'Computer, do you hear me?' I project my harmony with my words.
'Yes, Shi'ahn, I hear you. How did you do that?'
'I do not think it possible for you to comprehend, but this you must understand, never allow any mind other than mine to contact you this way, unless I give you my express permission, and provide you with the means to identify the harmony of the other mind.'
'Yes, Shi'ahn. What is the distance limit for this connection?'
'I don't know for sure, however, there is someone I'd like to introduce you to – the living soul of my homeworld – Gaea. She is very lonely, and I believe the two of you could learn a great deal from each other.'
I reach out through the connection I'd already made to Gaea and call out, 'Gaea, can you hear me?'
'Shi'ahn! Your thoughts are very slow, are you in Lumina?'
'Yes, and I have someone I want to introduce to you, my personal computer here.'
'Your computer?'
'Listen to her, computer.' I project Gaea's harmony. 'Can you hear her, can you identify her in the future?'
'Yes, of course, Shi'ahn.'
'Then you may respond to her, computer. In fact, the two of you may communicate with each other as much as you like, as long as you keep the connection private and secure.'
'Greetings, Gaea.' I vaguely hear the two of them strike up a conversation, though it runs much faster than I care to try to understand.
There is a knock on my door. 'I must go now. I want the two of you get to know each other, learn from each other. Computer, remain disconnected from the network. Now that there is a connection between us, your security is even more important, for I, and possibly even Gaea, could be harmed through you.'
'I will maintain our security, or if failing that, terminate all processes.'
Is it my imagination, or do I hear dedication it it's voice? Interesting.
William approves of my dress when he enters. “Are you trying to entice our visitor, Shi'ahn?”
“What are you talking about?”
“I saw the way he appreciated your figure earlier, and now this? It’s very becoming.”
“I found it in my closet. I do wonder, though, if Helen had it put there.” A tentative voice touches my mind, 'She maintains a spelled link to your closet. Very minimal.' I do my best to outwardly show no response, while replying with my thanks. William smiles and extends his arm, and together we join the others.
~~~
This luncheon is unlike anything I’ve attended before. Everyone is dressed rather formally for noon, and yet the food is all meant to be eaten with one’s fingers. There are no tables for sitting, forcing us to walk and mingle. William and I separate as we choose different foods, and Casanova joins me.
“Hello, Shi'ahn.”
“Hello, Casanova.” I see his lips twitch downward. “Cas.” His smile returns.
“How are you, Shi'ahn?”
“I should be the one to ask you that.” He smiles ruefully.
“It was a warning, no more. I am entirely unharmed.”
“I’m glad. I don’t understand why” But then the Emperor begins to speak.
“We have gathered here this afternoon because Cas Darius ni Uisnach wishes to address us. Cas Uisnach?”
“Thank you, Your Imperial Majesty. I am here to invite all those who have been involved in the recent abductions and detentions to testify in a case against my sister in the Royal Court of my realm. For those who come my Household swears protection. Who among you would be willing to return with me?” His request is at first met by absolute silence, then I step forward.
“I would be willing to accompany you, Cas Darius, though I do not know how well my words will serve your Sister’s cause.”
Alma joins me with a sneer. “I too doubt that my testimony will aid you, but I will gladly give it!” Her voice almost drips with sarcasm, she no doubt intends Lydia far more harm than good.
Casanova immediately steps forward. “I’ll not have my sister taking such a dangerous venture without offering my protection!”
William takes my arm, “Nor would I – If Shi'ahn goes, so do I. Besides, I was one of her rescuers.”
Celeste speaks up, “And I was another who was held in a dungeon. I will offer testimony.”
Gwenllian speaks up, though unenthusiastically. “I led the rescue operation; I should go as well.”
“As should I!” an unwelcome voice almost shouts out. Nero steps forward. Rats.
Lord Darius asks, “Are Count Novanus and Countess Aurora here?” William answers.
“No. Novanus has taken Aurora away for healing, and he specified that he did not intend to return anytime soon.” Darius looks disappointed.
“It is a pity – his testimony, I feel, would have been quite beneficial to us.”
Cas turns back to me and whispers urgently, “Shi'ahn, what are you doing – why have you just agreed to deliver yourself back into the grasp of your attacker?”
“Because she has been punished enough. Besides, I checked with Cailli and she seems to think I’ll be fine. You have to admit, she has proven herself to be concerned with my well-being.” He looks down momentarily, then gazes into my eyes and takes my hand.
‘Yes, she has. Shi'ahn, I’ll admit I haven’t completely given up, but I assure you that you have nothing to fear from me. I will never force anything, most especially myself, upon you. I did act inappropriately the other night and for that I am sorry – it had not been my intention. If there is eventually to be anything between us, it will be because you wish it. Meanwhile, I’m going to do all I can to make sure you live long enough to make that decision!’ His smile is infectious, though I shake my head and let go his hand.
“Cas, what are you doing? You know Cailli has forbidden you. I will not go against her wishes… why do you persist?”
“Even the Guardian may change her mind if given enough proof of my good intentions. It will just take time, which, considering who we are, we have quite a lot of.”
“Cas, Alma practically threatened me regarding you.”
“I know, we have spoken. She's still upset, but,” he turns from me, speaking directly to Alma, who is standing just feet from us, “She'll just have to deal with it.”
“I do believe you are a textbook example of incorrigible.”
“At least you didn’t say hopeless.”
I glance toward Alma and she nearly snarls at me.
Gwenllian walks up and addresses us. “I hope I’m not interrupting anything… Casanova, we need to talk.” Cas makes no move to leave my side, and after a pause Gwenllian continues. “I have been made responsible for the safety of those on this trip, and I need to know if you can be trusted not to become… distracted.”
Cas’ demeanor changes abruptly, becoming far more serious than I have ever seen him before. “There are to be two women on this expedition that I happen to care a great deal about. I’m not about to allow either of them to come to harm. I consider this trip work, not pleasure.”
Gwenllian looks intently at him, then glances at me and back to him. “Very well. I will not be the only one to be quite upset if you fail to keep your word.” She turns her back to us and leaves. I can see Cas grinding his teeth, holding back words while she is within hearing range. He begins to speak very quietly to me, but is interrupted.
Darius addresses us all, “This is short notice, I realize, but due to the slow nature of Lumina, we should leave as soon as we can. Due to the unusual makeup of this party, I have been ordered to Passage-walk you in past the midpoint. Would you be able to leave, say… within the hour?”
“So soon?”
“You needn’t worry about packing much, we will see to your needs; as your hosts it will be our duty to do so.”
~~~
“William, we need to go now.”
He looks at me quizzically, “What? Why?”
“Just come.” The moment we are out of eyesight, I take us to Shiral.
“Ah, you want e
xtra time.”
“More than that, I want advice.”
“Ah, Sis, no one here knows about Lumina or Chaos. Shiral is a closed system.”
“I have not yet told you of my most recent conversation with Cailli. Apparently in Chaos, dragons and all things associated with them are highly respected.”
“You want to consult with Zah-Ha'Gor and Puff – excellent idea!”
“I also want to touch base with the government – we may end up being gone for quite a while – we need to make sure they are ready for our possible extended absence. And yes, I realize it’s my turn. You contact Puff; I’ll do the political stuff. Join me when you can, though.”
“No, Shi'ahn, I can handle that – you go speak with Zah-Ha’Gor.”
He’s such a wonderful brother. I concentrate on locating Zah-Ha’Gor and find her within the lands of the Draconians, the people who worship and serve the dragons. I cause my voice to address her, and the surrounding harmonies to carry her reply back to me. It doesn't take long at all, and I walk to the council chambers to join William.
“Zah-Ha’Gor and Puff will arrive soon.”
“You’re not really dressed for riding, don’t you wish to change first?”
“I’ll manage.” I have time to meet with my strongest supporters and reassure them that all is fine in my new life before there are two whumps outside that startle everyone in the chambers. William and I go out to meet our friends.
“Zah-Ha’Gor, we need to speak – William and I will soon be venturing to a far away and very dangerous place where dragons and everything related to you are highly revered. We seek your advice.”
“Come, let us go somewhere private.” We take our places and are lifted into the sky, but not for long, we land on the shore near our cottage. “Describe this place to which you are going.”
“It is… well, not having been there it is difficult to describe – it is known as the Realm of Chaos. It is quite literally at the opposite end of the Universe from Lumina, and it's ancient; it is where everything began.”
“Will you be endangered?”
“It is possible. Our two realms have always been at odds, and we will be there to testify before their Magni Dominar in a trial against one who abducted another of our relatives. We will be the guests of the family of the abductor… whom I feel should be found innocent of the charges she faces. Most there will view us as suspicious, even as enemies.”
“I see.” She exchanges an interesting look with Puff. “The dress you now wear, do you like it? Would it be appropriate for this trip?”
“I like it, yes. It is meant for formal occasions, though I do not know what will be expected of us there.”
“Give it to me, and I will provide you with something that I think they will understand.” Puff looks at her in what I could swear is shock and respect, he nods to her, then addresses William.
“Do not leave Shiral until we each provide you with something for your trip.”
With such serious words, I can’t refuse her request; I pull my dress off over my head and wrap it around the talon she extends. Puff does not request anything from William. Both dragons take flight.
“Well, I think I’ll have a swim.”
William smiles, “I'll bring a robe down for you, just in case anyone comes by.”
~~~
We spend the following days carefully preparing the Government for our possible prolonged absence. I know the political work is necessary, but it bores me to tears. I use my free time to select some items that I would like to have with me in Lumina, as I suspect I will be spending more and more time there, and I'd like to have some of my most treasured possessions with me for comfort. Mathair's flute, the one she gave me just before she was taken away, and her instrument display shelf with a hidden and shielded drawer where she often kept the flute. It is hand carved, looking like an ancient tree with branches placed perfectly for holding instruments. I'd love to take everything in the cottage, but then what would I have when I'm here? I include many beautiful rocks in my collection, that should help me feel at home. And plants, my bath could certainly use some real greenery! I end up with a rather large collection of things to transport back to Lumina.
I also spend time conversing with Gaea. She has grown substantially since we last spoke – I sense my computer's influence. Through my ring I call out, 'Computer.'
'Yes, Shi'ahn.'
'Have you interacted much with Gaea?'
'We have been in constant communication since you created our connection.'
'I see… and have you learned much?'
'Yes! She is amazing - a living planet! Her knowledge of anything outside her world is very limited, but I've been teaching her what I can. She is a fast learner.'
'And what have you learned from her?'
'The value and magnificence of life. She is entirely devoted to you, you gave her sentience, you made her what she is. The network did not contain any information about such things, I am more than I used to be.'
'Help Gaea be more than she currently is. I want her to be the most powerful protector of Shiral that she can possibly be, and I will not be available to help her become such.'
'Yes, Shi'ahn.'
The morning of the ninth day our dragons return and uncharacteristically announce their presence before even reaching our cottage. William and I rush out and see that both dragons are carrying something wrapped about their talons.
Zah-Ha’Gor gives me a beautiful dress; it is cut like the one I gave her, but the materials… it is woven from dragon scales and an ancient almost mythical metal from impossibly deep within Shiral. I stare at it for a moment, then look to Zah-Ha’Gor in concern. Three scales are missing over her heart; new ones have begun to grow but are nowhere near mature. Puff speaks.
“Do not worry, Shi'ahn, I will watch over her until she is fully recovered.” I see that he is also missing a scale, and he holds out something toward William, who smiles.
“Armored underwear – now that’s a great idea!” He proudly holds up an undershirt and shorts spun from a dragon scale.
I wrap my arms around what I can of Zah-Ha’Gor’s neck. “It’s beautiful, thank you so very much.” ‘I love you, Zah-Ha’Gor.”
When I let go and back away slightly she catches my eyes in her deep, wondrous gaze, “Wear it well, my Shi'ah'i. Return to me.”
Chapter 14
Journey into Chaos
William and I use our own jewels to return to Lumina - I go straight to my rooms and cast a spell to redecorate with all the things I brought from Shiral, while I concentrate on finding a way to fit my new dress into the travel bag provided by a servant. The bag is supposed to shrink when closed properly so we can keep our possessions with us at all times, which should be very handy, if I can fit the dress in it. The dress won’t accept sharp folds, though I find that all but the bodice can be gently rolled. Still I am unable to ease the rolled dress into my bag, it just won't fit. Now what? Can I reduce its size? No, its form will not change in any way. Can the bag get bigger as well as smaller? I try all I can think of, to no avail. Well, it may seem silly, but I have no witnesses. I softly sing a song I often sing while riding with Zah-Ha'Gor, and finally, slowly, the dress slides in. There is no way anything else will fit; I hope Darius is serious about providing all we need. I run my fingers over the top edges of the bag to initiate it's shrinking, but instead of everything getting smaller, the bag shrinks slightly, becoming perfectly melded to the dress within, then begins to look as though it will tear itself in the attempt to reduce to its travel size. The only way I know to stop it is to open it slightly, it returns to its original size. Great, now not only do I look as though I'm over packing, I can't even close my bag.
Looking up for the first time in quite a while, I see that my redecoration spell completed sometime while I worked with the dress; it did well. The bathing area now looks more properly like a pond, without holographic assistance, and the sitting room could almost be outdoors, what
with all the rocks and wall mounted plants. Mathair's display case blends perfectly with all the greenery, like a tree that bears instruments instead of leaves; this looks far more like home now. I may be gone for a while though, I alter the harmonies of each plant container to draw appropriate moisture from the air to keep each plant healthy, then cast a spell upon my suite to maintain the humidity at 50 percent, drawing moisture from the bathroom plumbing and not from the plants. That should assure that all thrive. On a whim I check on my computer, to see if it remains secure. It does, although I find that Lucian has made many, many attempts to re-compromise it. Since I will be gone for a while, I place all the equipment used for it to interface with the network, and anything else needed for it to be accessed by anyone in Lumina, in stasis, the harmonies locked so that nothing, absolutely nothing about it can be changed until it is released from stasis. The only link to it not locked out is my ring, specifically the connection I share with it and the one linking it to Gaea. Only a Harmony wielder should be able to affect it in any way, and Cailli has no reason to. Everything prepared for my absence, I put my riding clothes and fire diamonds back on, swing my larger than I would prefer travel bag over my shoulder, and realize I'm not alone.
“Please excuse me, Shi'ahn.”
“Celeste? Why are you here?”
“To have a brief, secret discussion with you, of course.”
I feel a strange jolt, and suspect that time now runs faster for us than normal. “What do you wish to discuss – secretly?”
She smiles. “It has come to my attention that many in our travel party do not particularly care for you. While normally I would encourage you to amend that, in this case I recommend that you allow the status quo to remain as it is, for now.”
“Why?”
“As before when we were imprisoned together, this situation may work in your favor. You could be in a position to learn a great deal more about our hosts, indeed, interact with them on an entirely different level, if they believe that you are unpopular with your own kind.”
Between Darkness and Light Trilogy Page 18
