part0026

“Did he say where?” Danimore asked.

“No, only that he’s been seen. The offer of reward hastens his steps. Already more than a dozen have come forth.”

“But no one has given hint to his actual location?”

“They have, Dani, but Molag rarely remains in one place. There’s evidence of him, yet he continues to elude the guard. But our garrote grows tighter about his neck.” Pentanimir became more excited with every word. “The last location checked was the most significant. They missed him by but moments. He fled in such haste that his meal still warmed over the fire.”

“We’re pleased at the news,” Symeon said. “The Jasiri are keeping a close watch on the borders of Nazil and the woods beyond. With the new towers in place, travel beneath the city will be virtually impossible. If Molag turns toward Nazil, we’ll know.

“I’m glad that the Zaontras has returned safely from her visit. Having Molag and his ilk stirring could prove dangerous for anyone who’s traveling.”

“It’s a blessing,” Pentanimir said. “Had Brahanu delayed her return, it mightn’t have been so.”

“Are you still planning to visit the falls, Brother?” Danimore asked. “With Molag’s capture so near, would it not be prudent to remain in Nazil?”

“Allay your fears, Dani. The visit to the falls will be but two suns. I appreciate and understand your concern, but the trip is needed, and I won’t delay it. With Brahanu home in Nazil, this is long overdue. The necessary precautions have been taken, and no one will know that I’ve left the city. Quite the opposite,” he said, glancing over at his brother.

“Indeed,” Temian said, forcing a smile. He didn’t want Pentanimir to know about his apprehension. After the attack in the wood, he no longer wanted to pose as the Zaxson. At the same time, he understood the need for such a ruse. When properly outfitted, not even Pentanimir’s personal Guard could tell the men apart.

Pentanimir and Brahanu needed this respite. The falls was where their love had grown, and Pentanimir hoped it would rekindle that love and have Brahanu herself again.

The Zaxson didn’t know about the turmoil inside of him, and Temian wouldn’t tell of it. Instead, he nodded.

Pentanimir smiled, raising his cup. As the men joined him in the toast, Thalassa entered the crowded solar.

“Forgive my tardiness, Zaxson, council.” She curtsied. “Sir Middleton informed me about the meeting only moments ago.”

“No. Forgive me, for beginning without you,” Pentanimir apologized, pulling out the chair.

As she took her seat, Ahvixx’s head snapped up, his eyes glimmering. Pushing the parchments aside, he stared at her peculiarly.

“Ahvixx, what’s wrong?” Temian asked. “Has something happened?”

“Do you not feel it?” he asked, standing. They watched as he continued around the table, never turning from Thalassa.

“Feel it? Feel what, Ahvixx?” Danimore asked.

“The presence,” was all he said, assisting Thalassa to stand.

“Presence? Of what? Make plain your thoughts, please,” Pentanimir asked, growing more concerned than he’d allow to show.

Thalassa stepped back as Ahvixx reached toward her. He closed the gap between them, gently grasping her shoulder and resting a hand on her abdomen. She gasped, feeling the energies he emitted. At first, the heat of his touch nearly caused her to jerk away, but once the initial merge had passed, only a soothing warmth remained.

Ahvixx’s eyes brightened as he spoke words that only Thalassa could hear and understand. After several moments, they released synchronous breaths as the warmth and brightness surrounding them bedimmed.

She looked up at him with tears rimming her eyes.

“You know?” Ahvixx stated more than asked.

“Not until this very moment was it certain.”

“Certain? Ahvixx, please, what does she know that we don’t?” Pentanimir said, rising from his seat.

“This is a truth only Thalassa can tell. I can only speak of the fracture.”

“In the seal? Is that it, Ahvixx? Are you talking about the eidolon, the—the wraith?”

“I am. There’s been another shift and the time grows nearer. It has been nearly four full moons since the last progression. Your sons will soon be ready, and Mah’saahc will come.”

“This is why we’re preparing: to defeat this darkness. What does Thalassa have to do with this? What’s changed?”

Ahvixx looked at Thalassa.

“I—I’m with child,” she said in scarcely a whisper.

Pentanimir traded smiles with the others in the room, reaching for her hand. “This is news to celebrate. Why does knowing of your pregnancy sadden you?”

“There isn’t one in your womb, Thalassa, there are two,” Ahvixx said.

Thalassa dropped a hand to her small, rounding abdomen. “Two?” she breathed, struggling to contain her tears. She could hear her brothers speaking, but she couldn’t discern their words. Everything was a blur, with only Ahvixx’s words resonating in her mind.

At that moment, she wanted to flee, to escape from the truths growing inside of her. Anything to be free from her transgressions, and the living consequences of them.

“The Guardians are good, Sister,” Temian said.

When Thalassa didn’t respond, they regarded Ahvixx again.

“It is the shift. The fracture has widened,” Ahvixx said, looking from one to the other. “With each occurrence, the balance is lost. The Guardians merge to stabilize the effects, but it cannot be done until they’re aware. To one of the lands, the passage of time is mere moments before the shift is contained. To those who are affected, it isn’t so.”

“Ke’ohnzi.” The Uzon stood. “They don’t understand the fracture as we do. You must explain more if they’re to truly know. There is no condemnation. The physical manifestations of the wraith aren’t known until they are.”

“Physical?” Pentanimir asked. “Do you mean a person or—or the babes?”

“No, the babes your sister carries are unaffected by the essence of the wraith,” Ahvixx assured. “It was your sister and the sire of her children who succumbed to Mah’saahc’s influence.”

“Jahno? Will they be all right? Does the influence remain?”

“No, Zaxson. The shift is contained.”

“But you spoke of a presence,” Temian said, standing and resting his hands on Thalassa’s shoulders.

“It was merely residual. Trace elements that mean little now, and will dissipate in time. The same was felt as I made my way through the citadel. I thought they were residual energies emitted from the children. I’ve experienced the same many times in the past. Now, I know different. The proximity of the children to me wasn’t adequate for such a fervent impression. The essence radiated from one I passed, as it did when Thalassa entered.”

“Do you know from whom, Ahvixx? Was Jahno affected as well?”

“Only Thalassa and the sire of her children were affected.”

Audible gasps sounded through the room as his words penetrated. The brothers came to her side with looks of bemusement and concern covering their visage.

“The sire? If not Jahno, then who?” Pentanimir asked.

Thalassa raised her head, looking only at Ahvixx.

“You need not speak it,” Temian said, wrapping her in a tight hug. “It wasn’t you, Thalassa. It wasn’t.”

“I can’t turn from this, Temian. It will be with me always. I prayed it wouldn’t be. Even as I noticed the changes in my body, I wouldn’t believe.”

“Ahvixx?” Pentanimir pled.

“Only Thalassa can tell you of the sire.”

Pentanimir cupped her chin in his hand, raising her face to his. As he dabbed the tears from her eyes, he leaned, placing a kiss on her brow. “Please, Thalassa. We love you, all of us. Temian is right; this wasn’t you. Without this—this shift, never would you have strayed from him you love.”

“He speaks true,” Danimore said. “The only one who casts blame is you. We have all been affected by this creature. You need only look at your nephews and realize that truth. This, too, we will overcome. Never are you alone with our love covering you. Please, tell us the name; we must know.”

The pain she felt at that moment penetrated deeper than any feeling she’d ever known. Regardless of the shift, the urges she sated were hers. The influence merely brought them to the surface, forcing her to see the primal side of herself. That burn and ache she felt at Wosen’s absence still consumed her very being, intensifying her cravings. That desire remained, and scared her more than anything she could imagine, save losing her love. Losing Jahno.

Pentanimir kissed her again, moving back to his seat and motioning the others to do the same.

“It wasn’t Jahno,” she lamented. “When he left the city to deliver the parchments is when—when everything went wrong. I knew and yet could do nothing to stop myself.” She wept.

“In your own time,” Pentanimir said, handing her some cloth.

“He came to me as I trained. We—we fought, enjoying the intensity of our contest. Soon, it became much more. No longer were we sparring, it was something else, something more powerful.

“All the anger and rage and passion came forth at once. It wasn’t love, not attraction, not as one would think. It was brutal and savage, and yet, we couldn’t turn from each other. Daily we met, promising to no longer give in to such urges, and daily we shamed ourselves and the ones that we love.”

“How did it not? Am I not with child? Did I not betray my husband?” Her voice cracked with every word.

“This we cannot change. But you must know that had your love not been pure, the essence could’ve remained, consuming you even now. You only see your weakness, yet I know your strength. I felt it as we merged, Thalassa. Because of this, you didn’t fully succumb to the pleasure you shared with another. The pain that you both craved.”

The siblings traded glances at his choice of words.

“The betrayal…”

Her words stopped abruptly as Ahvixx shared his energies, calming her thoughts. She stared at the glimmer in his eyes, releasing a staggered breath.

“I told him that we could no longer meet. I meant the words, but even as I spoke them, I regretted saying it.”

“Did you hold true to what you spoke?” Ahvixx asked, already knowing the answer.

“Yes,” she murmured. “Though, not soon enough. Not soon enough.”

Ahvixx reached across the table, taking her hand in his. “Who fathered your children?”

Dalia smiled. “Could be, if two swords would be enough for a Chosen as fierce as our son. He’s trained hard and well for one his age. Symeon often speaks of his fondness for Fáelán. The pride you show in him only increases his determination. He tries hard to please you, Beilzen.”

“This he’s done since the beginning. Never have I been prouder than when he first came to me. To learn of a son when I thought such a blessing forever removed. Since that first day, my love and pride have only grown.”

“That’s obvious for all to see. Fáelán is fortunate to have you as a father.”

“And you as a mother,” Beilzen said, massaging lower.

It was pleasing to feel the full warmth of the sun after the long cold season. The gardens would forever hold a special meaning to the two. Here was where their friendship began and where their love blossomed. Not a day passed that they didn’t take noon meal there, when the weather allowed. After kissing her cheek, he lowered a hand to her rounding womb, caressing.

“And what about this one?” Beilzen asked. “Will he, too, be a Chosen of Nazil?”

“He?” Dalia said with feigned protest. “You presume much. Mayhaps the Guardians have blessed us with a daughter. Already we have Fáelán. Do you not want a daughter as well?”

“If her beauty matches that of her mother.” He smiled. “I welcome whatever blessing the Guardians might bestow. Never did we think to have any children but Fáelán. They’ve been good to us, Dalia, beyond measure. If we have a daughter, I’m certain that she’ll be well spoiled, much like her brother.”

She giggled. “Aislin,” Dalia said.

“Aislin?”

“Yes. If we have a daughter. I’ve always thought the name lovely.”

“It is a beautiful name.”

“Hasina, after your mother as well. And if we have another son, Perrin, for your father.”

“My father? That would be a great honor. Both my parents would be pleased either way.”

“And you, husband. Are you pleased?”

“Like no other,” he said, reaching for her laces. Slipping a hand inside, he gently caressed, tickling her neck with the tip of his tongue. Dalia leaned into him, gliding a hand between his thighs. Beilzen softly moaned, whispering her name. As his arousal peaked, a familiar laugh halted their movement.

They rose up, attempting to see over the tall bushes. Noticing Perrin and Hushar approaching hand-in-hand, they smiled, standing to greet them.

When Perrin saw his son and daughter-in-law, he blushed, clearing his throat.

“I—I hope we didn’t disturb your privacy,” Perrin said.

Beilzen peered behind them, noting his father’s ruffled clothing and the grass in Hushar’s hair. “It appears that we may have disturbed yours. I believe your arrival was before ours.”

Perrin chuckled, nervously. “Indeed. The time must have gotten away from us.”

“Yes. Yes. I think it has,” Hushar said, giggling like a young girl. “Mayhaps we should return and tend to our duties. With both Thalassa and Sahma with child, there’s much to do.”

“Hushar, allow me to help.” Dalia doddered forward, as Beilzen hurried to her side, offering his support.

“No, this is your day of rest. You assist in the nursery more than anyone. I’ll ask Ceron to come and help. Enjoy your time with your husband.”

“Are you certain? It’s no trouble for me, and I enjoy the children so.”

“I’m certain. Perrin will see me to the nursery, will you not?” Hushar said, squeezing his hand.

“Never would I leave a beautiful lady unattended.”

Beilzen’s heart warmed, observing his father’s playful nature. Not since his mother was alive had he seen him this happy. For the first time in years, both men of House de Braose knew happiness. What was even more remarkable, was the forgiveness Hushar offered him. After the cruelty he’d shown to her, still she loved his father and forgave him.

“Will you join us for evening meal?” Beilzen asked.

“I would love to, but I need to stay in the citadel tonight,” Hushar said. “If the invitation yet stands on the morrow, it would be my pleasure.”

“The invitation is offered whenever you’d desire it,” Perrin said.

“Then, I shall see you all on the morrow.”

Jarin waved dismissively, refilling his cup. “Gwendolyn has no need of me. This meeting is of greater importance.”

“I don’t believe that your wife would feel the same. Nevertheless, I’ll speak no more of it. You’re a man grown and will make your own decisions…and mistakes.”

Jarin stared over at him until the door to the meeting chamber opened. Aronin moved slowly into the room, assisting Eithrig.

“It’s good to see you, Lord Raynes,” Jarin said, pulling out a cushioned chair. “Thank you for coming. We would have come to your home.”

“No. It was past time for me to leave my bed. I can’t grow stronger having Shyla catering to me. I need to stretch my legs and breathe the air of Yarah once more.”

“Indeed. I’m glad to see you out again,” Urdan said, gazing over to the wounded man. Eithrig was never large, but he was always toned and fit. Now, his skin appeared to sag, and his face was sunken. Dark circles surrounded his pale eyes that seemed only half-open, and though his hair had begun to grow again, it was patchy and thin. Urdan could only shake his head, saddened at the state of the once-handsome young man.

“Is there any more that you can tell us?” Urdan asked. “I know that you’re still healing, but if you can recall additional details, it could be of great assistance.”

“I’ve had nothing but time awaiting my leg to heal, but I can’t recall anything else. Molag wanted everyone to know that he’d perpetrated the attack,” Eithrig said, wiping sweat from his brow.

Urdan flinched, noticing the crooked fingers that had been broken during the vicious attack.

“What about their voices?” Jarin asked. “Did you recognize any of them?”

“No. I heard them, but it was as a distant memory warped by time. They did as Molag commanded. And—and—” He shook his head.

“Tell them, Eithrig. Tell them what you told me.”

“No one will believe, Aronin, just as you didn’t believe, but my eyes didn’t show false. Even with the passing of the seasons, it remains unchanged.

“Molag, he—he isn’t the same as he was. The Zaxson speaks true. There was something else, something more powerful, it seemed. Evil.”

Urdan and Jarin exchanged a look. “Evil? What’s that to mean?”

“His eyes, Caretaker,” Aronin said. “Molag’s eyes appeared to shift or change.”

“How?” Jarin asked. “How is such a thing possible?”

“It’s possible because my cousin is right. Pentanimir warned us of this darkness within Molag. The council scoffed, but he was right. I don’t doubt Eithrig or Pentanimir. Molag went to Sanctium, and when he returned, he wasn’t the same.”

“Even if we believe such stories, what does it mean?” Urdan asked.

“It means that we’re in more danger than we believed. Already Molag has attacked a Chosen guard and left him for dead. The half-human priest saved his life, and now, Nigel hides in the citadel, petrified to face Molag again. He also killed the former Cha Asham. Each time Molag attacks, he leaves the burn on the chest of his victims. Molag knows how to wield a sword, but he was no match for Nigel Branston. I trained with him in Yarah and know of his prowess.”

“All right…all right,” Urdan conceded. “What about this shift?”

“Molag’s eyes,” Aronin continued. “They weren’t pale like the Nazilians, not always. Eithrig, you said they whited completely over, and when they did, his strength increased. Molag has forever been a nasty sort, but even he couldn’t have committed such monstrous acts.”

Urdan glanced at Eithrig, seeing him nodding with every word. “Then what are we to do? The guards are stretched thin as it is. No one knows where Molag is hiding, and many are still shielding him from capture.”

“I’ve already made a move in that direction,” Aronin said.

“Move? What move?” Jarin asked.

“The Jasiri.”

“The warriors the Zaxson recruited?”

“One and the same.”

“Aronin, we agreed not to include such men in this search,” Urdan said. “The people of Yarah won’t be pleased. There are no humans residing in the village, not anymore. We can’t bring these men here, not even in aid to us. What little support we do have will dwindle when more learn of this.”

“On this, we don’t agree. All we have learned is where Molag has been, not where he is. The information gathered only leads us to him after the fact. I’ve learned about these Jasiri and know they’ll be of great assistance. Albeit, my cousin believes as you, but I pray he has a change of mind.”

“To what end, Lord Thaon?”

“To the end of Molag Bomgaard!” Aronin said, louder than he’d intended. “The Jasiri are already here, yet no one has taken notice. They’re patrolling the wood and the borders of Nazil alike.”

“No guard has reported seeing them,” Jarin said.

“They’re here, Aronin?”

“Indeed. Soon Molag will be apprehended.”

Eithrig nodded with a crooked, pained smile.

Before Urdan could protest, there was a light tapping on the door. He sighed, moving to answer it.

“Do you have need of me, my wife?” Urdan said.

“No. It’s our son that I need.”

“Me?” Jarin’s brow knitted, walking to the door. “You need me, Mother?”

“Yes, Jarin.” Eira smiled. “Jordan is here.”

“Jordan?”

“Yes, your daughter. She’s here, and Gwendolyn is waiting for you.”

“A daughter?”

“Congratulations, my son,” Urdan said, clapping him on the back.

Jarin stared blankly, trying to hide his disappointment.

“Not a son?”

“No, mayhaps next time,” she said. “Come, your wife awaits.”

Jarin feigned a smile, embracing his mother. “Soon. This meeting is of great importance, Mother, and isn’t at an end. Tell Gwendolyn of my love, and that I’ll come to her as soon as I’m able.”

“All right,” she said, accepting his offered kiss and leaving.

“A granddaughter! My first! Oh, this is news to celebrate, Jarin.”

Jarin accepted the clap on his back by Aronin, forcing another smile. When he retook his seat, his thoughts turned to Sahma.

“The council will arrive soon, and I’m certain they’ll be pleased to see you, Eithrig,” Urdan said, bringing Jarin from his inner thoughts.

“Gods,” he breathed, sliding away, and falling on his back.

Hibret winced, resting her head on his chest.

“Your passion has grown as has the strength of your movements.” She winced again, trying to find comfort on the bed. “I’m going to need another herbal soak and maybe a tincture.”

“Don’t I please you?”

“Of—of course. It isn’t that. It’s, well you’ve never been as aggressive as you have recently. Your appetite has increased, and your preference in positions has changed. I miss looking into your eyes as we take pleasure in each other.”

He glanced down at her, drawing her nearer. He tried to control his urges when making love to her, but not everything could be contained. It wasn’t satisfying to him. He needed Thalassa.

“I thought that you’d enjoy the change.” He lied. “At times, it’s difficult to control myself when we’re making love. Did I hurt you?”

Hibret shook her head, still feeling the piercing pain. “The—the pleasure outweighs any discomfort. I—I’m just happy that I can still excite you so. It’s been so long since you’ve wanted to make love. Now that your interest has returned, mayhaps I’ll soon be with child.”

“Yes, I hope the same,” he said, lifting her head for a kiss.

“There are so many children in the citadel now. I love to help take care of them, but I wish to have one for you, Wosen. An heir.” She smiled. “Don’t you want the same?”

“I do, more than you know. For now, I’ll enjoy the pleasure of the attempt.”

“As will I. It’s difficult to believe that Sahma will soon have a child. She’s grown so much since Bandari. Ahvixx has brought her so much joy.”

“They are truly blessed,” he said, hearing both her joy and sorrow.

“What about Dalia?” she asked, propping up on an elbow. “To be able to have a child after being barren is remarkable, especially considering what Beilzen suffered. Such blessings.”

“They are, but the Guardians have blessed us as well.” Wosen closed his eyes, as the shame cascaded through him.

“We have, I’m just getting anxious. It isn’t complaint I offer. Mayhaps it’s due to learning about Thalassa’s pregnancy. I can’t wait until we can share such news.”

His eyes popped open, widening. “Thalassa? She’s pregnant?”

“You haven’t heard? Ahvixx told her that she’s having twins.”

“Two?” Wosen breathed, sitting up in the bed. He ran his fingers through his hair, trying to mask his shock.

“Yes, two.”

“When? Wh—when are they due?”

“It isn’t certain. Giving the time of Jahno’s leave, Hushar estimates within the next six full moons.” She grabbed his arm, pulling him back beside her. “Isn’t it exciting? Already her belly swells.”

“Twins, two babes, two.” His voice cracked. “It—it is exciting. Thalassa is—is like a sister to me.”

“Wosen? What’s the matter?”

“Nothing—no—nothing. I’m fine.” He kissed her cheek, sliding from beneath her. “I—I need to train before my duty begins.”

“Again? All you’ve done recently is train. I’ve barely had any time with you, Wosen. I only see you, well, when you want to make love. And that hasn’t been so until recently. You promised that we’d spend more time together.”

“I know, my love, but it’s necessary. You know the dangers that we’re facing. Everyone must be ready, and me, most of all. Pentanimir relies on my ability to assist with training. I’ll return early, I promise.”

Hibret nodded, watching him wash and dress.

“We’ll take evening meal in our chambers, all right. We haven’t done that in some time. Would you like that?” he asked, taking a seat beside her.

“Yes. That would be nice, Wosen.”

He noticed her forlorn expression and drew her in for a passionate kiss. “I love you. Tonight, we’ll try again, and I won’t turn from you as your body trembles beneath me.”

After he’d left their chamber, he could no longer think about his wife. He loved Hibret, but Thalassa occupied his thoughts. Since Jahno’s return, he’d barely seen her, and his body craved their closeness. Even more so, he needed to learn about the babes—his children.

With that thought, he increased his pace. He didn’t know how to approach or what to say when faced with her. She had already told him of the possibility. Now, to keep such news from him was unthinkable. The children were his.

“Two babes,” he whispered, quickening his pace.

For three suns, the men had trekked toward the Dessalonian Mountains. This was the only threshold unrestricted to the Ohor’s passage. Pentanimir hadn’t wished the men to leave Nazil, but he wasn’t aware of the Ohor, or the impact they’d made on Faélondul centuries past.

They’d met with the brothers Xaahn near Rhoyden, and Shintao and Zol stayed close, keeping watch over the men. When dealing with such beings, precautions were necessary. The Ohor valued the numerous lands more than they did those inhabiting them.

“Are you certain?” Turahn asked.

“I am,” Ahvixx said, fording the small stream. “Here, the connection is strongest and their passage uninhibited. The shifts not only affect the people of the lands, they affect the lands themselves. The Ohor are attuned to this, even more so than you or I.”

“Malachi spoke much the same before my leave of K’ohshul. The Drah’kuus have known the beings throughout time, but always at the whim of the Ohor. It’s been centuries since they’ve crossed the threshold in aid of the mortals.”

Ahvixx nodded. “Much will be different with what we might soon face. The realms are no longer aligned, and the shifts permeate across the lands and beyond. I can feel it.”

“Will you inform the Zaxson of their presence?”

“Only if it becomes necessary to do so. The Zaxson and Caretakers are preparing to combat the wraith. They can do little and less regarding the Ohor. I don’t feel they could withstand much more than has already been thrust upon them. We alone will bear this burden, Uzon. The AsZar has regained her strength, and will aid in this.”

“As will the others.”

Hearing the falls’ melodic cadence fade, Turahn and Ahvixx paused near the tree line, examining their surroundings. The Dessalonian Wood was eerily quiet, and that caused them to hold in place. Turahn slid his cowl away, and set the haversack on the ground beside them.

Both could feel a presence—the wood’s vims shifting like the winds. When Turahn sensed Ahvixx’s thoughts, the Uzon inclined his head, inviting the merge.

Ahvixx’s eyes bedimmed as he searched the wood. Releasing a stuttered breath, his stance tautened, feeling the increased awareness from their merge. Nodding to Turahn, Ahvixx motioned northward, severing their connection.

For nearly half a glass, they trekked north, until the sound of rustling trees caught their attention.

Turahn shielded his eyes, staring into the darkening distance. As the sun descended behind the mountains, a warm zephyr swirled around the two.

They were coming.

Neither of the men spoke, observing the shifting trees as rhythmic pulses vibrated the ground beneath them.

Turahn flinched, feeling his stance falter. This connection was disparate from the last. Ahvixx wasn’t drawing from or sharing Turahn’s energy. Ahvixx was offering a glimpse—an image of the wood as he saw it. The luminescence was nearly blinding until the light dissipated, rippling toward the shifting trees.

With labored breaths, Turahn focused his mind, adjusting to the intensity of the sight. Though his eyes were closed, his vision was amplified. His sight was different now. He could see through the trees, past the hills, and even through time, it seemed. The tapered view was more like peering through a distorted tunnel: a tunnel that reached beyond the mortal, encompassing all epochs, realms, and beyond.

Time was not time: it shifted from what was, to what would be, to where their corporal forms stood. All the while, the tunnel continued to waver, ever changing. As his breathing began to calm, the perceptions became coherent. Ahvixx’s thoughts became his own, both harmonic and congruous. Mere words couldn’t adequately convey what was imparted through their coalescence.

Turahn sorted through the impressions, compartmentalizing what was past, focusing on the present. Then, he saw it. He stared at the enrobed figure, ambling through the dense wood.

It carried a pole or staff, reminiscent of the dark bark found in the Animus Wood. Sparkling at its top sat the radiant depiction of a full moon with two crescents adorning its sides.

Turahn twitched. A glint from the scythe attached to its waist, capturing his attention. The multitude of amulets encompassing it glittered with a kaleidoscope of colors, bedighting the chest covering portraying juxtaposed trees.

The figure continued forward, hovering above the ground, and upraising a hand, commanding the foliage to give way to its passage. The glyphs down its right hand and arm flared then, emitting a burst of energy.

No one had seen an Ohor in centuries. They had remained in the Otherlands, isolated and shielded from the maleficence besetting the light world.

The Ohor didn’t serve the Guardians or any known gods. Albeit, they acknowledged their divinity, and assisted them when it was beneficial to the Ohor.

Their place was beyond known lands, and their existence depended upon the balance of spirit and their connection with the natural. To the Ohor, spirits dwelled in all things. Thus, all things had power.

The Ohor halted, kneeling close to the ground. After sifting through the loose dirt, it raised a finger to its mouth, causing a near blinding illumination beneath its cowl.

Once the light bedimmed, it slid the cowl away.

Turahn’s head cocked, scrutinizing the figure closely. He hadn’t expected the Ohor to be female. In all previous occurrences, only males bore the Cyiir mark.

The Ohor’s hair was shorn on both sides, with glyphs extending from her forehead crest to her cheeks, and on each side of her head. Miir stones chimed softly, fastened to the ends of her raven hair. When she looked at the two, her crimson eye shimmered, whereas the emerald one remained dim, as the glyphs pulsed, causing her honeyed-colored skin to glisten. The Ohor’s lithe frame gave little hint to the power the Cyiir’s possessed. To most, she’d appear as a young girl, but Turahn and Ahvixx were aware that she was as aged as the wood itself.

“You are Ohor,” Turahn said.

“Are we not all Ohor, Uzon? This is who we are. ‘Tis who we have always been,” she said, striking her staff to the ground, sending surging waves of energy beneath their feet. Before either could respond, vines erupted from the ground, entangling their ankles.

When Ahvixx’s eyes brightened, she glided forward, meeting his stare. “Do you fear me, Ke’ohnzi?” she asked, with a thick, watery accent.

“I do not fear the Cyiir of Ohor. You’re no threat to Faélondul nor those who inhabit it.”

“You are certain of this? The ones afore you have feared and with good cause. Do you think yourself superior?”

Ahvixx didn’t flinch. “It wasn’t fear, Ohor. We recognize your significance and your power. The Ohor do not destroy. You’re no enemy to the Guardians or those of Afferea.”

“And what of you, Uzon? Malachi has shielded the threshold from the Ohor.” The vines crept further up their legs as she moved closer.

“Drah’kuu Malachi does not fear you. He understands your nature, as do I. He won’t allow the disruption. You offer nothing to aid in this, and there’s much to prepare.”

A grin creased her lips. “‘Tis more than you know.” Ohor rested a hand on the tree, closing her eyes as the glyphs pulsed. “The effects of the shift penetrate all about us. This wood is ancient and wise, just as the seven you now worship. You do not know because you do not hear. Dessalonia has called out to us.”

“You are aware of what’s awakened?” Ahvixx asked.

“Indeed, Conduit, as you should be. Albeit, your paltry intellect inhibits true understanding. ‘Tis there, yet you do not see,” she said, noticing subtle movement in the distance. “The wood’s pleas ring loudly in our ears. Unlike the mortals inhabiting these lands, the woods are pure and uncorrupted.”

“Not all mortals are as such,” Ahvixx said, as the vines crept further up his torso. “The Guardians work to protect all life in the lands, as you stay far removed from it.”

“The lands themselves are all that concern the Ohor. Those poisoning it do not,” Ohor said, outstretching her arm, causing the intricate glyphs to glow. When Ahvixx’s eyes glimmered, she shifted, sending a burst of energy behind them, ensnaring Shintao and Zol.

“The Syahndruans are powerful, but for this, more will be needed,” she said. “The Ohor will not permit this coming darkness to befoul the purity of that we protect. Your Guardians continue to weaken as they remain here in aid to inferior beings. Their children have returned, and so should they, to the spirit realm.

“The encasements they inhabit obscure all that they are…what they have always been. More Affereans will be sacrificed in order to sustain them. They are the truest spirit and energy, and cannot remain in this realm. Their essence dwells within all things, and must be set free. You do more harm by not releasing them. The lives of mortal beings are infinitesimal compared to that of the spirits.”

The men exchanged a look, both understanding the Guardians true nature. They were also aware that the Guardians’ time among them would be short. Faélondul was on a different plane than their true form could inhabit. Remaining in Afferea lessened both the Guardians’ strength and their abilities.

“The Guardians will return to their home as they always have. Unlike the Ohor, they won’t leave us defenseless as those of the nether realms seek to destroy us,” Ahvixx said.

“If the darkness is summoned, we will return.”

“Mah’saahc has already chosen a conduit. The darkness surrounds us.”

The Ohor replaced her cowl as the vines encircled Turahn and Ahvixx’s necks. “There are darker entities than she attempting to breach the thresholds, Conduit. An aperture has formed where eyes do not see. Your Guardians should commune with the natural and learn of it. As one, they would see. Separate, their connection diminishes.

“The realms are no longer aligned,” she said, glancing from one to the other. “You feel the imbalance, yet do not understand the true implications of it. ‘Tis not only Sanctium where the threat arises, but also in the Shadokyn and beyond.”

As Ahvixx attempted to speak, the vines tightened around his throat, cutting off his words. The Ohor rapped her staff to the ground, exposing the glyphs on her arm. She raised a hand, resting it on the ancient tree. With a flash of light, the trunk rippled as waves of energy emanated from within.

Allister turned as she treated the water for his bath. “Her husband?”

“I—I don’t want to overstep. It might not be my place to say.”

“Please, explain,” he said, undressing.

Nena glanced over at him, taking a steadying breath. “Well…sir…Lord Blalock convinced his lady wife not to come. I’m not certain of all they discussed, but he mentioned your preference for your youngest daughter: her half-sister.”

“What? I love all my daughters. I used to visit them often until they stopped responding to my requests.”

“I don’t know, milord, not truly. I can only speak of what I heard.”

When he neared the tub, she turned, allowing him to remove his trousers and submerge himself in the soothing, scented bath.

“I’ll leave you to your privacy.”

“No,” he said, quickly. “I mean, please remain. I’d enjoy your company.”

Nena nodded, bringing the stool near the deep tub. She grabbed the brush, rubbing the soap on the bristles. As she passed it over his shoulders, he craned around to look at her.

“I didn’t ask for you to stay as an attendant. I’m capable of bathing myself, you know? I’m merely two and fifty, not some old and feeble man.”

“No, milord. I don’t see you as feeble or old. Quite the opposite, I assure.”

Allister studied her face for a few moments more before sitting up, allowing her access to his back. He ruminated on her response, wondering if there was a greater meaning behind it. But when the brush glided in circles across his back, the pleasurable massage occupied his thoughts.

As she continued his bath, the two conversed, until his water grew cold. Allister didn’t feel uncomfortable or reticent unclothed before her, not like when she’d offered him the first massage. Whether he’d grown accustomed to her presence or something more, he wasn’t certain. Either way, Hushar had been right. Spending time with Nena helped ease the loneliness and loss he felt.

Allister had begun talking about Nikolina, too. Instead of those memories eliciting sorrow, he spoke of the joyous times in their life. He still was aggrieved and blamed himself for her death, but he could smile now when talking about her, focusing on their love.

“Let me help you out before you catch a chill,” Nena said, holding up a large towel. When he pushed up from the tub, she turned, wrapping it around him when he drew near.

Allister leaned forward, sniffing her hair and neck as she secured the towel. “Lavender,” he said, inhaling again.

“I have an oil that I use after I bathe. It was my mother’s favorite, and is mine, too.”

“Mine as well,” he reminded her, smiling as she stepped away.

“I’ll leave you to dress and start preparing the meal when I return. Dalinda told me what was needed from the market. I’d like to have everything taken care of before she returns on the morrow.”

“Wait,” he called out before he even knew he was speaking.

“Yes, milord.”

“Allister, please call me Allister.”

“I—I wouldn’t wish to offend.”

“It would be no offense. You’re here as my guest, Nena, not as an attendant.”

“As you say, milord. I mean, Allister.”

“Good. Now, allow me time to dress and I’ll accompany you to the market.”

“But there’s no need. Dalinda told me what to purchase and I read well. I’m used to making purchases at the market.”

“It isn’t a question of your ability,” Allister said, drying his hair. “There’re some new merchants, and I was planning on the trip myself. If you wouldn’t mind, I’d like to purchase a few items for you.”

“Me?”

“Yes. You’ve been here for some time, and I’ve only seen you wearing the same three dresses. Is this not so?”

She gazed down at her attire. “I wash my dresses when I bathe each night and hang them to dry, milord.”

He smiled, pulling on his trousers, and continuing to dress.

“It’s Allister, Nena. I’m merely speaking of your need of suitable attire. Merchants from all over Faélondul are coming to Nazil now, and they have some fine wares. If you’d rather some fabric to sew what you’d like, I know a merchant who always has the most beautiful material.

“You refuse to accept any coin for all you do here, even though I tell you it isn’t necessary. So, this you’ll accept because I desire to make it so.” He grinned. “Or are you going to deny the wishes of an old man?”

It was Nena’s time to smile then. “I see only a handsome man before me. To whom do you refer?”

He laughed aloud for the first time in many full moons. “For that comment alone, my dear, I owe you at least two pairs of slippers,” he said. “Go now, and tell them to ready the cart. I’ll meet you very soon.”

“That decision doesn’t lie with us,” Danimore said. “It’s Thalassa’s alone.”

Pentanimir shook his head. “I disagree. Wosen is the children’s father, and Thalassa informed him of the same. She wasn’t certain then, but now Ahvixx has confirmed it. Wosen has a right to know.”

“He has the right, but we aren’t the ones that should tell him,” Temian said. “Thalassa must do this. We’ll be with her as she does so, but we can’t ignore the importance of this revelation. Not now.”

“What about Jahno and Hibret?” Danimore said. “What about their rights?”

Pentanimir and Temian regarded their brother, considering his statement, and the reason that he’d offered it. Danimore still suffered the guilt of keeping his violation from Zeta, and felt responsible for his son’s death. He didn’t want Thalassa to repeat his mistake. Had he been honest with his wife, mayhaps Godfrey would be alive.

“Dani, we don’t think the truth should be kept from either of them,” Temian said. “It would be wrong to allow such deception. Jahno is also our brother, and he’s suffered far too much without adding this. Once Ahvixx explains the circumstances regarding Thalassa’s pregnancy, Jahno will certainly forgive her. It will take time, but he loves our sister, and can forgive her this.”

Pentanimir stood, shaking his head. “It isn’t that simple.”

“What do you mean? How is it not?”

“Think, Brother. It isn’t only Jahno that we must consider. Hibret has been wanting a child and hasn’t been able to conceive. She’s surrounded by children in the citadel. Although she finds joy helping to care for them, it’s sorrowful as well. She and Arianna are the only two who haven’t yet conceived.”

“How can we not?” Danimore asked.

Pentanimir reached for a ewer of wine, pouring cups for each of them. “We need to come to a consensus, or at least, have something to offer our sister. She’ll be arriving soon, and we do nothing but disagree. If the babes were yours, Temian, and Hibret was their mother, would you want to know about your children or allow Wosen alone the role of father?”

That question set Temian back a step. There would be only one choice. He’d never allow his children not to know he was their father. It would be difficult, but he couldn’t sit idle while another man raised his children.

“I’d want my children to know me as their father. I’ve lived my entire life denied both my parents. The same wouldn’t be true for my children.”

Danimore and Pentanimir met his eyes, seeing the pain within them. They hadn’t forgotten the truths about their father. However, they didn’t consider the life Temian and Thalassa were forced to live without him. Even with Temian in Nazil, Manifir couldn’t acknowledge him as a son.

“Forgive me,” Pentanimir said. “I didn’t consider my words before I spoke them.”

“There isn’t anything to forgive or to change. I accepted my fate long ago,” Temian said, smiling wistfully. “My siblings and mother are with me now. I’ll enjoy what my life has become and leave the other far behind.”

Pentanimir nodded, turning when Thalassa entered the room. For the first time since learning of her pregnancy, she didn’t wear loose and concealing garb. With the fitted tulle gown she wore, the slight roundness of her abdomen was evident.

“Here, Sister,” Temian said, pulling out the chair.

She smoothed the long skirts, concealing the small protrusion.

“Have you reached a decision?” Temian asked.

“I don’t want to tell anyone but my husband. He doesn’t need to know about Wosen. I—I just need more time.”

“You’d have Jahno believe the babes are his?” Pentanimir asked, surprised.

“It wasn’t you, Thalassa,” Pentanimir said. “Ahvixx explained how the shift affected you. Don’t you believe that?”

“What truth?” Temian asked.

“The truth of my desire. The shift only brought forth what I was already feeling, the side of myself that I suppress and deny. Wosen has always been attractive to me, even in the mountains. He was scarred and tormented, but I was still attracted to him and wondered at the thought. Now, how could I face him or Hibret? When I see Wosen, I only picture him as he appeared in the practice chamber. The way he came to me, fought with me, aroused me, and pleased me most of all,” she confessed, lowering her eyes.

“Thalassa, lingering effects are still present,” Pentanimir said. “Ahvixx said they would dissipate in time. The residual traces attempt to free that which you suppress, weakening your resolve. You aren’t alone with such thoughts or desires,” he said, raising her face to his.

“They’re a part of each of us. Attraction is not a failing, it is an emotion reminding us of our humanity. The feeling alone isn’t the issue, only allowing those feelings to consume us, to cause us to act contrariwise to our nature, and disregard all that we know and those we love. This isn’t you nor Wosen. Without this…this shift, those feelings wouldn’t have manifested. You can’t torture yourself with what couldn’t be controlled.

“You’re aware of the cause now, but you fought against this long before. You wouldn’t allow the maleficence suffusing you to have control. Release this pain and guilt. Jahno will love your coming children just as he loves Suravi. Trust in his love for you.”

She embraced him then, allowing her tears to flow freely.

“Thalassa?” Jahno said, stepping into the room. “Thalassa, what’s wrong?”

Pentanimir kissed her, as Jahno came forward. He knelt in front of her, caressing her face.

“Please, what’s the matter? Tell me please?” Jahno whispered. When she didn’t answer, he looked at Temian instead.

“What’s happened? Thalassa hasn’t been herself of late. What have I done?”

“No. Not you, Jahno,” she said. “Never could it be you.”

He gently slid the fallen hair from her face. When she didn’t respond, he turned back to the brothers. “Please.”

Jahno’s heart quickened. “What must I know, Thalassa?”

“A—a lot has happened,” she said, wiping her eyes. “I wish that you’d never left me alone in Nazil. I need you with me, Jahno.”

“I’m sorry,” he said, enfolding her in his arms. “When next I leave, I’ll take you with me. I promise. I won’t leave you again, just please, tell me what’s wrong. If I don’t know, I can’t remove this pain from you.”

Pentanimir motioned to his brothers, and they moved away, taking their seats.

“The—the shift,” was all she could manage.

“The shift?” Jahno repeated, turning to the brothers. “Is she speaking of the shift created by the wraith?”

“She is,” Danimore said. “Ahvixx detected some residual energies here in the citadel.”

“Have the children been affected?”

“No,” Temian said, glancing at Thalassa.

“Then what?” Jahno asked. “What has this to do with you?”

“Jahno, there’s so much I need to tell you,” she said. “Just know: I’ve never loved anyone more than I love you.”

“I feel the same, Thalassa. I told you when first we met, and still it’s unchanged.”

“That’s my prayer. I don’t ever want to be without you.”

“Your prayer? Do I not show you my heart daily? Have I not expressed how deeply I love you, and how much you mean to me?”

“It isn’t that. I just…I…we…I need to tell you…” She took a deep breath, stifling her tears. “I—I know that I’ve been distant, but it’s due to nothing you’ve done. It’s what I’ve learned, what I’ve done—” She paused, struggling to say the words. “I feel as though I’m in a terrible dream from which I can’t awaken.”

“There isn’t anything you can’t share with me. Whatever has happened, we’ll overcome it, together.”

Thalassa took another deep breath, gliding Jahno’s hands near her midsection. “Ahvixx felt the energies of the shift because of me. When you left Nazil, the fracture in the seal widened. Though the Guardians contained the shift, it imbued me, and I wasn’t myself.”

“What’s that to mean? Are you all right? Do we need to send for Arinak?”

“No. Not as yet. We will travel to the wood, but not soon. Firstly, we must contend with the changes here.”

“There’s more? Please, if this has harmed you in any manner, please tell me.”

“Pregnancy? Thalassa, you’re with child? Your mother thought it would be at least several seasons before we could have another.”

“I’m going to have two babes, Jahno, not one.”

He caressed the small protrusion, feeling the truth in her words. “I feel them, Thalassa, I feel them!” he said, standing, and pulling her into a tight embrace. “We’ve been blessed with two? Gods, I love you, Thalassa. I love you. Why would you cry at such news? Did you think I’d be displeased?” he said, bringing her in for a kiss. “Never would it be so.”

“Jahno,” Temian said. “There’s more. Mayhaps you should sit.”

Jahno smiled, pulling out the chair for Thalassa and taking her hand. “What more is there to tell? I’ve never been happier than I am at this very moment.”

Thalassa glanced at her brothers and then met Jahno’s eyes. When she looked at him, a warmth filled her. His eyes sparkled, and when he smiled, it melted her waning resolve. She couldn’t tell him. She wouldn’t.

“When you left, I increased my training,” she said. “I know that you’d prefer I didn’t train so often, but I needed to aid Symeon, and I also trained with Wosen daily.”

“Daily? He’s much improved.”

“Yes. We sparred often, even more so than before your leave. When I learned about my pregnancy, I was afraid that my actions could’ve harmed the babes. I didn’t want to anger you, Jahno. I was foolish and should’ve taken greater care.”

The brothers were shocked, and their expressions didn’t hide it.

“Thalassa, you didn’t know. When you learned about it, you ceased your training, just as you did with Suravi. I wouldn’t have been angry. I knew of your prowess when I fell in love with you. This is part of who you are, and I’d never ask you to change it.” He lifted her hands to his lips. “I love you, Thalassa. All of you.

“Now, I think that you should rest. We’re due at the de Braose’s for evening meal. You look tired, and I’d have you well, all right? Come, I need to finish some work, and then I’ll have a bath drawn for you. You mustn’t over do.”

“I’d like that,” she said, following him from the room.

Wosen’s face burned. The envy and mounting resentment welling inside of him was almost debilitating. He didn’t understand why, and at that moment, it didn’t matter.

As she continued down the corridor, Wosen could see the evidence of her condition…of his children. When she passed where he was hiding, Wosen gripped her wrist, pulling her from the hall.

“Wosen?” she gasped, attempting to move away. “Let go of my wrist. You’re hurting me.”

He tightened his grip, drawing her nearer. “Not long ago you would’ve demanded more, or have you forgotten?”

“Not anymore,” she said, wrenching her arm free. “Did we not agree?”

“Agree? No. You commanded. You never asked for my opinion or my agreement.”

“What do you expect from me? You’ve learned about the shift, Wosen. That’s all it was. Don’t you understand that?”

“I don’t care about the shift. That isn’t why I’m here.”

“Then why, Wosen? Why?”

His expression turned cold, peering down at her womb. “When were you going to tell me?”

“Tell you what?”

Her eyes widened, pushing through the nearby door, and pulling him in behind her. After ensuring they were alone, she latched the door and turned to face him.

“Don’t!” she said. “I’m hiding nothing. Isn’t my condition obvious?”

Wosen scoffed. “Obvious? Yes, now that you’re wearing attire made for a woman and not a man.”

“Of what do you accuse?”

“Why did I have to learn about my children from Hibret? Why didn’t you come to me as soon as you knew? Did you think I wouldn’t be pleased to learn I’m going to be a father?”

“Have you lost your wits? You’ll be a father when Hibret bears your children.”

“Am I supposed to believe that Jahno is the father? That isn’t what you said after I made you squeal until you grew hoarse on the day of his return.” He stepped closer, staring down at her. “You don’t recall relishing my taste or how often you drank of me?”

In a blur, Thalassa’s hand shot up, slapping him hard across the face. Wosen rubbed his stinging cheek, grinning.

“Now, you remember,” he said, clutching both of her arms.

“Let go, Wosen. Release me now.”

“You tease me.” He tightened his grasp, biting and sucking her neck.

“I mean it. This isn’t a game. Please.”

“We never needed to beg each other before, nor do you have to now,” he said, clasping her wrists together while untying his laces.

“Wosen, no, stop this. I—” The skillful motion of his fingers silenced her. As his tongue tickled down her neck, Thalassa attempted to push away, only to be held in place by his steeling grasp.

“Please. Wosen. Not anymore,” she pleaded, trembling as his hand continued to work.

“I remember you saying the same in the practice chamber,” he breathed, enjoying the evidence of her arousal. “Again, your words have the desired effect.”

Wosen roughly spun her around, tossing her skirts up, and then slid into her warmth. Thalassa moaned, weakening from the intensity of their joining. When he bit her neck and shoulder, she called out despite herself.

“Jahno can’t please you the way I do,” he whispered, lifting her from the floor so she could feel all of him. She called out again as he stimulated every part of her all at once. The continuous eruptions of pleasure were both intoxicating and shameful. She couldn’t break free from his clutches, nor prevent her body from responding to his touch.

Wosen moaned with his completion, pulling her in closer and pleasing her again. When he leaned down, kissing her neck, he noticed that she was weeping.

“Thalassa? What’s wrong?”

“Is that all you wanted? Were you pleased?”

“Wh—What?” He asked confused, reaching out to her.

She shook her head, taking several steps back.

“Wait, please,” he said, quickly tying his laces. “Didn’t you want me to please you? I—I—I thought you wanted me, like—like before. I’d never hurt you, Thalassa, never.”

“Haven’t you heard anything I’ve said? We can’t do this anymore. I’m pregnant, and I love my husband. Why can’t you understand that? Please leave us to our happiness. Please.”

His visage displayed the pain and confusion of that statement. “I didn’t know. Please, believe me. I was upset that you didn’t tell me about the babes, but that isn’t why. When you brought me here and then locked the door…” he shook his head. “I didn’t know. You’ve done the same before, and I thought you wanted me just as I did you.”

She sighed, knowing he was right. Thalassa couldn’t blame him when her actions initiated the same in the past. She had to accept her part in his response.

“It isn’t your fault, but we can’t be together anymore. Jahno knows that I’m pregnant, but he doesn’t know of our betrayal. It was the wraith, Wosen. The feelings I have for you aren’t false, but I wouldn’t have ever acted on them without that influence. Neither of us could control our actions. That desire, that ache wasn’t our own, it was a manifestation of Mah’saahc’s influence. I understand this now, just as you should.”

She stared into his eyes, feeling the heaviness of those words. Not until that very moment did that truth penetrate so deeply. Mah’saahc had to be defeated lest the entirety of Faélondul would be corrupted by her maleficence.

“You believe what Ahvixx told us? All of it?”

“Ahvixx is a conduit for the Guardians. He has no reason to mislead us, Wosen.” She stepped forward, taking his hand. “In time, you’ll understand. It’s not me that you truly desire. It is your wife.”

Wosen stared off in contemplation, becoming overwhelmed by his emotions. “What have we done?” he muttered, staggering back. “Hibret would never understand this. She—she would never understand. I could’ve fathered the children that she’s been praying for.”

“You—you’re certain? There’s no doubt?”

“Ahvixx revealed that to me as well. My brothers are aware, and think I should tell Jahno.”

“They know?” he gasped.

“They don’t blame either of us, but we can’t hide this forever. For now, I don’t think we should speak of it. Mayhaps after the danger has passed, we can tell them both. I only hope that Hibret will be pregnant long before that time.”

Wosen reached his hand toward her and then stopped. “May I, please?”

She nodded, positioning his hand atop her abdomen. His eyes closed, caressing her gently.

“My children.” He smiled.