The Elemental Trilogy Box Set

by Toni Cox

  “I was just thinking of the reason we are doing this. It saddens me that so many had to die and, no matter how hard I try, I cannot shake the feeling that I could have prevented it.”

  She suppressed the urge to clap her hand over her mouth after she said it. He had caught her unawares and she told him more than she would have liked. Not even Silas knew her true feelings, her shortcomings.

  “I don’t understand, My Lady,” Riker said politely, but with worry in his eyes.

  Fire snorted and suddenly pranced beneath her as he felt her mood change. She laid a hand on his neck to calm him, but her hand was shaking. How could she explain to Riker, had she heeded the visions and dreams of Death before the war, the war might have been prevented? What would he think of his princess and Life Elemental if she was not even capable of interpreting the signs the Mother had given her and thus let so many people die? She knew, in her heart, had she listened to the warnings, she could have saved her people.

  The Spring Feast celebrations temporarily brought her out of her depressed mood and she had actually enjoyed herself. Aaron surprised her by participating, and winning, in the games and the general mood of the people had lifted her own. On the third, and last, day of the celebrations, Fire won stallion of the year and four of his foals had been nominated as best young horses of the year.

  Now depression hit her again with full force. Would she ever be able to forgive herself? She took a deep, steadying breath. Her hands were still shaking and Fire snorted, shaking his head.

  “I am sorry, Riker, I did not mean to burden you with my worries. As a Life Elemental, I seem to feel the loss of the people more deeply and it still troubles me. I will be all right now.”

  She smiled at him to put him at ease. His ears turned pink and he turned away from her to hide his embarrassment, putting his handsome features into sharp relief against the bright sky. She wondered about his embarrassment, but did not feel anything obvious from his Eläm. He was Guard; one of the best warriors Shadow Hall had to offer; and talking to his princess should not put him ill at ease. Maybe it was the topic of discussion.

  “How far have we come? Do you know where we will be making camp?” she asked to change the subject.

  His face brightened almost immediately and he explained in detail their route and campsites for their trip, no doubt relieved that the subject concerning the worries of a Life Elemental was closed.

  “We left at sunrise this morning and have been travelling along the Trade Route at a steady pace for almost four hours now, covering close to sixteen miles. Because the materium platforms can only move over this rough terrain at the speed of a walking horse, it will take a little longer. Once we reach the plains closer to Thala Yll, our travelling speed should pick up. We will make camp at sundown at the Featherstone Inn.” He smiled crookedly at her, which was surprisingly charming. “We sent a pigeon ahead and My Lady’s dinner tonight will be mushroom ragout.”

  Riker positively beamed with the good news he brought her. Maia rewarded him with her brightest smile and she watched in amusement as his ears turned pink again. Mushroom ragout was her favourite and she wondered where Riker had acquired this information.

  “That is very thoughtful of you, Riker Moonswain. Thank you.”

  They rode in silence for a moment. The new topic of discussion had eased not only Riker, but Maia as well, and Fire was now walking calmly again, striding out smoothly with his strong legs.

  “The journey to Thala Yll will take us five days at this pace. It is possible, of course, to cover the two hundred and twenty-five miles in a time shorter than that, but we are heavily burdened with the gifts for the people, as well as our own accommodations. I believe they have provided every luxury and convenience for you for this trip.”

  He smiled at his princess, happy to be the bearer of good news again. Maia graced him with another smile, but on the inside, she fumed. She did not like to be treated differently. She was sure her travelling companions would have the standard travelling tents and provisions. This would have sufficed for her as well. She was sure it was her father who had insisted on the extra luxuries and conveniences Riker was talking about. She would see tomorrow night what these entailed, as tonight they would stay at the Featherstone Inn, but she was sure she would not like them.

  The Trade Route followed the shape of the forest that clung to the Grildor-Bron mountain range like a blanket. During morning and midday, sunlight bathed the road and the day was pleasantly warm. However, as the sun moved further west, the road was plunged into the shadow of the mountains and the temperature dropped considerably. Although summer was on its way, it would still be a few Moons before the days would be so warm that one could walk without a coat even within the mountains.

  Maia shrugged into her black leather jacket and immediately felt warmer. The inside was lined with mink fur and was wonderfully soft. They stopped at a small stream to let the horses drink and to allow the travellers a chance to relieve themselves and stretch their legs. Maia marvelled at how busy such a small group of people could be and how much they disturbed the perfect peace of their surroundings.

  Overall, they were a group of thirty-four and, within moments of their arrival at this spot, the wildlife in this area had retreated far into the forest, and Maia was only faintly aware of their Eläm. The animals would return once they carried on with their travels, but it displeased her that she did not have the time to speak to the animals beforehand, so that they would know they meant no harm.

  In the city, the animals of the forest lived in harmony with the Elves. So many generations had charmed the city that it was often seen as a safe haven for animals. As it was strictly forbidden to hunt within a ten-mile radius of the city, it was not uncommon for a family of deer to graze on the Gathering Grounds, and polecats, squirrels and hares had permanent homes within the city. In the beginning, her Human family marvelled at the multitude of animals, but had also been worried about rodents and insects within their home. Maia laid their fears to rest; although the animals were allowed within the city, the Elves’ combined elemental magic had evolved over time, so that no animals, whether mammal or insect, intruded into any home unless invited in.

  A noise brought her back to the present. She glanced around and discovered folk remounting their horses. She stepped up to Fire, patted his neck and put her foot into the stirrup to mount. Normally she would ride him bareback, but this was a long trip and not only was the saddle more comfortable for such a long journey, but it also held some of her provisions, as well as her weapons. She had brought them all; the Vampyre threat was far from over and no one wanted to be caught unawares.

  Her favourite weapon was her compound bow. It was small enough for her to carry comfortably, but, because of its design, it could propel an arrow with enough strength and speed to kill a bear. She shuddered at the thought; not long ago she had to kill a bear to protect Wolf. Then she had her Twin Blades. It was a set of blades; each about the length of her forearm, with carved black walnut handles that fitted into her hands perfectly. She was outstanding with them and they had saved her life on more than one occasion. She also carried her sword. This was not her favourite and, although she could wield it with proficiency, she would only use it if she had no other choice.

  “Are you ready, My Lady?”

  She turned in the saddle and looked at Riker. He was a handsome Elf; tall and well-built, with strong and masculine, yet refined features, dark brown eyes and long, dark hair held together at the back with a leather thong. She had known him all her life and she knew he was not only one of the best Guard and fighters of their clan, but was also a talented musician, as well as of noble birth. His father, Ramaer Moonswain, was one of their Elders.

  She wondered why it had never occurred to her that he would have been a fine match for her. Her father would surely have approved. She suppressed a sigh; nothing and nobody could ever compare to Blaid and he was the one person she was not allowed to have. She forced a small smile for
the handsome Elf that was her companion and protector for this journey; it was not his fault she was miserable.

  “I am ready,” she said.

  Their journey led them ever further north. The terrain was mountainous this close to Shadow Hall and the constant difficulties of the road were tiring. Nevertheless, it was beautiful. They travelled mostly within the outer edges of the forest and the deciduous trees were sprouting their new greenery. Maia felt the new life of spring with an intensity that was new to her. She seemed to be getting more sensitive with her elemental powers with each passing year. Sometimes it frightened her how much more she was aware of than any other person.

  It was dusk by the time they reached the tavern. It nestled right on the edge of the forest and its lantern lights bathed it in a friendly, yellow light. As they approached, Maia could make out the carved wooden sign that proclaimed the building to be the Featherstone Inn. Moments later, the large, oaken front doors opened. Warm light spilled out into the dusk of evening, soon followed by an Elf carrying a lantern. He was swathed in a thick robe to ward off the chill of evening.

  “Welcome,” he called to them in a sonorous voice.

  Three more Elves came through the doors and soon they were helping to stable their horses, store their luggage for the evening and bring in the items they needed for the night. Maia saw to Fire herself, as he was not used to anyone else handling him, but he snorted nonetheless at being put into a stable; he preferred to sleep under the stars.

  “I know, Fire,” she said. “This journey will be as difficult for you as it will be for me, but it has to be done.”

  After brushing him down, she doubled checked his hay net and then locked the stable door behind her. He would be fine and mushroom ragout awaited her inside. The thought cheered her up.

  She crossed the few steps to the barn door and noticed she was the only one still within; the others must have finished before her. She stepped out into the yard. It was fully dark by now, but the lanterns lit the way to the inn. She closed the barn door behind her and stepped out along the path, which wound between fruit trees before turning a corner around the barn. Just before she took the turn, however, her senses were assaulted by someone’s equally worried and angry Eläm.

  She stopped in her tracks just as Riker came running around the corner of the barn and almost collided with her. For a moment, they stood so close that she could feel the heat of his skin, feel his breath on her face, take in his masculine smell and sense his absolute devotion. Taken off guard, she swayed, unsure of how to deal with the assault on her elemental senses.

  “Lady Maia!” Riker said breathlessly and reached out to steady her.

  Even through her leather jacket, his touch felt hot on her skin. Her vision swam and then her heart pounded wildly in her chest as she looked up into Blaid’s face.

  “Lady Maia!” Riker said again, this time louder.

  Maia blinked. The vision of Blaid was gone and she saw only Riker in front of her. She took a deep, steadying breath through her nose, and mentally cursed herself as she became aware of Riker’s smell. There was something there that reminded her of the way Blaid had smelled the last time she had seen him. She forced herself to be calm; he had taken her off guard and her senses completely unprotected. She was startled to learn the depth of Riker’s feelings, yet more frightened at her reaction to them.

  For what seemed like a long time, but was only moments, they stood like that; Riker’s hands on her arms and she staring up into his face. Even in the darkness with only the lanterns casting their golden light she noticed his ears turning pink again. She giggled nervously. The corner of Riker’s mouth twitched. Then he dropped his hands from her arms as if he had burned them. He cleared his throat.

  “My Lady, you should not be out here by yourself. Commander Ridgewell thought you went to the rooms with the Servers, but then someone mentioned you were seeing to your horse and then …”

  “Riker, I am all right,” she assured him. “Lead the way, I am famished.”

  Together they covered the short distance to the inn. She felt him relax as they walked, but her own feelings were more difficult to control. They reached the inn and he pushed the doors open for her. For a moment, she stared into the warm interior; a fire burning in a big hearth in the centre; lanterns hung from thick, oaken beams all around the tall ceiling; people sitting at tables throughout the room, conversing comfortably. It looked inviting.

  Someone noticed them standing in the doorway and the mood changed. There were calls of My Princess and My Lady as one by one the people stood and bowed to her. Maia had hoped the inn would be fairly empty and would cater almost exclusively for her party tonight, but it seemed there were many travellers on the road tonight seeking the shelter of the tavern. It was one of the largest and most prestigious on the Trade Route and it should not have come as a surprise to her. As it was, she was glad for the distraction.

  She smiled bravely as they made their way through the throng to the long table reserved for them. Most of their party had already taken their seats and enjoyed hot broth from steaming mugs. As she suspected, she was given the seat at the head of the table and immediately two Servers were by her side, proclaiming that they were hers to command for the evening. She resisted the urge to tell them she did not need anything besides food; she understood, although she did not like the attention, it was a great honour for them to be serving their princess.

  Riker helped her to her chair and then took his seat to her right; the place that should have been reserved for the most senior member of their party, which was Elder Owen; but he had taken his seat further down the table, with the Nobles. Maia was acutely aware of Riker’s presence beside her.

  “I am sorry, My Lady, I know you would have preferred a quieter evening, but the Innkeeper insisted on making the evening special for you. I believe there will be singers and poets.”

  Riker gave her a crooked grin and gently laid his hand on hers. “I will be right here if you need me, even if it is to lie for you; you might just be overcome by sudden fatigue or nausea.”

  Maia almost laughed aloud; how did he know her so well?

  “Thank you, Riker, I appreciate your valour.” She gently extricated her hand from his without making it obvious that she wanted to break the contact. His hand was disconcertingly warm on hers. “But I think I will manage for one night. Besides, there is mushroom ragout. I would not miss it for anything.”

  He felt the burning steam rise to his flaring nostrils. She had briefly made mind contact with him and what he had seen in her mind was making him angry. Bright-Shining-Silver-Star was the centre of his life, yet at this moment he wanted to take her by the scruff of her neck and shake her like a misbehaving hatchling. Could she not see that she was destroying the light inside of her? He worried for her.

  Ever since she had mated with Dark-Silver-Moon, she had been different. To him it felt as if a piece of her had gone missing, but every time he had tried to engage her about it, she shut him out. All through the long, cold nights of winter he sat watch on The Crags, waiting for her to surface from her isolation. After a while, he had stopped initiating contact. The hurt within her started to affect him too; such was their bond. He doubted his own assessment of Dark-Silver-Moon and some part of him was starting to miss him too.

  Acrid smoke curled from his nostrils then and he let out a deep, throaty roar that scared away the birds in all directions. Why did this affect him so? This should be a problem for people, not for a dragon. He should be stronger than the worries of Elves!

  He shuffled his wings and walked to the edge of The Crags. His long talons gripped the edge of the granite top and when he pushed himself off the rim, he left deep furrows in the rock. He dropped for a moment, then spread his black, leathery wings and soared off over the forest.

  He had not intended to go with her on this journey. He had not been invited. Clearly, she did not need him. Yet, as hard as he tried, he could not shake the feeling that something might h
appen to her. She was his partner of the soul; they were Soul-Forged; and he could not, would not, let anything happen to her.

  He-Of-Unshakable-Courage, brother to Bright-Shining-Silver-Star, had come to him and pleaded for her safety. It had been unnecessary; he had already made up his mind. He would follow at a distance; far away enough so that they would not notice, but close enough for him to be with her, should she need him. No matter the state of her mind; he loved her and that would never change!

  Maia struggled to calm Fire, who danced nervously on the spot. She managed to saddle him, but was unable to mount. She had a terrible night; dreams of war, Vampyres and the ever-nagging guilt that it was her fault it had all happened in the first place. When Neth, her personal Server for this journey, came to wake her, Maia sprang out of bed and put a knife to her throat. The young girl ran screaming from the room.

  Riker suggested to Commander Ridgewell that he send one of his female Regiment, Rothea Goodheart, into her room to see what the problem was. Rothea, a tall, fiery-haired Elf, had been tactful and kind, yet firm, and managed to calm and dress Maia within a short time. Maia was embarrassed that she could have lost control like that and, when she walked into the stable to get Fire, he immediately picked up on her mood.

  “Here, let me.” Riker’s voice was deep and soft and his hand was warm when he laid it on top of hers.

  Maia flinched, but then felt Riker’s Eläm, which was calm and strong, and closed her eyes for a moment, absorbing it. Within moments, she felt her own heartbeat slow and her tremors stopped. Fire stopped prancing and finally stood still. Maia opened her eyes and turned her head to look at Riker. He was so close; she could smell him again. His dark brown eyes were soft and kind and he smiled at her. For a moment longer she stood with her back to him, his hand on hers, feeling his calm and warmth. Then she put her left foot into the stirrup, pushed off and swung her right leg over the saddle.