Something strange was happening. First there were the horrible screeches that seemed to come from far away, and hours later another echoing cry. Now it looked as though the people of the village were having a bonfire near Iadrawyn’s window. Shafts of light seeped through the curtain.
She couldn’t stand it any longer. She had to know what was happening. Iadrawyn crossed the small room and pushed the curtain aside.
At first, the light was blinding. She closed her watering eyes, willing them to adjust. Once she managed to pry them open, she couldn’t believe what she saw. There was no bonfire, no torch, no source of light of any kind, and yet it wasn’t dark. The entire village was lit.
Iadrawyn twisted her neck to look upward to where the light seemed to be coming from. Although it was impossible to pinpoint the exact location under the cover of the trees, it was definitely coming from overhead. Was there something in the sky?
Once Iadrawyn overcame her initial confusion, she received another shock. The snow was melting. The strange light was heating the air. But this wasn’t what shocked her. As the snow melted, a wave of green was spreading. Tiny, green shoots were popping up out of the ground. Above her, buds were appearing on the branches of trees that had been barren, and were unfurling. In some places, delicate blooms on long, green stems blossomed from the ground in a riot of color. The air was filled with unfamiliar fragrances. Somewhere nearby, a bird began to sing.
Iadrawyn stepped back and sank down onto her bed, unable to comprehend what she was seeing. Her head and eyes ached. Was she dreaming? She pinched herself to make certain she was awake. What had happened?
She wanted to ask someone what was going on, but even if she wasn’t still angry with her family, the house was quiet. She was alone. She didn’t dare leave, knowing her father wouldn’t lie about having her placed under watch. There was nothing to do but wait and worry about Valanandir.
Iadrawyn considered her situation as the hours wore on. If she could just present her case to the council… But why would they believe her? Her own father hadn’t. She couldn’t just sit here and do nothing. She knew that without her help, Valanandir was in danger.
At some point she realized the strange light was fading. The snow outside had completely melted. Soon it was dark once more. Was the light a temporary phenomenon? Mentally exhausted by her nervous speculation, Iadrawyn fell asleep.
She awoke hours later, stirred from her slumber by the return of the strange light. It was still weak, but it appeared to be growing stronger. She was startled from her observation by the sound of someone else in the house. She turned to face the doorflap to her room just as Eranalfia stepped through.
“You have to leave,” her brother said without preamble. He looked tired.
“What is happening?” Iadrawyn stood to face him. “What is the strange light?”
“We do not know. All the village has been gathered since it started, debating the meaning and the cause. There were strange noises heard and a beam of light was seen in the direction of Vila Eadros. Shortly after, small sparks of light filled the sky and there was a ball of flame and a ball of silver in the heavens. The ball of flame seems to bring the strange light. When it leaves, the silver orb remains and you can see the sparks again. When the ball of flame returns, the sparks seem to fade. Many believe it’s the end of the world.” His silver eyes had a faraway look.
Iadrawyn gripped his arm. “Why do I have to leave?”
Eranalfia shook himself. “They think you have done this. You brought this upon us by sheltering the outsider. They believe he must have dark magic that is responsible.”
“What have they done to him?”
“Nothing yet. The council is too busy arguing and trying to keep the people calm, but it’s already turning ugly. I’m afraid of what might happen. Everyone is suspicious and scared. They are looking for a target.”
“I have to get him out of here.” Iadrawyn’s eyes were already passing over the room, looking for anything she should bring with her. She knew if she did leave, she would most likely never return. She began gathering belongings to throw in her pack. This time she remembered her bow and quiver. It felt good to have them on her shoulder once more.
Eranalfia disappeared for a few moments before returning with an armload of food from the kitchen. He wrapped everything and passed it to his sister.
“How much time do I have?” Iadrawyn asked.
“Not much. It won’t be long before people start showing up here, demanding you be put to justice.”
“Did Father send you to warn me?” Iadrawyn’s heart already knew the answer, but she had to ask.
“He’s too busy trying to save what’s left of his damaged reputation.” Her brother’s expression was bitter. It was only after he said the words that he noticed the flash of pain that crossed Iadrawyn’s features. “I’m sorry.”
Iadrawyn put her hand on his shoulder. “Come with me. If they think you helped me escape, they will come after you.”
Eranalfia shook his head. “My place is here. I’m not made for adventure like you. Don’t worry about me. I’ll stay here and say you wouldn’t let me in to talk to you. They won’t be able to prove anything.”
“How many guards are watching outside?”
“Two, but they have grown bored with their vigil and are distracted by the chaos. They are both out front watching the door and talking. You should be able to slip out the window unnoticed.”
“Where are they keeping Valanandir?” Iadrawyn hoisted her full pack onto her shoulders.
“They’ve created a makeshift prison from the metalsmith’s shed. You’ll have to hurry. Here, you’ll need this for your eyes.” He handed her a wide strip of sheer cloth.
Iadrawyn threw her arms around her brother’s shoulders, squeezing him tight. “Thank you. I couldn’t do this without you.” Her eyes stung with tears.
“You would have found a way.” Eranalfia returned her embrace. His voice was gruff. “You’re the most stubborn person I know.”
“Are you sure you won’t come?” Iadrawyn pulled back to give him a long look.
He shook his head. “Don’t worry about me. You need to go.”
Iadrawyn nodded. She walked to the window and hoisted herself onto the sill before turning back to see her brother one last time.
“Thank you,” she whispered. Taking one final look at the only home she had ever known, Iadrawyn climbed out the window and into the light.
Light Chasers (The World of Lasniniar Book 0) Page 11