by CC Rose
Chapter 22
Stepping into the Runic Tower, I smiled. I’d never been in here. The stairs spiralled around the wall that progressed upwards to the levels and into a top room, where Karson placed several books in front of me. “You can read up on the basics.”
I rolled my eyes, flipping them mindlessly at first, taking in the hieroglyphs and the runes; the meanings that were offered, who was most likely to have them and how often some runes were used. The runes were based on spells and magic of the silent word we Ryders used. Taking in the swirls of endless runes; from complex shapes, and hidden meanings for specific spells like invisibility, shielding, and shrinking objects, to transforming and creating objects or moving them with our will. From lasting spells, embedding spells, even spells that allowed the caster to will the magic constantly without draining. Reading over the runes, I came to the title:
True Names.
Turns out, that’s what runes were referred to. Their true name, unspoken but made. The spells cannot be spoken aloud since it’s made with dragon tongue, but it has a voice inside us, a thought. And that means all spells I cast, are my own. While all Ryders can summon fire or earth to a degree, each of us make it our own word. Making the rune unique to that Ryders will.
Thinking about the beetle, the moment I had brought it back to life; I wasn’t thinking anything. Least I don’t think I was. Sure, the critter was creepy, and possibly twitchy. I didn’t want to kill it. Part of me wanted to crush it again, or if possible, never to of hurt it in the first place, but I didn’t think—heal.
“Karson?”
“Rehema.” His tone was heavy, knowing I had missed the title.
“Sorry … I was just thinking. If my spells … our magic as a Ryder, is made through runes, true names and thought. How can we have the images of symbols and know which was which. And, if I can heal … should I be practising that?”
Karson lifted his chin, his eyes hazed and with a slow breath, he leant forward in his seat. “We should let you study on the basics first. We know that your healing power is here … we can start small. We’ll work on it in magic class, on plants.”
“Plants?” I wasn’t sure if I was angry.
“It’s a living creature. But plants will help you find a balance. And as for your other question, we Ryders all share a similar idea of what each spell does. My fire is the same as your fire symbol. But my fire is mine. If I were to summon it, you can’t take it over and control it to your will.”
“Hu. I never thought of it like that.”
“And for you to block it, you would call upon your water, which I wouldn’t be able to use either. See where I’m going with this.”
“Yeah. So. My powers are mine, even if it’s the same symbol that is summoned.”
“Precisely Rehema. You and La’Kera make the symbol, say it as one, and summon it without saying it at all. It’s just instinct. And as you know, drawing on mânã you have never called before will make you more aware of your thoughts. We’ll work on it more tomorrow. And … Runic class is now finished.”
“Oh. So. Connections then?”
“Have a snack first. Rest for half an hour. And if I can ask … I wish for you not to discuss this with Connor.”
“What.”
“You’re healing.”
“But. It’s … a part of me. And why are you saying I can’t. It’s not a bad thing. I can see how seeing ghost might raise a brow, but spells. You’re asking me to not tell him about my mână.”
“Least until we understand more. Just for this week. It’s all I ask.” His green eyes were pleading.
I pressed my lips together in thought. Why would he wish this? Did he want me to keep secrets between Connor and I? If he did, that wasn’t fair.
Maybe when you understand more it will make sense.
Or maybe Karson’s jealous. I could heal the beetle. He didn’t have this many healing symbols.
“Don’t over think this. It is nothing but a suggestion.” Karson rose and turned to the exit. “I’ll see you in half an hour.” He dipped his head and left.
I closed the book and headed out; thankful not to run into Connor while I did think it over. To not tell him about my discovery wasn’t a problem. Was it? We had only met two nights ago and I was too mixed up to consider it a meeting. And last night, we shared in a kiss … well more than one, and this morning as well as before lunch. My heart fluttered with excitement of seeing him, I hastily headed to the Dinner Hall in hopes of running into him. With a scan of the Royals, I lowered my head. He wasn’t here. Few Royals were. Seemed they scattered during the day hours, heading to EzRah and returning for the festive in the evenings. I picked up an apple and walked out to the gardens for Connection, eating the apple slowly, trying to unravel my clouded thoughts as I walked in the fresh air. Seeking La’Kera’s mind was always the first solution, and while she wished to see me; she was in the south with several other young dragons, all climbing the cliff walls. Nar’Ra, a fifty year old Em’Adel, spoke.
“To know ones strength and to use it as little as possible … in body that is … but always in ones mind …” she shook her body and handed Al’Tara another rock. “Think of this as your Bond … this rock is small, breakable and just as easily mistaken for another … you will not harm your Bond or anyone you hold in your claws. Protect them at all cost …”
The group climbed with three limbs, dropping the rock between their paws to aid their climb and as they did, the dragons became more prepared and willing to move faster, making it a race. I smiled at La’Kera as she joined in on the rumbles of encouragement. She was now allowed to participate with the other dragons, and as it turns out, not just one-on-one training anymore. She had Blade’Dur teach her most topics with Tar’Rok of O’Pulsans joining in on other dam topics that La’Kera wished to know. Nar’Ra taught her about strength, tracking and hunting. Da’Vora taught her underwater and watched her constantly since she had taken on the mother title since her hatching. Az’Ara taught her about the moons, stars and of Drae’Gon. Every other dragon was able to teach her anything she needed, from riddles, to tales of the old. There was more confusion in their tales than La’Kera liked to admit. Sky’Ros had become close to her since last week, and like me, she was surprised at how easy her friendship came with the young bull. It was similar to mine, Karson, Corbin, and now Connor in my life. It was easy to be friends with them all.
“You must be Rehema.” A female voice startled me from my Here and There.
I blinked to take in the pixie shaped face, short spiked black hair and deep brown eyes of kindness. Absorbing in her features, I realised who she was as she held out her hand. “I’m Tora … Bond of Kif’Eda.” She smiled warmly as I took her hand. “You are Karson’s new apprentice, Rehema. It is nice to finally meet you. How are you finding his classes?”
“Er … they’re good.”
She tilted her head, and I had to admit, she was beautiful. Her five foot seven inch form and curved figure out did me on all beauty. She was slim, golden toned, darker than some of the Ryders I had witnessed, though just like them, she was beautiful.
“And I hear you and Connor are in a … relation.”
“Is that all the Royals care about. Who I’m dating?” I rolled my eyes a little annoyed. Why was Karson’s girlfriend asking about my relationship with Connor, and better still, why did she care? She had Karson. Was she annoyed or was she here to stop us, like Karson tried. I wasn’t late for class once since this morning.
“Sometimes it’s the ‘who’ that we care about. And since you’re only seventeen … a new Ryder to the herds and the first to Dy’Monian. Six months? Is that correct?”
“Er … six and a half.”
“Hmmm … and you have speed in your combat.”
“Speed in my combat? Um. No. I’m pretty sure you haven’t seen me in combat if you think I have speed.”
“I witnessed your combat this morning, and Karson informed me of such a strong stamina.”
“Oh,
did he now.” My eyes widen with that comment. Karson was talking about me, to his girlfriend, about my combat ability. But he didn’t want me to talk to Connor about my new found healing power? “Bet he boast about how bad I am.”
“No. He is amazed at how well you are doing, and in such a short time.”
“Huh. Er … Are you here to aid me in my other classes.”
“No, I just wished to meet you.” She laughed mildly; and La’Kera had her aura reading skill in use. A ray of orange, blue and hints of green and white surrounded her.
A gentle soul, cautious and above all loyal. She wasn’t about to lie or cheat me, least that’s the best I could make out. And it was all I needed to know.
Tora started to thrill on about the different Royals, the festive and the weather, of all conversations. I didn’t care about the parties or the Royals. It wasn’t as much fun as I had first thought.
“Karson tells me you have trouble with meditating.”
“Er … sort of. I’m not even sure there is a level unless it goes past zero.”
“We all struggle in the beginning. To be with your dragon as one, takes time. I would like to try something … if you don’t mind.”
I waited for her to add what that something was and when she didn’t, I nodded.
She pressed her thin lips together and reached to my face. Two fingers touched my temple. The tingle told me something was happening; I shouldn’t move, and mostly I couldn’t because it was somehow, inviting, sweet or along the lines of a hum.
I was pulled towards La’Kera’s mind, and she was pulled to mine. Some part of me was floating in the clouds as she flew and she was adamant I was there; to know I was on the ground, standing in the garden with Tora.
I double blinked, La’Kera snorted and Tora looked amused, smiling wide; slowly, her hand moved away, and I was left blank to the whole incident.
“It’s not your connection that makes you stop. You have a powerful link. It’s not La’Kera either. She is most likely confused at the moment, but it will pass.”
“Um … what did you just do? And why is my head humming?”
Her smile was still there, the kind Karson would give when I was asking too many questions.
“It’s a mind trick. Let’s me see how strong a connection is. It’s an A’Mystian power, limited among us, though, mine is stronger. Karson wanted me to check.”
“Oh. Um … so, you’re saying its fine.”
“Yes. Fine. Though, your focus isn’t the problem. It’s your own fear. It’s your ability to let go of what is around you, and accept it at the same time. To feel the wind here and to hear the birds chirping in there …” She gestured to the area around us, and to my temple. “Then you will be here and there at will.”
“Hmm … I’ll keep that in mind. Er … was Karson not practising with me now.” Guilt touched my thoughts. Did I go too far yesterday. My actions, my outburst?
“No. I was most curious to meet you. And Karson has spoken highly of you, as too Connor.”
“Connor?”
Her lips played between a smile and a secret.
What did Connor have to do with her and Karson? Okay, so she must have seen us together at the arrival party. She would have seen me being dragged away from Karson and second. She is a Royal, at a royal function. Everyone knew everyone. But why was she talking to Connor?
“Hmm … I should have introduced myself better. I’m Tora … Tora Dalton, Bond of Kif’Eda of A’Mystian.”
It took me three seconds too long to understand the familiarity of her name. Tora Dalton. Dalton? Connor Dalton. Connor’s—Whoa!
“Oh,” was all I could manage while trying to puzzle the connection. He was only twenty four, she was clearly older. Mother? Aunt? sister? Come on brain. Now is not the time to fuzz on this stuff.
“I’m Connor’s mother,” she offered.
My mouth was caught between a smile and a shocked look of—Oh, my Drae’Gon. Taking in her dark hair, the brown eyes, and the face. She was creamed tanned, a straight nose, dipped a little with the small chin and narrow jaw line, like Connor’s. Thankfully, she’s not his ex lover. That would be weird and that would—doesn’t explain why Karson has a problem with him. Wouldn’t Connor be more annoyed at Karson?
“He … didn’t tell me.”
“Oh, not to worry yourself. Connor and I are like most Children of the Ryders. We are distant, but informative.”
Distant? I didn’t like that. “You mean … you don’t get along.”
“As along as one needs. I love my sons as would any mother love their children. But with our ways, we can not hold to their safety or their undivided attention. I take it you have yet to read up on the lores and laws of life after Draeos.”
“Er … no. There’s a book on that?” My question had her laughing. I smiled, unsure if I was laughing, I want to know if there was a book.
She was about to answer when she spotted Karson approaching; his jaw clenched as she rolled her eyes playfully.
“Kars, you didn’t tell me how amusing your tutelage was.” She reached for his hand, he relaxed slowly, but his eyes were on me. She flashed her warm smile in my direction. “And I informed her, she can do anything if she puts her mind to it.”
Karson stepped closer to press a kiss to her temple.
I shifted uncomfortably. It was my mentor and his girlfriend. Bound to make anyone uncomfortable.
“She can do many things when focused.” His tone was hushed. With adoring eyes, they mimicked their smiles. They clearly cared a great deal about one another.
“I better let you and Rehema start on your lessons.” She kissed him gently, to which he returned it with more passion, before pulling away.
“I’ll meet you at your door. Seven.” His voice was raspy as she slowly parted; a saddening look etched his eyes. To think he didn’t want to be away from her. While watching them, a warmth ran through me, followed by colour. Lots of colours danced before my eyes, silver, gold and the electric rainbow that flickered around the both of them. It was an extra aura around their main auras, as if it joined them together. Breathtaking and beautiful crossed my mind. It was like mine and Connor’s, and it was like Xavier and Alyssa’s. The rays of colour had La’Kera, slip into a hum, a dream-fazed world, bringing me with her on the sensations.
Kindred spirits … said La’Kera at last.
What’s that?
She snorted at my question and puzzled her thoughts. I’m not sure. My mother gave me the phrase, I have watched this in many people you have met, and in some animals, too … I think it means they will always find each other, perhaps a connection of unity.
Does this mean me and Connor are kindred spirits.
Your auras dance together as does Karson and Tora. It is a rainbow of your souls, singing … dancing to be one.
The sensation was indeed uplifting and it took Karson several snapped fingers to make me focus on my connection class, which moved slowly along with several hits on my shoulder for not paying attention to my Here and There.
In mêlée, I attacked with flash movements, until I landed on my back and Karson stood above me with a raised brow. “Sorry Rehema. I got a little ahead in training.”
“Um … what do you mean?” I dusted myself off, standing ready for another round. “I just missed your move, that’s all.”
“Yes, but that was because I used too much energy. I was flash-hitting. You’re not ready for that level.”
“Oh. Hmmm … I didn’t notice. Seems I like looking up at you.”
“And I would rather do mêlée with paused and timed hits. You are grasping it a lot better than most six month Ryders.”
“Is that why you teach. Because it’s easy?” I blurted out.
He held a wry smile before answering. “I teach because I like to offer advice; and to teach one a better way, to take on the challenges we Ryders must face. Not because it’s easy or boring. Far from it. Everything takes time. In two years, you will be able to do
more than you can possibly imagine.”
“So. You’ll be proud of me in two years time?”
“Hmm … let’s try and get you to graduate first. Worry about honour and nobility then.”
“Will you hate me like you do Connor?” I blinked. Did I just say that?
Karson dropped the wooden swords in the barrel to look across the combat area. To my surprise, there was Connor, waiting ever so graciously for me to finish class. How had I missed his appearance and where had he gone? Karson stared. His jaw clenched, and his thoughts were inward, with Blade’Dur.
“Hate isn’t what’s going on here. Just a disagreement. Connor was a good student, one I am still proud of, though, the said argument aside; he has changed in the seven years since his graduation. He shows courage, courtesy, and honesty. Those are a few among many.”
“Hu. So … that’s it then. Just a disagreement.”
“He has yet to tell you?”
“Was curious as to why you don’t get along anymore.”
“As always, you worry about the wrong things.”
“How so? And no.”
“You should live in the moment, not the past, or the future.”
“But, you’re always going on about past Ryders, and everyone I’ve met, mentions someone from the time before.”
“To understand them, not follow or dwell on them.” A sternness held in his eyes. “That’s it for today. See you in the morning.”
“What about track?”
“It’s Rest Day, last day of the week. No track needed.”
“What. No. My schedule …” I pulled it from my side pocket, and Karson wrapped his hand over my knuckles, closing it shut.
“Enjoy the early reprieve. There may be few in the future.”
“Oh. Er … thanks.”
He dipped his head and left the combat area to head to the teacher’s tower in the west. I turned to Connor. Walking towards him as a flutter of butterflies stirred inside my stomach. I was nervous as a mouse discovered in the pantry. Here, in the garden of the Combat Yard, I was anxious. Every part of my body was a tingle and I wanted to reach out and wrap myself in his hold, to gaze into his eyes forever if possible.
“You’ve finished early?”
“Hmm … Karson said I could have an early one.”
“That is good news. Hmmm … You’re nice and sweaty.”
“Tugh, I should shower.”
“You smell fine to me.”
I laughed as he wrapped his arms around me, pulling me into his grip with a kiss. One I melted to, knotting my fingers into his hair, resting at the nape of his neck.
“And relaxing.”
“You always relax me.” I placed a chaste kiss on his lips to step back. “So … I couldn’t find you earlier today, where did you go?”
“Oh, I went to the city. Em’Adels meeting. Might have a few more this week. Though, I am definitely free after your classes.” He knotted his fingers into mine and smiled. I bit my lip with the flutter inside. “You’re radiant when you smile.” His lips pressed to my cheek for a length, before turning me to his side, to walk towards the stairs.
“Oh, um … why didn’t you tell me Tora was your mother?”
“Karson tell you that?”
“Please. He won’t even tell me what the deal is with you two. The disagreement is what he calls it.”
“Does he now?” A far off look touched Connor’s eyes.
“So. You hate him for dating your mother. And no, Karson didn’t tell me. She did. She came by to see if I had a problem with my connection with La’Kera.”
“She likes to show off her talents. Can only do it on the young Ryders. Us older Ryders are wiser and usually block her.”
“You do?” My mouth opened in wonder. I refocused on my question. “Um … so back to my first question. Do you hate Karson?”
“Course not. He trained me. I don’t hate him.”
“But you don’t like him.”
“Not a complete devotion to him. Besides, he and Tora are grown up’s. They are a hundred years old.”
“So … you don’t get along with your mum then?”
“Tora and I have a good relationship.” He released a peaceful breath as we walked through the lobby floor. He paused and turned me around to face him. “She is my mother, I love her as she loves me, but we … for Ryders, we don’t hold the bond. Especially once we become bonded with our own link.” He tapped his arm, winking. “Don’t get me wrong, we manage a good time when we are together, but as for the dangorian devotion some mothers show their sons, no. She isn’t the cuddly type, and why would I want that when I have you.” He pulled me towards him.
“So … if I have a child, will I hate them?”
“You’re looking at this all wrong. It’s not hate. It’s … it’s different for Ryders. That’s all.” He tilted his head to the side. “Oh, how to make you see. Your Bond with La’Kera is unbreakable … agreed.”
I nodded.
“So. When you have a child, you will love them, watch them grow, aid them and then—slowly you withdraw from them. It’s simple enough, but I don’t want to worry you with such talk. Besides, babies are not the way of Ryders.” He tapped my nose and turned towards the staircase.
I pulled up short. Babies are not the way of Ryders?
Connor saw my pause. He ran his hand through his hair, undecided what to do, or say. “Maybe I should get Tora here to explain this.”
“No. It’s fine. I know that Ryders have few babies. I just … I never gave it any thought before.”
“So … you’re upset with me?”
“No. Just trying to understand it Connor. I mean. I was born in a devoted township and raised to think of marriage, children, and homes as part of growing old, to be where I am now. Soon to be ageless, have to play with swords and magic, and by the looks, go to functions in fancy dresses. It’s a lot different when you take it on board.”
“Hmmm … that is true, and I must say you are handling it a lot better than any other Ryder chosen as late as you.”
“How so.”
“Didn’t you hear about Donavan of Em’Adels and his Bond Twis’Knot. The Ryder, who was chosen at twenty two. He went three times loopy and never found his way back that his dragon became his body and mind.”
“What? You mean … that my Bond … that La’Kera could take over my body?”
“Only if your mind is lost. Though, some say he just made a potion incorrectly and that was the end of his … thoughts.”
“Well, I’m going to practice harder in potions class now.” I kissed him swiftly. “I’ll shower first though.”
Connor pulled me towards him, his hand held mine as he pressed it to his face; rubbing it along his smooth cheek. The sculptured texture of his handsome features had my body tingle with the action alone. “Sorry if I upset you with my mother. I’ll tell Tora to keep her distance.”
“No. It’s fine. Besides, Karson and Tora are kindred spirits.”
“Kindred spirits?”
“Oh … well,” I blushed, peeking up to his brown eyes and looking away suddenly. “La’Kera only just remembered the words from her mother.”
“Hmmm … yes, the breath of the mother can take some time to understand. And this is what she discovered. Kindred spirits?”
“She thinks it’s what we are … why we … get along so easily and it makes sense now. Now I know why I like you so much.” Dropping my gaze to the ground, it wasn’t that it was hard to say this, just a little soon. We had only met two nights ago.
His thumb and finger touched my chin, lifting it to his view.
“It’s better than easy. And I like you too … a lot. You’re one of a kind, and you’re all mine.” His mouth touched mine, slowly widening his lips to fill on him, to breathe deep and move closer.
To wrap my arms around his shoulder, I groaned. “I still have to shower.” I pulled away.
He kissed the corner of my mouth. “I’ll see you in a while.”
I nodded, unable to move.
“Were you leaving? Or just pretending?”
“Leaving. Just … I want to hold you.”
“Hmm … indeed that is true. Later.” He pushed me to walk away; to take those annoying steps towards the stairs, and then, once there; I was walking backwards, sort of tripping over them. “And make it safely there Rehema. I won’t be going anywhere.”
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Continues with
Rehema: Book 2
Kindred Spirit
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About the Author:
C. C. Rose lives in Queensland Australia. Inspired by all things magical, mystical and other worldly, creatures, fantasy and dragons most of all. Life is what you make it.
Aim for the stars, and you’ll land on the moon.
Authors Words:
Thanks for downloading Rehema, Book 1 Bonded Spirit. I hope you enjoyed reading Rehema’s story. She has a lot more still to come in her life as a Ryder of Dy’Monian. Bonded Spirit was originally a one off novel, but with so much happening in Rehema’s life and those she meets, the story evolved to an ever moving series of twelve full length novels.
Her tale of peace, hope, and happiness continues in,
Rehema Book 2: Kindred Spirit
Rehema’s love for Connor is unwavering and growing stronger, despite the unsaid argument between Connor and Karson, her life feels complete and full. But after a meeting with the Nyssa, and discovering she has a power linked to the worst Ryder of all time; Rehema doubts why she is a chosen Ryder. As the ghost’s cryptic messages become twined with Rehema and her new found power of foresight. Her days of happiness are threatened when she envisions her town in jeopardy, and she will risk everything including leaving La’Kera and the academy to aid as the Ryder she wants to be. The hope of her future hangs on the balance of an oath, when she sees the truth of her vision; she will fight with the power of Dy’Monian, and it will change her life forever.
Where To Find CC Rose:
All enquires via: Email
Keep up to date with the Author: CC Rose on Facebook
Keep up to date with: The Rehema Series on Facebook
Check out the Rehema Series website
The Rehema Series:
Bonded Spirit
Kindred Spirit
Clouded Spirit
Spirit Heart
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CC Rose is a self published author, if you have any issues regarding the reading of this material, please send her an email to correct the faults she may have over looked. Or to let her know how much you enjoyed the story. Your advice and support is much appreciated.
By C. C. Rose
Thanks for reading!
