Obstruction By Nightmare (Academy of Broken Dreams Book 3)

by Rose Alexander

  I walk them through the steps and watch as they each attempt to replicate Lydia’s example. Mrs. Bradbury squeals and I glance over in time to see Mrs. King’s tendril tickling her. I giggle then my eyes scan over the rest of the group. Aunt Nellie and Ezra also have tendrils out.

  We wait a while longer until it’s clear no one else is having any luck.

  “This is an amazing start. We have a weapon now that Coventry won't see coming. We can teach anyone who joins and train those who have the ability until they are really good at using it.” Ryland grins. “It can all come together. I will take one of the stones once they are ready, and really work on recruiting. People like me pretty well. Finn, you keep working on the library, and Max, if you hear whispers in the Empyrean community report them back to us.”

  “Library?” A confused expression spreads across Aunt Nellie’s face.

  “Ryland, can you explain?” I bite my lip, realizing Finn and I have another task to accomplish tonight. “Finn and I really need to do something.”

  I stand up and walk over to Finn. He tucks the clipboard in the tree then grabs my hand. I close my eyes and concentrate on Treyton’s silky black hair with hints of red streaking through it and alluring green eyes until his cord lights up gold, shining like a beacon. I grasp it firmly and we are yanked into his dream.

  When I open my eyes, my jaw drops open. Treyton is sitting on the edge of a bed kissing a girl with bright red hair. I take a step closer and cover my mouth with my hand. He’s dreaming about making out with me! I glance over at Finn. The muscle in his jaw is ticking and his eyes are darting around the room, clearly uncomfortable with the scene we are witnessing.

  I don’t know how to interrupt this without it becoming awkward. I hope I can trust him. I picture a truth stone in my hand and feel the weight of it on my palm when it appears.

  “Um, Treyton?” I tap him on the shoulder. Hopefully, I can play this off like a part of the dream if he doesn’t pass the test.

  “How’d you get over there?” He turns back and forth in confusion.

  The dream version of me disappeared, leading him to believe I just moved fast. I smile at him and bat my eyelashes, trying to lay on my nonexistent charm.

  “Can you hold out your palm for me?” I demonstrate with my own hand.

  His brow wrinkles in confusion, but he does as I ask. I set the stone on it and take a deep breath. Please be trustworthy.

  “How do you feel about Coventry; please be honest. It’s important.” I will him with my eyes to cooperate.

  “I hate the bastard. He’s so arrogant. I wish someone else would have won the trials.” He answers, his eyes burning with hate. “He’s horrible to you. I don’t know why he thinks you’ll be able to do all of these things in the ancient texts. No one has for as long as people can remember.”

  I watch the stone as it starts glowing purple and I smile. He could totally be on our side!

  “Would you join a resistance against him if one was presented?” I bite my lip, hoping I’m not going too far too fast.

  “In a heartbeat.” He tilts his head then grins. “Enough questions and more kissing.”

  The stone lights up purple again. Good, I can work with this.

  “Treyton, I’m not your dream Whisper. I’m dream walking right now. You’re holding a truth stone. I needed to make sure I could trust you.” I explain gently. “Finn is standing by the door.”

  He blinks a couple of times as he processes what I’ve just told him. “So, you both saw my dream of me making out with you?” His face flushes until he’s as red as a tomato.

  “Not much.” I grimace, the words falling flat even to my own ears. I take the truth stone from his hand and stick it in my pocket.

  “Oh my God!” He jumps up off the bed as if he’s just realized I’m truly here. “Why are you here? What’s going on?”

  “Calm down. We had to make sure we could trust you. We really need your help.” I hold my hands up in a non-threatening manner.

  “How can I calm down? You're both here in my head. Oh my God. I didn’t even think it was real… I read about it of course, but to see things happen in person.” He stands up and starts pacing while ranting to himself. “Does that mean all these other strange powers are real too? Do people really have foresight and shit; can they control the elements?”

  “Treyton, focus.” Finn steps in front of him, stopping him dead in his tracks.

  Treyton stands up straighter, his green eyes focusing on Finn. He shakes his head then slumps his shoulders and plops on the bed.

  “Sorry. I just… My world is a little upside down right now.” He runs his hands through his hair and stares at me.

  “Nothing has changed. We’re just hanging out in our dreams.” I wink at him. “On a serious note, we are actually here to ask you something.”

  “What’s that?” He turns his full attention to me.

  “I was wondering if you could help Finn learn to read the ancient language?” I bite my lip.

  “You want me to teach him how to read the ancient language?” He repeats my own words back slowly. “That might present a bit of a problem.”

  “Why?” I tilt my head and glance between him and Finn.

  “I’m honor bound to keep it to only my descendants.” Treyton shakes his head.

  “But you guys are already teaching me.” I point out. “Finn would just be an extension of that training.”

  “You have a point.” He taps on his chin, turning to stare at the wall. “I’m in. It’s for a good cause and the rules are a bit silly anyways. I never understand why everything we learn isn’t available to the public.”

  “Great! We can get started tomorrow night.” I smile, stopping short of wrapping my arms around Treyton. I don’t think Finn would appreciate me hugging this other guy in front of him.

  I turn to ask Finn where he wants to meet when the world dissolves away.

  Chapter 9

  The blaring alarm makes me groan, and I pull the pillow over my face. It’s not healthy, but I wish I could just stay in my dreams. Life would be much simpler. The truth stones! I almost forgot about them. Gandore said he sent the book to Mrs. King, maybe she’s had time to procure the supplies we need.

  Jumping out of bed with the idea fresh in my mind, I quickly shower and dress. I’m in such a rush that the flowing black velvet of the Victorian uniform they insist we wear tangles around me. I place the smooth red stone on the table, so Alfred knows I’ve left. I hope he won’t mind that I miss breakfast, I think to myself rushing out the door to meet with Mrs. King.

  I stroll into her office without knocking, so excited to get started.

  “Did you have what we need to make the stones?” I ask, taking a seat across from her, excitement bubbling in my chest.

  She nods her head then opens the drawer and pulls out a black velvet pouch. “Close the door and let’s get to work.” She smiles.

  I close the door and walk to the back table where Mrs. King has spread out the small black inconspicuous stones.

  “What kind of stones are these?” I pick one up and feel the smoothness of the shiny stone.

  “It’s obsidian. It was specified in the book to use this type of mineral. Gandore sent them over when he sent the book.” She glances back and forth between me and the stones. “How are you going to do this?”

  “I saw in the memory a young man holding the stone and chanting a spell. So, I guess the only thing left to do is try it.” I shrug my shoulders then survey the stones on the table, I reach out and pick one up. “Here goes nothing.”

  I close my hand around the stone and then close my eyes. I feel the heaviness, the cold smoothness of the stone against my skin. Taking a few deep breaths, I chant the spell.

  “With this magic I do bind, the truth I seek it will be mine. Radiant reds will tell me their lies, but plumes of purple reveal the truth inside. Only those that belie will have gradations of grey to reveal their disguise.”

  The stone
heats up in my hand, surprising me and causing me to drop it.

  “What happened? Are you ok?” Mrs. King steps closer and places her hand on my arm.

  “I’m ok. I felt the stone heat up in the memory, but I wasn’t really expecting it to do the same with me. I thought it might react differently with different people.” I reach down and pick the stone up again. This time I’m prepared for it to heat up in my hand.

  As I chant the stone starts to glow then black inky tendrils slink out of my hand and wrap around the heating stone. The stone turns red, purple, and finally grey.

  “We did it! I wonder if I can do more than one at a time?” I bounce on the balls of my feet, smiling at Mrs. King.

  “Be careful, this is powerful old magic. We don’t know what else it’s capable of,” Mrs. King warns.

  I reach down and scoop up five more stones and repeat the process and they light up like Christmas lights in my hand. The process takes up the rest of my class, but I continue until all the stones are active and ready to go.

  “Great work, Whisper. I’ll get the stones to the other students. You can return to your room and prepare for your next class. I’ll see you soon.” She winks at me, then places the stones back into the velvet pouch, ties it shut and drops it into a hidden pocket in her skirt.

  As I gather my things and walk back to my room, my stomach rumbles, reminding me that I haven’t eaten anything. I wonder if Alfred left my breakfast in my room. I open the door and the sweet smell of French toast and warm maple syrup hits my nose. Thank goodness for Alfred. I toss my books on my bed then take a seat and dig in. I stuff my face until I can’t eat another bite.

  Glancing at the clock, I realize it’s time for my next class. I grab my books, take one last peek in the mirror, and rush out the door for the second time today.

  The rest of the day goes as usual until I reach Mr. Poe’s office. I open the door and I find the office empty. I walk in taking my seat across the desk from where Mr. Poe is usually sitting and wait for him to come back.

  “Miss Lawrence, follow me please.” Mr. Poe speaks from the doorway startling me. “You can leave your things; we’ll return for them after class.”

  “Yes sir,” I stand and follow him down the hall. “Where are we going?”

  “It’s been a while since you last had the chance to stretch your legs. So, I thought we’d go for a run.” Mr. Poe winks at me and continues walking.

  When we finally reach the training area, I head for the girls’ changing room. The smell of shampoo and perfume swallows me as I find my locker. I change into grey sweats and white t-shirt that is provided for us, and lastly, I take off my focus jewelry, which always leaves me feeling naked.

  I walk out of the locker room and Mr. Poe is waiting for me. “Ready?”

  I nod my head in response. The grass and packed dirt on the other side of the high stone walls call to me, and I can feel my body start to tremble. We step through the wooden door and the feeling of the grass under my feet causes me to let out a breath I wasn’t aware I was holding. I didn’t realize how much I missed the feeling until now.

  “Do you remember how to shift?” Mr. Poe speaks, bringing me back to reality.

  “Yes, I remember what you told me to do the first time I shifted.” I fidget nervously. I feel like my horse is going to burst through at any moment.

  “Go ahead; then if you have any problems, I will step in.” He motions for me to begin.

  I close my eyes and focus on my chest and it doesn’t take me long to find the vibrating energy lying in wait. I picture my hand reaching out and coaxing it to come to me. This time it responds immediately. I didn't have to pull it out of myself, it barrels towards me like a new puppy greeting its owner at the door after a long day at work.

  My body vibrates and stretches. It doesn't hurt but it feels different. I hear my clothing rip away and I’m left standing there on all fours staring out through different eyes. I can see almost around my entire body. I stretch out my still growing wings. It feels good to flap them even though I know they are not strong enough to carry me yet. But one day, I will soar among the clouds, freer than I’ve ever imagined I could be.

  I flick my eyes over to where Mr. Poe stands. He has already shifted, then he stomps at the packed dirt and throws his head back indicating we are ready to run. I return the gesture by throwing my head back and letting out a whinny.

  We take off at a gallop and pick up speed fast. The feeling of freedom is a relief from being cooped up in my room. The wind rushes past my ears drowning out any remaining sounds and I just run. Before I know it, Mr. Poe has gone into the locker room and shifted back. I take this as the signal to do the same.

  I walk into the locker room and focus on coaxing all my energy back into my chest. I feel myself shrinking down then I’m standing on two legs. I jump up and down excited that I had another successful shift then get dressed. I put my jewelry back on and instantly feel calmer.

  When I come out, Mr. Poe is waiting for me. “Very good job today, Whisper. You’re a natural. I have a meeting I have to attend, don’t forget to stop back by my office and grab your things. I’ll see you tomorrow.” Mr. Poe pulls black inky tendrils around himself and disappears.

  I wrap myself in black tendril and reappear outside Mr. Poe’s office. I walk in, grab my things, and head for my room. I’m tired from all the extra running I’ve done today. I’m ready for a shower and bed.

  I open my door and walk in. I’m greeted by the smell of tangy balsamic vinegar and sweet cooked carrots. My stomach rumbles angrily as I gaze longingly at the table and my mouth begins to water. I remind myself that I can’t possibly smell the greatest, so I grab a change of clothes and jump in the shower. I wash quickly, changing into my comfy clothes, then sit down at the table to eat.

  I remove the domed lid and the aroma hits me full in the face. I dig in and eat faster than I normally do. The shifting and running today has caused my appetite to grow and I finish everything on my plate. I replace the domed lid and climb into bed pulling up my kindle. I plan on finishing the book I started reading but as soon as my head hits the pillow, sleep is relentless and pulls me under.

  I’m standing under the weeping willow and see that Lydia and Sam are already here. This will be our first real meeting with other students. Are they as nervous as I am? Will our resistance work? Will the other students take us seriously? Most importantly, how many will be able to harness the new power I’m about to teach them.

  I close my eyes and grab the rest of our group. I hope Max doesn’t scare anyone away. They need to learn from the beginning we need to work together, but I’m second guessing the decision already.

  Once they are all accounted for, I grab Mrs. King, Mrs. Bradbury, and Gandore. I debate on bringing Aunt Nellie, but I think it would be better to do this first introduction with just us.

  “We need a plan on how this meeting will go.” I say when everyone has settled in. “I know we need to convince them to join the cause and see who can use the gift I’m teaching. Are there any other suggestions?”

  “Be prepared for a lot of questions that you might not have the answer to yet.” Gandore sighs. “Leadership roles can be challenging, but I have a feeling you can handle anything life throws at you, Miss Lawrence.”

  “I will do my best.” I take a deep breath and hold it, trying to quell the nerves that are rising in my gut. I just need to appear strong. It doesn’t matter if I’m a ball of jello inside, right?

  “You’ve got this, Whisper.” Ryland steps next to me and puts a hand on my shoulder. “You have all of us backing you up. Are you sure it’s a good idea to have Max here though?”

  “It makes sense for him to be here. We need to unite all of the houses if this has a chance of succeeding. So, having him here shows that not all Empyreans are like Coventry. We can show them the truth stone and Max can prove he’s on our side, if he’s willing.”

  “That is an excellent point, Miss Lawrence. I believe this wi
ll be a smashing success once we get past the first hurdles.” Gandore gazes at me with pride shining in his hazel eyes.

  I beam at his praise. For some reason, coming from him it means just that much more.

  “Ok, can you all please grab who you’ve recruited for this meeting? We’ll start as soon as everyone is accounted for.” I then sit under the weeping willow while they work on their tasks.

  One by one, they all close their eyes and disappear, eventually returning with a new person before blinking out again. After a few minutes, there are about twelve new students and Mr. Wells with our group.

  “Are we all here now?” I ask, standing up and dusting off my butt.

  “That’s everyone.” Sam smiles at me, making my heart beat faster.

  I walk in front of the group and their chatter stops as all eyes land on me. I stand a little taller. You can do this, Whisper. I give myself a pep talk.

  “Thank you all for coming tonight. I know the first time you experience dream walking can be a little disconcerting, but you get used to it. As you probably know, we are meeting today to rise up against those who want to oppress us.” I walk back and forth in front of them, making eye contact with each person as I pass.

  “What’s he doing here?” Mason, the head Dissident boy, crosses his arms across his chest and glares at Max.

  “If we want any chance of this working, we all need to work together. If we want to prove the current treatment of the Dissident house makes no sense, we need allies from the houses that aren’t treated as we are. He is loyal and we can prove it.” I stand tall, allowing my voice to carry across the meadow.

  I close my eyes and picture the truth stone and feel its weight as it appears in my hand. I hold up the obsidian disk for everyone to see.

  “This is a truth stone. Many of you would have witnessed it working when you were approached to join.” I hear murmurs of agreement. “In case you didn't, I’ll explain how the stone works. If it lights up purple, they are telling the truth; if it turns red, it’s a lie. And if it glows grey, they are hiding something or telling a half truth.”