Claimed: (The Land of Schism Book 1) Epic Fantasy Novel for Young and New Adults

by Nicole Adamz

  I tilted my head, examining her appearance. Does she need a sapphire necklace? Her box of jewelry provided a silver choker with strings of sapphires and diamonds. It fell against her chest in a cresting wave. Perfect.

  Maewyn fluttered her lashes at her reflection, and I refrained from rolling my eyes for the umpteenth time. It’s a good thing she uses her looks for good. Men would be in peril if she decided to use them for evil, I thought with a chuckle. I patted my pendant and the handkerchiefs inside my sachet.

  Recently, my nose bled profusely during Maewyn’s bigger performances. Her biggest performance was tonight, and I was determined not to embarrass her. We bustled out of the room, quickly walking to the foyer. A jolt went through me when Caelum Pearl’s smirking form materialized by the stairs in the foyer. Maewyn steadfastly ignored her, but my steps slowed. This was the first time I’d seen her since I’d punched her.

  “Say hello if you see any familiar faces,” Caelum Pearl called merrily to Maewyn’s retreating form. She cackled.

  Maewyn stiffened but she said nothing, glancing at me over her shoulder when she spread her wings. I nodded, and she jumped gracefully off the balcony, diving into the sky. Her milk white form speared into the fading glow of the sun’s light, sparkling like an early star. She looks incandescent, I thought in awe.

  “Don’t let her fool you,” Caelum Pearl sneered when I prepared to step off the balcony. I met her scorn blandly, leaping into the air. “You don’t know her like you think you do!!” she shouted.

  Her parting comments lingered as I hurried to catch Maewyn. I shouldn’t be mulling over Caelum Pearl’s petty comments. She doesn’t know Maewyn like I do, I thought disdainfully.

  I found Maewyn’s pale form in the dusky atmosphere and increased my speed. Lanterns blinked on in Summit, an early reflection of the night sky. The encroaching darkness swallowed us. In the distance, the High Lord’s gilded Aerie was a beacon reaching toward Welkin.

  Chapter 15

  Maewyn

  IFLOURISHED THE GOLD DUSTED parchment under the Warder’s nose. “Of course, I have an invitation. Why else would I be here?” I purred.

  The Warder scrutinized the invitation, regarding me impassively. The arching Aerie gates towered imposingly behind him. There were dozens of Units here tonight. The number of men would normally please me but being regarded as a mere guest was irksome.

  Despite my status and fluttering lashes, I’d been stopped when I’d tried to walk through the gates. I hid my irritation behind a bright smile despite the slight against my reputation and feminine charm. The start to the evening, an evening that could change my life, has been a little bumpy, I thought.

  I glanced at the Warder inside the gate and caught him staring. I winked, but his expression remained carefully blank. A signal was given to the sentries atop the gates, and the intricate metal doors slowly swung open. I breathed a sigh of relief. Finally!

  As Ari and I walked through the gates, I heard someone murmur. “I wouldn’t mind detaining her for a few hours, but the High Lord likes his entertainment too.” A satisfied smile curled my lips.

  The Aerie’s platformed structure corresponded to Summit’s. Walls ringed around the main building separating sections of the grounds before the Aerie was reached, and we were in the farthest one. Ward Units swooped overhead, watching guests, while we walked along the smooth, limestone path in the Outer Courtyard.

  Charmed trees and shifting topiaries crackled into animated scenes of wildlife. Jewels hung from branches, twinkling among curling lanterns hiding in the cultured forest, creating a thick miasma of mystery. Trickling ponds hid behind randomly blooming flowers in the Outer Courtyard, the air full of secrets. Everything here was crafted by Augment Caelum assigned specifically to the Aerie.

  The green, limestone path transitioned beneath the archway of a thick wall, changing to grey agate with pink veins. Azoic and Illuminary Caelum had touched the Inner Courtyard. Statues danced on pedestals, softly grinding against their bases when they changed positions. The marble flower gardens sparkled in the sporadic light of floating orbs. I inhaled sharply, captivated by the splendor. The Aerie is more beautiful than I imagined!

  Thick, marble columns marched around the Inner Courtyard in arched rings, creating the illusion of the last wall. The pathway changed into a boundless white lake of pearlescent sand as we entered the Main Courtyard. The Aerie erupted from the ground, the massive structure impressing its will on the surroundings as golden towers twisted toward Welkin. Pale marble, glass, gold, and jewels molded the structure, creating the magnificent building housing the bloodline of the High Lord.

  A shiver of anticipation shot through me. Teasing glimpses of the Aerie from afar hadn’t prepared me for its majesty. I bit my lip gleefully. This could be part of my future. I stepped eagerly on the soft ground. The glittering dust shifted, gently cradling my feet.

  I tried not to wince in embarrassment when Ari tripped over her hem. A group of Caelum stood around a table, but I didn’t recognize any of them. Don’t lose your poise, I told my thundering heart. They might be permanent Caelum here.

  “Good evening,” I said.

  “Good evening,” someone murmured. A few Caelum raised their brows at my loose interpretation of our uniform, but I ignored them.

  “Does someone know where we can find the room designated for Caelum tonight?” I asked. A few measuring gazes were placed on my Totality marks.

  “The Weaver, huh?” said a tall Caelum. I inclined my head.

  “We’ve heard praise about your abilities,” he said. The other Caelum nodded.

  My stomach twisted nervously, but I smiled. It’s rude to boast about one Caelum to another. Who would do that? “I hope you haven’t heard exaggerated tales,” I said cautiously. The family’s spies whispered in well placed ears, but it wouldn’t be to another Caelum. The remaining possibilities made me uneasy.

  The Caelum laughed easily, and the knot in my gut unfolded. “Well, it isn’t every century two Story Weavers are born,” he said.

  I relaxed, familiar with this topic. “No, it isn’t,” I said comfortably.

  “There’s a tent at the back of the Main Courtyard for tonight’s performers.” He gestured in the general direction. “No one is allowed inside the Aerie without an invitation except members of the Aerial Council and blood relatives,” the Caelum said.

  Thanking him, I led Ari around the Main Courtyard and found the large tent hovering in the Aerie’s shadow like a dark mirage. Satin curtains billowed in a small breeze. Parting the cloth doors, I glimpsed an expanse of food and beverage. Ari will be happy, I chuckled, glancing back at her.

  In the dim light, her bi-colored eyes gleamed bewitchingly. I suppressed a shudder, forcing a quaint smile. Why does her left eye have to look like burnished gold? Tonight, she looks like something…other. More so than usual. I shook my head.

  I’m imagining things. I chose her dress well, and she looks remarkable. I almost envy her willowy form. Amused at the ridiculous thought, I walked into the tent. I would never be envious of Ari.

  Inside it was lit with orbs and lanterns of muted yellow, and heavy smells of food and wine filled the area. Ari stepped forward, inhaling gluttonously. I grabbed her hand when she reached for a plate, shaking my head. Casting a longing look at the table, she heaved a disappointed sigh. My lips twitched.

  “We need to mingle. This is my chance to get into elite society,” I said. Ari gave me a bland look I interpreted as her not caring about elite society. I’m inclined to agree, but the family would come down on my head if I didn’t try.

  “I know, but it needs to be done. At the very least we could acquire a few more Revues from being social,” I said.

  Ari shrugged, quickly snatching a slice of cheese from the table and shoving it into her mouth. Palming a few baked crackers, she walked around to locate my harp. I shook my head. That girl is always hungry.

  Checking the performance roster, I met Ari outside. She mournfully
munched on the last cracker. We walked to the front of the Main Courtyard as the Autumn Feyle began; High Families, Aerial Council members, lesser officials, and courtiers spilled across the grounds.

  Groups mingled and shifted while golden platters laden with food and wine were served by Anomalies. Their grey velvet clothes were embroidered with the High Lord’s sky-blue color and insignia; a pair of wings encircling a crowned mountain. The Anomalies are better dressed than Ari would’ve been. I smirked at her, but she studiously looked away.

  Caelum and their Tyro scattered the courtyard, expertly amusing guests before their performances. Illuminary Tyro shot tiny, bursting orbs into the air that rained on people in colorful drizzles. The small fissures of light landed on bare skin with an unexpected cold tingle, and people gasped delightfully. The first performance was beginning.

  The Illuminary Caelum created huge, colored orbs that dispersed into smaller shards, twisting into shapes and patterns before pulling back into the orb. Applause floated through the Main Courtyard, and my heart swelled smugly. Caelum serve the city; we make people happy with our performances. And of them all, I have the rarest Talent.

  I grinned, walking toward a group with a silver haired man. Which blood-line is he from? There aren’t many people with silver hair, and he isn’t a member of my family. A welcoming smile lit his face, and I returned it politely.

  “We have something in common,” the man said.

  “It seems we do. I haven’t met you before,” I said, glancing at the assembled group.

  “I’m Lord Ralston. Good evening, Caelum,” he said, holding out his wrist. I delicately grasped it. “You’re from the Ambire blood-line,” he stated.

  I inclined my head in acknowledgement. “Correct.”

  “I have the Ambire family to thank for my hair—for many reasons,” Lord Ralston said jovially. “One of your ancestors married into my family generations ago. She didn’t have silver hair, but every so often we’ll have a fledgling with it. Like myself. It’s quite a hit among ladies,” Lord Ralston said, grinning conspiratorially.

  I laughed, introducing myself, “Caelum Maewyn Ambire,” I gestured toward Ari. “This is my Tyro, Ari Laurel.”

  Lord Ralston eyed Ari curiously, giving her a perfunctory nod instead of grasping wrists. Ari inclined her head elegantly. Do most people refuse to greet her traditionally?

  “Laurel…Laurel,” Lord Ralston tasted the word. “The blood-line of the retired Ward General?” Surprised, Ari nodded. “I didn’t know he had such an unusual fledgling in his household,” he said.

  Ari shrugged absently, expecting the conversation to continue without her. An awkward silence descended, and I laughed brightly to cover it. Lord Ralston turned, smoothly picking up our conversation.

  “I’m sure your Tyro is a great help,” Lord Ralston said politely.

  “She’s the one who discovered these,” I said, fluttering my wings to make them sparkle.

  Lord Ralston’s gaze landed on me appreciatively, and I thrilled at his attention. He’s not the Heir or the High Lord, but I have the entire evening to have fun. What’s the harm in flirting? He’s attractive, wealthy, and titled. A Warder flew past and my gut jerked.

  Niles, a part of me yearned. I strangled it. Niles is a Warder. The family wouldn’t approve and would destroy us for getting in their way.

  “Such a beautiful garment must have taken a long time to put on.” Lord Ralston said playfully. I smiled, suggestively running my fingers over the rabbit fur at my chest.

  “Lord Ralston, it’s not polite conversation for a woman to discuss dressing herself with man she doesn’t know well,” a woman in the group said drolly.

  Embarrassment tinged my cheeks, but I kept my chin high. The woman smirked, shifting closer to the man beside her. Austere navy robes mirrored the Prelate’s face.

  “Correct. Men have no interest in such things,” the Prelate said stiffly.

  “You’re right,” A busty blonde interjected. “Men are only interested in undressing women, Prelate Sunny.” She winked at me conspiratorially.

  Lord Ralston’s ebony eyes laughed quietly. “Would you care to dance?” he said.

  I glanced at the people around the Main Courtyard, “No one is dancing.” Lord Ralston smiled, placing a chaste kiss on my hand.

  “Then, let me set an example with the most beautiful lady here,” he said.

  Lord Ralston placed a hand at my waist, twirling me into the crowd. I grinned, watching Ari’s lone figure fade. A melted rainbow of people whirled by, and when Lord Ralston’s fingers caressed the exposed skin at my waist I thrilled at the conquest. Other people followed our lead, dancing to the music of the performing Caelum.

  “There’s a lot of talk about you, Caelum Maewyn.” Lord Ralston said casually.

  “I hope it’s flattering,” I laughed.

  “Very. It seems you’re a highly sought-after Caelum…and woman,” Lord Ralston murmured.

  A satisfied smile curved my lips. “I hope I live up to expectations,” I muttered demurely.

  “Oh, more than. Lord and Lady Durus speak highly of you,” Lord Ralston said.

  Suspicion whispered through my mind while his dark gaze steadily watched me. If he knows the Durus family, then he knows Heir Talon. Which makes him a source of information.

  “I’m glad they were pleased with my performance,” I said noncommittally.

  “Yes, they intend to request your presence again,” Lord Ralston said ambiguously.

  The back of my neck prickled. What does he want?

  “Well, I look forward to receiving an invitation,” I said carefully.

  Lord Ralston smiled charmingly but let the conversation drop. After a few moments, I relaxed, and when the dance ended, I smiled graciously. “Thank you for the dance, but I need to continue mingling. As a Caelum I can’t be monopolized by one man,” I said playfully.

  “Of course! I don’t want to get in the way of your duties,” Lord Ralston said. He kissed my hand. “I’m sure we’ll meet again.”

  I’d lost Ari but searched for her in the crowd. Several Anomalies walked by, and I followed their trays. Ari can’t resist food. I paused a few feet away from an Anomaly serving food to a group, but Ari wasn’t nearby.

  “The High Lord always shares the best goods with his guests,” one man smacked around a mouthful of meat. The Anomaly didn’t blink when he greedily grabbed her thigh.

  I frowned in distaste as the Anomaly calmly turned to serve another group, drifting among the revelers like insubstantial smoke. Shifting, I searched for Ari’s lanky form. The man’s next remark made my lip curl, but I smoothed my face into a polite mask.

  “I’ll find that one later. Curvy, the way I like ’em,” the man said, loudly.

  The man took a gulp of wine, laughing on unsteady feet. He’s already drunk, I thought with disgust. Surprised, I noticed Ward General Fernon and Lady Rose among the group. They had been inside Lady Durus’s secret room the last time I was there.

  “You don’t have a twig to offer women, Driscoll,” a woman with hard eyes said snidely. A few people guffawed, and Driscoll’s face turned red. He raised a fist in the air.

  “Not here, father,” snapped a voice. Davin’s sardonic face appeared in the slithering crowd and my heart stumbled.

  Davin’s expression was bored as he fixed the sleeves of his embroidered overcoat. His father was a thin, mean looking man, almost insubstantial next to Ward General Fernon.

  “You’ll pay for that remark, you rat fed crow,” Driscoll sneered at the woman.

  “You won’t lay a finger on me if you want continued access to my family’s wealth,” the woman said coldly.

  “Skies! I’ll do what I want. It’s my family name you wanted!” Driscoll blustered.

  “To my never-ending regret!” his wife hissed. “You gained dosh and an heir, and what did I receive?” Davin’s mother raked her cold gaze over Driscoll. “A blithering idiot.”

  Driscoll lunged, but Davin
grabbed his collar. “You’re making a scene. Quench your anger in private,” Davin said cynically.

  “Bring me an Anomaly,” Driscoll growled, stalking into the crowd.

  Davin sighed dramatically, “A son’s duty is never over.”

  Straightening his green velvet jacket, Davin bowed mockingly. “Mother,” he said.

  Davin’s mother stared at him with hard eyes but said nothing. He turned toward me, trudging after a passing Anomaly. Through the shifting mass his eyes locked with mine. My cheeks burned, but Davin smiled charmingly and walked toward me.

  “You used the invitation I sent,” Davin murmured silkily.

  Castia didn’t procure the invitations? I thought with a puzzled frown. Glancing around, I realized I hadn’t seen her. Will she make her grand entrance with High Lord Bera?

  Davin stepped closer, his eyes kindling with lust, and a warm glow suffused my skin. What is it about him? He makes me feel tantalizingly darker than Niles does.

  Whistling, Davin said, “I’m glad you’re gracing the Aerie with your magnificent presence.”

  I smiled coyly, “I don’t see your pretty bird. Is she fetching more wine?”

  Confusion covered Davin’s face before he smiled flirtatiously. “Tannen? She got old. I’ve been through a few pretty birds, and I’m looking for a new one. Interested?”

  “In being your pretty bird? No, I have a more important role. Should I help you find a more suitable replacement?” I said tartly.

  Surprised, he barked out a laugh, “I don’t think there’s anyone here that compares with you.”

  “Of course not, but you can’t handle me. You’ll have to settle,” I said impudently.

  Davin leaned closer. “Oh, I think I would do fine,” he said alluringly.

  His scented oil wafted over me, and a vague stupor settled on my thoughts. Seductive images swept through my mind, and I shivered deliciously when he brushed an errant strand of hair away from my neck. I shouldn’t be playing with him, I thought dazedly.