"Cleo needs his full attention," I shrugged. "He and I can discuss things later."
"Don't wait too long," she advised. "It wouldn't hurt to send him mindspeech, either. Regularly."
"I'll work on that," I said.
"He's a little lost," Kyler explained. "He never expected you or Cle-Anne."
"I know. He has to make some of this right himself. I can't do it all for him."
"I understand," her shoulders drooped. She wanted everything made right for Cleo. Things could be uneven at times, but Caylon was already trying to sort things out for himself. "Where are you going?" she asked.
"To Quin," I said. "I promised to help her, and I'm currently behind on that promise."
"They're all wondering where you are; I may have let it slip to Aunt Lissa."
"That's fine," I said. "You know we're related from way back. Sort of."
"Sort of is a good description." She smiled.
* * *
Avii Castle
Quin
Queen Lissa was scheduled to arrive in the morning for my three-world visit, to save those worlds from the poison spreading through them. Justis, Berel, Bleek, Barc, Terrett, Kaldill and I were having dinner together when Zaria appeared in Justis' private dining room.
"Director Griff is asking for you," Justis spoke first.
"I imagine he is," Zaria agreed with a nod.
Scooting my chair back, I rose and almost ran toward Zaria. She laughed when I flew into her arms, before wrapping me in a warm, delicious hug and kissing my cheek.
I missed you, I sent to her.
I missed you, too. Very much.
"Are you going with me tomorrow?" I asked.
"That's why I'm here," she smiled.
* * *
Zaria
"You know Vardil will be looking for Quin. She healed him of everything. He's obsessed with his health, now, unless I am mistaken."
Kalenegar, King of the Larentii in all but name, stood beside me on the Avii Library balcony. His large blue hands were clasped behind his back as he soaked in the morning sunlight to feed himself. He'd spoken his opinion on the one I sought.
"I think the same," I allowed my shoulders to slump. "With V'ili at his side, he can command almost anyone to do his bidding in order to get to her. Look what he did to Bleek and Barc, just to get Bleek's cooperation."
"Vardil and V’ili are still very dangerous, even without the aid of Deris and Daris."
"I doubt that's the half of it, too."
"You know something, dearest?" Kal turned abruptly, his gaze settling on my face while a frown wrinkled his forehead.
"I found a bulletin on those criminal webs. Somebody is putting treasure-hunting crews together."
"That is nothing new—those are constantly being formed." Kal turned his face back toward Le-Ath Veronis' sun.
"Yes, but these are targeting worlds where Quin has already placed her spheres."
Kal stiffened. He knew as well as I did that those spheres could be worth the price of an entire planet—if they were found and held hostage until a world paid a tremendous ransom for them. Yes, wards had been placed, but those wards were porous. They had to be, to allow the creatures to travel to the sphere and be caught inside it.
"We have trouble, then," Kal sighed.
"It'll be bigger trouble if we discover Vardil Cayetes at the bottom of all this."
* * *
Queen's Palace, Le-Ath Veronis
Lissa
Connegar and Reemagar had come, telling me that Zaria and Kalenegar required a meeting. After hearing what they had to say, I was mad enough to throttle somebody. That's when Kooper arrived. I informed him of Zaria's suspicions.
"You know we've already cleared it with the worlds you're visiting, so there may have been a leak on those already," Kooper paced, his shoulders tight, his face set with worry. "I've figured out already that Cayetes may be hunting Quin; there are posts offering a reward for an unusual, black-winged young woman. There is a substantial reward for her return to him."
"Word gets around, apparently," I snapped. "He's got his balls and his resources back if he can offer a huge amount. Every slaver, kidnapper and half-competent criminal will probably jump on that. At least she doesn't have black wings any longer, but how long will that protect her? Enough have seen her as she is now, and don't know not to say anything."
"And with V'ili, Vardil can command the best of them to look for her. It won't take more than five brain cells to connect a winged girl with the Avii," Zaria said. "It could put every Avii female in jeopardy as a result."
"Have you discussed this with Justis?" I demanded.
"Not yet. You know he'll want Quin locked away somewhere so she'll be safe. That's really not an option, when there are worlds in need of her help." Zaria frowned; I could see that she'd thought this through already. She was right, too—Justis would be bullheaded about this, once he learned of it.
"Then how do we inform the worlds that we're coming, when that information could be leaked to the wrong people five seconds later?" I asked.
"I suggest we don't tell them until after the fact, and the sites must be hidden carefully and perimeter ward nets placed—not just for people, but for robots and other treasure-locating devices," Zaria said.
"I'd like to get my hands on whoever leaked the information on what to hunt," I snapped.
"Then you may have to resurrect Liron and kill him again," Zaria sighed.
"We must direct our attention to Vardil Cayetes," Kooper said. "If we find him, I believe we find the source of all our current troubles."
"V'ili, too," Zaria pointed out. "We need both of them dead."
"Most certainly dead," Ildevar Wyyld appeared as if called. "Breanne sent me," he smiled. "Should there be a way I can help; I will most certainly offer."
* * *
Avii Castle
Quin
"Queen Lissa is here, with Ildevar Wyyld, Zaria, Kalenegar and Kooper Griff," Dena announced after knocking on the door to my suite.
While I couldn't read Lissa or Zaria, I could see trouble in Kooper's face.
"We're postponing the next three worlds," Lissa said when she walked into my sitting room. "We think someone may be searching for the spheres you've already placed, and they may be hunting you as well."
Chapter 2
Quin
"But the empty spheres are locked inside these walls, and only I can use them," I argued. We'd moved our discussion to Justis' council chamber; he was angry as he listened to Lissa's and Zaria's words.
I hoped he wasn't angry with them; they had no fault in this. Vardil Cayetes, on the other hand, could be more than guilty.
"So. He wants my Quin, not just to keep him healthy, but to control the spheres, too?" Justis hit on the one thing that neither woman had voiced as yet.
"We're concerned, yes," Zaria dipped her head in agreement. "This way, he can have ultimate control over who lives and dies. Leave the poison to spread and it's up to him whether he provides relief, in exchange for money and power, in all likelihood."
"This gets more frightening as it goes along," Kooper pinched the bridge of his nose.
"Headache?" I asked him.
"Not enough to worry about yet," he held up a hand. I'd intended to offer healing, if it were necessary.
"I want Quin moved to a safer place," Justis demanded. I jerked my head to gape at his sudden decision.
"That could keep her safe, but what about the others here?" Ildevar swept out a hand. He meant all Avii women, and not just me. They could all become targets, if someone thought to dye feathers.
"What are we to do?" I squeaked. The thought of Dena captured in my stead squeezed my heart.
"We moved the castle here; it can be moved elsewhere," Lissa suggested.
"I am not sure I like that idea." Justis rose from his throne and rustled his red feathers in irritation.
"Let me think on this," Lissa held up a hand. "There may be good options and it
could be made temporary, until Cayetes is captured."
* * *
Zaria
"There is an ocean on Avendor, but it's more than a thousand miles from SouthStar," Lissa said.
"There is a river that flows through SouthStar," Kal pointed out. "Very wide, at one point. With some work, a new riverbed could be formed to flow about the castle, and continue on its course, unhindered."
"So far, that's the best suggestion," Lissa agreed. "Harifa Edus is still open enough to place everybody in danger."
"Someone will have to ferry them in and out of SouthStar," Ildevar observed.
"True," Lissa said. "But that's better than the alternative."
"At least Justis can see his nephew," Quin said. I could tell she wasn't looking forward to seeing Farisa, the brown-winged guild master for the artisans, or Liron's mother Wimla and Jurris' other widow, Vorina, who were now technically married to Justis.
Justis isn't interested in any of them, I sent to Quin, who hung her head as if ashamed. They tried to hurt you, I added. Pay them no mind.
I made a mental note to make sure Terrett and Lafe went with Quin; they would ensure that those three wouldn't harm Quin with word or deed.
"When?"
"We have to clear it with Ashe, first."
"Ashe approves," Trajan, the Mighty Hand's second-in-command appeared. "He's already altered the riverbed; he's just waiting for us to make the move."
* * *
SouthStar Groves, Avendor
Quin
"The castle is in very deep water here," Trajan explained. "The river is in a shallower bed that splits and goes completely around. Bear in mind this is fresh water and not saltwater," he grinned as he pointed at the wide, shining ribbon of water facing the Library's terrace. It disappeared in a far bend, surrounded by rows and rows of fruit trees in flower.
I hadn't been in the castle when it was moved in haste from Siriaa to Le-Ath Veronis; Justis said it was much the same this time, happening in a blink and barely moving a cup out of place.
"It's lovely here, but hotter than what I'm used to," I said.
"We'll make arrangements to cool the castle," Trajan said. "You may not sleep, otherwise."
"Thank you," I said. "For protecting us."
"You're welcome," he grinned.
* * *
Paricos II
Ilya
Even with both blades strapped to my back, a knife in my boot and a dagger up my sleeve, someone still thought to attempt robbery while I sat in a pub drinking pirated Refizani beer.
The culprit now nursed a broken nose at a table opposite mine. The ass had the nerve to cast accusing glances in my direction, too. I hadn't resorted to power to do anything to the sorry sot; if I had, he'd be a thousand miles away and dealing with worse than a broken nose.
"I haven't seen you here before," the pub owner slid onto the bench opposite mine.
"I haven't been here before," I said.
"Been a flood of would-be muscle through here recently, looking for jobs."
"Not one of them," I stated flatly and sipped my beer.
"Not one of them, or merely not looking for a job?"
"Both."
"What if I offered to find you a job—at top credit?" he asked. "And all the Refizani beer you wanted?"
"Answer would still be no."
"I've been waiting for someone to catch Lightning Fingers over there. Nobody passed the test—until now."
"He works for you?" I lifted an eyebrow at the pub owner. He had hair going gray from blond and more than enough of it; males of some races kept their hair as they grew older. I suspected he was in his one-fifties, at least.
"He works for me. Gubb," he tapped himself on the chest.
"You fleece your own customers?" I growled.
"Nah, Lightning keeps what he takes. I just pay him in beer to scope out the best that come in here. That I have a stake in," Gubb said. "I can get you a job with just about any boss on Paricos II."
"For which you accept a fee," I said.
"My services are much sought after."
"I'll bet they are."
"If you plan to stay, I'd suggest a job. Assassins aren't well-received here."
"Not an assassin. Just looking for a place to stay for a while."
"Look, I'm warning you," Gubb said. "You don't want a job, not a hired assassin—the only other reason to come here is to set up shop. The bosses don't like that."
"So, taking a job will keep you happy?" I asked.
"It'll pay my fee and keep me from reporting you."
"I see how this works, now."
"I have three names of bosses looking to hire. You can choose who I send you to," Gubb leaned back, a satisfied smirk on his face.
I wondered, then, how many others had marked Gubb for death—eventually.
* * *
Avii Castle, Avendor
Quin
Just as I imagined, Farisa, Wimla and Vorina arrived quickly at the castle, to claim their old suites of rooms and allow Liron to visit Justis. At least Farisa went straight to her guild without a word; I left Justis alone while he visited with the other three. I had no desire to see anger or jealousy in the furtive looks from both women.
Terrett found me on the Library terrace later, gazing at the glittering river that split and moved constantly past the castle.
Don’t worry about those women, Terrett came from behind and wrapped his arms about me. I think it is safe for you to fly as far as these groves grow, he added. If you so desire.
Terrett could speak aloud; I’d heard his voice. Still, he preferred mindspeech. I think he wanted his words kept private between us; it was something personal that we shared with one another.
"I never thought of that," I said. "I haven't stretched my wings in a while."
"There you are," Lafe arrived, an almost smile curving his lips. "Zaria says there's an invitation from the big house for dinner tonight. It includes her, Quin, Justis and Quin's other mates who are present."
Wimla and Vorina not included, Terrett chuckled mentally.
I turned in Terrett's arms and kissed him, then pulled away and smiled at his humor. I love you, I informed him.
I love you more, he said.
* * *
SouthStar, Avendor
Zaria
Trajan brought Bel Erland, Bekzi, Yanzi, Gerrett and Morrett shortly before dinner. Morrett had been hired away from New Fyris' King and now worked for the King of Karathia.
His official title was Chief Librarian, but everybody knew King Rylend depended upon Morrett to keep him and the Crown Prince safe from those attempting to locate either with spells or power.
Gerrett offered a grin the moment he saw me; Morrett's smile was more reserved but no less heartfelt.
"I miss," Bekzi came forward and lifted my hand to kiss it.
I didn't speak; I put my arms around his neck instead and settled my head against his shoulder. "What wrong?" he whispered against my hair.
"Too many things," I mumbled.
Take you to bed tonight, he sent. We talk. And other things.
I pulled away and nodded mutely; his green eyes held nothing but concern and love for me. I love you, I returned.
Know this, he dipped his chin in acknowledgement. Love you big, he replied.
* * *
Quin
The big house was a palace in anyone's estimation. It was built of white stone, with blue and gold-topped domes and trim. It looked to be something from a favorite story instead of the reality it was.
I was surprised about something else, too; Edden and Berel had come. Edden, Bleek and Barc stood with Zaria's other mates who'd come.
Bleek cared about me; I understood that—but his feelings weren't romantic. Instead, his gaze stayed on Zaria much of the time, and I think he was finally making his preference known.
Barc loved Zaria and me; that was easy to see. Young Liron, his eyes round with wonder, gazed about the big house's immense li
brary, where Trajan had set us down.
"Someday, young one," Valegar, one of Zaria's Larentii mates, appeared and lifted Liron in his arms so the boy could see the tall shelves of books better, "I will take you to see the Larentii Archives."
Few know the magnitude of that invitation, Kaldill arrived last and smiled at me.
"Shall we?" A man appeared and motioned for us to follow him.
That is Fes Desh, the best master cook on Tulgalan, Kaldill offered his arm.
Justis went first; Kaldill and I followed, with Valegar carrying Liron behind us. The others followed suit as we walked down many stairs to arrive at the dining room. One wall was floor-to-ceiling glass, which allowed guests to see endless groves of gishi trees below the house.
"Welcome," a man stood at the head of the table. He was tall, with light-brown hair and blue eyes. I would have been a fool if I didn't notice the power that cloaked him, although I couldn't begin to read him.
Beside him stood a woman whose beauty was breathtaking. Black hair rippled down her back, while bright-blue eyes watched all of us carefully.
The man's power enveloped her, keeping me from reading her as well.
"Ashe," Kaldill dipped his head to the man.
This was Strength, who was also called the Mighty Hand. Queen Lissa spoke of him upon occasion.
A god.
One mightier than Liron could ever hope to become.
It made me wonder for a moment about Zaria, who'd killed Liron. What sort of power did she possess to accomplish that?
Wisdom lent her power, Ashe's voice sounded in my head. He has yet to call it back. Wisdom says it is fine where it is, he added. Ashe's comment was accompanied by a chuckle.
Then I thank him, and acknowledge his wisdom in doing so as it saved me, I sent back.
Perhaps you will tell him so yourself, someday.
I drew in a breath. Would I meet Wisdom eventually? That would be a true gift. I was sharing mindspeech with Strength, when I never imagined I would. Meeting any of the others would be an incomparable honor.
You have already met Love; you merely didn't recognize her.
I stood, unmoving, while those around me took their seats at the table. When had I met the Mighty Heart? I couldn't recall it.
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