Surrendered: Experimental Heart, #5

Light from the full moon filtered in through the barred window of the cell. I sat in my corner, as always, contemplating my fate—remembering all the mistakes I’d made leading up to this point. I didn’t wallow in self-pity—it wouldn’t change a thing. Fighting the inevitable hadn’t helped me, either. I wasn’t meant to have any other life.

I looked to my friends who slept nearby. I just wished my mistakes hadn’t dragged them into this.

My eyes grew heavy, my weakened state not allowing me to stay awake long when I wasn’t dealing with torture. I allowed slumber to come. The remaining memories waited for me.

Chapter One

Phyre held up his arms and announced, Ambassador Laz’shika!

Orange light flickered across the forest clearing, casting tall shadows of people onto the trees. The night sky, while dulled by the air pollution of the city beyond the forest, twinkled with stars. People in decorative costumes danced around the fire, while others mingled about in the clearing.

As I expected, everyone wanted to talk to me. Some just wanted to congratulate me on my passing the test and my official Ambassador title, while others wanted to chat. I knew I was going to have to get used to it since I was now the Ambassador, but that wasn’t going to be easy for me. I wasn’t a people person. And on top of that, I had limited knowledge of rituals and customs for the tribes beyond the West Tribe. There are many people far more qualified than me.

The ever-present voice in my head, one not belonging to me, spoke, Oh, stop it. You’re plenty qualified.

One good thing that had come of it was my reconnection with Arnia and Jaybird. They apologized for missing the test, but were happy for my end result. After speaking with them for a bit, they went to join a group of North Tribe shamans. The two had really hit it off with the tribe, and it made me wonder about their future after we were free. They could benefit from a teacher, and the North Tribe was the only one I knew of to have any metal shamans or metal elementalists in the area.

A relieved sigh left my lips when I was finally allowed to sit down and relax for a moment. Raikidan sat down next to me, and my friends took their seats around us. They had stayed with me while I had endured all the greetings, and I was grateful. Their support made it easier to deal with, and Raikidan had also done his job by pulling me away when I became too overwhelmed.

My brow rose in surprise when a stout, blond dwarven man with a large septum piercing came up to us and handed me a mug, his braided beard with metal rings and clasps with large decorative plates bouncing in front of him. I hadn’t seen him since the competition in his city of Azrok, several months ago. Vorn?

Aye, lass. He smiled and shifted his hammer as it leaned on his shoulder. Ye dun think I be missin’ this ol’ party ye be havin’, did ye?

I chuckled and took the mug of ale. Good to see you, too, but did you really have to bring your hammer with you?

He laughed, his eyes shining bright. Lass, ye know I dun go anywhere without it.

All right, you got me there.

I went to take a swig of my drink as he walked away, when I noticed a woman looking like a near spitting image of Ryoko, frantically searching for… something. A dark-skinned elven man with tattoos, piercings, and a partially shaved head followed her, attempting to calm her down. Peacekeeper Ryoko and Varro? Why would two of the Peacekeepers be here? I had been quite surprised to see Peacekeeper Ryoko show up during my test, so seeing her here at my party was quite the perplexing sight.

Looking around, I found Peacekeeper Pyralis mingling with his clan, along with a green-haired, golden-eyed woman. I guessed her to be Peacekeeper Reiki. Pyralis’ presence with his clan didn’t surprise me, due to the strong connection he had to them when I visited the clan over the summer.

Mingling with some shamans, and now Vorn, were Peacekeepers Assar and Raynn, the latter throwing me off briefly since the Raynn we knew looked eerily identical.

Where is she? Peacekeeper Ryoko mumbled.

Calm down, Varro said. We’ll find her. We have all night.

I shook my head. Peacekeeper Ryoko, you’re going to make this night very interesting. Ryoko, Varro, over here.

Ryoko looked at me, her brow twisted, and then squeaked when Peacekeeper Ryoko appeared suddenly in front of her. Peacekeeper Ryoko tilted her head and assessed Ryoko. Ryoko stared back at the woman with uncertainty.

After she was done looking Ryoko over, Peacekeeper Ryoko laced her fingers into Ryoko’s hair. Your hair is so silky. I could never get my hair like this. How do you do it?

Ryoko shrugged. Conditioner. I can only imagine the beauty products we have now are a lot different from what you had.

Peacekeeper Ryoko thought this over and Varro chuckled. After years of war, hygiene wasn’t a priority to put resources into.

Peacekeeper Ryoko nodded. That’s true.

Ryoko touched Peacekeeper Ryoko’s hair. Yours is really soft, though—more so than mine, if you want my opinion. Consider yourself lucky to have such naturally soft hair.

Peacekeeper Ryoko smiled widely and the two began talking about similarities and differences between them. Amused, I listened in while paying attention to the dances the Southern and Northern Tribes performed around the fires.

The two women had quite a bit in common, but they also had many differences, and I could tell this talk with Peacekeeper Ryoko made Ryoko feel a lot better about herself. She had always thought less of herself because she was a clone, feeling that marked her as unable to be her own person.

I just hope they don’t try to dress the same. Then we’ll have a problem, the voice said.

Oh, don’t even suggest that. I don’t want to deal with that again.

Those twin assassins you trained?

Yeah, that was the stuff of nightmares. Psychic assassins—the first of their kind. I was glad the project ended and they resumed standard psychic training.

Ryoko’s ears twitched as the two went back and forth. Off topic, but I’m going to forget if I don’t ask now. Peacekeeper Ryoko, did you actually end up dying alone? That ending to your life always seemed a bit fishy to me.

Peacekeeper Ryoko giggled. No, I didn’t. Whoever made up that story is dumb. I had my pack. She gestured to Varro. And I also had him.

My interested gaze swept to Varro. He laughed. Surprise!

Surprise, indeed.

Life is full of them! You’re in for a bumpy ride in the next coming weeks.

What’s that supposed to mean?

The voice chuckled but refrained from giving an answer.

Raynn and Assar were the only ones who really liked all the attention we received after the war, so the rest of us hid in the shadows, Varro explained. No one really knew what we were doing with our lives, and that was how we liked it. It was peaceful.

Explains the theory about Ryoko, though, Rylan said. If people didn’t know what happened to her, or about her relationship with Varro and the others, they’d theorize she went off to be alone.

I nodded. That makes a lot of sense.

You and Varro, really? Ryoko questioned.

Peacekeeper Ryoko shrugged. He grew on me.

We had known each other for some time prior to everyone getting together, Varro explained. Wasn’t really a spur-of-the-moment situation.

Peacekeeper Ryoko rolled her eyes. He’s leaving out the part where I hated him during that time.

You hated everyone in the village, he shot back.

No, I just didn’t trust them. I actually hated you.

That’s a lie, and you know it.

Ryoko giggled. You two sound like Laz and Raikidan.

We do not act like that, Raikidan and I objected.

Oh, boy. Now you’re on the same wavelength.

The others laughed at the two of us. My eyes narrowed and I finished off my mug of ale. My attention turned when someone approached us. I smiled at the man dressed in thick robes with various chains, pouches, books of different sizes, quills, and parchments hanging off it. Standard scholar garb, though to this day, I still didn’t understand why they insisted on using quill and ink instead of pens. Me’kunar.

He pulled down his hood with an intricately painted hand, revealing his weathered mocha-tan skin and long black hair smattered with bits of gray. Elven ears poked out of his dark tresses. His forest green eyes sparkled with a youth that contrasted with his age. He smiled and sat down in front of me. It’s been a while, Eira.

I sighed contently. Thank you for not addressing me by my new title.

I suspected you’d be more comfortable if I didn’t.

I smiled my thanks. So, did you come over here to congratulate me, or just chat?

He smiled. A little bit of both. I do want to congratulate you on both your shaman status and your new job with us. Being appointed as our Ambassador is nothing to sneeze at, and is a highly desired position. But I also want to thank you for the information you sent to me about the find in Larkren.

I grinned, remembering the trip to the seaside town several months back and the chance find. I can only imagine it was of some help, yes?

His face lit up. It was the best find of the decade! There has been so much information in that area, I’ve had to make several trips to make sure I got it all.

The image of him grumbling to himself about the long trek, while also being excited about collecting new information, crossed my mind and I laughed a bit. I’m glad I could be of some use.

I’m hoping you can be of more use soon, if you’re willing. While translating it is no problem, I need help piecing it all together, as a lot of it is only fragments. You’ve always been helpful when it came to piecing together fragment stories.

You should help.

I can try to help. I’ve got a book that can access the Library, so if you publish it in there, I can take a look at any time.

Me’kunar cocked and eyebrow. You have a book? How did you gain possession of one?

Shva’sika waved her fingers. I gave it to her.

Me’kunar laughed. Shva’sika, of course. I shouldn’t be surprised in the least you gave her your family book.

She’s my family, so I see no reason to keep it from her.

Me’kunar nodded. Of course, of course.

The two fell into conversation on the Eternal Library, my elven friend telling him of the new entrance find, and the book discovery on the Makers, getting Me’kunar excited.

No way! Peacekeeper Ryoko suddenly screeched, pulling my attention back to her and Ryoko. You get a tail?

Ryoko blinked, her face strained with shock and surprise. Yeah. It shows up before I have to shift, because of the full moon. I guess you didn’t?

Peacekeeper Ryoko groaned. That’s not fair! I wanted a tail. Even if it was only for a few days.

I chuckled at her childish behavior. The two definitely acted alike.

You don’t need one, Varro insisted.

But I always wanted one, Peacekeeper Ryoko said.

You’re fine just as you are.

Peacekeeper Ryoko pouted. But I wanted one…

Ryoko grunted. Well, if I could, I’d give it to you. I can’t stand it. I had to cut some of my clothes to accommodate it.

It’s not like it put a dent in your stock of clothes, Rylan said.

She poked him in the chest. You be quiet.

I chuckled and kept my voice low before speaking to Peacekeeper Ryoko. He’s got a tail fetish.

Rylan’s eyes narrowed at me. Shut up, I do not.

Yeah, you do, Blaze argued. You get all weird when she has her tail.

Argus smirked. Weird is an understatement.

The two laughed, and Rylan glared at them with flushed cheeks. I need another drink.

A capped bottle of beer was tossed to him, but before he could take a sip, Ryoko stole it and took a few gulps. Rylan gave her a scolding look, and she laughed before handing it back to him. I looked at my empty bottle and decided I needed more. As I was about to get up, Ne’kall and Tla’lli approached. They were helping each other carry something covered in feathers.

I cocked my head with a raised brow. What is that?

Ne’kall let go of his end and smiled. A headdress.

Okay…

Tla’lli giggled and held it out. It’s for you. It belonged to the last Ambassador. She fashioned it from a skull that has been inherited by each subsequent appointed Ambassador since the first. She smiled. We’ll hold onto it for you until Zarda is dealt with, but I wanted to present it to you now, so you knew it’d be coming your way eventually.

I smiled and took the heavy headdress from them. Red and orange feathers of various lengths splayed out across my legs, going all the way to the ground, as I did my best to look over the headpiece. A large bird-like skull, about a foot long, sat as the centerpiece, with two golden medallions on either side. Etched into the metal was the same symbol as on my cloak. That’s interesting… I thought the symbol was unique to Raikidan and me. I made a mental note to investigate it at a later time.

Looking over how it was worn, the skull would rest directly on the person’s head, the feathers arching out behind it and flowing down the back of the person. The feathers had yellow, blue, and white accents. The arch and placement of the colored accents reminded me of sunrays, or fire. Thank you. What kind of skull is it?

Ne’kall chuckled. What, you’ve never seen a bird skull before?

No way that’s from a bird, Ryoko said. That thing is huge!

Tla’lli laughed. That’s because it’s a phoenix skull.

Everyone stared at her.

Our first Ambassador cared for the last living phoenix a long time ago. Even though the creature went through several rebirth cycles, its life did eventually end. She kept its skull and many of its feathers as a memento, and we have passed it along to the next Ambassadors in her honor.

Ryoko scratched her head. There aren’t even any records of when those creatures officially went extinct. Most believe them to be creatures in myths and legends, to spice up stories. When was the first Ambassador picked?

Tla’lli shrugged. The exact timing isn’t known, due to all the wars, and information was lost as a result. She was the first shaman, and started what we are today. It’s said that happened at least six millennia ago, but that’s the best we know.

Ryoko cocked her head to the side. Why not go find her in the afterlife and ask?

No one can find her, Ne’kall said.

Rylan’s brow furrowed. What?

Tla’lli nodded. No one can find any of the Ambassadors.

So they just stopped existing? Rylan asked.

Well, no. Just ‘cause you can’t find someone doesn’t mean they don’t exist. They could have been reincarnated, or they just don’t want to show up.

Interesting. Rylan went to thinking. You also mentioned the first Ambassador was a woman. How many have been women and how many have been men?

They’re all women, I answered. And their official Guards all happen to have been men as well. I turned my eyes to Tla’lli. At least that’s what I’ve been able to find on that topic in my most recent searches with the Eternal Library, since the shamans had appointed me the position as a farce for Zarda.

Me’kunar spoke in her stead. That would be correct. The gods choose both the Ambassador and her official Guard, but not much else is known beyond those few texts. We scholars are looking for any information we can find about the Ambassadors. Due to the War of End, knowledge about the second and third Ambassadors was lost, and what’s available for the first is incomplete. The only Ambassador with a substantial historical listing is the one who came before Laz’shika, and even those entries have unusual holes in them. The Ambassadors are as hot a topic as the Makers.

I found this fascinating. In my readings, the Ambassador traditionally held an important position of keeping peace between the tribes, no easy task sometimes with their differences. Due to the importance, it surprised me the title wasn’t often given, and for so much history to be lost, that was a big deal. I would have thought the Eternal Library had all possible information. Maybe it does, but it’s hidden somewhere. The Eternal Library did have a mind of its own when it came to allowing you to find certain entries.

She’s a mischievous entity.

She? What, is she like a god or something?

Maybe.

Some of the things this voice knew or said confused me. How could this special library that stretched across all of Lumaraeon be a god? Wait, maybe that’s how she can be…

Bingo!

I’d have to look into that more. But at this moment, I needed to focus on the party in my honor. I chose to try the headdress on. The skull fit well on the top of my head, its heavy weight counterbalanced by the plumage in the back. I pulled the skull down over my face and found I could look through the eye sockets, though not perfectly.

Ryoko giggled. You look silly.

I frowned. Really? I thought I might look good in it.

I think you do, Tla’lli said. Several of the others around me agreed with her, which made me feel good.

With a grateful smile to Tla’lli, I removed it from my head and handed it back. Thank you for presenting it to me. I’ll let you take it back so it’s not damaged.

Tla’lli nodded, and she and Ne’kall carried the headdress away. I scanned the clearing, and a young woman with long, platinum blonde hair standing away from the party on the opposite side of the clearing caught my attention. Iana?

I got up and headed that way. I’ll be right back.

Chapter Two

(Ryoko)

I watched Laz get up and head off somewhere, saying something about being right back. Where could she be going?

Peacekeeper Ryoko tapped my shoulder, trying to keep my attention on her. So, when do you get your tail?

I wanted to laugh. I couldn’t believe she was still hung up on that. It’s never consistent. Sometimes it’s a day before the full moon, and sometimes it’s a few days.

Do you have it after the forced shift?

I shook my head. No, just before.

One of her eyes squinted, while the other opened more as her brow lifted, as if she didn’t believe me. No other time?

I couldn’t help but laugh. Nope.

Today had been interesting, to say the least. Never in a million years would I have imagined I’d see half of what I had. Laz showing off her power—gods fighting mortals in honor-like combat, without the to-the-death part, of course—and now meeting the woman I’d been cloned from. All my life, I’d walked in her shadow, thinking I was just a living memory of the woman she was. I thought that I couldn’t be my own person, and that if anyone found out my origins, they’d either expect me to be her, or shun me.

Sitting here with her, though, made me realize how wrong I was, in respect to our likeness, at least. Sure, there were a lot of similarities, but we were each our own person, too.

I smiled at my ancient… I guess she’s my sister, if you really think about it. As a clone, that made me a twin of hers, just separated by hundreds of years. I didn’t have any blood siblings that I knew of; it made me a bit jealous of some of the others. But then, I had a type of surrogate family, if a little bit messed up. I mean, seriously, Ryoko, what kind of sane family starts dating each other?

But thinking of Peacekeeper Ryoko as my sister made me happy.

Peacekeeper Ryoko tilted her head. So, you don’t get your tail before you shift voluntarily?

My ears drooped. I can’t do that, actually.

Peacekeeper Ryoko blinked. Really? That should be a natural process by now, at your age.

I held up a finger. Well, I was on anti-transformation pills up until a few months ago. Once I came off them, my transformations were random, and slowly became most consistent with the moon’s phases each passing month. I’ve been so focused on that, I didn’t think an unforced shift was possible.

She thought about this. Sounds like it altered the natural flow of the wogron blood, and is causing your body to go through a change similar to that of young wogrons when they start adolescence.

I tilted my head. Huh?

Peacekeeper Ryoko snapped her fingers. That’s right. We’ve been so secretive, even you wouldn’t know much about us. You obviously know how we half-wogrons shift into the wogron form on the night of the full moon? Well, full wogrons shift into humans on the full moon.

My brow rose. Really?

She nodded vigorously. Yeah. It happened several generations after the curse mutated and forced them to keep the wogron shape permanently. So, when wogron pups hit adolescence, they start experiencing the change, and it takes a few years for it to regulate to the normal cycle of once every full moon. As a half-wogron, it was thought I’d go through something similar when I hit adolescence, but I didn’t. I only changed for the full moon. Being the only half-wogron until your existence, we believed it’d be the same for any other half-wogrons.

I rubbed my chin. Interesting. I turned to Laz’s scholar friend. Did you know that, Me’kunar?

He shook his head. No. I haven’t done much study on the wogrons. But my sister has, so I wouldn’t doubt she knows.

My brow twisted. You and your sister are scholars? Is this a sibling hobby, or do you have other family members who are curious brainiacs too?

No, this is a family affair. Few of our family members have chosen other paths.

I laughed. I hadn’t actually expected that answer from him.

So, Peacekeeper Ryoko, Rylan began, when the curse mutated, was that when bites and scratches from a wogron also become toxic to non-wogrons?

Peacekeeper Ryoko nodded. Yes. Those walked hand in hand.

I held my chin and thought. Interesting. I wonder what caused the curse to change.

She shrugged. No one knows. How the curse even came to be is still a mystery. There are only scattered records and stories of people having it, but nothing about how it started.

I chuckled. I guess the search for answers continues.

Me’kunar held up a finger. And that’s where I come in. We’ll find all the knowledge some day, I’m sure of it.

Peacekeeper Ryoko turned her attention to where Laz had disappeared to. Who is that she’s talking to?

A few of us turned our attention in the same direction to see Laz conversing with a fair-skinned, lithe woman with long platinum blonde hair and crystal blue eyes. Oh, that’s Iana. She’s an old military comrade of ours. It’s been some time since any of us have seen her.

She’s the first Eira has personally approached, she observed. Why is that?

She and Laz have a unique relationship due to an ability Iana has. Laz is the only person who knows much about the ability, but from what the rest of us do know, it comes from her hands and she sometimes struggles to keep it in check, hence the gloves she wears.

Peacekeeper Ryoko tapped her lips with a finger. You’ve never seen the ability?

I shook my head. I’ve never even seen her in battle. She’s always been a shy thing, so when you ask her about it, she shuts down. It’s why Laz got her out of the military and underground once she could.

Rylan leaned forward. It’s rumored she’s not even tank-born.

Peacekeeper Ryoko’s brow rose. You’re saying she was forced into service?

He nodded. Something to do with her ability and that she refuses to use it. That’s the rumor, at least.

A portal opened up near them, and three men came through. All three looked as though they’d come right off of some ranch outside the city. One man, with brown hair and blue eyes, carried a young lamb, maybe no older than a week or two, in his arms, and a long-haired shepherd dog with a spotted coat stood by his feet.

Peacekeeper Ryoko’s brow rose. Who are they?

Blaze chuckled. She’s as nosey as our Ryoko.

I tossed an empty bottle at him and he ducked. Me’kunar chuckled. That would be Alistair and a few of his ranch hands. They’re notoriously late to parties.

The three joined a group of North and East Tribe shaman. I noticed Arnia and Jaybird had mingled in with the group, the former sitting with the shaman who saved them from certain death, Ven’lar. The two had really hit it off with the shamans. It made me wonder if they’d relocate to one of those towns after our fight with Zarda. That got me wondering what others would do. I hadn’t even thought about what I wanted. Would everyone leave the house, too?

We all had lived together for so long, the thought of us living elsewhere sent a prickle of pain through my chest. I guess that’s all part of change, though.

This got me looking around at everyone, acting all nostalgic and taking in each of their faces and the memories that came with them. I’m ridiculous.

My gazing stopped when I noticed a translucent woman sitting near Blaze, watching him. He acted as if she weren’t there, but I could tell, by the glances from the others, I wasn’t the only one seeing her.

Telar swiveled his head my way. Don’t say anything to him.

My brow furrowed. Why?

She’s made it clear she doesn’t want him to see her.

Who is she?

I’m not sure. Zane and Argus said it’s best to leave it be.

I found this rather strange. In all my years of knowing the guy, I couldn’t think of a woman who would have reason to follow him around in secret. What secret is he hiding?

Movement in the forest caught my eyes. Looking in that direction, I spotted a muscular, bronze-skinned man standing in the shadows of a tree. Zeek…

He motioned me to come over. My ears twitched and I swallowed, but complied. It’s fine, Ryoko. There’s nothing wrong with speaking with him alone. Even if he is a past lover… I’ll be right back, guys.

Hm, who is that guy? Peacekeeper Ryoko asked, her words carrying all the way over to my sensitive ears.

Zeek, Blaze said. Past boyfriend, I think.

How do you not know?

Look, she and I aren’t particularly close. I didn’t even know she had a boyfriend before, until she freaked out at me several months ago when I made an assumption.

You’re just going to let your mate talk to him? I guessed she was asking Rylan this.

Yeah, that’s a lot of trust you have in her, Blaze said.

It’s not a matter of trust or commitment, neither of which I expect you to understand, Blaze. Rylan’s sharp words surprised me. I will let her get the closure she needs—however that needs to happen.

My heart fluttered. I didn’t know what would happen with Zeek and me alone. I didn’t want to do anything that would tarnish the relationship I had with Rylan, but I appreciated his words and his trust. Whatever happens, I’ll tell him when we’re alone so there are no secrets. It’s the right thing to do.

Zeek smiled at me and grabbed my hand, pulling me farther away from the gathering. The warmth of his hand sent a rush of familiarity through my body. I remember this touch.

He faced me when we’d gone far enough. His usual cocky and carefree demeanor had been replaced by an unusually serious one, and before I could think to ask what he wanted from me, his large arms wrapped around me and pulled me tight against him. My heart raced, and also ached at the same time. I remembered this embrace, burned so deep into my memory I’d never forget. It was like he’d never died.

I’m sorry, he whispered. I’m sorry for making a mistake and leaving you alone. I’m sorry… for causing you so much pain.

I buried my face into his chest, a small smile spreading across my lips. Thank you, but an apology isn’t needed. I don’t blame you for what happened. It was a hazard of the life we had to live. It’s a hazard of my current life, still.

I gazed up at him. Losing you still hurts, but I’ve had time to cope. Sometimes I wonder what life would be like if you’d lived, but I know that’s not something I can dwell on. It’s allowed me to move on enough to find new happiness.

My eyes fell away as the guilt crept into my chest. I feel awful, because as much as I love Rylan, there’s a part of me that still loves you. So much so, time will never be able to remove that from my heart.

Zeek cupped my chin. Loving someone new after loss isn’t easy. You know about Alsaira, I didn’t hide that past relationship from you. I may not have stopped loving her, even long after I lost her, but that didn’t mean my love for you was any weaker. Just as your love for Rylan isn’t weak. He wiped away a tear welling up in my eye. I’m happy for you. Admittedly jealous of him, but happy nonetheless.

I smiled. Thank you.

I shouldn’t keep you any longer than I have. But… His hand still holding my face, he crashed his lips into mine. The passion in this kiss set my blood ablaze, sending my heart into overdrive. Memories of a time spent with him came flooding back to me, each one pleasant and not unwelcomed. The memories—the familiarity of this embrace—I abandoned all logic and reasoning and embraced the feelings of this lost love.

Zeek pulled away, leaving me breathless. You’re still as tempting as ever; I envy Rylan’s claim over you. A part of me wishes he’d kept his head up his ass for just a while longer.

He started to fade, and my sight became blurry as tears welled up in my eyes. Know that I will love you until the end of time, and will be here when we are reunited once again. Until that time, my little she-wolf.

He disappeared, and the tears streamed down my cheeks. My legs gave out and I collapsed into the snow, holding myself as I sobbed. The pain of losing him again, mixed with my feeling that I’d betrayed Rylan, took over me.

Feet crunched in the snow behind me, but I couldn’t compose myself. A soft hand rested on my shoulders, and before I knew it, I was pulled against a female form, tendrils of her brown hair spilling over my shoulders. Peacekeeper Ryoko’s scent wafted into my nose. She held me close, stroking my hair and murmuring quiet words.

Minutes passed before the tears dried up. I pulled away from her, sniffling and wiping the remaining wet streaks away. Thank you.

Are you all right? she asked.

I nodded. Yeah. It hurt to see him go again, but weirdly enough, I feel better than I have in a long time. Though I do feel guilty, too.

She smiled at me. Your mate won’t hold it against you, as he shouldn’t. Most are allowed to move on after losing those they love. But what you’ve experienced is what Eira and those who are touched by the spiritual plane experience. Moving on is difficult for them, as the reminders are always there.

I frowned. I never thought about that. Laz doesn’t talk about that ability.

She’s strong and handles it better than most. Peacekeeper Ryoko continued to smile. Just like you have. My father had a mate prior to my mother. He told me what it was like being in your shoes. I do not envy that struggle, but I do admire you and him for facing it as well as you do.

I cocked my head. I’m curious, how did things work out with your parents?

She rubbed the back of her neck. That’s an interesting situation. Um, well, my mother was the last of the A’shi people.

A’shi?

They were a nation of humans who had the ability to suppress shifting abilities. The ability manifested as either an aura or an activated ability, like elemental control. My mother so happened to have an aura, and it suppressed the curse of the wogrons.

My eyes grew wide. That’s cool.

She nodded. It could be dangerous, too, but the pack made it work.

How did they meet?

She half laughed, her face contorting as if she were nervous or embarrassed. Maybe both? Well… she tried to kill our Alpha, thinking he was another wogron.

I stared at her. What?

Yeah… one merciful event led to another, and my father claimed her as his mate. She scratched her face. Told you it was an interesting situation.

I nodded, unable to find the right answer to that.

Peacekeeper Ryoko rose to her feet and held her hand out to me. Should we head back?

Yeah. I took her offered hand and got to my feet. Why did you follow me out here?

She smiled. Sick curiosity. I wanted to know what you’d do. It ended up far tamer than I expected.

Heat rushed to my face. I wouldn’t betray Rylan like that.

Her eyes softened. He wouldn’t have seen it as a betrayal. I can tell by the way he acted. While uncomfortable, he would have understood. I’m sure he’d struggle with this type of situation himself.

I looked away. Yeah, well, I don’t even think what I did was right.

I headed back for the party, but she stopped me.

Wait. Looking back, I found her eyes dancing with mischief. I want to do something fun first.

My brow rose. What evil plan has she concocted?

Chapter Three

(Eira)

My chat with Iana had been pleasant, if a bit disappointing. She hadn’t progressed any with her ability. She still had little control over it, and it still caused her a great deal of pain. I really had hoped she’d had gotten over her fear. She didn’t believe me when I’d told her this reluctance to use her ability caused this pain. Maybe if I find out more about this ability of hers, that would help her believe me.

You do have more resources to pull. It would be wise to utilize them. Her ability shouldn’t cause these problems.

The voice had a point. Even if I failed to find anything, at least I tried to utilize the extra resources. Maybe the shamans can encourage her. Arnia had called Iana over to join their group, and she complied after some encouragement from me. I’d stayed to monitor her for a few minutes. She, while shy, hit it off with those three newcomers, the dog they brought attaching himself to her hip almost immediately.

As I made my way back to the others, I noticed our little group had changed a little bit. My mother and Jasmine, who had disappeared while I had been greeting people, returned and sat with Ryder, who had also disappeared during that time. Azriel, who had gone off to chat with some friends when we had arrived, was with them, and Peacekeeper Ryoko and Ryoko were nowhere to be seen. There was also a new person sitting with everyone whom I didn’t know, although she didn’t appear to be one of the living.

The woman, translucent but visible enough to see a little color in her form, sat near Blaze and watched him and his interactions with the others. Blaze and the others paid her no mind as if she wasn’t even there, making me curious. She’s obviously a spirit, but why isn’t she taking on a physical form like the other spirits here so she can interact with everyone? I could tell she knew Blaze by how she watched and reacted to his actions, but what was their relationship?

Sometimes, it’s not good to poke at old wounds.

Seda looked my way. Laz, do not mention the woman sitting with Blaze. He’s not to know she’s there, unless you want to cause him distress.

Should I know the history between them, just in case?

No. It’d be best to just let this one be.

Very well. Thank you for letting me know.

I sat down between Ryder and my mother. So where did Ryoko run off to? I peered around and noticed Peacekeeper Ryoko truly was missing. Both of them.

Zeek wanted to talk to Ryoko privately, Rylan said.

And my Ryoko decided to be nosey and follow, Varro said.

I still don’t get you letting her go with him, Blaze said to Rylan.

I told you, I have my reasons, and someone like you would never understand, so drop it, Rylan muttered.

I studied Rylan as he sipped his beer. I, too, was curious about his decision to be okay with it, although I could see the rigidness of his posture, which told me it did bother him.

If I had to guess, he wants Ryoko to get the closure she deserved. No matter how that needs to happen.

That would make sense.

Blaze stretched. Speaking of those two, this double-Ryoko thing is getting a little hard for my head to handle.

Varro chuckled. You’re not alone, trust me.

Maybe we should give them new names while they’re together? Telar suggested.

I snickered when the two Ryokos calmly came out of woods. Well you’re more than welcome to run the idea by the two of them. They’re back. The two acted quite normal as they walked back into the clearing. Too normal. Something is up. Everything okay, Ryo?

She nodded. Yep. Zeek and I are good.

I eyed Peacekeeper Ryoko. And you followed because?

Because I’m nosey and wanted to understand the dynamic of her relationship with this man and her actual partner.

Ryoko rolled her eyes. And she wanted to bother me about the tail thing some more.

Peacekeeper Ryoko crossed her arms and pouted once more. It’s not fair you get a tail.

Ryoko shook her head with a sigh and sat down next to Rylan. So, as we were coming back, I heard you say had an idea you wanted to run by us?

Yeah, this whole Ryoko, Ryoko name thing is really confusing, Blaze told her. We’re thinking of giving you guys nicknames for the duration of the night.

Peacekeeper Ryoko giggled as she sat down next to Varro. That’s stupid.

Maybe to you, Blaze muttered. But not to us.

Peacekeeper Ryoko faced Varro. You don’t like their idea, do you?

He shrugged. It’s a little confusing, and it’d be helpful, but I’m not going to push the issue.

Eyes wide, Ryoko looked at Rylan. Ry, you’re not in on this idea, are you?

Rylan nodded. Actually, I kinda am. Her eyes narrowed and he held up his hands. It wouldn’t be that bad. Just little nicknames. He smirked. She can be Grandma Ryoko and you can be Little Ryoko.

Ryoko stole his drink. I’m not little, jerk.

Peacekeeper Ryoko pointed at him, exclaiming, And I’m not that old!

I turned my gazed to Valene when she sat down next to me suddenly. Hey there.

She smiled. Hi. It looked like you guys were having fun over here, so I figured I’d join.

I chuckled. You could join us even if we weren’t having fun.

Valene’s smile grew wider. So, what was I missing?

The guys are being jerks, Ryoko muttered.

Valene blinked. How so?

They want to give us nicknames because they suck at dealing with our names.

Valene chuckled. Maybe they should get bigger brains.

My mother laughed and gave Valene a tight hug. Oh, I really love this girl. Eira, dear, you picked a good girl to adopt.

I smiled. I don’t regret it.

Valene beamed with happiness. Mom says hi, by the way. She’s spending some time with Daren right now, but said she’d try to spend some time with us before the night is over.

That’d be nice. It was nice knowing Valene was taking her mother’s passing so much easier now. When I noticed Rylan looking at Peacekeeper Ryoko and Ryoko in an odd way, I became curious. Something the matter, Ry?

Yeah, you’ve been looking at me funny for a while now, Ryoko said.

Rylan released an exasperated breath. You two really tried to pull this on us?

Everyone focused on him, confused, and I burst out laughing, slapping my hand on my knee. I knew the two of you were up to something!

Ryoko blinked. What are you two talking about?

Blaze, realizing what we had figured out, laughed. They pulled the old identical twin switch!

I should have known… So predictable.

Ryoko blinked. Really, guys? You seriously think we did that?

I continued to chuckle. We know you did.

Ryoko shook her head. You guys ar—

Peacekeeper Ryoko, give it up, Ryoko, disguised as her predecessor, said. They know, and you can’t convince them otherwise. I told you it wouldn’t work. Varro, who had his hand resting on Ryoko’s hip, retracted his touch, and Ryoko shot him an apologetic look. Sorry, it was her idea.

He chuckled. No need to apologize. I should have expected that from her.

Peacekeeper Ryoko crossed her arms, her lower lips sticking out into a pout. None of you are any fun.

Ryoko chuckled and stood. Now, I’d like to sit next to Rylan again, if you don’t mind.

Peacekeeper Ryoko grumbled and reluctantly swapped places. When Ryoko was seated next to Rylan, she looked at him apologetically, but he only smiled back. It didn’t surprise me in the least that he had figured it out. I suspected their scent difference gave them away, even with attempts to fix that, knowing the better-than-average sense of smell Rylan had.

I can keep these clothes, right? Ryoko asked Peacekeeper Ryoko. I like them.

Yeah, I don’t mind, Ryoko said. She turned her eyes to Rylan. What do you think?

Rylan grinned. I think they’re fitting.

Peacekeeper Ryoko looked at Varro. Do you like the clothes she let me use?

Varro’s face reddened. Y–yeah. They’re nice.

Peacekeeper Ryoko peered up at him through her lashes, her shoulders slouching and her arms pulling in close to make herself look bustier. Just nice?

I laughed. Easy, Ryoko. You’re going to give the poor man a nosebleed.

She grinned wickedly. That was the plan.

I glanced at Ryoko. If she could bring clothes with her into the spiritual, I’d suggest you let her raid your closet.

Peacekeeper Ryoko held up a finger. Actually, due to the fact that we have our physical form tonight, I can swap clothes. I’ll just keep the new ones until another day like this arrives.

Ryoko rubbed her hands together, a mischievous smile on her face. Then I think we need to make a trip to the Iron Hawk Mall before the night is over.

Peacekeeper Ryoko’s eyes lit up and Varro swallowed, clearly terrified of these two’s ability to plot against him.

Valene waved her hand to grab Varro’s attention. Um, I’d like to ask you something. I hope it’s not overstepping any bounds, but it’s been on my mind since I spotted you. The statues that honor your group depict you differently than—

He held up his hand to stop her. I know what you’re getting at. Unfortunately, I was hit with a bit of prejudice, even after everything we did for Lumaraeon. The people had a hard time wrapping their minds around my appearance, mixed with the knowledge I was a healer. Because of this, they chose to portray me in a way they thought was better suited for an elven healer.

Ryoko glowered. Not cool.

Varro shrugged. I honestly could care less. It’s just a statue.

Ryoko crossed her arms. Well, I’m going to have it changed after this.

You really don’t need to do that.

I chuckled as the two squabbled and sipped my drink, taking the time to look about. People of various walks laughed and mingled. The South Tribe kept up their music, the North Tribe sometimes changing it up with their own. Dancers still performed by the fires, taking a break now and then to allow elementalists to show off their prowess in the form of dances. Overall, I couldn’t find a single person who wasn’t having fun. It brought a smile to my face.

A small group of children scurried over to Me’kunar, catching my attention. They sat down in front of him and he chuckled, knowing what they were looking for. What can I do for you little ones tonight?

Can you tell us a story? one of the older children asked.

Me’kunar chuckled again. I could. He looked at me. But I think Eira might be able to tell you a better story.

The children turned their bright and exited eye on me. I gave Me’kunar a pointed look. You know better stories than me.

But yours are so exciting! a child chirped. I recognized him as one of the children from the West Tribe, who had witnessed many of my stories. Please tell us a story!

I blew out a breath while smiling. Okay, okay, I’ll tell you a story. The children squealed with excitement and scooted closer to me. What kind of story do you want to hear?

One about princesses! a young girl said quietly.

No, that’s lame! a boy argued. Tells us a story about Old Knights!

No, one with dragons in it! another child insisted.

I chuckled. All right, all right, calm down. Let me think…

I could tell a story that incorporated all three ideas, since the three topics were commonly put together in stories, but with the dragons here, I was siding against it. Our human stories weren’t all that kind to them most of the time. But taking the dragons out made it difficult to use the princess and knight idea. I sighed mentally. Why me?

Just make us the bad guy, Ebon called out from where he was mingling. We know your stories aren’t always nice to us. We get it. We won’t hold it against you.

Well, some of us won’t, Corliss said.

I narrowed my eyes at him and he laughed. Rolling my eyes, I chose to just go with making the dragons the bad guys. It would get this story telling over with. I motioned for the children to turn around, and they listened. All right, watch carefully.

I took a deep breath as I thought up the details of the story before raising my hands and taking control of one of the bonfires. Slowly, I manipulated the flames as I let the details of the story run through my head and out to my fingertips, speaking it aloud as it played out.

The fire morphed until it took the shape of a knight riding through the woods on horseback, at an incredible pace. He jumped over every obstacle, rode over every mountain, and fought all enemies that stood in his path, but none of it would stop him from getting to his destination.

He traveled for many days before he came to a large abandoned castle, except he knew it wasn’t abandoned. The knight dismounted his horse and carefully made his way inside. He searched the castle room by room, but didn’t find what he was looking for. He headed for some stairs that led to the tower, but stopped when something caught his attention.

The children watched eagerly as the knight ventured away from the stairs and into the courtyard, and then gasped when I manipulated the fire into a large dragon. The knight drew his sword and fought valiantly against his mighty foe. The two battled until only one came out victorious.

The knight struck the killing blow to the dragon, the enormous creature falling into a crumpled heap, and then rushed back inside the castle. He ran up the stairs to the tower, and broke down the locked door at the top. Inside, in the tiny room, sat a princess, held captive until the day a valiant knight could defeat the dragon charged to guard her and rescue her from her unfortunate situation. The knight took the princess, and they rode away from the castle together.

She should have just befriended the dragon. Would have been less of a hassle.

Just enjoy the story.

The children cheered with delight when the story ended and then gazed at me eagerly. What, one wasn’t enough?

Never enough! they shouted. Tell another!

I chuckled. Okay, okay, give me a minute to think.

Tell one about dragons! a child told me. Good ones!

No, tell one about the gods! another called out.

How about you tell one about us? Peacekeeper Ryoko suggested. Those are fun stories.

The children’s eyes lit up and I thought about the idea. I smiled when something came to mind. Sure, I can do that, but I’ll need a little help with this story.

I shifted my gaze to Valene and she blinked. Me? What can I do?

I reached into my satchel and pulled out my pan flute. I need you to sing.

Her eyes lit up. We’re going to tell that story?

I nodded and she squealed with delight.

Rylan chuckled. Looks like we’re going to hear a good one, from her reaction.

Amused chuckles rumbled through the crowd of people.

I glanced over at Seda and Telar. If you two would like to help, I think it would enhance this story.

I’ll pass, Telar said. Seda will do a better job than me.

Seda smiled. I’d love to. I’ve also let Talon know, since I know how much he likes this story, too.

I smiled when I noticed Talon getting ready by a pair of bass drums. This story was quite old, and not many knew it anymore, but Talon was one, and it had to be his favorite story. And since it was designed to be sung instead of spoken like other stories, it wasn’t told often.

Once everyone appeared to be ready, I played my pan flute and the fire responded to my will. Someone began playing a piano and Valene sang. As she did, the flames formed into a large picture of a battlefield, the entire clearing used as the setup.

The battle was chaotic—no single side to be seen as each fiery figure attacked anyone in sight until they were taken down themselves. Dragons fell from the sky from powerful gunfire; humans shot wogrons and elves before being taken down themselves by the rare grekeleon race, and sorcerers ripped their enemies asunder with powerful magics. Every time someone fell, three more of the same race would take their place, and the death toll rose.

Such an awful time for the mortal races, the voice murmured, her voice strained.

I glanced at Seda to find her lifting her hands up for her part. Her short hair stood on end a little, and soon, images of real people began to mix in with my fiery ones. Working together, we increased the depth of the story by making it feel as if the fighting was going on right here, as if we had been temporarily teleported into the past.

Then, Seda added in a new twist. Out of the sky, a red and a green dragon dove into the battle, and from their backs, three figures jumped down into the center of the battlefield. Ryoko, with the strength of the earth on her side, divided the land and pushed the battle back. Varro, Raynn, and Assar kept her safe from any retaliating attacks, while Reiki and Pyralis used their strong wings to create wind strong enough to push the fighters into submission. Pyralis used a bit of smoke to subdue some of the more resilient fighters, but he, like everyone else, was careful not to hurt them.

When the fighting had slowed, Ryoko spoke to them, insistent about something. After a few moments, the people around her looked at each other. As she kept speaking to them, they lowered their weapons and the fighting finally stopped. The battling had finally ended, and so could the pain.

I pulled the flute away and let out a quiet breath while everyone took in the song.

Look at your brothers and tell me how the two of you are the exact same, Varro murmured.

Look at your enemy and tell me how they are different. Pyralis continued.

Look at me, and tell me why I have to be your enemy when we are all different and yet all the same, Reiki said.

Assar nodded slowly from where he drank with Vorn. Aye, no truer words were spoken from ye, lass, than those words that day.

Peacekeeper Ryoko ducked her head, her cheeks turning several shades of red. I watched as everyone around me took in the story. When the amazement had finally filtered through their brains, the children squealed with excitement and piled on me.

I laughed and held my flute away. Easy there guys, you’re going to break my pan flute!

That was so amazing! one of the children squealed.

You’re the best! another said.

I chuckled. I don’t know about the best.

Yes, you are! they insisted.

I laughed and continued to as they climbed on me more.

Show us your neat flute! one of the children begged.

I will if you stop climbing on me, you little monkeys!

They didn’t climb off me right away, but when I still didn’t show them the flute, they reluctantly let go. Happy for my freedom, I held the pan flute out for them to look at. One of the girls went to touch it but stopped and gazed up at me apprehensively.

You can touch it, if you’re careful. It’s really old, I said.

The girl smiled and she touched it. Her smile grew as she traced the symbols on each pipe. What do these say?

Love. Peace. Spirit. Loyalty. Serenity. Strength. Wisdom.

So it’s a spiritual pan flute then, Varro said.

My brow rose. A what?

It’s a type of flute that aids with drawing out spiritual and elemental aspects of a being when played. He regarded me for a moment. I’m guessing you don’t know whether it is or not, then?

It was a gift. I jerked my head in my mother’s direction. From her.

Varro turned to my mother. She shrugged. I found it on one of my travels.

I looked over the flute as she spoke. She murmured that lie so easily now. Had she finally gotten over him, or was it easy for her to tell others a lie because I was around?

Let go of that pain.

That pain keeps me from making the wrong choices.

No, it keeps you from finding happiness.

Pyralis crouched down in front of me all of a sudden and held out his hand. May I take a look at that for a moment?

Uh, sure.

He took it carefully from me and inspected the instrument. I thought this looked familiar. This belonged to my daughter.

My eyes widened. Really?

He nodded. I had it made special for her. It went missing some time after her passing. I never expected it to last this long.

What was her name?

Velsara… her name came out strained and quiet. It was obvious that her loss, even after his own death, still hurt him. She must have died before him. That’s really tough on a parent. It also sounded like he didn’t know where she was in the spiritual plane. I wonder why…

You know that answer.

What?

Look deep inside yourself.

The box this came in has someone else’s name on it, I said, ignoring the voice’s odd choice in words. So who ever ended up with it, took excellent care of it before it landed in my hands.

Pyralis nodded. The box I had made for the flute was still in my possession after the instrument went missing, so I’m not surprised a new one was fashioned.

So, was my guess right? Varro asked. Is it a spiritual flute?

Pyralis nodded. Yes. She had shaman abilities.

I cocked my head. This sounded interesting. Shaman?

He nodded again. It’s not unheard of for dragons to manifest special gifts. Some are shamanistic, while others are psychic. He quickly glanced at Raikidan and it didn’t surprise me. Raikidan had once said it was believed his mother had psychic abilities, but I never thought much about it. They’re rare occurrences among our kind, and they don’t manifest the same way as they do in humans and elves. Sometimes they need objects to help them release their ability, while the other can only access it at certain times. Or in the case of some psychics, they can only see fragments of what needs to be known. My daughter used this flute to help her. It wasn’t necessary for her to do so, since she had a better connection with her gift than thought possible, but she felt most comfortable using it.

Sounds like dwarves. I peered over to where several dwarves were mingling and having a grand old time. Right, Vorn?

Vorn laughed. Aye, we be makers, lass, but sometimes we can be somethin’ else an it ain’t like what ye humans can be. Rare, o’ course.

Pyralis handed the pan flute back to me. Thank you. I trust you’ll take good care of it now.

Of course I will, I assured.

I started putting my pan flute away when Pyralis spoke, So, what do you say to a friendly match against me?

I regarded him for a moment. Against you? Are you sure?

Yeah, no harm in it, right?

Do it, an eager voice whispered. I’d never heard this voice before, but it came to me much like the ever-present one in my mind, as well as the one that spoke to me while I had been by the lighthouse in Larkren.

Listen to her. This will be good.

I tried not to make any obvious expression in reaction to the strange situation going on in my head, and shrugged. Sure, why not?

Pyralis made his way over to the fires, and I followed. When I was in position, I readied myself and waited for Pyralis. I had no clue what was in store for me, but I was a little excited. I didn’t get to spar with the dragons at home since they got all weird about it, so