Soul Stone Mage Complete Collection Boxed Set

by Sarah Noffke

  “Monet, there’s little privacy at the House of Enchanted. Most of the rooms are haunted. There’s a strange draft in the hallways. And Gran pretty much can charm any lock to open, meaning no one has any privacy.”

  “Sounds fantastic!” Monet rubbed his hands together. “When do I move in? I want the largest room, even if that means you have to move out of your chamber.”

  Azure didn’t say anything, only regarded him with a long cold stare.

  “Hey, you were born into your role. I earned mine. And besides, I’m giving away the best years of my life to serve the people of Virgo.” Monet took another long sip of his beer.

  “Fine, you can move in, but if you piss me off I’ll make your room the maternity ward for all the cats.” Azure leaned forward as she delivered her threat, her nose close to Monet’s.

  He smiled. “It’s because you say shit like that that I know you’ll make a fine queen.”

  Chapter Four

  Azure’s stomach howled with such a tenacious force she thought it would tear her in two. She laced up her boots, rising to a standing a position.

  “Okay, little tummy. Sorry I’ve neglected you,” she said to herself. She strode through her new chamber, leaving the double doors to her bedroom open. Perfect, she thought as her eyes landed on the fresh bread and jam lying on a silver tray in the sitting room. She plucked the toast off the tray, her mouth opened wide to bite.

  “Oh, hell no!” a voice called from the entrance to her chamber. The toast flew from her hand and slammed against the far wall. Azure froze and lifted her eyes to find Gran standing in the entryway. The queen mother had her wand pointed at her. She was still wearing her dressing gown. Azure lowered her arm and shook her head at the old witch.

  “Did your crystal ball tell you to intervene because I was just about to obtain nourishment?” Azure asked, staring longingly at the other piece of toast on the tray.

  “Pretty much, and it’s a good thing.” Gran scrambled over, grabbing Azure by the wrist and hauling her to the scrying bowl in the corner. “I was up consulting the phases of the full moons last night, as I’m sure you were too.”

  “You know me so well,” Azure said, a laugh in her voice.

  “Well, it told me to check randomly on a few residents of the Kingdom. You won’t believe what I found.”

  “That every single one of them doesn’t like a batty old witch spying on them when they’re in their pajamas?” Azure asked with mock curiosity.

  “No, but good guess. Check it out for yourself.” The queen mother stirred the liquid in the scrying bowl with her wand, muttering an incantation as she did. An image of Finnegan, the Chief of Husbandry, sat before the hearth of his fireplace. A fairy stood on either side of him.

  “Try again,” Navi commanded.

  Finnegan held up his wand, pointing it at a tea cup. A spark sprang from his wand and wrapped the teacup in light before it transformed into a mouse, which quickly scurried off.

  “That was an improvement. It configured,” Luna said, smiling at the wizard.

  He shook his head. “I was trying to transfigure it into a raccoon.”

  “Oh, then that is a problem,” Navi said, shaking her head.

  “My magic… What’s wrong with it?” Finnegan pulled at his wiry turquoise hair, his eyes distraught.

  “I told you something was wrong with the well water,” Luna sang, her voice teasing.

  “Not now, Luna. He’s upset,” Navi said, snapping at the other fairy.

  Gran stepped back, shaking her head at the bowl. “I scried a dozen witches and wizards around Virgo, and it was all the same.” She turned, her lavender eyes unusually serious. “I’m afraid that virus Emeri contracted in the Land of Terran has come to Virgo.”

  “But how?” Azure asked, but already knew the answer. Luna had said something about the well. Her eyes widened with alarm. “The water! It’s been infected!”

  Sari nodded. “It would appear so. Right now the effects are minimal, but soon it’ll take over and steal magic from all witches and wizards in Virgo.”

  Azure rushed forward clapping her hands on her Gran’s arms. “Have you drunk any well water?”

  Gran pursed her lips. “Dear Azure, I quit drinking from our well long ago. I only drink my elixirs anymore.”

  “Because that’s not paranoia at its peak.” Azure shook her head. Suddenly she was grateful for the hunger in her stomach and the night of drinking ale with Monet. He’d warned her not to eat at the pub, and she wasn’t infected by the virus because of that advice. “Okay, first we need to stop everyone from using the water source. Then I need to purify our wells.”

  “You’re the only one who can sanitize the water, so leave it to me to stop people in Virgo from drinking from the wells.”

  “How are you going to do that?” Azure asked, catching the sneaky grin on Gran’s face.

  “Easy. Witches and wizards can’t use water if they’re asleep. I’ve been looking for an opportunity to use this new sleeping enchantment I created.” Gran strolled to her grimoire, which was sitting on its stand. The old book was bound in worn leather and the spine was six inches thick. She flipped it open and ran her finger over a spell; apparently it had opened to exactly the page she was looking for.

  “How are you going to put everyone in Virgo to sleep?” Azure asked, stepping forward and peering over her gran’s shoulder.

  The old woman waved her hand, muttering to herself. “Teritorijalni sna.”

  “Gran…” Azure’s voice was cautious. She didn’t doubt that the woman before her could make a few thousand people sleep. Actually, it scared her slightly to think that the old woman had the charm and had been looking for a chance to use it.

  “Yes, Azure?” Gran turned, regarding her like they were discussing meal options. “I created a spell that targets Virgoans, so if there are any witches and wizards outside our borders, they will unfortunately fall asleep too.”

  Azure nodded, backing up as she stared at the strange witch before her. “I’m grateful that you use your powers for good.”

  “Yes, I mostly do,” Sari said, turning back around and reading from her grimoire again.

  “I’m going to ignore that you said that out loud. Now, what if the Virgoans you spelled are sailing a boat, or bathing, or eating soup?” Azure said, horror in her voice.

  Sari laughed, shaking her head of lavender hair. “Don’t be absurd. Virgoans hardly ever bathe.”

  “Okay, well, I guess we’re choosing the lesser of the two evils here. Save a majority, but lose a sailor or two.”

  The queen mother pulled her wand from her robes, flicking it at Azure. Because Gran had spells cast on her since she was a baby, she didn’t flinch. “There you go. The spell won’t affect you. Go on now, fix our water supply.”

  “Right. Is there a spell in your grimoire you want to loan me for such a task?” Azure asked, indicating the book.

  “Oh, there’s nothing in there that will come close to helping you with that nearly impossible task. You, and only you, have an alliance that can help you purify the water.”

  The young queen’s mouth popped open, understanding dawning and causing her eyes to widen. “Oh, that’s right! You think…”

  Gran nodded her head.

  “What if I can’t find them?”

  “Then we’re all screwed,” Gran replied.

  “So, no pressure then.”

  “Oh yes, much weighs on your shoulders, Queen Azure. And be swift. I can only make the Virgoans sleep for an hour.”

  Chapter Five

  Azure rode with her head down and her hands tight on the reins. She’d grabbed the first horse she found tied up outside the House of Enchanted. Its previous rider didn’t need the animal, since he was presently lying flat in the grass taking a pleasant nap. As Azure sprinted through the House of Enchanted for the exit she’d watched several witches and wizards drop, overcome by a sudden need to sleep. Gran was a damned crafty witch. She was grateful the queen
mother was on her side.

  The palomino slowed as they neared the woods on the northern border. Before the horse even halted, Azure threw her legs to the side and stumbled forward. She didn’t know how to find something that had always found her. Why was it that the unicorns were attracted to her? Their whole connection was a mystery to Azure, but she knew they were the only ones who could help her purify the wells.

  She darted into the trees, not knowing where she was headed. Her foot caught on a root obscured by leaves and ferns, tripping her. Her palms landed in a patch of thorns. “Fuck,” Azure spat, panting. Blood ran down her palm, spotting the sleeves of her robe.

  “Hello?” Azure called to the woods. “Are you out there? I need your help.”

  She was losing it. How desperate had she gotten, that she was calling out to an empty forest for help? She pushed up to a standing position and trudged forward, forcing plants out of her way as she did.

  The humans of Terran, and specifically the Duke, were responsible for this virus. This was the drastic action Emperor Frederick had promised, Azure realized. This was how they were punishing her for not turning her father Richard over to them. She should have been more prepared to defend her people. How many witches and wizards would lose their magic because of this? Would it ever be recoverable? Azure shook her head, trying to clear her mind. Right now she had to focus on a solution to their water pollution.

  She’d already walked deep into the woods, and was now nearing the Dark Forest. There hadn’t been a sign of anything so far. Halting, Azure closed her eyes. She could hike through the entire forest bordering Virgo, but what she needed was for the unicorns to come to her. Pressing her eyes tightly closed, she focused on a single intention. It was full of peace, and so strong it made her smile despite her current circumstances.

  In the distance Azure heard a twig crack, but she kept her eyes closed. Leaves rustled, and still she kept her thoughts centered on peace and love for all in Virgo. These thoughts she fed with an unyielding desire.

  A breeze laced with lilac and moss hit Azure’s nose, making her feel that spring was blossoming. She closed her fingers into her palms, and felt a shiver run down her spine. Faith wasn’t something a witch or wizard from Virgo was encouraged to have. Spells and potions were built on strength and elements. However, in that moment Azure knew that she had to remain frozen and hold true to the idea that what she needed would be found.

  A soft rustling sound swept through the air, and just then Azure felt a presence. She felt like she was at a banquet surrounded by the chatter of happy guests, their body heat making the space cozy.

  She cracked one eye, and then both sprang open. Azure stepped back, not sure that what she was seeing before her was real. Rotating her body, Azure cast her eyes on the circle of unicorns that surrounded her. More than a dozen of them stood in the circle. Their glistening white coats reflected the morning sunlight streaming through the leaves overhead. They weren’t easy to discern from each other since each had the same rainbow mane and tail. Flowers and vines were threaded through their manes, which were plaited into various styles of braids. However, each had eyes of a different color. She peered at the unicorns, who all blinked back as her with strange wisdom in their eyes.

  “You came…” she said, breathless.

  In unison the herd stepped forward, tightening the circle around her.

  “I need… I’m asking for your help,” Azure stuttered, and she twirled again, trying to make eye contact with each of the majestic creatures. “The streams and therefore the wells of Virgo have been infected with a virus that robs us of our magic. I know… Well, I’ve heard rumors that your horns can purify. I was hoping that you’d help us heal our water supply. If you did, I’d be forever grateful.”

  The animals continued to gaze at her, none of them shifting their expressions after her request. Not one unicorn moved. They were like statues, staring at her, measuring each second by her heartbeat.

  “You should know that even before this I would have given you whatever you desire. However, if there’s a special request I can grant now, then I will. The people of Virgo will be forever in your debt, and I, as their queen, am happy to do whatever it is you ask. Please, I just need you to save my people. We can’t survive without water, and we won’t live long without our magic…” Azure’s voice trailed away. What else could she say? The unicorns already seemed to know her, since they could find her whenever she was looking for them.

  A humming grew louder from in front of Azure. Sparks flew up just as a tiny blonde-headed pixie popped out of a unicorn’s mane.

  “Buzz Buzz!” Azure exclaimed, strangely happy to see her.

  She flew forward and circled Azure’s head, her blue wings working double-time. The little pixie muttered faster than ever as she soared briefly and landed on Azure’s shoulder.

  “I’m guessing you’ve been all right,” Azure said.

  The pixie took off again and flew in front of Azure, hovering in the air. She nodded and pointed to the unicorns around them and nodded again. She made motions with her hands as if she were forming a small ball. She swung her arms back and forth like rocking a baby and then threw the imaginary bundle back at the herd, turning to Azure and nodding profusely—like any of that made sense.

  “So they are going to help me?” Azure asked, her voice uncertain.

  Buzz Buzz nodded adamantly.

  A long exhale brought Azure’s shoulders down. “Thank Merlin!”

  The unicorns unfroze and parted in front of her, moving to the side. Behind them Azure noticed something small curled up in a patch of green plants. She squinted, taking a step forward to make out what it was. The object stirred and lifted its head. A tiny unicorn foal stared back at her, its bright blue eyes regarding her with a deep knowing.

  “Oh, wow!” Azure exclaimed.

  Buzz Buzz flew in front of her, pointing at the small unicorn and then at Azure.

  “Wait… Me? They want me…” Azure stuttered on the words, not sure this was computing or ever could. “They want me to care for this young unicorn?”

  Buzz Buzz nodded her head, her eyes wide and a smile covering her face.

  “But why? I mean, I’m grateful, but why are they trusting one of theirs to me?” Azure asked. This didn’t make any sense.

  Buzz Buzz simply shrugged and flew toward the herd, disappearing into a unicorn’s mane.

  Azure stared at the unicorns, who were all waiting for her answer. “Ummm… I’m thrilled you’re going to help me. And if you want me to watch over this baby unicorn in return, then I’m happy to—”

  A cloud of dust cut Azure off, and she threw her arm across her face to protect her eyes. The unicorns had turned in unison and thundered in the opposite direction, not even waiting for her to finish her sentence. Hopefully they would all spread out and dip their magical horns into the streams and wells, purifying Virgo’s water source. Azure trusted the unicorns. And if they wanted her to care for the young colt before her, then that’s what she’d do.

  The unicorn rocked forward and then backward, making his way to his legs. Once on his hooves, he stared up at Azure with an affectionate expression.

  “Hey, little one. I have been given the honor of caring for you,” Azure said, kneeling and staring at the unicorn.

  The foal raised its head, nestling its cool nose against Azure’s and licking it sweetly.

  She giggled when she pulled away. The unicorn stared at her with his large blue eyes. They would disarm the most hardened warrior.

  He seemed to smile at her, then he opened his mouth and a loud burp ripped from him. “Thank you, Queen Azure,” the unicorn said, speaking in a way Azure had never witnessed or heard of a unicorn doing, “but I do believe you haven’t been given an honor by caring for me. Rather, according to my herd, you’ve been given a burden.”

  Chapter Six

  Monet tapped his fingers against his mouth before pointing at the tiny unicorn, a curious look on his face. “Don’t lo
ok now, Azure, but I do believe you’re being followed.”

  Azure halted in the cabinet room and blew out a breath. The warmth of the fire and the moment of silence were more than welcome. “I’m fully aware. I did tell him to wait outside the House of Enchanted, but he wouldn’t have it.”

  Gillian slid off his seat and trundled over to where Azure stood at the front of the room, an expression of bewilderment covering his face. “You. Have. A. Unicorn,” he said, his words abbreviated.

  “So it would appear,” Azure replied, throwing herself into the nearest seat. Exhaustion had taken over her brain.

  “And the water source?” Gran asked, standing and staring down at the two-foot-tall unicorn.

  “It’s back to normal. However, we need to strengthen security measures at the border. We can’t have that happening again.” Azure turned to Monet. “You didn’t drink any water recently, did you?”

  He scoffed at her, his eyelids heavy. “You know I don’t drink that crap—only liquid that gives me a buzz. Gillian and I share that preference.”

  Azure was suddenly grateful that the people in her cabinet were a bunch of drunks. And Ever was away retrieving Richard, which meant he was safe.

  “You. Have. A. Unicorn,” Gillian stated again, his voice full of awe.

  “Yes, it was a part of the agreement I made with the unicorns. They would purify our water and I would care for this little one,” Azure said. She sank down in her seat, covering her face with her arm to block the light in the room. This moment of peace wasn’t going to last for long. That damn unicorn was simply biding his time, enjoying the attention he was getting from the gnome and the queen mother, who were both hovering over him.