Storm of Arranon

by R. E. Sheahan

  Erynn shook her head. Cale tried to warn her. He had been part of a plan for these remarkable children. Their chance to grow powerful, to protect their world… worlds was now jeopardized.

  Footsteps echoed in the hall behind her. Erynn sensed an approaching energy. A bright force surrounded her. The children had left the classroom and gathered around. The little ones reached out to tug on her shirt. Iyan stood back, watching.

  A girl, her young voice ringing in the quiet hall, said, “What is happening on Korin, and Arranon is the reason Cale came to you.” Her radiant blue eyes sparkled when she smiled. “Now you can tell him about us. It’s not too late.”

  Erynn touched outstretched hands. Their lives were so different than hers. They had each other—a bond she’d never experienced. They were accepted for what they were. She had never known acceptance, until now. She couldn’t help smiling. Her resolve grew. These children must have the chance to fulfill their destiny. She would do everything in her power to help Cale save their worlds.

  Chapter 13

  AMID THE INSISTENT VOICES OF the children trying to gain her attention, Erynn caught snippets of names, ages, and accomplishments.

  Leathan cleared his throat. The children quieted. “Let’s take our guests to the dining hall and show them our very best manners,” he suggested.

  Love for these kids flowed from him and the power of his emotion saddened Erynn.

  Will I ever feel this from my dad again?

  Two of the younger children, a boy and a girl, grasped Erynn’s and Sean’s hands and pulled them along. “Mealtime is our favorite part of the day, next to free play,” they advised, their voices in unison.

  Twins.

  Erynn smiled. She glanced at Leathan. “Where are their parents… parent?”

  Leathan nodded, held up a finger, and said to the children, “Why don’t you run ahead and prepare the extra settings we’ll need. I hear we’re having achcear today.”

  They let out a whoop of approval. Iyan’s long white-blond hair shimmered in the sunlight streaming through the wide windows. He collected the happy group and hustled them away.

  “Their parents are from all over Arranon,” Leathan began. “When possible, their families were relocated, and they are encouraged to see them as much as they want, but the children live here.” He spread his arms to indicate their surroundings.

  “They don’t live with their families?” Erynn shook her head. “That seems a bit extreme.” She glanced at Sean, wondering if he had grown up in a similar situation.

  Sean stared out the window, his expression vague. “My mother raised me in a remote area on Korin. My father supported us, and we were able to visit with him and Tiar often.”

  Leathan smiled. “Sean and Tiar’s parents found a way to make it work for them. But in our circumstance, it’s easier to protect the children this way. Their families knew from the beginning that this was how it would be. It was a sacrifice they made in the best interest of their children.” He stared at Erynn. “It’s less extreme than having to hide what they are among people who wouldn’t understand their abilities. Too many questions from outsiders could be dangerous. Don’t you think?”

  “You’re referring to me, to the way I had to live,” Erynn said in a low voice. “My dad did the best he could for me.” Erynn forced a light tone. “I adjusted.” Lately she was over-sensitive when it came to her dad. But Leathan wasn’t criticizing. He merely pointed out the alternative for his difficult decision of separating these children from their families.

  His eyes crinkled in a broad smile. “Oh, Erynn, you did more than adjust— you thrived.” His voice was again soft, reassuring.

  The aroma of cooking drifted out into the hall. Erynn’s stomach growled. She calculated the last time she’d eaten—nearly a day ago. Adding to that all the activity, no wonder she was hungry.

  Double doors slid open to a cozy room with a long wooden table and chairs. The children bustled about setting three extra places, their excited chatter filling the space. Sunshine streamed in through the windows along one wall. Steaming bowls of food occupied the center of the table, along with clear pitchers containing a reddish-orange liquid.

  The twins showed Sean and Erynn to seats, wiggling in next to them. Iyan handed out filled glasses. Erynn took a sip. The drink had a bite under the sweet, fruity flavor.

  Is everything spicy here?

  Achcear, Erynn realized with her first bite, was cearach, or something similar. The tender white meat was moist and well prepared. She stabbed an unfamiliar green vegetable with her fork and nibbled at the end. The flavor was agreeable, the texture crisp. She popped the remainder in her mouth.

  The children stared at her, silent.

  “What’s wrong?” she asked, chewing quickly and swallowing while glancing around the table.

  “Is it true,” a sandy-haired boy asked, “that on Korin, you can play in the water?”

  Erynn grinned. “Yes. It’s called swimming. On hot days it’s a good way to cool off.”

  A collective murmur went through the children.

  “What about playing outside at night?” an older boy with dark hair and piercing blue eyes asked.

  “Outside?” Erynn frowned. “Oh, the animals. We have few dangerous predators on Korin. The ones we do have live in vast, remote regions. They rarely venture into populated areas.”

  The pretty blonde girl who had talked to Erynn in the hall asked, “What about music? Do you know about Nochtu and Klistche?”

  “Are those groups? I love music,” Erynn answered with enthusiasm, smiling. “I took lessons as a child.”

  The girl nodded.

  “I’ve never heard them. Do you have their vids?”

  She nodded again vigorously, blonde hair bouncing. “Would you like to see them?”

  “That would be great.” Erynn’s smile slipped a notch. Another “if’” that hinged on the outcome of the days to come—a struggle her dad was already well entrenched in.

  Is he fighting? Is he injured? Does he have what he needs to stop this invasion?

  Iyan stared at Erynn. “What’s it like to fly an Interceptor?” He feigned indifference, but his blue eyes sparkled.

  Erynn’s stomach fluttered. She kept what remained of her smile in place with effort. “You’ll have to ask Sean. He’s flown. I’ve only been in simulators.” Her stomach lurched again. She frowned and stared down at the table. This had nothing to do with the talk of fighters and flying. The tingle began in her fingers, spreading up her arms to the base of her neck. She dropped her fork on her plate. Electricity jumped along her nerves.

  Jaer appeared in the door, his face tense, and motioned to Leathan.

  Erynn stood up as Leathan did and followed him. Tiar waited just outside, leaning against the wall. Roni stood next to him.

  “Birk’s coming,” Erynn stated in a whisper.

  “He has just entered the forest with a hundred well-armed, battle-ready men,” Jaer said in a low voice.

  “He can’t find out about this.” She glanced back into the dining hall. The children watched them. They were now in danger because of her. “I shouldn’t have come here.”

  “We’ll go, Erynn.” Sean moved next to her. “Leathan will keep the children safe.”

  “I’m going with you.” Tiar stepped forward.

  “Roni and I will go also.” Jaer glanced at Leathan. “My Anbas are waiting, ready.” Jaer’s eyes narrowed and his jaw tensed. “They know what to do.” Leathan and Jaer exchanged subtle nods.

  Erynn frowned.

  What is that about?

  A young woman wearing a black-and-red silk tunic approached Leathan. Long gold-streaked blonde hair stood out against the colors of the tunic. “Caporas are ready, Leathan. Gear is waiting in the transports.”

  “Good.” Leathan smiled at Erynn. “Don’t worry. I have some tricks that will throw Birk and his troops off your track.” He turned to the woman. “Do we still have the uniforms Tiar, Sean, and Erynn w
ore when they arrived?”

  “Yes, sir. They’re in poor condition, though,” the young woman answered.

  “That’s better,” Leathan said. “It may not fool Birk, but what if we shred the uniforms? Add some blood and hand over bits and pieces—enough that he’ll recognize them for what they are. We’ll claim that was all we found in the forest.” Leathan sighed. “Birk must be aware by now that there are creatures in our forests that would consider Tiar, Sean, and Erynn prey.”

  The woman smiled in return. “Yes, sir. It’s worth a try.”

  “Warn everyone in the city and surrounding area. Let’s set the stage and wait for the players to enter.”

  She hurried off to perform her tasks.

  “Then there’s the Anbas.” Leathan turned to Jaer. “We’ll see how Birk and his troops survive against them.”

  Jaer stared down the hall and smiled.

  “Wait. You’re sending Jaer’s people out against a hundred technically advanced soldiers?” Erynn glared at Leathan and shook her head. “No. They’ll be killed. There has to be another way.”

  “My people can handle this, Lieutenant.” Jaer continued to gaze down the hall.

  Leathan faced the window. “Birk’s troops are about to encounter a lethal force in the Baeul. His men will have no choice but to spread out in the heavy underbrush. The beasts of the night are nothing compared to Jaer’s elite unit. The Anbas will cut their numbers with stealth and deadly accuracy.” Leathan smiled. “This enemy’s technology won’t prevail over Arranon.”

  The scene outside was peaceful. Erynn wondered what Leathan saw as he gazed into the sun-drenched landscape.

  Is this old man crazy?

  “How can you say that? You must understand this is not a game, or an exercise. This is real, dangerous.”

  “Dangerous for Birk and his troops.” Jaer’s face was stone, his eyes darker than she remembered.

  Erynn knew she was questioning Jaer’s and his people’s abilities. She didn’t want them getting hurt, or worse—dying. But in a war casualties are inevitable. “I hope you’re right.”

  Jaer slowly turned to face her, tipping his head and raising his eyebrows. “Trust me.”

  Erynn bit her lip, her attention back on Leathan. “Are you coming with us?” she asked.

  “No. I can help you more if I stay here.” Leathan pushed her toward Jaer. “You need to go.”

  “I’m not worried about that. I’m concerned with your safety.” Erynn planted her feet, not allowing him to maneuver her.

  Leathan shook his head. “I won’t leave the people or my city.

  “I understand.” Erynn looked into his eyes. His serenity washed over her. “My dad would’ve said the same thing.” That tremor in her voice again. She hadn’t even realized the sorrow was coming. She cleared her throat, gaining control. “Birk won’t hesitate to kill. Please be careful,” she pleaded.

  “I will. Now go.” Leathan gave her a small push. “The others are waiting.”

  She started, stopped, and turned back to Leathan.

  “Open yourself to the possibilities around you, Erynn.”

  Erynn nodded and rushed down the sunlit hall.

  ***

  They arrived at another stable similar to the first one. The building sat at the edge of a short meadow surrounded by mountain peaks dusted with fresh snow. As the young officer had advised Leathan, fully equipped caporas waited. They mounted the animals and set off. The air was cool and scented with the musky fragrance of the abundant trees and plant life around them. When they rounded a bend, Erynn was the only one looking back as the city slipped out of sight.

  Chapter 14

  THE RHYTHMIC MOVEMENT OF THE capora lulled Erynn, making it difficult to remain alert. When the animal stopped without her instruction, she straightened, searching her surroundings.

  Tiar dismounted and surveyed the forest. Sean joined him.

  She turned and asked Jaer, “What’s wrong?”

  Jaer rode up next to her. “We can stop and rest a while.”

  Erynn threw her leg over the capora’s neck and slid to the ground. Aching joints protested when her feet hit the rocky soil, and she moaned softly.

  Jaer was there, reaching out, steadying her. “What is wrong?”

  Erynn gazed up at him and frowned. “I’m not used to riding. My muscles are sore.”

  “I think I can fix that,” Jaer said with a small smile. “Wait here.”

  Erynn sat on the grass in a patch of sunlight, watching as Roni handed Jaer a small package. He rummaged through the bundle before handing it back.

  How could someone so powerful be so gentle, so graceful?

  Erynn closed her eyes and turned her face to the sun, but no warmth touched her. Only an orange-red brightness glowed under her lids. The buzz of centinents added to her lethargy.

  I could lie down right here and sleep.

  Instead, she opened her eyes, sensing Jaer’s approach.

  “This should ease the soreness and relax your muscles.” Jaer squatted and held out a small cup to her.

  Their fingers brushed as she took the cup. Popping blue static jumped between their hands.

  He chuckled softly. “Is this something that always happens with you?”

  “No,” she mumbled, her face warming. “I’m sor—” She bit back the apology. He would only tell her again it wasn’t necessary. Straightening, she brought the cup to her lips. The clear yellow liquid had a medicinal smell, the taste slightly minty. She sensed Jaer studying her. The intensity of emotion from him heated her skin and caused her heart rate to increase.

  He’s a mixture of pain and expectation, of desire and denial. Then there’s his power, his focus. This is what defines him.

  “Thank you for… this stuff. What is it?”

  “Just a mixture of plant roots.” Jaer’s tone carried the shrug she didn’t observe.

  “Mmmmm, good.” She glanced up from the liquid swirling in the cup and wrinkled her nose. The crinkling across her face pinched the smile in her features.

  Jaer laughed.

  The sound rang across her senses, stirring a hope she didn’t dare anticipate or expect.

  “It could have been worse.” Jaer’s chuckle wove through his words.

  Stay focused.

  “Where are we going?” Erynn asked. Silence stretched between them.

  “That has not been revealed to me yet.” Jaer continued to watch her.

  “What?” Erynn stared at him, her eyes wide. “You mean we’re just going to wander about in the woods until Birk finds us or gets bored and goes home?” She pushed up from the grass, thrusting the empty cup into his hand, careful not to touch him. “Your plan needs a little work.”

  “None of this is my plan. I am open to suggestions.” Jaer stood up to face her. His eyes were so deep brown, the color enhanced by his black hair and beard. “You tell me. What should we do?”

  Erynn broke away from the power of his gaze and stared at the ground. “This is my fault,” she whispered.

  He reached out and lifted her chin. “Stop blaming yourself. Do something. Change the outcome. Use what your parents gave you. If I had the powers you have…” His body relaxed and his eyes softened. The breeze whipped a strand of curls across her face. Jaer smoothed the unruly tresses back, letting them slide through his fingers. “We will go talk with the others.” He frowned, dropped his hand, and walked away.

  Erynn watched him a moment.

  He understands what I am—a freak of nature. Don’t touch. Don’t get too close.

  Her gut clenched and her heart squeezed against the emotion building in the empty chambers. She hurried to catch up.

  “I hear we’re literally going nowhere,” Erynn said when they were all together. She controlled her tone, keeping it even. “Tiar and Sean assure me that Birk won’t give up. He’ll continue until he has what he wants.” They watched her, and she sighed.

  Birk wants me, not them. I can draw him out and stop this.
>
  “There’s only one thing to do. I’ll go back—confront Birk.”

  “No, Erynn.” Sean pushed forward. “You don’t have to do this. Let the Anbas and Leathan deal with Birk.”

  Tiar grabbed Sean’s arm. “Little brother, no.” Tiar shook his head and glanced at Jaer. More of that unspoken communication passed between them.

  “What’s going on? What am I missing?” Erynn’s gaze drifted from Tiar to Jaer.

  “You are not missing anything.” Jaer glared out at the forest.

  Then why do I feel like the human sacrifice?

  Erynn turned away from Jaer. “I’ll return to Glaskra and face Birk there, but outside the city.” Her stomach rolled.

  What do Jaer and Tiar know?

  Still not looking at her, Jaer said, “I will go with you as far as the stable.”

  “That’s not necessary,” Erynn said, her words abrupt. “I can find my way back.”

  Jaer walked to the caporas and began unpacking the supplies from two of them.

  ***

  They arrived at the stable well after dark. Erynn lifted her face to the sky. The cold penetrated the thick shirt she wore. She took the coat Jaer brought her, wrapped in the soft warmth, and pulled the hood around her face.

  She turned toward the city. “Wait. I can’t see Glaskra. Why are there no lights?” She closed her eyes and opened her mind.

  Would this work?

  She had never attempted to find someone. She pictured Birk and his evil pale eyes, remembered his hateful manner. The sense of him came to her, and she understood why Glaskra was dark. Before Jaer could answer, she continued, “Birk is there, in the city.” Her eyes snapped open. Intensity flared inside her. A mixture of anger and fear churned her stomach and quickened her pulse. “I’ll stay here tonight—get Birk away from Glaskra in the morning. He won’t risk coming out in the dark.”

  “How will you get him here?” Jaer asked.

  She shook her head. “I’m not sure, but it will happen.” A humorless laugh scraped from her dry throat. “It seems I’ve been able to do a lot more since I arrived on Arranon.” She narrowed her eyes and glanced at him. “You wouldn’t know anything about that, would you?”