. I lost the bet and owed our sister a lot of coin because of it. But it was worth it. I’m glad you and Ann are finally together. It took you long enough.

The giants glanced each other, then the second one grabbed Ed by his tunic. You smell of lykae, he rasped. Yet you look almost wyvern.

I’m both. He pulled out of the giant’s grasp.

He and Jax had encountered giants before. Both as rogues and whilst serving in the Black Guard. Ed didn’t want to pick a fight with them. He didn’t know if even his strength or speed as a lykae would do him much good against them.

Where’s the Archdruid? the first giant growled.

She’s needed...elsewhere, Ed replied. We’re here in her stead. He had been about to tell the guards where Ann was, but stopped himself. It wasn’t their business, and if people were going missing, he and Jax would have to keep their guard up during their stay here.

Both giants looked each other, then they moved aside.

Ed’s inner beast growled again, but he pushed it down as he moved past the guards and into the cavern. Light danced above them as sprites fluttered around overhead in a rainbow of glittering lights and a cacophony of jingling bells.

Phew. I thought they were going to attack us. Jax breathed once they were out of earshot. He gripped his staff and glanced around uneasily as if expecting someone to attack them.

They seem more on edge than I expected. There is a lot of tension here. I can smell it. Ed moved past a small group of people who sent curious glances their way. He didn’t pay any attention to them.

Too bad my shifter side can’t sense stuff the way you can. Jax sighed.

You’re no slouch. Ed moved further down the tunnel. More guards were stationed at various passages as the tunnel broke off into separate directions.

Ed carried on straight ahead, just as Ann’s message had said. As they passed out of the tunnel, it opened into a much larger cavern. It felt brighter and warmer here. Crystal torches lined the walls, sending pools of  white light dancing across the cavern floor.

Once inside, Ed spotted Xavier, one of the resistance leaders and a dwarf who barely rose to Ed’s waist. Dark eyes stared out from his weathered face, and his long black hair was thickly braided with beads, as was the long beard that fell to his stomach.

Edward, good to see you. Xavier came over and grasped his forearm. Thank you for coming. He glanced behind them. Where’s Rhiannon?

She has other business to attend to, but she will be here in the next day or two. Ed grasped his arm in return. What’s wrong? Ann told me you sent Vixen to find her. This is Julius Jaxson; a fellow member of the Black.

Xavier motioned for them to follow him. Come.

Seems odd, Jax remarked. I thought we would be sitting through a boring meeting, or maybe going out searching for the missing.

Maybe not. Ed followed Xavier down a small tunnel and into a separate chamber. He caught the scent of decay as they moved, then the sickly-sweet scent of death. There’s a body nearby.

I smell it too, Jax replied.

When can Rhiannon get here? Xavier asked. A resistance member has been killed.

Why do you need Ann? She’s not a healer or necromancer, Jax said.

You’ll see. Xavier led them into a smaller chamber where someone lay covered by a dark blanket. Xavier pulled it aside, revealing the face of a man with dark hair. His eyes were glassy with death; his face and torso marked with black symbols that looked almost rune-like.

Ed moved closer to get a better look, certain the marks were not tattoos. I don’t recognise those symbols. When did he die? None of the runes were druidic or of any other magic system he recognised.

We think sometime during the night. We found him this morning. I need Rhiannon here. She is the Archdruid, and she can help us solve this problem. Xavier ran his fingers through his beard. That’s why I sent Vixen to fetch her. She is the only one I can trust.

We fight demons, maniacs and Crimson forces. We don’t solve murders, Jax pointed out.

I’m afraid we can’t ask anyone else to investigate without revealing who we are, Xavier said. It’s hard to trust anyone in the five lands anymore. That’s why I called you.

We might be able to help. Ann will be here when she can. Can we...touch the body? Ed bit his lip, feeling awkward. He didn’t want to offend Xavier; for all he knew this man might have been a close friend.

"Of course. I don’t want word spreading. If someone is targeting resistance members our plans for creating a neutral territory will be jeopardised, Xavier said. You and the rogues battle against the Crimson. That’s why I called you. I need to know if one of the gods—"

They’re not gods, Ed interjected. But yes, we’ll investigate until Ann and Ceara are here.

Xavier bowed his head. Thank you, Edward. Do whatever you need. He then left them alone.

Jax frowned. Are you sure we can help? Solving murders isn’t what we do.

No, but we have investigated things like this before back in the Black. We need to know the source of all the symbols. He examined the body further. These look ritualistic.

You think someone sacrificed him to the Crimson?

Maybe. It’s too soon to tell.

Jax pulled off his pack and rummaged through it. I’ve been working with some crystals. I figured they might help. Since I have a bit of stone magic, I’ve tuned them to capture images the way they do energy, so we can remember stuff and add it to Ann’s vault.

Good idea. Can you use it to take note of all these marks? Maybe we can send it to Ann.

Don’t jump ahead of yourself, brother. I haven’t figured out how to do that yet. Jax pulled out a square crystal. It glowed with white light. Can’t guarantee it’ll work, but it’s better than having to draw everything. He held it over the body. Any idea who he is?

No. Never seen him before. Ed bent and sniffed. He moved past the scent of sweat, leather and the coppery tang of blood. These marks were carved with some kind of blade. He inhaled again. I can’t detect any other scent aside from the decay of death.

Maybe it’s masked by the death smell—that’s all I’m getting.

No, there’s nothing. Strange, most people leave a scent trace after they come into contact with someone. He rolled the man over. More black marks covered his back and shoulders.

Jax stood and used the crystal to record the different symbols. Further exploration revealed more symbols on his legs and feet.

I don’t know what race would use this kind of magic, Jax remarked. We learnt stuff from Ann when she learnt about all the different magic systems. None of these are familiar.

It could be an old forgotten form of magic. Maybe something that goes back to before the dark times. Ed turned the body back over and muttered a spell to preserve it. Ann will want to see this. I’ll talk to Xavier and see if the resistance will hold off on putting him on a pyre.

Maybe it’s time to call Ann after all.

Ed headed out to find Xavier and was relieved when the resistance leader  came over. What can you tell me about the victim? Ed whispered.

Xavier led him to one side. His name was Jeremiah Flanagan. He was a kitsuni.

A fox shifter?

Xavier nodded. Yes. He’s worked with us for years.

Was he a leader, like you?

The dwarf shook his head. No, just a low-ranking member. He helped refugees getting across the border between Asral and Vala, Xavier explained. I don’t know why anyone would kill him. He was half-human. He couldn’t even shift well and posed no threat.

Where was he found?

Outside the entrance to the tunnels. There’s a back passage we created as a means of escape. One of the giants, Rolin, found him. He’s a blond-haired fellow, and he’ll be outside on the eastern slope of the mountain if you want to speak to him.

Ed nodded and blurred out. It didn’t take long to find the tunnel that led outside, and he breathed in the cool air as it stung his face. He didn’t want to call Ann here unless he had to; finding her birth mother was important given her unpredictable powers. He and Jax could manage until she arrived.

He spotted the giant. After asking several questions and getting a few grunts in response, Ed realised answers weren’t going to be easy to come by. He examined the area outside the tunnel. Other than a few drops of blood, he found nothing. There were too many scents from people coming and going to detect anyone in particular.

Ed hoped this death was a one-off, but deep down, he knew this was just the beginning. Someone was targeting the resistance; he could feel it. They had to find out who before anyone else died.

​​​​​Chapter 4

Ann brought Edmunds some tea the next morning. It had been a long night watching over him. He still looked hungover and frowned at her.

What are you doing here? His breath stank of ale.

Guess I couldn’t keep him sober after all. She set the cup