The Raging One: The Sundered Lands Saga, #1

Chapter 1

A gust of wind swept through the thick trees, shaking the clinging drops of rain free from the new leaves of the upper canopy to fall on the three riders far below. Dead leaves soaked from the early spring rains muffled the sounds of the horses' hooves as they picked their way along the narrow road. A forlorn howl nearby brought the mounts up short. The nervous horses pawed the ground, forcing their riders to take a moment to soothe the animals.

At least, two of the riders were soothing. Stupid beast! the middle rider seethed, jerking the horse's head around. The sharp movement caused the rider's hood to fall back and reveal a young blonde woman who was quite beautiful save for the scowl that twisted her delicate features. As if it is not already bad enough we must be out here, you must misbehave?

Relax, Journeyman Amelana. The lead rider lowered his hood, leveling a cold, disapproving look on the woman as the wind ruffled hair black as midnight. Making your beast thrash like it is wounded is a certain way to attract lupines. Is that your intent?

The woman looked up sharply, her pale blue eyes wide. She shook her head with tiny, furtive motions, loosening the reins immediately which allowed her mount to calm. Of course not, Ash. She averted her eyes from his darkening glare. I mean, Master Ash.

I did not think so. Ash looked to the third rider. Apprentice Terrence, is all well?

Terrence lowered his hood, glancing skyward with a troubled expression as he ran a hand through dirty blonde hair before giving his attention fully to his master. I am not sure, Master. Something doesn't feel right. Hesitantly, he added in answer to his master's expectant silence, Like there is something sucking the life from everything here.

Amelana made a disdainful gesture. Oh, don't be ridiculous. The only thing wrong here is these backwater people aren't civilized enough to build their roads up in the branches away from these filthy beasts. Terrence pressed his lips together, lowering his eyes.

I did not ask for your opinion, Ash stated coldly, deep azure eyes flashing with annoyance in the sunlight filtering through the leafy canopy. The woman flushed deeper and looked away at the pointedly annoyed expression Ash directed towards her.

Guiding his horse to join the young man, Ash stated with a kinder voice, You have good instincts, Terrence. You are right. He looked away, scanning the thicker brush that only partially obscured the huge roots that swelled as if they were giant legs. There is something in this area that is wrong. Something that is disrupting the natural order of things here.

Straightening with pride, Terrence started to open his mouth to speak when Amelana said petulantly, Master Ash, are you certain? Because I do not sense anything at all, and you know that Avarians are known for—

Looking annoyed, Ash interrupted the woman. Yes, I am well aware of what the Avarians are known for. Or did you forget that my master and guardian was Bennu Avarian?

The edge in his voice was not lost on the woman. Dropping the petulance, Amelana asked in exaggeratedly pleading tones, "Could you show me how to see what you see? You are my master, after all." She barely concealed a look of self-satisfaction when Ash turned his attention to her and away from Terrence.

Sighing softly, Terrence tucked his hands in his mage robe sleeves briefly. Watching Ash focus his attention on trying to instruct Amelana, the apprentice shook his head, riding towards the rise they had been approaching to wait for the pair. The sight that greeted Terrence made the young man's blood run cold.

A wagon rested on its side, surrounded by several mutilated bodies, both human and beast. In the midst of it all, a single, one-eyed lupine savaged the body of a man, wrenching an arm free, shaking it viciously before flinging it aside to tug at the other arm.

At first shocked at the unexpected sight, the apprentice mage realized what was wrong. It isn't eating him, Terrence whispered aloud to himself. He inhaled sharply when the creature, easily twice the size of a man, shifted to reveal a small, terrified child huddled against the bottom of the wagon behind the axle. Seeing Terrence, the child moved a little. He froze when the lupine raised its head sharply, snarling.

Master Ash! Terrence yelled, drawing the attention of both his master and the creature. Rabid lupine! Grabbing the reins, he kept his horse from bolting in terror as the blood-covered lupine focused its attention on the intruder. He raised his hand, speaking the arcane words of magic that directed a burst of wind that blew the maddened animal back several yards.

Hearing the thunder of hooves behind him, Terrence did not wait, urging his horse forward towards the toppled wagon. The horse skidded to a halt, nervously prancing as the lupine staggered to its feet, shaking its head. Come on! Terrence urged the child, leaning down and extending his hand to him. Hurry!

The lupine fixed a malevolent glare on Terrence with its one good eye. The apprentice could almost feel its fetid breath, even though it was several measures away. He looked at the frozen child, and closed his pale blue eyes a moment, expecting the beast to lunge onto him or his nervous horse.

Both lupine and humans flinched when Amelana's shrill scream filled the air. Making use of the distraction, Terrence willed the air behind the boy to push him close enough to catch him by the back of his tunic. Keeping a firm grip, Terrence raced the horse back towards his master.

With the maddened lupine pursuing his apprentice and the boy, Ash held both hands up, his voice harsh with the spell he gave voice to. Fur burst into flame, staggering the animal. It howled in enraged pain, but defiantly continued to follow.

Narrowing his eyes as the pressure in his skull increased painfully, Ash commanded the energy at the very heart of the matter around the animal. An embedded boulder shifted, shaking dirt loose as its shape altered and a stone spike erupted and impaled the lupine.

The lupine yowled, trapped in place by the bloodied shaft of rock protruding from its ribs. Despite the mortal wound, it was impossibly still alive. All three mages were taken aback by the look of intelligence behind its single eye as it raised its head to glower at them before the light of life finally faded and it went limp.

With the child clinging to him, Terrence went to his master as Ash staggered a few steps and caught himself against his apprentice's horse. Master? What... what was that? I have never seen an animal that... that took such pleasure in killing but not... not eating its kills. I thought it was rabid at first, but now...

Swallowing hard against the pain the manipulation of the fabric of the rock had caused him, Ash shook his head slightly, pressing his fingers against his temples. I do not know. But I have seen its like before.

Amelana inhaled sharply. If all lupines are like that, every one of them should be killed! she declared staunchly.

Ash squinted sideways at Amelana, scolding her sharply. That is not our way, Journeyman! It is as much our duty to protect the balance of the land as it is to protect our people. The lupines are part of the land. Taking a deep breath, he turned his attention to the devastation. And it has not been only lupines that display such irregular behavior. There are other beasts that have gone rogue similarly. His words stopped as he looked at his apprentice, expression hardening into an impassive mask.

Terrence quietly hushed the child as he sobbed, tightening his hold on the mage. Ash watched his apprentice for a moment, and then looked at Amelana with some displeasure. Terrence, attend to the child. With grudging reluctance, Ash turned to Amelana. Journeyman, I will need your assistance seeing to the deceased. He put a hand to his temple as pressure of the magic backlash increased. The chlayxin is particularly sharp again.

Amelana looked horrified. "You want me to handle dead bodies? But I am senior! Terrence should be the one who- She went silent at the hard look in Ash's deep azure eyes nearly black with pain and irritation, swallowing nervously. Y-yes, Master Ash," she said meekly, dismounting her horse and walking reluctantly towards the bodies.

With a sense of guilt for the difficulty that Amelana gave Ash, Terrence spoke. Master, perhaps it might be better if— He fell silent when Ash shook his head.

I have no faith Amelana would not traumatize that child more. Ash's voice was low and bitter as he looked after the woman. I have every faith in you. Putting a hand on Terrence's knee, his voice reflected much more patience and approval. You did well, Apprentice. I am proud of you.

Terrence flushed, squaring his shoulders with pride. He looked down at the trembling child he held. Master? What now?

This is no anomaly. We're here because there have been enough reports about these strange happenings that Edai Magus Ellis Avarian insisted someone investigate. Ash continued to rub his temples. And the rest of the Edai Tredecima agreed because they considered it a suitably menial task to occupy me, not because they have taken any of the warnings I have given seriously.

But you are the Illaini Magus! Terrence exclaimed, affronted on his master's behalf. "You were chosen by the goddess herself to serve all Forenta! You shouldn't be answering to—"

Ash managed a faint, affectionate smile for Terrence. Perhaps not, Apprentice. However, being god chosen does not erase the fact I am still just an unwanted orphan in the eyes of many. They simply cannot or will not accept a lowborn could be their equal, much less better than any of them.

The Illaini Magus sighed, shaking his head again. It is just as well I was here. Ash's expression grew troubled. Something is definitely not right. I almost wasn't able to stop it. The senior mage ignored his apprentice's shocked expression. It felt different like the others. Beyond the life energy that we Forentan mages have dominion over.

But what else could it have been, Master? Terrence wondered, soothingly stroking the child's hair until he had finally calmed. The only other type of magic I know of is— Light blue eyes widened as his voice lowered to a bare whisper. Temporal energy?

Perhaps, Ash admitted. The first priority right now is to put these poor souls to rest. Sourly watching the journeyman as she walked aimlessly among the carnage, doing nothing productive, he muttered, Apparently such a task is beyond Amelana to manage without guidance. He looked back to Terrence. Find out what you can from the boy so we can return him to his family. Then we can determine if we need to contact the Fortress of Time.

The Edai Tredecima won't like it if the Guardians become involved, Terrence stated unnecessarily. Especially the Se'edai Magus.

That is not for you to concern yourself with, Apprentice, Ash said tersely, more irritated with the prospect of confronting the Forenten mage council's leader than Terrence's words. Sensing Terrence flinch at the censure in his voice, Ash closed his eyes a moment, regretting the sharpness to his words briefly before he had to turn his attention to Amelana and her ineptitude.

Chapter 2

SUN streamed into the alcove, flecks of dust sparkling like tiny motes of gold in the warm light. Seated on the ground, a woman with light brown hair drawn back in intricate braids focused on the mirror-like surface of the pool that resided in the alcove's center. She jumped when something crashed echoingly on the stone floor down the corridor, her turquoise eyes going very wide.

Her tension was not lost on the other in the room. Relax, Taylin. The shadowed figure moved into the light, lowering himself to one knee. Grey hair streaked with brown fell forward as the older man placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. You are defeating yourself with your own doubts.

Taylin lowered her eyes, cheeks coloring in shame. Dusvet Almek, I do not think I can scry water, either. I can barely scry crystal. She looked up sadly. And when I try to scry flame or wind, I am not sure if I really see anything or I just want to see something so much that...

Almek smiled gently and patted her shoulder before settling himself to her right by the pool. The wind blows whispers from the past, and the flame illuminates the darkness of the future. It is not uncommon for young Guardians of Time to focus on everything but the present. Especially those born of Sevmana or Forenta.

The woman's light tan cheeks darkened to a deep red. Nervously fidgeting with her pale grey robes, she pointed out, I am not that young, Dusvet—

Oh, do stop being so formal, Almek chided mildly. He touched his right cheek below two slashes of color, one a vivid blue, the other a softer green, both shimmering as if they were polished metal. One day, the Timeless One will accept you as one of Her chosen, just as She had chosen me, and you will earn your colors as I had.

I am already a master of the healing magicks, Taylin argued. There is no such thing as anyone possessing the ability to touch more than one energy.

Almek regarded Taylin with disapproval. You've been listening to Unsvet Dremmen again. As the woman looked away, the Dusvet stated with tried patience, "You are my student, not his. And you were deemed worthy by the Unseen to continue your training. Are you going to believe Dremmen over Our Lady's servants?" Taylin shook her head mutely, eyes averted.

Taking a deep breath to push his irritation with the other Guardian away, Almek took Taylin's hand, squeezing lightly in reassuring encouragement. I now suspect there have been many who were gifted in more than one talent over the centuries. But given only Guardians are blessed... His smile faltered a little. Or cursed with living longer than those who are not Guardians, latent talents were ignored.

But you saw it in me. Taylin's voice was hushed, her eyes staring at the water that shivered with the light touch of a breeze over its surface. Even though I am just a healer.

Snorting, Almek shook his head once. There is nothing 'just' about your strength, Guardian Adept. His voice took on an edge. Tell me. Who else among the Zeridian Temple can mend bodies riddled with old, poorly healed wounds that others declare impossible? I watched you heal that child who would not have survived to adulthood but for you.

No one else can heal flawed and aged injuries as I can, Dusvet. But—

But nothing! Almek's pale blue eyes flashed with his vehemence. Most who have no ability to manipulate any energies cannot see their flow at all, save for when a strong healer works. Even a layman can see healing as a white glow then. But you.

He turned her palm upwards. When you turned from the fresh wounds to the old ones, your energy waxed from white to the blue only seen in lightning. He added more quietly, Only seen in Guardians when time is manipulated. Releasing her hand, he waved towards the pool. Now use the discipline you learned as a healer and quiet your mind. He paused a moment as she settled again. Try again.

Obediently, Taylin turned her gaze towards the mirror-like surface of the pool, staring unblinkingly as she meditated.

Almek frowned as uncharacteristic tension lines appeared on the healer's expression after several minutes. He moved to her when outright terror filled Taylin's expression, the woman frozen in fear as if she could not look away from what she saw. When the vision broke, she turned to flee.

Catching her in his arms, Almek held her tightly as she sobbed, clinging to him. What did you see, Taylin? he asked as she calmed.

I don't... I don't know, she stammered as she struggled to regain control of herself. I saw... huge trees. So massive it looked like evening, though I know... I know it was noon.

It sounds like the forests of Forenta, Almek stated, his calm helping to sooth Taylin's terror. What else?

Swallowing, Taylin stepped away from Almek, wringing her hands nervously. I saw a one-eyed wolf. A-A lupine. But it-it wasn't a lupine. It was something...horrible... She shook her head sharply. It... it attacked— She covered her mouth with her hands, trying to repress her emotional reaction to the horror she had seen. It tore them apart. The people. And it-it seemed to eat them. But not their bodies. It ate their... their souls!

Almek's eyes widened momentarily before he frowned grimly. A time shifter. He started to say something more when both their attentions were drawn to voices raised in anger.

It is not 'nothing,' Dremmen! a male bellowed impatiently. You have no right to—

The Dusvet Guardian will not be disturbed with your trivialities, Unsvet Jaison! The responding male voice was higher pitched and nasally. The speaker grunted as if he were shoved. Unsvet Bella! How dare you touch me! Get back here this instant!

A woman with olive skin and dark brown hair drawn back into snug braids appeared at the alcove entrance, looking over her shoulder defiantly. Her grey garb designed more for forest excursions rather than the more traditional looser robes most Guardians wore, she reached up to adjust the unstrung bow strapped across her back.

What are you going to do? You can't send me out on patrols, she stated derisively. You are not the Dulain, you are merely an assistant with little if any real authority, Dremmen. Goddess knows why Tyrsan keeps you, she added sourly under her breath as she turned towards Almek, the single slash of metallic sea green under her right eye that marked her as an Unsvet Guardian flashing as brightly as her dark green eyes in the light.

Almek casually put himself between Taylin and the alcove's archway as two others followed Bella. The two men scowled darkly at each other while Bella stepped forward and bent her knee as she took Almek's hand, touching her forehead to its back. Unsvet Bella, he greeted formally.

Dusvet Almek, the woman replied as she straightened. The moment of serene formality was banished as she jabbed a finger towards the shorter, fairer of the two men. That pompous ass is being difficult! Jaison has a legitimate reason to—

Dremmen's seething bordered on incoherence. You should be whipped for your disrespect and lack of decorum, Vodani, the fair man stated darkly, crossing his arms. Why the Dulain puts up with you is beyond me. If it were up to me— The taller, darker man grabbed the smaller man's wrist in a merciless grip, scowling at him. The slash of orange that marked him an Unsvet darkened to an ugly shade, catching the light brightly against his dusky hued skin. Unsvet Jaison!

Jaison shoved Dremmen away roughly. "You will do nothing, or do you wish the Dusvet to learn of all your other little tricks?"

Flustered further, Dremmen's eyes widened at the threat, glancing at Almek's slowly arching eyebrow. Flushing and averting his eyes, Dremmen muttered and excused himself from the alcove hastily.

Jaison, Almek greeted as the younger man mimicked Bella's earlier gesture and bent his knee. "You should not antagonize Dremmen. Either of you. He will make your lives more difficult if neither I nor Tyrsan are here to keep him in check."

He already does, Dusvet, Bella said with a gusty sigh, waving her hand. That Forentan-born ass was trying to keep Jaison from talking to you ever since you returned with your healer. The Vodani woman looked over at Taylin, then away dismissively. He kept going on about propriety and how lowly we were in comparison with the only surviving two-color Guardian and—

Almek frowned at the news. I will speak with Dulain Unsvet Tyrsan about that. Dremmen needs to let go of his Forentan obsession with social hierarchy. It has no place among Guardians. Especially as you were both my students. Earning your colors does not suddenly end our ties to each other.

Do not worry about it. Lips twisting into a rueful smile, Jaison shrugged one shoulder. I grew up with prejudice, being a Vodani raised in Desantiva. At least the mundanes in the four territories of the Sundered Lands still see us as infallible.

The Dusvet sighed, shaking his head. What was it you wished to see me about, Jaison?

The shadows in the river of time, Jaison replied simply.

Almek inhaled sharply. You have finally seen them as well, then?

"I have been seeing them, Dusvet. Jaison held his hands out to his sides. Since shortly after you mentioned sensing the aberrations before you left on your last journey. It took me months to get past Dremmen to speak with the Dulain finally. Dremmen is of the mind if he can't sense something, then it simply does not exist, and no one else should be bothered by falsehoods."

And you, Bella? Almek asked the Vodani woman as he studied her when she averted her eyes from his.

I have not seen them. But I have sensed them. Bella's flippant demeanor became very serious. But it is like trying to focus on something perpetually at the corner of your eye.

Almek pressed his lips together, pensive, his eyes falling on Taylin. He turned back towards the pool. Come, Taylin. Share your vision with us.

What? Taylin went pale, staring at the older man. B-but I can't...! I-I... She turned away, hugging herself. I am afraid to see it again, Dusvet.

Bella tsked as she moved to sit across from Taylin's place by the pool. Oh, come now. You are an Adept Elite. A senior student. It could not be that bad. How horrible could it possibly be if you have not earned your colors yet!

Jaison frowned as he studied Taylin and put a hand on the healer's shoulder. Bella, shut up for once. You're acting like Dremmen now. The archer scowled at Jaison, but kept quiet.

Taylin turned a grateful look up to Jaison before taking a deep breath and returning to the pool. Kneeling, she extended her cupped hands to Almek, letting him cup hers and guide them into the cold water. I just... I just have to remember? Even though it is now in the past?

Almek smiled faintly. Time is unique. Past, future, and present are conventions we mortals have to understand how it flows.

Each of the essential elements can be used to see any point in time, but it is through water that we may share our visions and memories with others. Jaison settled with crossed legs and his hands on his knees, meeting Taylin's eyes as he spoke. It is simply easier to see one facet of time through one than the others.

Master's pet, Bella muttered affectionately to the other Unsvet, smiling more when he pointedly ignored her.

Water is Her favored element, Almek said, letting the conversation continue so Taylin could relax more. Because it resembles time so closely, able to flow in all directions, change its state, being subtle or not in its effects. It is that nature that allows us of Guardian talents to share memories.

Glancing to the Unsvets, Almek nodded slightly before addressing Taylin again. Now, share your memory with us of what you saw earlier, Taylin. Remember it is merely a memory in time now. Quietly, the pair of Unsvets slipped their hands into the pool as well.

Yes, Dusvet. Stilling her trembling, Taylin focused on the horrifying images. She jerked her hands away at the same moment she had during her original vision. Staring wide-eyed at the three, she felt a trace of gratitude that she was not alone in her terror. Jaison and Bella had pulled their hands out, looking pale as well.

What in the hells...? Bella whispered. "She is only an Adept. A student! I've been a Guardian for centuries, and I have never seen anything like..."

Jaison shook his head as if the physical motion could banish the lingering images. Almek, that wasn't a normal time shifter. I can assure you. Soberly, he said, "No time shifter has ever looked at someone scrying."

More calmly than the other three had, Almek withdrew his hands from the water, appearing lost in thought. I had hoped it was only a vision of something less... He sighed and went to Taylin again, embracing her. Do not let anyone say you are not gifted. Your Guardian strength is as great as your healing abilities, merely untrained.

I always have such trouble scrying. Taylin looked up at the older man. How could I have a vision that could shock even you?

It is easiest to see visions of those we have ties to, Almek answered as Taylin gently pushed away from him. Perhaps you know someone from these visions...? He made a thoughtful noise when she mutely shook her head. There must be some tie you are unaware of yet, then.

Do you think she's a fluke? Bella fidgeted with her wrist bracer's lacing. Or do you think there are others like her? Gifted in more than one talent?

Almek got to his feet stiffly, taking a moment to stretch. Given the aberrations have not only grown stronger but apparently have spread beyond the borders of the World Spine, I think it is quite likely. He held his hand out to Taylin to draw her to her feet. The world seeks balance. That is what we strive to protect. If there is an imbalance, the universe will do what it can to restore that balance.

What do we do about it now? Jaison asked, looking up at the two standing. We do not even know the source of these aberrations to even begin to correct them. All we will be doing is trying to battle effects which would solve nothing.

I must seek the wisdom of the Timeless One. The two Unsvets jumped to their feet in alarm, talking over each other in protest. Silence! Almek barked, frowning at them. There is no other choice. He held up his hand before either could utter a sound, reassuring concession in his voice. I will take Taylin with me.

Bella and Jaison subsided unhappily. The Vodani woman crossed her arms, drumming her fingers as she fixed Taylin with a hard look. I hope she is as good as you say she is, Bella said as she turned on her heel, stalking out.

Jaison was less hostile towards Taylin, offering her a single nod of acceptance. The Vodani man turned his worry to his mentor. Almek, you aren't as... young as you need to be to endure Her power. You only just returned to Fortress! Can you not... wait? Until you have recovered more...?

I have endured over five hundred years as a wanderer because She has named me her Sentinel, Jaison. Her servant has gifted me with more years than any wandering Guardian would normally see. For that blessing, I must accept the responsibility it was given for. Almek put his arm around Taylin to guide her out. Everything will be fine, Jaison. Taylin glanced back at Jaison, worried and confused as they left the alcove.

Chapter 3

"WHAT is this place? Taylin whispered as they emerged from the long tunnel into a cavernous chamber dimly lit only by luminous lichens grown into the crevices around carvings of sea plants and creatures and the natural texture of grey stone, lending a surreal feeling of being underwater. Pressing her fingers behind her ears, she said, It felt like we were walking for hours!"

This is the domain of the Timeless One on earth. Almek tucked his hands into his sleeves. Only those She has chosen know how to find it. Touching the image of a dolphin fondly with light fingers, the Dusvet smiled faintly. And She trusts me not to bring any who cannot be trusted into Her presence.

Taylin stopped short, her hand halfway through the motion to tuck a strand of hair back behind the braids looped from her temples. You mean... I thought you were speaking, ah, figuratively about seeking Her wisdom.

Almek arched an eyebrow, turning back to look at Taylin for several long moments. After a time, his expression turned sad and affectionate. Ah, my dear. Has so much of the world lost sight of the grace of the gods' presence in our lives?

Dusvet? Taylin blinked several times, suddenly feeling unaccountably ashamed.

The Guardian shook his head. Never mind. Just sit here, and remain silent. Taylin nodded, biting her lower lip as she sat on the bench. Her gaze moved from Almek to the central feature of the cavern.

Water fell from above into the uplifted hands of a statue of a mermaid, posed as if to catch the falling liquid. The water coursed down her body where she sat at the edge of the pool so smoothly, the black, mirrored surface of the water remained undisturbed. Almek stepped up the three steps to the side of the pool across from the statue and knelt putting his hands on his legs.

The healer could not tell if minutes or hours had passed, needing to call on the discipline of her training to keep from fidgeting. Turquoise eyes widened when the air seemed to shiver and a soft splash broke the oppressive silence. She clapped her hand over her mouth to silence an inarticulate sound of surprise. Her heart thudded in her ears and she was certain it was loud enough for Almek to hear.

At first, it appeared a nude woman had emerged from the depths of the pool, with blue and green hair and pale white skin. As she climbed out of the water by the side of the statue, where human legs should have been, a tail with blue, green and violet patterning flipped with easy casualness.

The impassive features of the mermaid softened as a small smile touched her lips. Much time has passed, Sentinel. Though her voice was barely above a whisper, it carried easily to Taylin's ears. I began to think you had forgotten us. The smile faded, troubled worry replacing it. You have grown old, my friend.

Time does have that effect on my kind, Almek replied, his smile echoed in his voice. Besides, for having seen over five hundred years, I think I am doing quite well.

The mermaid slipped off her perch to swim across the pool. She emerged and sat next to Almek, reaching out to touch his cheek. Webbed, impossibly long fingers traced the metallic blue and green patches of color several finger-widths below his right eye. I do not like seeing how the years weigh upon you, dear one. Nor does She. Allow me to wash the years away again? she asked in a hopeful tone.

Almek reached up to brush the back of his fingers along her porcelain white cheek, lightly caressing her blue and green striped hair. Ah, my dear Selina. Would that I could be so selfish and accept the offer this time. Taking her hands in his, the man said, I am in great need of help.

Selina's dark gaze moved from Almek to fix on Taylin, her expression devoid of any warmth. You have a new student. One already trained in the arts of molding flesh and bone. This taking one gifted in other arts as a student of the time magicks would be very unusual for any but you. She turned her gaze back to Almek. Has she talent in the Old Ways? Is this why you turn away my touch?

Almek gave Taylin a reassuring look before returning his attention to the mermaid. She has vast promise. But her touch is not yours. You know me better than that, I should hope.

Selina did not reply as her cool gaze raked over Taylin critically before she dove back into the pool, resurfacing on her smooth perch across from Almek. I do know you, Dusvet Guardian. You would not turn away my touch without good reason. Speak, she stated with formality. What do you require?

I seek the wisdom of the Timeless One, Almek replied firmly. There have been... disturbances. Like ripples caused by many pebbles tossed into a still lake. But I cannot find the source of the pebbles, and the ripples are not harmless. I fear the great balance is being threatened. I need Her vision.

Selina tilted her head, puzzlement and worry marring her features. What of your fellow Guardians? Seeking the sources of these ripples and mending them... that is their purpose. To turn their backs on their responsibilities to the Old One's gifts is a dire insult.

Many others cannot sense them. The ripples are like flickers of candle flame at the corner of the eye. Easily doubted or dismissed as imagination. Almek held his hand out to Selina beseechingly. I am the only remaining Dusvet Guardian. There is no one else for me with whom I can consult. Some of the other Guardians believe I am imagining things and say perhaps my many years have addled my mind.

Addled? A dark scowl disrupted Selina's impassivity. The surge of emotion was palpable. They are fools to think such a thing!

The mermaid calmed when Almek raised his hands, though a lingering irritation remained. Looking squarely at Selina, the man stated, I have scryed all the elements: crystal, water, flame, and wind. Nothing yields the knowledge to me. My students have sensed similarly, but again, the others think their devotion to me colors their visions. Almek leaned forward, desperation creeping into his voice. The Timeless One's vision is unparalleled and She never speaks lies. I must confirm the veracity or mendacity of my visions, to know where I must go next.

Selina frowned, glancing up at the statue. What you ask... you know how dangerous it is to you. You nearly died once and your body was much, much younger. I do not wish you harmed, Almek. Crossing her arms, she shook her head. No, I will not lose you to death by calling Her to share Her vision.

If my visions are rooted in something more than an old man's addled mind, what I am sensing is extremely dangerous to us all, mortal and immortal alike. His voice gentled as he implored, Please, Selina. It is vital.

The mermaid did not reply, obviously troubled. After many long minutes of staring, she said in a harsh voice, I will call Her. But I will not remain to watch you suffer! With that, she dove back into the pool and vanished. Almek held a hand up as Taylin started to rise, her mouth open to speak.

Reluctantly, the healer settled back to her seat, crossing her arms unhappily. She felt herself go cold with outright fear when the statue across the pool moved, opening its eyes to reveal pitch black orbs that made Selina's almost emotionless indigo stare seem filled with warmth. Shedding the pallor of polished grey marble, the goddess slipped into the pool, emerging to perch on an underwater shelf that kept her aquatic half submerged.

Step into the pool, my Sentinel, the imperious voice of the goddess commanded. Give yourself unto the waters of time. Let your life become Our life, your visions to become Our visions. Almek nodded obediently, rising to shed his clothing and step into the pool, the water coming to his waist.

Taylin's eyes went wide and she jumped to her feet as a snake of water coiled around Almek, encasing his body from his waist upwards and forcing itself into his lungs. Almek! The goddess did not glance at the healer, but another arm of water emerged and struck the woman as she neared, knocking her across the room and into one of the columns. Dazed, she struggled to clear her head as she helplessly watched Almek drowning before her eyes.

As the water flowed away, the Timeless One caught Almek as he collapsed. She gently eased his lifeless body to the ground beside the pool before returning to her place under the waterfall. As the Timeless One's body hardened into a statue once more, Selina returned, immediately going to Almek's side. Taking his face in both her hands, she covered his mouth with hers in a long, desperate kiss. When she released him, he coughed weakly, unconscious, but alive. The mermaid turned her piercing stare onto Taylin.

The healer interpreted the look as permission to approach and rushed to Almek's side, resting her hands on his brow and over his heart. Her hands glowed softly white, the color shifting to a pale blue in the dim light as she mended the damage to his lungs and the strain to his heart. She sighed tiredly as she completed the healing. Sadly touching the new streaks of grey, Taylin murmured, "He is...