Mary’s expression changed. It was as if the weight of the world had just fallen from her shoulders. She let out a sigh of relief.
The warlock leaned in and kissed Mary on the cheek. As he did, he retrieved the stone before she realized she was holding it. “Did you miss me, too?”
It took a moment before the cloud that covered Mary’s mind moved on. “Of course, I did.” Her brows furrowed. “Why do you ask?”
George shrugged. “No reason.”
Curious about the stone’s power, George questioned. “Tell me something, Mary. Is anything bothering you?”
Mary’s face wrinkled as she pondered the question. “Why would you ask me that? Do I look bothered?”
George’s smile was pleasant. “No, not really.” He changed the subject again. “Weren’t you looking for Susanne?” He pointed to the front door. “She went that way.”
Mary nodded. “Thank you.” When Mary reached the front door, she looked over her shoulder after placing her hand on the door knob. “Why was I looking for Susanne?”
Again, George shrugged. “You said something about talking with her about dinner. I’m sure she remembers. Why don’t you go ask her?”
Once the door was shut, the warlock tossed the pebble into the air and snatched it. “Amazing!” He lifted the unmarked rune in front of his face. “You rock, little rock. We might as well get started on the rest of the fam.”
From within her invisible veil, Sharvesa tilted her head. What odd remarks. What are you up to? The demon-goddess followed as George sauntered into the kitchen.
Athena placed a sandwich on the table and then lifted Payne onto his booster seat as George walked through the door. The warlock crossed the kitchen to greet Brayson. “How are you?” he asked.
Brayson turned from the stove and extended his hand. “Thank Lasidious you’re here! I’m anxious. This potion is not easy to brew. I’ve already failed at two others, and I can’t find Garrin.”
Since the Head Master’s hand was extended, George took the opportunity to place the pebble in it. Like the others, Brayson’s worries for Garrin vanished, and then George reclaimed the stone.
As the fog filled the Head Master’s eyes, Brayson mindlessly turned back to the stove. A few moments later, a look of confusion appeared on his face. Without saying a word, he lifted the kettle containing the potion he was brewing and took it to the sink.
While Brayson poured it down the drain, George turned to Athena, grabbed her hand and lifted it to his mouth. As he did, he kissed the top of it and pushed the pebble against her palm.
Just like her mother had done, Athena let out a sigh of relief. “Are you okay, babe?” George questioned, placing the pebble in his pocket.
Before Athena could clear her mind to respond, the Head Master set the kettle on the counter. The sound of the iron clanking against the granite captured Athena’s attention. A look of forgetfulness consumed her face as she looked past George’s shoulder and across the room. “What were you cooking, Brayson? Was it truly so bad you had to discard it?”
Brayson stared for a moment or two at the purple stain the potion left behind on the white porcelain before he responded. “That’s odd. I can’t remember.”
George was quick to react. Though the others could not see the magic work, the warlock used his power to cool the kettle. “He wasn’t cooking anything. The kettle’s been sitting on the stove since I left. I can’t believe no one had thought of washing it until now. Isn’t that what you were doing, Brayson?”
The Head Master looked at the kettle and then the sink. “I don’t know. It’s strange. Why would I not remember why I’m standing here?”
The warlock grabbed the mug of water Athena had left on the table and took a drink. “Maybe you’re getting old.” He caressed the top of Athena’s arm. “Maybe, you’re getting old, too, babe.”
Seeing the confusion in the room, the demon-goddess froze everyone. She walked over to George and retrieved the stone from his pocket. “What are you?” she wondered as she examined its smooth surface. “You possess great power.”
Sharvesa clenched her hand around the stone. She looked at George. “Why would this rune be in your possession?” She moved closer and stared into the warlock’s frozen eyes. “Why wield its power in this fashion? What would make you want an outcome such as this? Why would you deceive your family and cause them to forget?”
Again, Sharvesa addressed the stone as she opened her hand and began to rub her thumb across its onyx surface. “You possess the power of the gods. There must be a secret surrounding this missing child.” She placed the pebble into the warlock’s palm. “You appear to be a good father, but why would you do the bidding of one of the others?”
The goddess crossed her arms. “Who commands you, human? I must know this.” The demon-goddess stood in silence and pinched her chin in thought. Eventually, she remembered part of a conversation that happened in the Book’s Hall of Judgment. Alistar had addressed Celestria. “You put too much faith in your pet prophet. George will only be able to spread Lasidious’ supposed good word so far.”
Placing her hand on George’s head, the demon-goddess tried to summon the warlock’s memories. It was not long before she removed her hand and took a step back, frustrated. “Why can I not see your past?” She stared into the warlock’s frozen eyes. “You’re an intriguing being. There are many secrets within you … secrets that won’t reveal themselves. Your memories must have been protected.”
The goddess grabbed the pebble and pinched it between George’s thumb and forefinger. Once this had been done, she released her hold on all the mortals.
When George reanimated, the pebble fell from his fingers to the floor. He bent over, snatched it up and placed it in his front, pant pocket. What the hell? he thought. Didn’t I already put you in there?
“What’s wrong?” Athena questioned, sensing his anxiety. She looked in the direction of his pocket. “What was that?”
The warlock shook his head. “It’s just a rock.” He gave his wife a quick kiss and then headed for the front door. Opening it, he shouted, “I’ll be back in a little while, babe! I’m going to go check on Susanne and find your mom!” Shutting the front door behind him, he added under his breath, “And everyone else.”
Pausing at the top of the porch steps, George reached down under his tunic to make sure the pebble was still in his pant pocket. I know I put you in there, he thought. I just know it.
On the far side of the porch, the invisible demon-goddess smiled. She thought, You’re not the only being who can mold the minds of others. The goddess watched George bound down the steps and run across the clearing before she vanished.
Ancients Sovereign
Outside the Book’s Hall of Judgment
When Sharvesa reappeared, she was standing on the far side of the lawn, just south of the Book’s hall. Seeing the lushness of the grass, she looked down, kicked off her shoes and rummaged her toes through it. A smile appeared on her face as the moisture near the base of every blade cooled her skin.
After plucking a few pieces, she lifted them to her nose and sniffed. Delightful, she thought. She sniffed again. Everything smells so much better on this world.
A few moments later, Gabriel floated out of the hall. He crossed the distance and stopped only paces away from the goddess. “It’s good to see that there is a member of the Collective who still takes moments out of their Peaks to enjoy the simple pleasures of what has been created.”
Sharvesa sniffed again. “The others are fools.”
Gabriel chuckled. “Perhaps. However … ‘fools’ is not a strong enough word to describe their apathy.”
The demon smirked and allowed each blade to fall to the ground. “The others should spend a season or two as mortals so they can acquire respect for their handiwork.”
“A fine idea!” Gabriel clapped. “Perhaps I’ll bring it up when next we convene.”
The Book floated closer. “Of all the gods, Sharvesa, you h
ave proven yourself to be the most humble. Again and again, since your arrival on Ancients Sovereign, I have witnessed this. Please ... never allow the depths of your kindness to be filled by senseless manipulations as the others do.”
Sharvesa took a moment to ponder the Book’s comment. “What actions have I performed that have shown humility?”
The Book smiled. “If I must bear testimony, you have not allowed your vanity to affect your judgment.” Gabriel pointed to his hall. “Over many seasons have I seen the members of the Collective sit within those walls and argue. They fight for power, demand respect and seek the prayers of those living on the worlds.” He pointed at Sharvesa. “But look at you. I see a humble demon who wants only the best for those she once ruled. You worry not for yourself but more for those who will suffer on the new Hell. Your worry is not limited to demonkind. It encompasses all beings.”
Gabriel lifted his hands and opened them. An image of Sharvesa’s daughter appeared above his palms. “You think as a mother thinks. You want the best for your child and those who serve her crown.”
The Book allowed the demon-goddess a few more moments to enjoy the sight of her offspring before he closed his hands. As the image faded, he continued. “Your love for others is to be commended. This love is the reason you value life.” The Book lowered to the grass and then looked up. He motioned to Sharvesa. “Please, sit.”
Sharvesa did as requested.
The Book continued. “The others have become hardened to the fate of those living on the worlds.”
“Agreed,” the demon responded.
After a period of silence, the demon looked to the west and pointed. “Tell me, Gabriel, is that the mountain range Bassorine once occupied?”
“It is. Why?”
“No reason, I suppose.” Sharvesa plucked another blade of grass and rolled it between her fingertips. “I have come seeking knowledge … knowledge about Lasidious.”
A look of confusion appeared on the Book’s face. “Explain.”
The demon nodded. “Did Lasidious truly have a hand in the events that led to Bassorine’s destruction?”
The Book lifted off the grass. “He did. Lasidious has had his hands in many schemes that have caused the suffering of others. I imagine this trend won’t change.”
The demon pulled her gaze away from the tallest peak known as Catalyst and found the Book’s heavy brows. “Tell me. When the vote was taken to turn Dragonia into Hell, what was Lasidious’ vote?
“Why do you ask?”
“I ask only for peace of mind.”
Gabriel studied Sharvesa’s face. “How can peace be gained through this knowledge?”
“I’m not sure your question is one I can answer. I find my mind often wanders in confusion. For now, I simply want to know if a lie has been told.”
The goddess reached out and took hold of Gabriel’s binding. She brought up her knees and set Gabriel on top of them. “Do you question me in return to avoid speaking the truth as the others do?”
The Book frowned. “Of course, not. I would never act as they act.”
“Then stall no more,” Sharvesa demanded. She released the Book and then put her hands behind her back to support her weight. “Speak the answer I seek.”
Gabriel lifted from the demon goddess’ knees. “I’ll tell you what you want to know.” The Book’s brows sunk between his eyes as a stern look appeared on his face. “Lasidious voted against the others.”
“What were his exact words on that Peak, Gabriel? Do you remember them?”
The Book paused in thought. “Lasidious said, ‘I vote nay. The demons should not be condemned to suffer with the damned. This Collective should spare their world, and in doing so, create a Hell from the matter that will be salvaged by our Salvage Angels.’”
“Then Lasidious voted nay as he proclaimed, and the others voted against him.”
“He did. He voted against all the others … save one.”
“And who was this one?”
“Alistar.”
As Sharvesa’s eyes widened, Gabriel turned to look toward the northwest. The Book knew Alistar’s palace sat in the distance, beyond the mountains, beyond the lakes and the rolling plains. “Alistar was the only other who felt your world should be spared.”
This revelation caused Sharvesa to ponder aloud. “Why would Alistar vote nay?”
Gabriel shrugged as a book with arms would shrug. “Perhaps it is because Alistar is a softer being than the others.”
“Does he not have a mind of his own?”
“Of course, he does. In fact, Alistar has opposed Lasidious on a great many occasions. But on this particular Peak, he chose to side with Lasidious. But I don’t know why.”
The Book turned to face the demon and changed the direction of the conversation. “Does this knowledge offer you the peace of mind you were seeking?”
Sharvesa lifted from the grass. “I’ll answer once I’ve finished my investigation.” The goddess bowed. “Forgive me, Gabriel, but I must be off.”
The Book frowned as Sharvesa vanished.
Moments later, the demon reappeared near the palace of Alistar that sat within the Plains of Bounty. In every direction, fields of exotic flowers stretched before her. The flora was in bloom, and a plethora of sweet, intoxicating scents filled the breeze and consumed her nostrils.
Sharvesa turned toward the south. A beautiful lake and a glorious mountain range sat in the distance. She did not hesitate to lift her nose and take a deep breath. “If I didn’t know otherwise,” she said, talking to herself, “I would wager I could smell the colors.”
Having appeared behind Sharvesa, the God of the Harvest responded, “That is why I chose this spot to create my home.”
The demon whirled around. “You startled me.”
“I apologize.” Alistar bent down to smell the flowers. “There have been many occasions when I felt I was undeserving of the delight these aromas provide. Do you think that’s true?”
Sharvesa smiled. “Perhaps. But a more insightful answer could be given once I know you better.”
Alistar smiled. “Come with me.” The God of the Harvest walked west through the field. He allowed his hands to caress the top of the flowers as he headed toward the steps that ascended to the doors of his palace.
As she followed, the demon professed, “I wasn’t sure if you’d be home. I assumed you’d be with the others.”
The God of the Harvest reached out and placed his right hand on a large, black, iron hasp. As he pulled the door open, he responded. “I was with the others. I would not be here now, except for the warning I received of your presence.”
“Warning?”
Alistar smirked and patted the backside of the door with his left hand. “My palace summoned me. It lives as we live. It told me you were here prior to my arrival.”
A look of admiration appeared on Sharvesa’s face as she placed her hand flush against the door. “It’s warm … like we are.”
After a moment of silence, the demon changed the subject. “What of Dragonia? Were you there?”
Alistar nodded. “Yes. The transformation of your old homeworld is nearly complete.”
Sharvesa frowned as Alistar motioned for her to step inside. The grandeur within caused her to stand in awe as the sound of the door closing behind them echoed throughout the massive foyer.
Alistar studied Sharvesa’s face. “Your appearance suggests that you’re pleased.”
Sharvesa chuckled.
Indignant, Alistar queried, “I fail to see the humor. Is my structure not appealing to your eyes?”
“Forgive me, Alistar. I mean no disrespect. Your palace is truly a place of wonder.”
“Then why laugh?”
The demon stopped. “I laugh only because I chose a home far less grand after my arrival on Ancients Sovereign.” She took a step forward and circled. “Seeing all this makes me realize I have chosen poorly. You would not waste admiration on my abode.”
Alista
r reached out and took the goddess’ hands into his. “I’d like to see the existence you’ve created for yourself. Take me there.”
With eyes closed, the demon did as requested. When they reappeared, they were standing in a dark, damp, miserable place.
Alistar used his power to chase away the darkness that consumed the cave. After studying his surroundings, he commented, “I see what you mean. I feel no jealousy.”
Again, Sharvesa chuckled. “Then you have given affirmation to my earlier confession. It appears I shall need to seek a new home now that my eyes have been opened to the comforts I can acquire.”
Alistar shook his head. “I wouldn’t be too quick to give up on the potential this cave offers.”
“What do you mean?”
The God of the Harvest extended a hand and motioned for Sharvesa to walk. “I’ll show you.”
Sharvesa nodded.
Alistar walked deeper into the cave and stopped near a natural column.
Alistar placed his hands on either side of the column and then closed his eyes. It was not long before his hands started to glow. Thousands of multi-colored crystallizations surfaced, each emanating a shallow light that projected their color. Although it was only a minor change, the feel of the cave improved drastically.
Alistar turned from the column. “Do you approve?”
“Oh, yes, I do.”
“Wonderful. Show me where you sleep.”
Sharvesa led him into the depths of the cave. Alistar’s eyes widened as they fell upon the section of the floor that Sharvesa had taken the moments to smooth over.
Now it was Alistar’s turn to laugh. “You must be jesting,” he blurted. “This is where you retire each night? How could you possibly sleep on the ground?” He pointed to a fair-sized stone. “And what’s that?”
“That is where I lay my head.”
Alistar groaned, “You lay your head on a stone?”
“Yes. Don’t you?”
The Tear of Gramal Page 31
