Water Secrets

1

Chapter 12

The moon lay high in the sky casting a florescent light on the clear lake making it shine and shimmer. She sighed contently sitting on a boulder. A cold wind brushed her cheek, making her shiver a little. She pulled the blanket closer to her to keep her warm. She sat still for a moment looking at the water then stood up and climbed off the rock. Walking to the water she let the blanket drop to the ground. She undid her hair and then dived into the water. The chill of the water hit with a hard blow, but she kept swimming. She looked around her. There was fish swimming by her side and in front of her, not paying any attention she was there. Underwater plants brushed her legs and arms but she kept swimming. Finally she went back up the surface and inhaled deeply making her cough a little. The night gown she wore weighed her down forcing her to climb out. She quickly made a small fire out of dried out sticks and dead leaves. The fire felt good. She sat down on the dirt ground and snatched the blanket she brought with her. She through it on herself and pulled it closely around her. She studied the flames watching them snap and crackle. A soft coo came behind her. She turned to find Toran, a Red -Tailed Hawk, a friend she had before she could remember. She smiled brightly and beckoned him over. He flew over to her and landed by her side. She reached over and stroked his back feathers. They were soft and cool from the temperature in the air. He turned his head and looked at her with his golden eyes. She smiled softly and looked at the sky. Thousand upon thousand of stars hung in the sky. It was like someone threw a million diamonds into the sky and for some unexplained reason they never fell back down like gravity intended. A screech could be heard in the sky. The girl looked around. There was nothing there that could have made the noise. Toran was the only one who might have but it would be impossible because he never screeched like the noise she heard. The sound sent chills up her spin. It was like someone screaming for help but you didn’t know where they were though you felt they were right next to you. And if you didn’t find them they would die. For some strange reason though she felt she had heard it somewhere but she couldn’t recall. Toran nudged her gently. She turned back to him and nodded. It was their signal to start heading home.3

She and Toran finally reached home. She signed happily and looked at it. It was an average size thatch house with a flower garden planted in front. There were pine trees that closed in the property so that they could have privacy. There was a small stone well that provided water for the family and a small pond with little minnows and other lake fish the girl had brought home. There was the barn and stock house that held the animals and food. A field full of vegetables grew next to the barn with a wooden gate to fence it in. The girl entered the house and walked to the hearth, hanging her blanket on a hook by the fire. 4

“Gwen where have you been?” a steady caring voice asked. Gwen turned startled and found her mother standing before her. She smiled and sighed letting the air she had held in out. Gwen came over and laid both hands on her mother’s shoulder. 5

“I was just at the lake for a swim.” Her mother sighed reassured that she wasn’t stealing anything or gallivanting off with the next door farmers’ son. 6

“Well...did you have to go at this time of night?” Gwen smiled and nodded. She walked back to the hearth and sat down on a wooden foot stool by the fire. 7

“I had to go. I never get any time at the lake. I am either here working on the farm or with Grizelda at the shop. I never have anytime to myself.” Her mother nodded and went and got a tin cup filled with homemade herb tea. 8

“I understand but you have obligations to your family and the work you do in town. Further more you know your father doesn’t like you working in town, but you begged him to let you work which he did. So you can’t just quit, you wanted the job well now you have it.” Gwen sighed and looked at the fire. The flames crackling and popping glowed lit up the room a little.9

“I just want to do something with my life. I don’t want to work on a farm or work with Grizelda, I want to have adventure!” Her mother looked at Gwen hard and sighed. Her weather beaten shoulders sagged. She slowly walked over and sat in one of the wooden rocking chairs. Gwen looked at her mother. “Don’t you see? I wasn’t meant to work on a farm, I was meant to have a daring adventure!” Her mother looked at the tea intently not even looking at Gwen. 10

“I think you should go to bed now. It’s late and you need to get up tomorrow morning.” Gwen growled angrily and stormed off accidentally knocking in to her father. 11

“Oh sorry Father.” He smiled and hugged her. 12

“Where have you been? Have you been swimming again?”Gwen smiled and blushed. 13

“Yes.” Her father laughed heartily and hugged her again. 14

“Laura I think we should have called her water horse, for I think that is what she is becoming.”Laura shook her head at her husband and smiled softly, but turned away letting her smile drop. Her husband noticed her sad face quickly. 15

“Gwen go on to bed dear. Don’t go swimming away alright?” Gwen smiled and walked to her room. Her father walked to Laura and sat in the chair next to her. “Is there something wrong my dear?” Laura looked at her husband with worry on her face. The wrinkles that were once unnoticeable on her face stood out prominently in the fire light. 16

“Oh Brill I am worried.” Brill laughed and threw back his head. 17

“Oh is that all.” Laura slapped his thigh and smiled.18

“I am serious this time. Gwen has been going to the water more. She’s wanted adventure.” Brill smiled at his wife and chuckled. 19

“And what child would not want a little adventure in their life?” Laura shook her head. 20

“Gwen is different and you know that. I know that every child wants some adventure to pop in their lives, but I think Gwen is going to get what she wants. I think her life, our lives, are going to change forever.” 21

Gwen breathed heavily running to the village. She couldn’t be late again. Even though it was still early in the morning she was late, Grizelda’s Herb Store always opened early unlike the other stores. If she was late once more Grizelda had threatened to beat her. She was through the forest, but she still had to get to the shop without Grizelda noticing. She ran quickly passing unopened shops and homes with the people inside still sleeping. She was now close to her destination, Grizelda’s Herb Store. The door was open, which meant it was open for business. She was late again. At the door she brushed her hair back and smoothed her dress. There were dirt patches on her dress. She rubbed them furiously but the dirt stayed. For the time being she would have to live with a few dirty patches on her dress. She took a deep breath and walked in. She looked around. The place looked different. The stone fireplace was running, but better than it usually did. There were flowers on the table, wild flowers, and the colors of yellow and purple and white. She saw tulips and Queen Anne’s lace, larkspur and babies breath. 22

“Grizelda” she called looking around. The wooden table that usually was covered with books and glass bottles was cleared off. Now a red and white checkered tablecloth lay on it instead.23

“Grizelda are you here?” she called again. She heard rustling in the back room. ”I’m sorry I wasn’t on time I woke up late.” She walked towards it to open the door when suddenly the door flung open. A lady with light brown hair and a soft complexion looked at her in the eye. 24

“Sorry miss, we’re not open yet. If you’re looking for Grizelda, she’s sick and won’t be here today,” the lady said. Gwen looked at the door then the woman.25

“No, you have it wrong I work here with her, I am her apprentice” she said.26

The strange woman stopped what she was doing and turned to get a good look at the so-called apprentice. She looked at her up and down. The girl had very dark walnut brown hair that looked as if it could be called black. Her eyes were a much lighter brown compared to her hair. She wasn’t what you would call skinny but she had an attractive slender build. Her skin was a shade darker than most people in the village who had either very white skin or light tan. This girl’s skin was the color of sand. She wore an ankle length green dress and her hair was pulled back in a simple braid. 27

“What’s your name girl?” the lady asked firm but gently. 28

Gwen looked at her too, but replied quickly, “My name is Gwendolyn Ash but people call me Gwen for short.” 29

The woman thought a moment and asked, “What an interesting name. I have not heard an old name like yours in these parts. ” Gwen nodded her head. 30

“I know.” She said, “My mother said that was my name when she and my father found me on their door step.” The woman looked surprised, 31

“On their door step?!” a flicker of what seemed like excitement filled part of the woman’s voice. Gwen nodded while fiddling with a dried out flower that had lost most of its petals. “I’m so sorry. Do you wish you knew your mother?” 32

“Not really but it would be comforting to know who my real mother was and why she left me.” The woman nodded and busied herself with work.33

“How did you come to work in Grizelda’s herb shop?” she asked. Gwen walked over and sat in a wooden chair. 34

“I was the only girl who wanted to work for her. I needed to help my family with money. I am not of blue blood if you know what I mean.” The woman nodded and smiled 35

“I understand what you mean. Your not wealthy, you’re in middle class.” Gwen nodded solemnly. 36

“I don’t mean to be intrusive but you know my name yet I have no knowledge of yours?” asked Gwen. The woman took some books out of a box and stacked them on a desk. “My name is Mara…I find it is not important to tell someone your last name when it serves no purpose.” she replied. Gwen nodded and looked at Mara closely. Mara had light-brown hair and eyes that were a soft green. She was of average height and had a cheery smile. She was slim and the clothes she wore were form fitting. She wore a turquoise gown with a worn leather belt around her waist, but in the folds of her clothes was a dagger. Gwen eyed the dagger with fear, what was this stranger doing here. Who was she and was Grizelda really sick? “There is to be no fear of me, I will not harm you.” Gwen looked away from the dagger. She felt ashamed of thinking such thought, but she looked back at it. She would have to watch herself around this woman till she could trust her. Mara placed some of Grizelda’s books on a shelf along with some bottles of herbs. “What do you usually do for Grizelda?” Mara asked. 37

Gwen still watching Mara, thought for a minute about the daily things she did. 38

“Well, I usually organize the books.” She began, “then I sweep and mop the floor.” Mara nodded and kept putting the colored books on the shelf and desk. She sighed as she put the last one down. 39

“What would you like to do?” she asked. Gwen was taken back a little. Grizelda had never asked what she would like to do. 40

“I wouldn’t really know,” Gwen said. Mara went in the back room and returned a few minutes later. 41

“Have you ever put herbs in a glass bottle?” Mara asked carrying a box with glass bottle clinking.42

“No I haven’t, Grizelda didn’t want me doing it,” Gwen said, “she was afraid that I would mess it up.” Gwen scoffed at the idea. “I am just as able as Grizelda to stuff dried flowers in a glass bottle.” Mara smiled at Gwen. Mara placed the box down on the floor and thought to herself. She turned to face Gwen and smiled revealing straight white teeth. 43

“What do you say we go and gather herbs near the lake?” Mara asked. Gwen let her guard down for a minute and smiled cheerfully 44

“Are you serious?” Mara nodded and chuckled. She walked to the back room starting to laugh. 45

“I’ll be right back, stay there,” she called over her shoulder. She came back caring two shawls, one light blue and the other dark lavender. She was also caring a picnic basket. “Here wear this, it gets a little cold near the lake,” Mara said. 46

Gwen placed the two flower baskets down and took the light blue shawl, which went with her royal blue gown. She placed the shawl on her shoulders. Mara took the dark lavender one and put it on her shoulders too and picked up the picnic basket. Gwen followed behind carrying the two flower baskets.47

“Ready?” Mara said.48

Chapter 249

Laura wiped her hands with a wet towel to remove the blood from her hands. She had just cut the head off one of their best chickens for a delicious dinner. She had plucked the feathers from the carcass till every single one was gone. Picking up the dead chicken she put it in a pot along with some carrots, potatoes and some herbs from the garden. Already the smell was mouth watering. Brill walked in shutting the door. In his hands he held a pile of cut wood that combined with the cooking chicken. He closed his eyes and inhaled deeply. The smell of meat, vegetable and freshly cut wood was enough to make Brill’s heart burst with happiness. Laura hearing her husband inhales smiled and let out a soft laugh that sounded like the tinkering of bells. 50

“I see that your nose is still working.” Brill smiled walking over and giving his wife an affectionate kiss.51

“Then that must mean that your cooking is just as good as it was when you married me.” Laura blushed and turned back to the pot stirring it slowly. Brill laughed and threw his head back. “You can still stop a conversation as quickly as quickly as Job Bush can eat.” Laura only shook her head. Brill chuckled and walked to the fire placing a piece of wood it slowly. Laura looked up from the stew that was in a small pit with fire cooking it in the middle of the room. 52

“What are we going to do with Gwen? She is getting older and she is changing like the woman said she would.” Brill stood up and stretch. He arched his brow and nodded.53

“I know I have noticed it too. It’s been slow but she is changing.” Laura walked to her husband sat down on the rocker. 54

“I am worried for her. We are just mortals what can we do to protect her?” Brill knelt down in front of his wife. 55

“We’ll protect her till it is time for her to leave.” Laura opened her mouth to protest but a hard knock on the front door interrupted her. Brill frowned and walked to the door with Laura trailing behind him. He opened the door slowly. There was no one there. “Hello? Is someone there?” Movement could be heard outside. The hairs on Laura’s neck rose. There was something wrong with this picture. “Hello?” Brill called. No one answered. Panic filled Laura which made her fumble with her dress. 56

“Brill come back inside.” Fear was plain to hear in her voice. Brill looked at his wife and nodded. He shut the door but it was pushed open with inhuman strength. 57

“Where is the Nasya heir?” a deep rough voice asked. Laura’s eyes grew wide with fear. Only a bony dark black hand could be seen of what ever the creature was. 58

“I don’t know what you’re talking about. Please leave our house immediately!” The hand gripped the door hard. Its long black nails started peeling slivers of wood off the door like it was icing. With a snarl the creature pushed open the door and walked in. The creature was 6’6 with muscles bulging from its body everywhere. Its cheeks were sunken in and its eyes were black like the rest of its body. Long claws were on its fingers and toes. It had long greasy hair on its back, fore arms and legs. The ears were like a wolfs but were jagged and short. Though Laura could not see a tail, she knew there must be one. 59

“I think you do!” 60

Chapter 361

When they arrived at the lake Gwen ran to it and jumped in. She was overjoyed that she could spend a day swimming and herb picking. When Mara and Gwen had spent a good hour picking enough herbs to fill their baskets and Gwen swimming in the lake it was time for a break. Gwen plopped down on the green grass, dripping wet and smiling. The grass felt cool and soft after a day in the warm sun and the refreshing swim made her even happier. She laughed contently and lay down. Mara came next to her and gracefully sat down. 62

“Having fun I see,” said Mara happily. Gwen nodded contentedly with her eyes closed. Then she remembered she should be on her guard around this woman. She sat up quickly and looked at Mara. She replied smiling, 63

“I don’t think I’ve had this much fun since I swopped the butchers’ ham for spoiled ham.” Mara laughed and unloaded the picnic basket. 64

“I knew we would be hungry after our work, but with all the running and swimming you’ve been doing I suspect your starved.” Mara cheerfully said to Gwen. Mara spread out a blue blanket and placed all kinds of mouth-watering food to devour. There were tasty devil’s food cakes with whipped cream and cherry’s. There were moist chicken pieces, and yummy chunks of fruit. There was also tasty potato salad and refreshing spring water. While they ate a wind brushed Gwen’s face turning her to the water. Gwen could feel the compulsion to go and jump in the water again but restrained. Mara watched her stare at the water. She saw the spark in her eyes. 65

“You love the water don’t you?” Mara asked. Gwen didn’t answer quickly. When she looked at Mara she had that same spark in her eye. 66

“Well,” she paused as Mara watched her, “Yes, I love the water; I feel a part of it. In fact I spend so much time here my father is starting to call me a water horse.” Gwen sighed and then started to laugh. “I guess it is true. I must belong to the water or something, like a mermaid. I’ve never told anyone about how I feel. I’m already strange enough with being stronger than most of the girls. Have you seen them? They are as skinny as a stick. It’s hard to believe they are able to do anything. I mean last summer I almost drowned because I wanted to stay under the water. I love it.” Gwen started to cry but then stopped quickly. She looked at Mara with a firm unmoving face then looked back at the water. Mara was silent then looked at the water too. 67

“It’s beautiful.” Mara said calmly. Gwen and nodded seriously.68

“I know.” Mara turned back to her refreshments and food. 69

“Would you like to see something,” Mara said “Something you have never seen before?” Gwen looked at Mara hesitantly. “Don’t worry nothing will harm you.” Mara said reassuringly. Gwen was silent for a moment then nodded. Mara nodded her head. Suddenly before Gwen’s eyes water from their drinking cups came out and started to move lazily. It turned, it swirled, and it moved like a snake. It took forms of things, like a flower, a seashell, and the face of a girl. This went on and on, and then slowly the water stopped and fell back in the cup. Gwen looked at the cup of water stunned and silent. After what seemed like an eternity Mara smiled at Gwen. “Did you like it?” she asked breaking the silence. Gwen looked up at Mara astounded. She was speechless. “Well?” Mara said. Gwen looked at Mara silent.70

“Your not filling in for Grizelda are you!” she said. “Who are you really?” Mara looked down and then stood up to look Gwen in the eyes. She was silent for a moment. 71

“You want me to tell you?” she asked. Gwen said nothing but nod still looking at Mara seriously. “First I will start with who I am. I am a Nasya, a being who uses water to fight among other things. Water is a part of me. Second I shape water with my mind.” Gwen remained silent, but Mara could tell she was intrigued. Mara smiled then continued, “I now know that I have found another like me, a Nasya who has not yet discovered her power.” Mara paused letting Gwen take it all in then she continued, “You see I was sent on a mission to find the daughter of the Nasya queen, Ambrosia and return her to her family so that that the girl will take the throne and rule the Nasya. I was supposed to go to every town and village and find her. I have gone to every town, and I have searched high and low for the child. I thought I would never find her. Finally, I have found her and I am going to be leaving soon, taking her with me. She has the same power as her mother and I do. You see the girl I am talking about is you, Gwen; you are the daughter of Queen Ambrosia, a princess. You are the rightful heir of the kingdom.” Gwen was silent for a long time. 72

“I can’t be,” Gwen, said, “I am just an ordinary girl.” Suddenly, breaking the quiet, a roar rang through the forest. Mara ran grabbed Gwen’s hand and ran to the forest. They ran into the forest and hid behind a group of large stone boulders. Mara put a finger to her lips. Gwen nodded and watched to see what happened. A huge black wolf with long claws on its fingers and claws that walked upright came and charged at the picnic they had left. It searched through everything, flinging anything in its path. Another of the same creatures came, larger than the first and it looked as if it was in charge. The muscles on its body were huge. Scars decorated its body, most likely from past battles. It was the color of night with claws on the tips of each finger. Dry blood still stained its claws from old kills. It also had claws on the tips of his toes. Its teeth were like butcher knives, yellow and sharp. Their eyes were dark black like a dark hole. It must have been 6’6.The fur on its backs, arms and legs were damp with some kind of liquid that was unknown. One of the creatures face was shrunken in and the others was full and scared. The newly joined creature helped the other one search. When their search was unsuccessful the leader let out an ear-piercing roar. Gwen and Mara covered their ears to block out the unnatural, horrible sound. 73

“I told you to find them!” screamed the leader yelled at the other one as it sat cringing helplessly waiting for what may come. The leader swiped a claw at the other one, giving him a nasty cut on his face. It was deep enough to see the veins and some of the muscle tissue. The creature screamed with agony. Gwen cringed; she wanted to turn but her fear made her watch.74

“We have to find them. Follow me; the water scum might have taken the child to the!” The bigger one said. With that, they crouched down and ran with unfailing speed. Gwen crammed her neck and saw with horror that it was not just two of those creatures but a whole army of them. Each as scary as the next. They all held either axes of some kind with spikes on them, bow and arrows that must have had a poison on the tip, clubs and evil designed swords. 75

Gwen’s thoughts immediately went to her home. She thought of her mother and father who would probably be preparing the evening meal. She immediately ran through the forest toward her home. If that was where the creatures were headed she had to save her home. 76

Before she could go very far, Mara grabbed her and swirled her around. 77

“Didn’t you hear them? They want you, you need to stay safe!” Mara said sternly. Gwen looked at Mara furious. 78

“No,” She said sternly. “I will not hide in the forest while my family gets slaughtered by those things! They’ll kill my family and I will not let that happen as long as I’m alive!” Gwen ran after the creatures to save the only home and family she knew. Mara ran after her. 79

“You can’t go back, that’s not your life any more! That life is gone! She yelled. Gwen’s heart sank and sobbed for the life she once had but she forced them back and became serious. “I know that this is a surprise, and a frightening one too, but I am here and so is your real family.” 80

Gwen stopped in her tracks and turned around glaring at Mara angrily. 81

“Do you not comprehend what is going to happen to them!?” she yelled angrily “They will die. They will be killed without even a warning of danger! They won’t even have a chance! I will not let them die, even if it means giving up my own!” Gwen yelling continued. With a quick move Gwen ran as fast as she could to her old home.82

“Gwen!” screamed Mara “Gwen, come back.” Mara knew she had to get to Gwen before the creatures found her. Something nudged Mara in the back. She turned around and saw a black horse waiting for her to get on.83

“We need to get to Gwen, ride toward her home. Her life depends on it.” 84

Chapter 485

“Tie them up! Make the rope tight you withering bile of puss!” yelled the captain of the army. Laura and Brill were both tied to one of the columns in their house. The arm of strange unwanted wolf like creatures swarmed the house that they once lived in. 86

“Who are you!” the leader swirled his head at Brill and smiled showing sharp canine teeth. 87

“I am Kaiser Captain of this army.” 88

Silence.89

“What? Are you scared of Kaiser?” he asked looking at the trembling Laura. “You won’t have to be scared if you only tell me where the girl is.” Brill struggled in the ropes, trying to set himself free. 90

“Don’t listen to him Laura. Don’t tell him where Gwen is!” Laura looked at her husband. Tears rolled down her face. Kaiser pointed at Brill and growled. “Shut him up!” A creature next to Brill took the handle of his axe and hit him hard on the head knocking him out. Laura started whimpering tears were now running down her face more than before. 91

“Kaiser, they won’t tell us. I don’t even think they know where she is.” Obviously Kaiser right hand man said. Kaiser who had stood to his full height glanced at Laura. 92

“Then they are no further need to us anymore.” Laura’s eyes grew big. Kaiser smirked at Laura’s fear and walked away. Snapping his finger two of the soldiers dragged Laura and Brill to their feet and threw them in their room. Brill groaned when he hit the floor. 93

“Brill?” Brill sat up slowly and looked at his wife. 94

“I’m here Laura.” 95

“Our life if going to end, isn’t it?” Brill looked at his wife’s fearful eyes. What was he going to tell her that these things that had invaded their house were going to kill them? No that would only make her night worse and fill it with panic. 96

“We’ll soon find out tomorrow. Try to get some sleep.” Laura watched her husband for a moment then lied down on the floor and fell asleep instantly. Brill watched his wife’s slow breathes. Reaching up and taking a shell and some parchment he began to write to Gwen. He was going to die soon and he did not want Gwen to forget them. 97

Chapter 598

Gwen ran with all her might to her home. She had to get there before the creatures did. When she came out of the forest to the clearing surrounding her home she saw the smoke of a fire rising into the air. Her home was gone, nothing but a pile of sticks remained. As she came closer, her heart felt like it would beat out of her chest. In the middle of the debris was a tall crossbeam that once had been the structure of her home. Tied to the crossbeam were her father and mother…tied there by the sickening creatures to burn them to death? The sticks and debris around them were burning out of control. All she could see through the flames was her father whose eyes were closed and her mother’s head hanging down lying on her chest. She was dead, she knew that for certain. She was too late. She wasn’t able to save them. She had failed.99

“No” she screamed “No!” She rushed to the fire, took off her shawl and started to beat the fire out.100

“Gwen” said a horsed voice. She looked up and saw her father trying to toss something to her from one of his tied hands. Her father tossed the item that was in his hand and whispered “Gwendolyn I love you, you’re mother and I have always loved you! Be the Queen we know you are.” Her father said smiling. With a wild scream from the pain he took his last breath and died. 101

“Father, don’t leave me, please! Mother, come back! No! Father!” she screamed. She fell on her knees and wept as the fires reached the skies taking her parents away. She had to turn her face from the horrid sight.102

Mara galloped out of the forest and towards Gwen. 103

“Gwen” Mara cried leaping off the horse. Mara ran to Gwen but stopped dead in her tracks when she saw what the creatures had done. Gwen was on the ground with her father and mother dead in her arms. She backed away a little and put her hand to her mouth. There was nothing to say. They had killed innocent people for nothing. Mara looked at Gwen and rushed to her. “Oh Gwen, I am so sorry.” Mara said. Gwen turned and looked at Mara. Her eyes were glace from the tears she shed. She quickly wiped them away and stood up. Her burnt shawl Mara gave her was ruined. With a swift toss in the fire the shawl burnt quickly. “Gwen, we must leave now, there’s nothing here anymore for you.” Mara said. Gwen nodded and stood up. She walked over and picked up the item that her father had thrown to her. It was a medium size locket with three hearts on the front. She opened it slowly to see what was inside. Inside there was a small shell with her family’s initials on it. Tucked under the shell was a letter folded to fit in the locket. Gwen held it in her hand wondering what she would find in its contents. Suddenly a roar interrupted the quiet moment. She quickly put the letter back in the locket and put it around her neck. She looked around for any other remembrance of her family she could keep. She walked around the debris. Then she saw it, her fathers’ sword he had in battle along time ago. She picked it up and strapped it to her hip. Now she would have a way of protecting herself. 104

“Gwen, we need to go now, the creatures are returning,” Mara said.105

“Wait! Where is Toran?” Gwen asked106

Mara pointed to the hawk flying towards them. Toran landed heavily on Gwen’s shoulder. She gently took Toran and placed him in her empty saddlebag. Toran fluttered his wings a little but then settled down and nestled down on some cloth and fell asleep. Mara bowed her head and raised her hands. Water flowed through the air and become a horse. It was like a clear white horse that looked like it could be made of glass. Gwen watched hiding her awe and went to the horse. She fingered the locket around her neck and glanced at the place that was once home and the horrible sight of her parent’s death. She quickly got on the back of the black horse and she and Mara rode into the forest, away from her parents, away from her home. Gwen’s tears were hot and stinging in her eyes from the black smoke. These creatures would pay for what they had done to her family. Turing her horse she rode away from her past and toward her unknown future. 107

Chapter 6108

Gwen rode on the white mare, staring at the front of the saddle. She could still see the flames that engulfed her home. She could see the pained faces of her parents while the flames burnt their flesh. She could still hear the screams of her father. Her face still held the tear marks of the sadness inside her. She couldn’t stop thinking about all that had happened. Mara turned in her saddle to look at Gwen. Anger and Revenge was as readable on her face as a piece of parchment in front of her. Mara was about to say something but couldn’t find the power to speak. She turned back in her saddle to look at the road. It was quiet for a long dreadful hour. Then Gwen broke the silence.109

“Where are we heading to?” she asked softly. 110

“I thought that we would head to the farthest town, just to be safe.” Mara replied. Mara was silent for a moment then began to talk. “Do you like horses?” Mara asked. Gwen was quite for a minute, but then replied.111

“I guess.” Mara nodded. “Why?” Gwen asked annoyed. Mara shrugged and patted her horse.112

“No reason just wondered, I thought that if you like horses so much we can pick one up at the next town.” Gwen looked at Mara curiously.113

“What’s wrong with these horses?” Mara looked over her shoulder and smiled at Gwen.114

“There is nothing wrong with them it’s just that one, their not real horses and two, they’re Water nymphs.” Mara said. Gwen showed no sign of emotion, but Mara could feel she was caught off guard. 115

“I thought Water Nymphs were ugly frog like creatures that just sat at the bottom of a lake or pond and ate the same things as frogs? I thought you used water?” The horses they rode stirred and snorted angrily at Gwen’s comment on Water nymphs. Mara looked behind her to look at Gwen. She smiled pleasantly.116

“No Water Nymphs are Nasya’s friends. Water nymphs can change into anything they wish. We use water to shape things too but shaping water is much lower than using a Water Nymph to shape things. They can go on land and in water. The only problem with that it takes a lot of energy from them and they can only be out of water for a few months. The quickest way to kill a Water nymph is to keep it out of water for more than 5 months.” Gwen thought about what Mara had said.117

“Wait how can they stay out of water so long?” Mara shrugged her shoulders.118

“Some say that since there is a lot of moister in the air Water Nymphs absorb it so that their skin doesn’t dry out as fast.” Gwen nodded. It made sense. 119

“What about Mermaids and Mermen? Are they allies to the Nasya?” Gwen’s horse snorted but this time it sounded like it was laughing at her.120

“In some ways yes and then some ways no. They are stubborn and selfish creatures. The females are haughty and prideful. The males agree in fighting so they are always in conflict and they are aggressive.”121

“Are all of them selfish?” she asked in wonderment.122

“Well,” Mara pondered for awhile, “not all of them. In fact, as I think about it a good number of them are kind and have been our friends.”123

Gwen thought about what Mara said. Could mermaids and mermen be so selfish?124

“I guess I always thought they were good.” she said.125

“They are good sometimes but it’s hard to get past their character. That’s why we Nasya’s don’t ask much for their help. They are too content doing what they want and don’t like to get involved in the world above the water.” 126

They had finally come to a town. It was a small town about the same size of Gwen’s. Mara guided the horse to a discreet pond that was far from peering eyes.127

“We’ll have to postpone our conversation till later?” Mara asked. 128

Gwen made no comment. She was still upset with her and tried to shut her out. Gwen took the reins in her hands and guided the horse (at least that is how she thought of it) to a soft lush patch of grass that was green and fresh. She sat down silently and eyed the Water Nymphs.129

“I’ll be back; I’m going to get some food for the ride and some other materials for the journey.” Mara said picking up a brown leather pack and putting the strap over her shoulder so that it rested by her hip. 130

“What about them?” Gwen asked pointing to the horses. 131

“They’ll be fine just let them wander.” With that Mara walked towards the town. Gwen watched her for a moment but then turned her attention to the Nymphs. Gwen went to one the Water Nymphs and un-strapped her saddlebag from its back. She placed it on the ground and let it walk away. Gwen looked over her shoulder and looked at the Nymphs. They nuzzled each other and then placed their heads on each other’s back. She smiled sweetly and turned back to her saddlebag. Opening it she carefully dug through it trying to look for a piece of carrot without waking Toran. Once she found the carrot she pulled it out and shut the pack. As she began to snack on it she turned around to the Nymphs, but they were gone. The place was empty. She walked over to where they used to be and looked around. There was no sign that they had gone into the woods. From the corner of her eye, though, she saw some movement. She turned her head, but all she saw was the same pond they had stopped near. Realizing that they could have gone in the water, she crawled towards the edge of the pond and looked in. There was some movement in the water. It appeared like there were dark shadows, swimming in the pond. Gwen watched curiously. They moved with such grace under the water like snakes. It made Gwen envy them. Then one of the dark shadows’s started to come near her. She backed away from the edge and waited for the Nymph to reach the surface of the water. A little bit of mystery and fear started to grow inside her but she pressed it back and tried to be fearless. The Nymph finally came to the surface; it was the strangest thing she had ever seen. It seemed to be a woman with long white hair and a slim body that was pail white. Her fingers were webbed and Gwen guessed so were her feet. Her eyes where a little bigger than a human’s and they were black. Her face was thin too, and her lips where the same color as her skin. The thing grabbed her wrist and began to speak revealing white sharp teeth.132

“Geyta Meroe, deaenugeyro iysow soumiynuge!” Gwen listened to the strange language but couldn’t understand. She shook her head.133

I don’t understand you.” She said. A rush of twigs and leaves made Gwen and the creature turn their heads. The creature pulled Gwen into the water. She screamed but not for long. The creature put a webbed hand over her mouth and put a finger to its lips. Gwen struggled and pushed the webbed hand away from her mouth and swam to the surface. When Gwen reach the surface Mara was right there with a look of concern.134

“Gwen are you ok?” asked Mara. Gwen nodded and coughed up some water. The creature came up and watched them. Another of the same creatures came up and watched them. This one looked like the first except that this one had black hair and a stronger build then the first one.135

“I’m fine but I think one of them need to talk to you.” Before Mara could ask what Gwen meant the first Nymph spoke. 136

“Deaenugeyro iysow soumiynuge!” the white hair Nymph said. Mara’s eyes grew wide. She jumped up and gathered her materials. 137

“Gwen we need to leave now!” Mara said. Gwen got up and walked towards Mara.138

“What did they say?” she asked, Mara turned towards Gwen and put a hand on her shoulder.139

“Danger is coming.” Mara said “It’s the same creatures that destroyed your home.” Gwen grew pale but regained herself. She had remembered what the creatures looked like that had destroyed her home. The thought of those sharp claws and sharp teeth coming towards her gave her a speed to hurry more. Mara lifted up her hands and waited for the Water nymphs to take form. The Water Nymphs were lifted up. Their body’s began to melt away and become water. The water flowed towards Mara and took the form of the same horses they had ridden. A scream came from the town, and then many more followed it. Mara quickly piled the stuff on the horse and got on. Gwen grabbed her saddlebag; the rest of the things Mara had bought and placed it on the white horse. Mara hit her boots softly on the black horse’s side, making it gallop away. Gwen didn’t move. She looked towards the town. She became motionless; she watched the fear stricken people run for hiding and safety. Then abruptly one of the same creatures flew down and grabbed a woman. The thing shoved her down and raised its head. Its foot on the chest of the woman pressed her down on the ground so that she couldn’t get up. The woman’s legs and arms try as they might, try to block or protect her. The creature’s head came down and the woman stopped moving. The thing ripped out her bones and chewed on them. The blood of the woman flowed on the ground. Other people like her were murdered, eaten, or killed in another way. 140

“Gwen come on we need to leave or we’ll be killed.” Mara said. Gwen nodded and started to climb on her horse when suddenly a woman rushed to her with an infant in her arms. 141

“Miss please take my child from here, please keep him safe. His name is Atherin.” The woman cried. Gwen looked at the woman surprised but took the child and held it in her arms.142

“I will, I promise.” Gwen said. The woman nodded appearing a little happier. She ran off only to cast a look over her shoulder at the maiden she gave her baby to. Gwen climbed on her horse, turned it around and started to gallop away. Suddenly one of the creatures’ stepped in front of her and pulled her off her horse. Gwen tumbled to the ground with the baby. 143

“You seem to be in the wrong place at the wrong time!” the thing sneered. Gwen reached for the sword that was once her fathers and raised ready to stab the thing. It raised its axe in its hand planning to kill the baby and Gwen. He didn’t get that far though, before Gwen could shove the sword in it another sword went through his stomach and he fell to the ground. When he did, Gwen saw who the killer was, a boy with short dark black hair and bright green brown colored eyes. He held his sword covered in blood and the reins of her horse in the other. He dropped the sword picked her up and put her on the horse. He jumped on the horse too and grabbed the reins. They rode off in to the forest. Gwen looked for Mara everywhere, but couldn’t find her.144

“What do you think your doing!?” she yelled angrily turning around and looking at the stranger. The boy’s eye’s still looked at the road but he replied, “Getting away from here. Got a problem with that?” he said. Gwen eyed him angrily and turned back around. She shoved her fathers’ sword back in it sheave. This was the second person who thought they could control her. Well she would show him he couldn’t. They rode for a long time passing hills and lakes. Gwen looked down at the infant in her arms. He was beautiful; he had sky blue eyes, and blond hair. He was asleep with his thumb in his mouth. She smiled at the infant. The boy looked at her and then backs at the road. Soon she nodded off to sleep worriedly wondering where Mara could be. 145

Mara looked frantically for Gwen, in the deserted shops and in the alleys. After the creature’s had left Mara had gone back to look for her. Mara got off the horse and let it change back into a Water Nymph.146

“Help me look for her.” Mara said. The Water Nymph didn’t have to know what Mara said to understand that it had to look for the girl. They both looked high and low for the girl and the other Water Nymph. Mara looked through a butcher shop when she heard the call from the Water Nymph. Mara ran out of the shop and to it. 147

“What have you found?” she asked in the Water Nymphs language. The nymph pointed to horse tracks. The creatures didn’t come on horseback and the people didn’t have horses to ride, which could only mean one thing. Gwen had gotten away. 148

Chapter 7149

Gwen woke up to the smell of cooked meat and citrus juice. She sat up and looked around. She was in a grass-like tent with a blanket under and on top of her. She saw that her things were by the side of the tent, but she felt she was forgetting something. The infant! She looked around frantically for him. She crawled outside and stood up, only to come face to face with the Water Nymph. The female nymph smiled and pointed to the child. He was sitting on a blanket and eating soft pieces of fruit. Gwen went over and sat by him. She stroked his head and watched him eat.150

“Where did you get him?” asked a soft voice. Gwen looked around and then realized it was the black haired Water Nymph. 151

“You can speak my language?” she said. The Water Nymph nodded and came to sit by her. 152

“Very few of my kind can. Since your language is the most used only the important Water Nymphs know it, like the rulers, warriors. My name is Sage.” She replied. Gwen nodded153

“I am Gwendolyn but I am called Gwen for short.” She said. Sage was quiet for a minute. Gwen looked at the infant smiling.154

“Mysterious goddess.” Gwen looked up and stared at Sage.155

“What?” she asked.156

“Gwendolyn means Mysterious goddess. It also means bright. Sometimes it means you will be a light to those whose worlds are dark. Another meaning from your name may mean that you will be a strong powerful Queen in many ways that people don’t know. But both meanings are good. I hope you will grow into your name. It would be a shame to not live up to your name.” Sage said. Gwen was silent taking in everything she heard.157

“Sage what were those creatures? The creatures that killed my parents.” Sage looked at Gwen seriously.158

“They are known as ah fear dubh mac tire na oiche. It is Gaelic for the devil wolf of the night. We just call them fear gorm which mean a black haired man, for that is what they are. A man who gave his soul to evil.” Gwen listened intently. She would kill all the fear gorm before they killed anyone else. She had so much to live up to how could she live up to it all? She looked at Atherin playing with his food.159

“Where did you get him?” Sage asked again. She looked at Sage. 160

“A woman gave him to me and said for me to protect him. I don’t know what happened to her after that. She said his name was Atherin.” Gwen said. Sage watched the baby. A rustle from one of the homemade tents drew both Seren’s and Gwen’s attention. It was just the boy. Gwen watched him closely then turned to Sage but she had become a horse again. Sage nudged her face and then went away. Gwen smiled and went back to looking at Atherin. Again rustling came from the tent. The boy came out with a forest green tunic on. The boy grabbed a fish and an apple. He walked to a tree and sat at the trunk of the tree. She watched him eat. He was different then the boys in her old village. Not even looking up, the boy asked, 161

“Why are you staring at me?” She looked down and blushed. 162

“Well I certainly didn’t get a good look at you when you yanked me on the horse!” Gwen said harshly. The boy looked up from his fish. He stood up and walked towards her. 163

“I only saved you because you almost died. Even the town idiot would have a good knowledge to run from the axe coming toward them!” He walked away to a small river and washed his face. Gwen frowned angrily frustrated at him. Who did he think he was that he could say that to her. Laying Atherin on the blanket covered ground; she stood up and walked towards the boy. She stood behind him and waited till he was about to turn around. When he turned around she swung her fist at his face and hit him square on the nose and between the eyes. He fell back landing on his back holding his face. She smiled and walked back to Atherin and sat down. When he got up his nose was bleeding and he had a black eye. 164

“Filthy wench!” He yelled standing up quickly. Gwen walked closer to him and sneered. 165

“First of all,” She said angrily. “I didn’t almost die! Second I don’t run from danger any more! I charge it! I had a way to protect me and I didn’t need you!” She yelled. She walked back to her spot beside Atherin and started feeding him fruit He watched her for a moment then turned to the water. He splashed water on his face but he was still bleeding from the blow. He felt something softly kick him in the foot. He turned around to find her standing there with her arms crossed. 166

“What!?” he said angrily towering over her. She bent down and ripped off some of her dress then putting it in the water. The boy turned and watched her for a moment. Gwen pulled the cloth back out and gently moved his face towards hers. He tried to pull away but she held it firmly. She took the wet cloth and smoothed it over his face. The blood from his face came off easily. When all the blood was gone she washed the cloth off. 167

“Why did you do that?” He asked. 168

“Because I do owe you something for helping me.” She rung the cloth out and turned back to him. “Could you lie down please?” she asked. The boy was hesitant but did what she asked and laid on the grass. She placed the cold cloth on the black and blue eye. The boy tensed from the pain. “My name is Gwen,” she said. It didn’t seem like he would care that her full name was Gwendolyn, so she didn’t tell him. The boy didn’t say anything just sat and let the cold cloth do the work. 169

“My name is Ian.” He said. Gwen nodded. She pulled the cloth off his eye. 170

“You’ll have to do that for a while so that the swelling can go down.” Gwen said. Ian sat up and looked at the water. She placed the cloth on the grass. She watched him for a moment then headed back to the toddler. Ian turned his attention away from the water. He was about to go tend the fire when he noticed the wet cloth that Gwen used. He picked it up, put it in his pocket. He would need this if he wanted the black eye to go away. Gwen began to reach for an apple for Atherin when Ian grabbed one sliced it and gave it to her. He had done it so fast that she thought it had just appeared in front of her. “Thank you.” He nodded and went to the river to clean his dagger. She watched him for a minute but then turned her attention back on the child. “You get some sleep Atherin everything will be alright.” 171

Chapter 8172

Mara rode on the Nymph following the horse tracks. Mara hoped and prayed that Gwen was all right. It was nearly dark and they were starting to lose the tracks. So far they had lost the tracks two times. They had run a long time when suddenly the horse stopped. 173

“What is it?” Mara asked in its language. The horse turned back into a Water Nymph, and was quiet for a minute. It then pointed to a path in the forest. Mara nodded and walked towards it. 174

“Deaounuta yiouu wenuta taou roiydeay my?” The Water Nymph asked turning into a horse. Mara shook her head.175

“No I don’t want to ride you; you can stay that way if you want though.” The Water Nymph shook its head and turned back into its original shape. They walked for a while following the path. Then Mara spotted something, a tent, no two tents. There was a fire going and a small pond not to far from the fire. They both walked towards the camp. Mara studied the tents they were made of leaves. The Water Nymph looked through the tents, finally he found the girl. He motioned for Mara. She came quickly. The Water Nymph headed to the water, a splash and it was gone. Mara walked over and looked in. There were the two Water Nymphs safe and sound. Mara walked over to the base of a tree and sat down. Then slowly Mara drifted off to sleep.176

Chapter 9177

Gwen woke up quietly and sat up. She smelled the fresh cooked meat and the citrus juice in the air. She looked over where Atherin was wrapped in a dark blue blanket. She picked him up and held him in her arms. He was still as cute as before. Gwen carefully climbed out of the tent and stood up. Ian was up already placing deer meat on the fire. There was a blanket spread out near a tree stump with fruit on it. She walked down and sat on the tree stump. 178

“Are you hungry Atherin?” she asked the infant. She laid a small blanket on the ground and placed him on it. She reached for some fruit but was stopped b y Ian. He took the fruit and cut it up with the same speed as before. “Thank you.” she said. He nodded and went to clean his dagger. A muffled noise was suddenly heard in the camp. Gwen stood up and drew her sword.179

“What’s that noise?” she asked. Ian turned and looked at her. 180

“Someone I found in our camp.” He went to a big oak tree and was gone for a few moments but then coming back with Mara tired up and with a gage in her mouth. Gwen signed and put her sword back in it sheath. Gwen walked over and untied Mara. 181

“What are you doing?!” Ian said angrily. Gwen looked at him.182

“She is a friend of mine; do you have a problem with that?”Soon Sage joined the small party. When Mara was fully untied Mara took the gag out of her mouth.183

“Thank you Gwen.” Mara said. Gwen nodded and stepped off to the side. Mara smoothed down her dress and fixed her hair. “And to whom do I own being incarcerated?” Mara said sternly. Ian eyed Mara for a moment then stepped forward. Mara looked him up and down. She walked around him slowly like a predator ready to strike. “About 6’ feet, age mmm… 16 or 17. He works hard by the roughness of his hands, and a fast runner.” Mara said. “Is that about right?” she asked. Ian couldn’t deny it she was good. He nodded. Mara was about to pile him with questions when Atherin started to cry. Mara looked at the toddler and walked towards it. 184

“And who is this little one?” Mara asked. 185

“His name is Atherin, a woman gave him to me to protect. This is Ian, he helped he get away from the town.” Gwen said. Mara picked up the toddler and looked at Gwen and Ian. Mara nodded. 186

“Well thank you for the help. We need to start moving now. Pack your things.” Mara said gathering the things together. Gwen moved quickly into action packing her things. Ian watched the strange girl and woman.187

“Where are you going?” Ian asked. Mara looked at Ian for a moment then walked toward him.“We are on a long journey to a distant kingdom.“ Ian nodded and stood in his place. Mara looked at him for a moment. “Would you like to join us?” Gwen looked up quickly and watched Ian. 188

“Why would you ask me?” Mara shifted Atherin to her other side and looked at Ian. 189

“We may need some help gathering food, chopping wood for a fire etcetera. Plus I will help you learn how to fight with a sword. We could use some help like you. And from what I see now you have most of it done. So what do you say yes?” Ian was silent for a moment thinking of the possibilities. 190

“Fine I’ll join you but I don’t need training in war fair. I am already experienced.” Mara archer her brow and looked at him questioningly but smiled and began direct him in what to do. When Ian and Mara were a safe distance from Gwen, she went over to Sage.191

“Where is your friend?” Gwen whispered. Sage looked up at Gwen.192

“He’s in the water.” Sage said. Gwen nodded and walked off then she stopped and turned around.193

“Wait I thought he was a she, I thought all Water Nymphs where girls?” Gwen said. Sage shook her head.194

“No Water Nymphs are male and females.” Gwen nodded again and went over to the pond. She kneeled down and looked in. There was the shadow of Sage’s friend swimming around and around making turns like a snake. Gwen watched it for a while watching its grace and smooth moves in the water. The creature stopped and looked up. When it did, Gwen noticed it had black hair and the same black eyes. Its pale white skin look enchanting under the water. The Water Nymph swam up to Gwen and bobbled on the water. They stared at each other. Gwen wasn’t scared this time. She was calm. Gwen put her arm out to touch it, but the Water Nymph dived down before she could even touch it. Gwen looked at the water. She didn’t seem to see the creature. Suddenly the male nymph went up and pulled Gwen into the water. A splash was heard through the camp. Ian was the first one to run to the pond. Mara and Sage follow Ian quickly to see what had happened. 195

Gwen sunk deeper and deeper. It seemed like her lungs where going to pop. The creature had her hands in his. While they sank they still stared at each other. Gwen smiled at the creature but then started to go unconscious. She closed her eyes and sank to the pond floor. The creature swam down to her. He took out a knife with the words that said 196

Wiytah tahiysow kawnuiyfay yiouu 197

Wiylele hevoy tahy peouwyro taou 198

Taelekaw enuyi sroyetayro!199

This is what it said.200

With this knife you201

Will have the power to 202

Talk to all! 203

The creature stabbed Gwen with the knife and a blue ring came out of the knife surrounding her body. The creature smiled and put the knife away and watched her.204

Ian, Mara, and Sage looked in the pond. There was Gwen holding hands with one of the Water nymphs. All of a sudden Gwen dropped the nymphs hand and fell to the watery ground. The creature swam towards Gwen and took out a knife and stabbed her with it.205

“That’s it I’m going in!” Ian said. He dived in before anyone could stop him. He swam quickly down to towards Gwen. The knife that was in Gwen suddenly threw out a blue ring covering her body. Ian stopped and watched. The creature took out the knife and watched Gwen. Ian swam as fast as he could. He punched the creature on the cheek knocking him unconscious. Ian picked up Gwen with as much strength he could muster and swam to the surface. A swish went by Ian’s head. Ian turned around, there was the creature he had punched. Its cheek was black and blue. The creature held a spear in his hand ready to strike. Ian’s eyes grew big. He turned around and swam. When he got to the surface he threw Gwen on the bank along with himself. The creature came up to. With a green hand he tried to grab Gwen but then one of the same creatures came and hissed at him angrily. It was Sage, she was in her normal form. She grabbed the other Water Nymph and spoke to him in her own tongue. Ian turned to Gwen. Mara was next to her, starring firmly at her. Ian was speechless. The water Nymph came out of the water and changed into the black horse he was. Ian watched the male nymph. Though he showed no emotion a hint of surprise showed on his face. He had heard about water nymphs but had never seen one. Sage came over and sat by Ian. 206

“That was my youngest brother, Zaran.” Sage said. Mara and Ian looked at her. “He is foolish and not yet made the right choices, he is still learning. Ian looked away.207

“Is she dead?” Mara asked. Sage shook her head.208

“She is unconscious but not dead. We may have to stay here for one more day. She needs to recover.” Ian looked at Sage. 209

“When I went in to save her your brother stabbed a knife in her. It looked like it had writing on it. When he did, a blue ring went out of it. What was it? Ian asked. Sage signed calmly.210

“That was the dagger of Antheris, an old water nymph king who died many years ago. It was said that he met a beautiful woman, she would always come to the lake and watch the Water Nymphs. Antheris would come to her and talk to her. The only problem was that she couldn’t speak his language. So he created a dagger that if you stab it in someone they would understand not just our tongue but others too. So Antheris went to the girl and stabbed her with the dagger. The girl screamed and fell into the water. Antheris swam after her but when he finally got to her she had died.” Mara and Ian were silent. “I hid the knife with me so no one will find it, I don’t know how Zaran found it but he won’t again.” 211

“How is it then that we can understand you?” Ian asked 212

“Because I wanted to learn it since it was the most used language. Not many of my people use it my family and I are among the few who know your language.” Gwen coughed up some water and opened her eyes. Everyone gathered around.213

“Gwen are you ok?” asked Mara. Gwen nodded and sat up. 214

“I think so.” Ian and Mara helped her get up. They walked her slowly to a tree stump and sat her down. 215

“Ian why don’t you go and hunt for something for dinner?” asked Mara. Ian nodded and went inside his tent only to come back with a bow and arrow, a dagger, and a pouch to carry small pieces of meat in. He walked off into the forest not making a sound. 216

“Where’s Atherin?” asked Gwen. Mara pointed to her tent with him sleeping soundly. Sage came over and spoke to Gwen.217

“Senu yiouu unudeayrosowtanudea my?” Seren asked. Gwen looked at Sage and nodded.218

“Yiysow Iy senu.” Answered Gwen. Mara smiled and so did Sage. 219

“This will be a help to the Nasya.” Mara said. Sage nodded and patted Gwen’s head. Gwen stood up and swayed back a little. 220

“How did I speak your tongue?” Gwen asked Sage looked at her.221

“My brother stabbed you with the dagger of Antheris.” Gwen didn’t give any sign of surprise. “I shouldn’t be surprised. With all that has happened in the past two days nothing is surprising anymore.”222

“Gwen you should get some rest, we’ll be leaving soon.” Sage said. Gwen nodded and climbed in her tent she laid down beside the infant. She thought about Sage’s brother and what he had done.223

“Sage what is your brother’s name?” Gwen asked. Sage looked over at Gwen and replied.224

“Zaran.” Gwen nodded again and thought what he had done. Then her eyes became heavy and she shut her eyes. Then before drifting off to sleep she heard a voice say.225

“Sleep well my Queen.” 226

Chapter 10227

Gwen woke up suddenly. She was on a horse with a blanket around her. She looked around. 228

“Sleep well?” asked Ian. Gwen turned around. He smiled at her and then looked back at the road.229

“How long was I asleep?” she asked. Ian shrugged. 230

“You slept most of yesterday and today.” She nodded and faced the road. Mara was in front guiding the way. The horse stirred under Gwen. It was Zaran, Sage’s brother. Gwen looked at Zaran. He was an all black horse. Zaran looked up at her. 231

“Good morning Gwen.” Zaran said in his own tongue. Gwen was quiet. 232

“Good morning.” She said. Ian looked at Gwen and Zaran talking. He kicked the horse with his boot softly. Zaran looked at Eoin angrily. 233

“Zaran don’t you dare.” Said Sage. Zaran ignored Sage’s warning tried to buck Ian off. Instead of throwing him off though Zaran threw Gwen off. Gwen flew off and landed into the mud. Ian coughed fluently to keep from laugh. Mara and Sage stopped.234

“What happened?” Mara asked. Gwen got up covered in mud. She looked like a beggar. Her gown was torn and stained with mud. She looked up at Mara and Sage.235

“I was thrown off the horse.” In cleared his throat trying to hide his amused. The Gwen scowled at Ian. Mara giggled at the site of Gwen. 236

“We better stop at the next town and get some clean cloths, these ones are ruined.” Mara said. Gwen shook her head and looked at Ian.237

“Have any cloths I can borrow?” Gwen asked Ian’s face changed from amusement to disbelief in seconds. 238

“Are you serious?” He asked. Gwen nodded and waited for his answer. “I have some cloths I guess you could borrow. Gwen nodded. Ian got off Zaran and unbuckled his pack. He pulled out a brown shirt and some black pants, along with some shoes. Gwen smiled239

“Thanks.” She walked away leaving the little group to wait. Zaran changed back to his normal shape dropping all of Ian and Gwen’s stuff on the ground. 240

“Hey don’t do that!” yelled Ian. Sage yelled at Zaran and he turned back to a horse. Ian put the stuff on Zaran and got on. When Gwen came back she was dressed in the clothes that Ian had given her. Ian looked at her and smirked. The clothes were obviously too big on her but wit the old leather belt she had worn with her dress with her sword on her hip it made the clothes fit nicely.241

“What!? You have a problem then spit it out. Personally it will help me with helping conceal my identity” Gwen said. Mara climbing off Sage leaving Atherin on the saddle. Ian cocked his head. 242

“What do you mean it’ll help you with hide your identity?” Mara walked towards Ian. 243

“She’s a princess Ian. She is the daughter of a Nasya Queen, Queen Ambrosia. Remember those creatures? They were after her. They were looking for her to kill her.” Mara said. Ian starred at her firmly. Ian looked from Mara to Sage to Zaran and finally to Gwen. 244

“I don’t believe you.” Mara shook her head 245

“I’m serious about this Ian. If she dies it’s not good.” Mara said “So I must ask you, are you with us or against us?” Ian was still quiet watching Mara, Gwen, and the Water Nymphs. Their faces held no practical joking. Their faces were stern and serious. What Mara said was true. He would have to protect Gwen until death. “Ian again are you with us or against us?” Mara asked. Ian looked around. 246

“I’m with you.” He said. Mara brightened up. 247

“Good now the only thing left we have to do is cut your hair, Gwen, like a boy.” Gwen’s eyes grew big. Mara pointed to a tree stump. “Sit please.” Gwen did as she was told. She rung her hands together nervously. Mara pulled out some shears and took Gwen’s hair. Gwen closed her eyes and heard snipping. After a few minutes Mara handed Gwen a mirror. Gwen looked into it nervously. When she looked in she found out that she really did look like a guy. Ian put his arm around her shoulder.248

“I always wanted a little brother.” He said jokingly. Gwen rolled her eyes and shoved her elbow into his side. “Ow”. Mara smiled at her work. 249

“If we are in public we need to call you a different name,” Mara said. Ian smiled at the thought of calling this girl a boy’s name. He opened his mouth to make a snide comment but Gwen glared at him angrily. 250

“You say one thing and your intestines will be in front of you!” Ian shut his mouth and smiled. He didn’t have to say anything for Gwen to know what he was thinking. 251

“What about Taran?” Mara asked. Gwen was about to speak when a furry of cries came from Gwen’s bag. Atherin who sat on Sage tried to wriggle out of the saddle. Gwen walked over to her back and opened it. Out flew Toran, the hawk. 252

“Oh I forgot about you Toran, sorry.” Gwen said. Ian looked at the bird. 253

“You have a pet bird?” He said. Gwen turned around254

“No it’s a friend of mine.” He nodded. Mara scooped up Gwen’s left over hair and whistled for Toran.255

“Please dispose of this.” Mara said. Toran picked up the hair in his talons and flew off. “Alright back on the road, Toran will join us soon.” Ian lifted Gwen up on the horse. 256

“Ready you two?” Mara asked. Gwen and Ian nodded. Ian gently tapped his heals on Zaran’s side. Zaran snorted angrily but proceeded on. 257

After 4 hours of riding on the horses through the cool forest a cry from the sky made the horses and Ian stop. Gwen looked at him.258

“What’s the matter?” she asked “Its just Toran.” Ian looked at her then back at the sky. Down Toran flew towards Gwen. Gwen stretched out her arm for Toran to land on. The hawk landed safely on her arm and flapped his wings. 259

“Beautiful bird.” Ian commented. Gwen smiled at Toran. Toran stretched out his wings to show how large they were. 260

“Yeah I know I am.” Said a quiet voice. Gwen looked at Toran astonished. He cocked his head at her. “What’s the matter with her?” Toran said screeching. Ian looked at Gwen. 261

“Could you calm your bird down?” Asked Ian aggravated. Gwen turned looked at him inquisitively.262

“What’s the matter with you?” Ian shrugged and kept looking at the road. 263

“He talked to me.” She said silently. After a while Gwen started to talk to Zaran. 264

“You are always talking to everything but your own kind!” He said razing his tone. Gwen raised her brow. 265

“For your information I wasn’t talking to the bird and I can talk to my own kind fine thank you very much!” she said furiously. Ian rolled his eyes.266

“Oh yeah you can talk perfectly to your own kind, but I do remember you talking to a certain Water Nymphs!” Zaran neighed loudly making Mara and Sage turn and see what all the commotion was about. Gwen got off the horse letting Toran fly off, grabbed her stuff and started to walk. 267

“Where do you think you’re going?” Ian asked sarcastically. Gwen didn’t answer. Atherin stirred on the saddle wanting to get down. Gwen walked over to Sage. She looked at Atherin picked him up and put him on his feet. Taking his hand in hers they walked on the dirt road silently. Mara, Sage, Ian and Zaran watched Gwen and Atherin walk. With a swift move Zaran changed into the shape of a black wolf. He proudly walked towards Gwen. She stopped and smiled at him. She spoke in his language quickly while looking at Ian. Zaran laughed heartily. Gwen picked up Atherin and placed him on Zaran’s back. 268

“Mara what were they talking about?” Ian asked concerned. Mara looked at Ian. 269

“She said you’re a selfish jerk.” Mara said. Ian narrowed his eyes. “Is there something going on between you two?” she asked, Ian shook his head.270

“No.” For the rest of the journey Gwen and Ian ignored each other. Mara looked at Gwen. She walked beside Zaran with Atherin on his back and Torah on Gwen’s shoulder. She seemed not to mind ignoring Ian. A matter of fact she seemed to enjoy it. Mara then turned her attention to Ian. He walked behind the small group looking at the ground. He too didn’t seem to mind ignoring her. On his back he carried all that was on Zaran. He carried the water can, some cloth for bandaging, herbs for healing, and a heavy rusty sword that was his. He also carried some provisions for the journey. He was tired and his back was bent forward from the weight of the things. Mara pulled on the reigns. 271

“We’ll stop here Sage.” Mara said. She guided Sage towards a river where they had stopped. She unloaded the stuff off Sage placing them on the ground. 272

“We’ll make camp tonight,” Mara announced “I suggest you both make your contributions.” She nodded to Gwen and Ian. Ian nodded taking the things off his back. Gwen took Atherin off Zaran’s back and placed him beside Sage. 273

“Could you watch Atherin for me?” she asked. Sage nodded and placed a damp hand on the toddler. Ian watched Gwen pick up twigs and pieces of wood for a fire. 274

“Ian can you come here for a minute I need some help? Mara asked. Ian dropped his gaze from Gwen and walked towards Mara. She stood crouched by the river holding a spear in one hand. 275

“ Yeah?” Ian asked. Mara was silent for a minute looking at the water ready to strike. 276

“I know there’s some thing going on between you and Gwen, and I don’t just mean the argument you had with her.” Mara said. Ian watched the water too. A catfish swam by lazily. Ian quickly stuck his hand in and then brought it out holding the fish in his hands triumphantly. Mara looked at the fish amazed. 277

“Wow a skilled hunter and fisher.” Mara complimented278

“What do you mean?” Ian asked placing the fish far away from the river. Mara turned back to the river. 279

“What that you can catch fish with your bare hands or that I know something is going on between Gwen and yourself.” Mara said 280

“The second one.” Mara smiled. 281

“That, my skilled hunter is a simple one. You show it by the way you wake up every morning and cut the fruit in bit size pieces for her. You show by the way you went to rescue her in the pond. You have showed it by the way you long to talk to her. Don’t say that what I have said is wrong because you and I know that I’m right. In a short time you have enjoyed her company.” Ian didn’t dare look at Mara. He slowly grew rosy in the cheeks. Mara put down the spear and looked at Ian.282

“How did you know?” Ian asked. Mara stood up and brushed off her dress.283

“The way you act around her.” She chuckled “it’s quite funny actually.” Ian was silent for a while. “Would you mind getting enough fish for all of us, but don’t get any for Sage and Zaran they like to hunt for their own food.” Ian nodded. Mara turned and left quietly leaving him alone. Ian caught three more fish and placed them on the ground. He ripped some of the torn cloth from his sleeve and rapped all four fish in it. Ian walked to where they stopped to rest. A strong fire was already prepared, with a big stone over some of the fire to cook the meal. Sage made the finishing touches on the tents made of leaves. The group’s possessions were set neatly in each of the tents. Fresh fruit was picked, washed and set in a basket to eat. Gwen had laid Atherin on a blanket with a bit of fruit cut up in bit size pieces. Zaran, who was beside Gwen, had taken the form of a fox and watched Atherin quite happily while liking his paws. Four clean stones lay on a blanket ready for food to be put on it. 284

“Did you get all the food we need for tonight?” Mara asked looking up from the fire. Ian nodded and handed her the parcel of fish. Mara took the parcel opened it up and looked at the fish. “Well it’s not what I expected but the fish will do. I didn’t expect many full-size fish from that river anyway.” Ian looked at the fish too. You wouldn’t call them dinner, in fact you wouldn’t even call them a snack. The fish were about the length of his big finger. 285

“Do you want me to catch some more?” Ian asked. Mara looked at him. She sighed and smiled.286

“Yes, if you wouldn’t mind.” Ian nodded and walked back in the direction of the river. Gwen watched Ian walk away.287

“Looks like our skilled hunter isn’t so skilled after all.” Gwen said sarcastically. Zaran chuckled happily. Sage and Mara turned and looked at her. They were both as still as stones. 288

“Gwen that wasn’t Ian’s fault the fish are small in that river. It has nothing to do with his hunting skills.” Mara said. Gwen nodded coolly. Mara walked over to Gwen and sat down beside her. 289

“Zaran would excuse us for a minute?” Mara asked. Zaran nodded reluctantly going away. Gwen still looked at Atherin sucking on his piece of fruit he had for a while. 290

“What’s the matter with you? You haven’t talked to him at all and behind his back you are criticizing him? I don’t understand it.” Mara said. Gwen was quiet. 291

“You don’t have to. He’s just jealous of me because I can talk to all kinds of creatures and not him.” Mara shook her head. 292

“I wouldn’t say that he’s jealous of your communication between different creatures, I would say that he is probably annoyed with not knowing what you’re talking about with Zaran. You would want to know what he was talking about if he had your ability.” A long silence was held between Mara and Gwen. 293

“I..I didn’t know.” She said Mara nodded. 294

“We don’t realize the way we act until someone else points it out.” Mara said calmly. Gwen nodded. She looked at Ian. She looked at him more closely. He was strong and tall. His bangs were in his face. His eyes were soft and were studying the water. 295

“I should apologize to him.” She said. Mara nodded solemnly. 296

“I’ll be back; I have to talk to Sage about the journey ahead.” Mara said. Standing up Mara walked away leaving Gwen. Zaran creped towards Gwen still in the form of a fox.297

“What did she say?” Zaran asked. Gwen stood up.298

“Nothing, hey watch Atherin for me?” Gwen asked. Zaran nodded. He watched her walk towards Ian with a slow pace. He growled angrily, jealousy rising him like a volcano ready to explode. Why did he have to be on the trip Zaran thought there’s nothing special about him anyway? A cry from Atherin turned Zaran’s attention from Gwen. Zaran ran a furry paw on the toddler’s cheek. Atherin calmed down and smiled. 299

“Oh Zaran could you put Atherin down for a nap?” Gwen asked turning around. Zaran looked at her and smiled.300

“I will gladly.” He said. He changed into his normal form and picked up Atherin. Walking into Gwen and Atherin’s tent he laid the toddler down on the blue blanket.301

“Sleep well.” He said. Zaran began to walk out when he saw something out of the corner of his eye. He turned around and walked towards it. It led him beside Gwen’s bed. Covered by a blanket he picked it up. What he saw made him kneel down. He picked it up in both hands and stared at it. In his hands was Gwen’s locket with the three hearts. She must have forgotten about it Zaran thought. He opened up the locket to reveal what was in it. There was a small shell with carved names in it and a small piece of parchment. Throwing the shell to get to the paper he opened it. Inside was a letter.302

Gwen, 303

By the time you read this we will most likely have died. I must tell you what really happened that night when we found you. It was in the middle of December. A blizzard was storming outside the coldest one of the month. We were sitting near the fire calmly when a knock was heard outside our door. Obviously your mother went to the door, you know how she loves to greet people. Anyway when your mother opened the door she was greeted to a young woman in a dark lavender gown with a black cape flowing around her. We invited her in and gave her a seat. She was silent for a minute but then she began to tell us what happened. She told us about how you were a princess and a daughter of the Nasya. She told us that right now you needed to be protected. You were not able to go back to your home because it was too dangerous. She told us about a war against the Nasyas and creatures called the Feel gorm. She said that the only way to protect you was to hide you and give you to an ordinary family. Even though you weren’t our real daughter we loved you like you were ours. Now you are going to become a Queen. Your mother and I would have been very proud of you. We love you so much Gwen. We always will.304

Your parents305

Mother and Father306

And the letter ended. Zaran sat alone being surrounded by the silence. He now understood why Gwen felt the way she did. Those horrible things had killed the only parents she ever knew. He felt so horrible for Gwen. A rustle from the front of the tent drew Zaran’s attention. When he looked up he saw Ian.307

Chapter 11308

“What are you doing in Gwen’s tent?!” demanded Ian. Zaran stared at Ian for the longest time, not taking his pitch black eye off him. “Well?!” Ian asked raising his voice. Zaran shuddered a little but stood up to his full height, 6”2. Ian being only a sixteen years old and 6’’feet, tried to seem almost as tall as Zaran. A rustle came from Zaran’s hand. Ian looked down at Zaran’s enclosed fist. There in his green hand lay Gwen’s letter.309

“What’s going on in there?” called Mara. Ian looked at Zaran angrily then snatched Gwen’s letter from him. He turned to leave but Zaran grabbed him. Ian yanked away from Zaran’s firm grip leaving him alone in the dark tent. 310

“This is what’s going on!” said Ian shoving the letter in front of Mara. Mara looked at Ian then the letter. Taking it in her hands she read the letter. A long silence fell on Zaran, Ian and Mara. When Mara finished reading the letter she stayed quiet for a while longer. She looked down dropping both hands to her sides. The letter still in her hand she looked up and into the dense forest. 311

“What’s going on here? Why in a group?” asked Sage. The small group looked at Sage. 312

“This letter, Sage, is why we are grouped together.” Sage looked at the letter. Only a quick glances told the group she didn’t want to read it. Stepping back far enough so that she couldn’t read the letter she sat on a tree stump.313

“I am not meant to read the piece of parchment. It is only meant for one, Gwen.” Said Sage. “Why do you have it, Mara?!” Mara nodded and came over to Sage. 314

“I did not take it Sage. Your brother did. He must have been putting Atherin down like Gwen asked. I did not take this letter and read it intentionally.” Mara said. Sage relaxed a little. 315

“You have always been a good friend to me, Mara, I know when you say something you mean it..” Said Sage. Mara smiled at her friend. Sage smiled back then turned her stern eyes on her brother. Saying something quick in her language she stormed off. Zaran walked into the woods silently. Ian watched them go quietly. 316

“I knew she would be mad but isn’t this a little over the top?” Ian said. Mara looked at Ian. 317

“The Water Nymphs have a strict conduct of how they behave. They are taught at a young age to do many things but the most important ones are honor, respect and training in war fair. What he did was wrong but the council will look over it. Sage honors the rules more than any Water nymph I have met before.” Ian nodded and went to sit by the fire. 318

“Where’s Gwen?” Ian asked. Mara picked up some thread and a needle. She went and sat down calmly.319

“She went into the forest to get some berries.” 320

“I’ll go catch up with her” Ian said. Mara looked up and smile. Ian went into his tent and came with a dagger, and bow and arrows, and ran into the forest after Gwen. Mara watched Ian leave. She chuckled and looked back at her work. A screech from Torah drew Mara’s attention.321

“Looks like it’s just you and me old friend.”322

Chapter 12323

Gwen walked through the forest calmly, starring at the tall pine trees and oak trees. The underbrush covered the forest floor like snow on a green field. Swinging her basket full of blueberries and raspberries she walked along the forest.324

“Gwen!” called a voice. Gwen turned around looking for the beholder of the voice. 325

“Hello? Who’s there?” Suddenly Gwen heard a snap from a twig. Dropping her basket she fled to a tree and climbed up it to a near by tree. She signed and waited for the person to come out and show himself. A brush and snapping from twigs and moving tree drew Gwen’s attention. Gwen watched quietly. Finally her silence paid off. There coming out of the deep undergrowth was Ian. Gwen rolled her eyes. Why did he insist on protecting her so much? She could protect herself. 326

“Gwen?” Ian called looking around. Spotting her basket he walked towards it. Picking it up he studied it then looked around. The contents were spilled all over the forest flower. Gwen watched him closely. Ian closed his eyes and stood still. His body never moved. Gwen had to stare at him attentively to see that he was breathing. A soft wind stirred the tree. The forest ran with the leaves movement. “Nice place to hide.” Gwen turned quickly almost following out of the tree. Ian’s crooked smile made Gwen blush slightly. 327

“How did you get up here so fast?” Ian shrugged and looked around the tree. 328

“I’m a good hunter. Plus you make so much noise moving around, you would scar a deer away.” Gwen glared at him. The wind blew softly against her face blowing her hair in her face. Ian inhaled deeply and smiled. “Your face is going to stick like that.” Gwen sighed heavily and shook her head.329

“Good!” She turned her back to him and stared intently at the branches of the tree. Ian glanced at her from the corner of his eyes and smirked. 330

“Does being angry give you the satisfaction of being tough or what?’ Gwen rolled her eyes and didn’t answer. She would not give him the satisfaction of an answer. Ian chuckled and shook his head. “I take that as a yes.” Gwen turned back at him and frowned.331

“Why are you even here? Does my discomfort make your day better or what? Please give me answer, I’m dying to know!” she yelled. Ian looked at her frustration with amusement. It was almost laughable how easily he could irritate her to anger. He smiled at her knowingly giving the intention that he knew something she wouldn’t. He stood up on the thick branch and reached for another one. He let his legs dangle while his upper body clung to the strong branch. “What are you doing?” irritation clung to her every word. Ian swung himself back and forth, his body moving back and forth. 332

“Just hanging around, you?” Gwen groaned and lay down on the branch. She closed her eyes listening to the gentle blow of the wind and the sound of the movement of the branch while Ian hung onto it. “You know lying there right now you look almost like a girl.” Gwen’s eyes opened instantly. She sat up and looked at his annoyed. 333

“That is it I have absolutely had it!” She reached for Ian’s bow and arrow, putting the arrow in position she aimed for Ian. 334

“You don’t want to do that. You probably haven’t even used one.” Gwen shot the arrow letting it fly. The arrow found its mark half an inch near his left hand. 335

“Come again?” Gwen asked angrily. She reached for another arrow and put it in position. 336

“Ok ok so you know how to you use a bow and arrow you proved your point.” Gwen gave his half a smile and shook her head. 337

“I don’t believe I have.” She let another arrow fly half an inch next to his right hand. Ian glanced at his right hand, a little fearful but dare not show that he was weak in front of Gwen. Ian tried to swing himself to the branch that he had stepped off of but was unlucky in reaching it. Gwen walked to the branch and stood right across from him. Finally his foot caught the branch. He pulled his body toward the branch slowly using all his strength. Gwen looked down at his foot pulling his body toward it. She smiled and looked up letting Ian see her intention. 338

“No no no no no no no no!” but is was too late. Gwen pushed his foot off sending him crashing to the forest floor in a heap. 339

“Now I’ve made my point.” Ian slowly stood up. A groan was clearly heard from his lips. 340

“Ou!” he yelled holding his arm that was scratched from the hard branches that had scrapped him. Gwen smiled sitting down watching while Ian growled at the pain. Gwen set up another arrow and shot it right in between his feet. “Alright enough I get the point!’ Gwen arched her brow and nodded. 341

“Do you? Because I am having way too much fun doing this.” Ian groaned then knelt down clasping his hands looking like an orphan begging his master for food. 342

“Alright, I am sorry. There I said it now would you stop using me as a human dart board?” Gwen already had an arrow in the bow. She held it in position, all she need to do was fire. She rolled her eyes and lowered the bow. 343

“Get up.” Ian smiled. 344

“Bow along with the arrows please.” Gwen handed them over. “I can’t reach them you might want to lower them down a little more.” Gwen lowered the bow and arrows but instead of grabbing them, Ian pulled Gwen off the branch. She fell in a heap on the ground hard groaning. “There now we’re fair.” Gwen jumped up and threw her self at Ian tackling him to the ground trying to punch him and hurt him in any way possible but was unsuccessful.345

“You idiot!” She raised her fist and hit him square in the jaw. Ian ‘s head went back and his body stopped moving. Gwen slowly stood up and watched him. “I am leaving you are a waste of my time.” She ran off into the forest leaving Ian on the ground still in shock from the punch. Gwen looked back over her shoulder and saw on the far side Zaran approaching Ian slowly. Gwen watched for a moment as Ian stood up lethargically putting his hands on his hips taking big deep breathes. Gwen looked around for a better place to see. A sturdy oak tree lay a couple feet away from her and it was close enough for her to watch. She climbed carefully into the tree and lay down on a branch only a couple yards above him. 346

“What are you doing here? Zaran asked. Gwen realized that it was the first time he had spoken their tongue. Ian looked up at Zaran’s pale face then closed his eyes and kept breathing slowly. 347

“I could ask you the same thing fish boy.” Gwen rolled her eyes. It was just like Ian to say something like that to him. 348

“Is that all you got? Fish boy? My mother could do better than that if she wanted to.” Ian looked at Zaran and smirked. 349

“Good for you mother.” Zaran frowned at Ian’s comment. Zaran took a deep breath closing his eyes. A smile played upon his lips. 350

“She’s been here, I think she still is.” Ian looked at Zaran quickly knowing exactly who he was talking about, Gwen. 351

“Yeah she was here but she left.” Zaran noticed how swiftly Ian had started and ended the conversation. It was a touchy subject and Zaran enjoyed that. 352

“You know Gwen has to marry a prince,” Zaran said Ian was quiet. “I guess that throws you out of the running.” Zaran smiled. Ian was quiet. 353

“Ok first of all she can marry who ever she pleases and second I’m not interested in her. She is an annoying brat who likes to be angry all the time.” Gwen felt a touch of pain at Ian’s words. If anyone was annoying it was him. Gwen quieted her mind and continued on listening. 354

“You really think that Gwen would marry little boy hunter?” Zaran said. “She’s royalty, she’s higher than you.” Ian become rigid, anger was very clear on his face. Seeing that he had struck a vein, Zaran continued. “You are like a sewer rat compared to her. Your nothing, worthless and useless. I don’t even think you have the power to protect her. Maybe Mara should just give the responsibility to me.” Gwen shifted her weight quietly but the tree creaked loudly and a hand full of leaves. Zaran and Ian looked up immediately. Gwen stayed where she was not moving at all. They stared at the tree for a minute then were back at each other. 355

“You are so full of crap it’s not even funny! You are so low you have to invent things to call me!” Zaran smirked. His black eyes shining back at Ian with malice.356

“Am I? I am just telling the truth. If you can’t take it fine. You’re only hurting yourself. You’ll find out soon enough that was I said it true.” Ian screamed in frustration and knocked Zaran on the ground. He raised his fist and punched Zaran in the face but Zaran lifted his hands and pushed Ian off him with inhuman strength. Ian flew back and hit a big oak tree hard. He fell forward and landed on the ground in front of him, reveling a huge dent in the tree trunk. Zaran walked over to Ian and picked him up by his shirt and pushed him to the tree. “ You know, I do admit you are brave, saving Gwen from the enemy, jumping in the water to save her from my clutches and punching me for your love for her.” Ian moaned. “But I am not one that honors bravery very much. It’s just another manner to get in the way.” Zaran looked at Ian for a minute. “I have to say though a couple times I think Gwen really did like you.” Zaran dropped Ian on the ground. He moaned but mustered the strength to stand up. Zaran watched not even offering to help. Ian limped off toward the camp with not even a word to Zaran. He smirked then turned and left. Even though Ian wasn’t her favorite person in the world right now, Zaran had no right to hurt him so bad. Gwen carefully weaved her way out of the tree and dropped down on the floor. 357

“Where are you going?” Gwen stopped and listened. She slowly turned around and saw Zaran. He was leaned against the base of the tree. Pushing himself off the tree he walked towards Gwen. She backed away only to be cornered to a tree. Zaran smiled at her pleasantly. Gwen glared at him with anger. 358

“Excuse me.” She said bitterly. She tried to move away from him but he quickly placed both hands up on the tree blocking her way. 359

“You’re remarkable; you stood in that tree quiet as a mouse listening to our whole conversation. Until you made a noise.” Gwen glared at Zaran. 360

“Thanks now move before I hurt you myself!’ Zaran smirked and turned his head smiling. 361

“Gwen you couldn’t hurt a fly let alone me. You’re too nice.” Gwen looked at him with a vacantly. 362

“Really? Is that what you think?” She took the dagger that was on her pant leg and thrusted it at his neck but he grabbed the dagger and twisted it out of her hand. He backed her up against the tree banging her head against the tree softly. Before Gwen could even move Zaran kissed her hard. His lips pressed against hers with such force they started to burn with pain. Gwen tried to claw at his face but Zaran continued. Finally Zaran pulled back and breathed in deeply then let a slow hiss of pleasure come from him. Gwen took the dagger and shoved it in Zaran’s gut and ran as fast as she could away from him. 363

‘You can’t run, Gwen. I know you feel the same way about me too deep inside.” Gwen shook her head. Yeah right just like she loved seeing her family get burned to death. 364

Chapter 13365

Ian walked slowly back to camp with his bow and arrow in his hand. His sides burned with pain from the impact that Zaran had done to him. He felt like he was hit by a bull. The air in his lung kept forcing its way out making him cough every two minutes. His vision was fading a little and his strength was dissolving quickly. He looked up for a moment and saw the camp only a few feet away. 366

‘Mara!” he croaked loudly enough for her to hear. “Mara!” Seeing Ian staggering to the camp, she called for Sage and ran to him quickly letting him put his weight on her. Sage joined Mara and helped bring Ian slowly to the camp. They both set him softly on a tree stump. 367

“What happened Ian? He coughed continually. Sage winced at the force that he coughed. He cleared his throat then grasped his side. 368

“Oh nothing much just got in a fight with Zaran,” he spit the name out like it tasted bitter in his mouth. “I gave him a smack, he gave me a throw at a tree.” Mara and Sage exchanged looks then turned back to Ian. 369

“Was there a reason for this action?” Sage asked. Ian coughed again harder then before. The air was still coming out with difficulty. “Take slow deep breaths” she suggested. He nodded.370

“He was just saying crap about Gwen and especially me. I got tired of it so I hit him. Unfortunately he did more damage then I did.” Sage nodded like she understood perfectly. 371

“I will deal with him later. You need to lay down and rest. Mara will you see to him?” Mara nodded. “Take the necessary procedures.” Mara nodded again rushing to her tent then coming back out with herbs and other medical materials. Sage watched Mara while she took out the necessary items. After a couple minutes of reassurance that Mara knew what she was doing, Sage left. She needed to talk to her brother. He would suffer the consequences severally when they returned to New Moon. 372

Chapter 14373

With a swift movement Zaran grabbed a trout from the lake that was a few miles away. This one would be good to eat. Some movement caught his eye but he continued with his fishing. 374

“I heard what you did to Ian.” Upon hearing this unwelcome voice Zaran rolled his eyes not bothering to turn around. 375

“Hello Zaran how are you? Great thank and you? Great!” he mocked the imaginative conversation.376

“Would you stop it! You injured Ian, most likely broke one of his ribs with your petty fighting match!” Zaran waited for one of the fish to come close to him. 377

“Good teach the boy how to buck up.” There was a moment of silence between brother and sister. Only the sound of the running water and the soft wind could be heard. 378

“So that is your motive? Break every bone in Ian’s body so that you can teach him to buck up and leave Gwen for you?” Zaran hearing Gwen’s name turned instantly and glared at his sister.379

“What is that suppose to mean?” he spat. Sage glared at him with frustration.380

“You know perfectly what it means! Kill Ian so you can have the girl. Do you not respect our ancient laws? Our laws say that honor and respect are the most important qualities in an Old One and you are undermining that. You are not acting like one of us! If I didn’t know any better I would say you are acting more like a Fear Gorm then an Old One!” Zaran snarled at his sister.381

“Those stupid laws were made by old men who had nothing better to do then die!” Zaran turned back to his fishing but was yanked back around.382

“How dare you say such things! Those laws were there to keep us in order not keep us from anything but you apposing those laws! When this journey is over you will be suffer greatly for the mistakes you made this journey. Brother or not you will get your just punishment.” Zaran said no more and stormed off leaving Sage to herself. “Father help me.”383

Chapter 15384

Gwen reached the camp. Mara was sitting on the ground with Atherin feeding him some soft fruit she had found. Mara looked up and smiled at Gwen then turned her attention back to the toddler.385

“Did you find any berries?” Gwen shook her head. She looked around the camp for Ian but he was no where.386

“No, where’s Ian?” Mara nodded to his tent. 387

“He came back half an hour ago. He was bruised pretty badly. Apparently he and Zaran got in a fight. Zaran hurt him really bad but not enough to break any bones just bruise him.” Gwen nodded and went into his tent. The tent was dark and it took a little while for her eyes to readjust to the different lighting. When she was accustom to the light she saw Ian on the ground asleep. She could tell from his grim face and tense body that he was in pain. She walked out and grabbed a water bucket and headed for the lake that was a few yards away. 388

“Gwen wait up,” Mara called. Gwen stopped and turned. “I think its time to teach you some things about water shaping.” Mara and Gwen reached the lake. “Alright now it may be a little difficult to move water as I have said before but you will get the hand of it. Here trying doing this.” With intricate movements the water slowly rose up from the lake and flowed gracefully into the bucket Gwen had set down. 389

“My turn?” Mara nodded. Gwen followed Mara’s action but faster than her. The water moved quickly and was in the bucket before Mara could even count. Mara looked at the bucket amazed then at Gwen smiling brilliantly. 390

“Gwen, it looks like your mother prepared you for being a Nasya right a birth. You have a gift that most Nasya’s would die for.” Gwen arched her brow and frowned.391

“I don’t understand, I did the same you did but just faster.” Mara nodded. 392

“And with that you were able to move water faster. It takes a real talent to move fast with water. Remember how I said that water takes longer forming than forming a Water Nymph? Well that’s not always true. You see there have only been four Nasyas that were able to move quickly with water. One was called Neva a great female warrior for the Nasya who could use water to make her invisible but she was a very powerful Nasya. No one has ever done it except her for century’s. Then there was the three sister of New Moon, the Water Nymph city, they were called Cara, Nia and Kaia who could join together to make water as tall and wide as they wanted. Once they made water take the form of a huge mountain that destroyed some of the Fear Gorm. Kai, your father and king of the Nasya, was another one. He was able to move water at the speed of light. Then there Dionysus the most powerful Nasya ever known. He could do amazing things that with others was impossible. Unfortunately though, absolute power corrupts absolutely. He misused his powers and brought much shame on the Nasyas. He was banished from safe haven. No one has ever see him since. Some assume that he is dead but I think other wise.” There was so much to take it was over whelmed her. 393

“What does he look like? My father?” Mara smiled. 394

“He has black hair and a beard to follow it. His eyes are the color of sapphires. The strange thing is though you look nothing like your father but you do have you mothers smile. Anyway your father was very strapping. He cared about his people like they were family but he treated his family like gods. He hated to see someone sad, he would always try to make that person happy. He loved to make you happy above all. When you were little you used to cry a lot at night, he would come and tickle your feet. You would giggle all the time.” Gwen smiled at the image in her mind. 395

“Why do you say I look nothing like him?” Mara shrugged her shoulders.396

“I do not know the answer to everything and this is one that had mystified me for years.” Gwen nodded sympathizing with her. 397

“So were you like a royal nursemaid to me or something?” Gwen traced her finger in the water watching it ripple and sway.398

“Hardly, I am an imperial soldier that was ordered to protect you. Occasionally though I have to go to battle like the others.” Gwen tried to imagine Mara in armor. 399

“Ok last question and I will leave you alone, do Nasyas live forever? Like elves, dwarves, mermaids you?” Mara nodded. 400

“Yes we live forever but at a price. On a crescent moon our powers are taken away and we become human for a week. It is our most vulnerable time. When that happens we shut the gates of Safe Haven I order to protect our people.” Would she really lose her powers for a whole week?401

“Do we age during that time?” Mara’s face lightened for a moment. 402

“Fortunately no. Since Nasya are born with immortality in our blood it is hard for us to change and age. Though we maybe human for a week our blood is still immortal.” Gwen nodded. 403

“So back to my father. Does he know I am coming?” Gwen knew she should get back to Ian but he could wait a few minutes. Mara nodded and smiled. 404

“No but your mother, Ambrosia, does though. She wanted it to be a surprise.” Gwen smiled. The thought of her mother was pleasant and gave her comfort for a moment.405

“Do I have brothers or sisters?” Mara nodded. Her eyes smiled pleasantly but Gwen could see that the thought was satisfying and disturbing at the same time.406

“You have a twin brother named Aaron and a younger sister name Bria.” Gwen tried to imagine what her siblings looked like but for some reason she couldn’t.407

“What do they look like?” Mara stood up from the sitting position she was in. Taking the bucket in her hand, she gave it to Gwen and walked near the fire. She sat down on the soft green grass and started working on the sewing she had started. Gwen followed and sat down next to Atherin. He squealed seeing Gwen and crawled into her lap.408

“Your brother Aaron has the same hair and eyes you do. He is 6” tall with a strong build. He does very well in fighting and hunting. He is getting married two days after your coronation.” Gwen smiled. He seemed to be considerate to her even though he had never even met her. “Your sister, Bria, has your mother’s hair but Kai’s eyes.” 409

“What I wouldn’t give for my fathers eyes. They must be beautiful.” Mara nodded but she did not smile. 410

“They are, you can’t help noticing them. On your sister though they are like ice picks going through you.” Gwen looked at Mara quizzically. 411

What do you mean?” Mara shrugged her shoulders. She acted like is was not important knowing but she proceeded. 412

“Let’s just say she wouldn’t be a good Queen. Plus she is betrothed to another king’s son and she is the youngest. You’re the oldest even to your twin and the one who takes the throne.” Gwen mulled over Mara’s words. She was the heir to the throne. Every time she heard that her stomach became knots instantly. 413

“I got to go.” Mara nodded and turned to her sewing. Gwen took the heavy bucket of water and brought it quietly into the ten. Ian was still asleep and hadn’t even moved. She slowly put her hands on Ian’s shirt and lifted it over his head. It was soaked in sweat and some blood. When she looked at Ian his skin had thousand upon thousand scars. There was a white bandage on his right side that was spilling with healing herb. Obviously Mara had done as much ash she could to help him. She reached into the bucket and drew out the cloth. She rung it out then place it on him. She wiped down his shoulders, chest, arms and stomach. He looked cleaner and smelled a little better. She dipped the cloth in the bucket then took it out and placed it on his face. She wiped off the dirt and grime from his face. She turned her back and placed the cloth in the bucket. Eyes flashed open and Ian was sitting up looking around. Ian saw Gwen in his tent with a water bucket and cloth.414

“What are you doing?” She didn’t even turn around but kept dipping the cloth in the water and ringing it out to get all the filth from it. 415

“I am washing off all the dirt and grime off your scars so that they can heal up better and not get infected.” Ian bowed his head trying to hide his smile. She turned back to him with a serene face. “Could you slay back down for a moment I just need to finish then you can sit up.” Ian did as she requested and lay down softly. Gwen placed the cold rag on his chest and scrubbed the bruises and scars gently. Ian kept his eyes on Gwen. The soft curve of her face was becoming as normal to his eyes as the sun setting. He looked at her dark eyes intent on her work. In the dim light her eyes almost seemed black. His eyes scanned her face until they landed on her lips. A bruise blossomed on it. It was dark purple with hints of blue and black around it. H sat up and took her face in his hands. 416

“What happened to you lip? Who hurt you?” Gwen winced at the pressure he was squeezing her face..417

“It’s nothing.” Ian rolled his eyes and scoffed.418

“Yeah a dark purple bruise on your lip that looks like someone punched you is nothing.” Gwen glared at him and folded her arms.419

“Why do you insist on protecting me? I can take care of myself. For example in that village when that Fear Gorm was attacking me, I could have killed it myself! But no you had to be the hero and kill him instead.” Ian shook his head in disbelief 420

“Is that what this is all about? You not being able to kill a Fear Gorm? Fine next time when your going to get your head hacked off I’ll let you kill the beast! Ok?” Gwen shook her head in frustration and pushed Ian down to finish the job. With her face still in his hands she fell back with him.421

“Let go of me before I kill you myself!” Ian smiled and shook his head.422

“Sorry not until you tell me what happened and put some ice on that lip.” 423

“No and even if I were to tell you there is no ice here. Its still fall.” Ian smiled and crawled to the opening of the camp and came back with a block of ice the size of his fist.424

“Here you go.” Gwen looked at the ice in shock. How had ice gotten there? “So you need me to sit up so you can do my back or what?” Gwen looked back at Ian. She was still laying on the ground with Ian towering over her. She sat up quickly and nodded.425

“Uh yeah just sit down.” Ian obeyed her. He lay down on his stomach with is back facing her. Gwen dipped the rag in the water and placed in gently on his back. His eyes were closed and he relaxed breathing slowly. She stared at him. His breathing was peaceful along with the soft wind outside. 426

“You’re staring at me again.” Gwen turned quickly and burned with embarrassment that he knew she had watched him.427

“Sorry.” She mumbled. Ian turned over and smiled at her, his eyes shining. 428

“Why? I’ve been told I’m pretty good looking.” Gwen clenched her jaw tightly to not let a smile slip through. Ian watched her, his crooked smile still on his face. 429

“I saw you with Zaran.” His eyes were closed again.430

“Did you? I thought you left?” Gwen ignored his comment. 431

“You should just ignore him when he annoys you like that.”432

“Why I try doing it to you but it doesn’t work.” Gwen stiffened but continued on.433

“You didn’t have to hit him. You could have just left.” 434

“You don’t understand.” Gwen looked at him with a sarcastic surprise. 435

“Oh I don’t do I?! I don’t understand when Zaran forced a kiss on my bruising my lip and making it hurt like hell. Your right I don’t understand!” Ian sat up and looked at her with surprise.436

“He did that to you?” Gwen nodded seriously. “Ah that troll scum! What did you do to him?” Gwen eyes him then sighed. 437

“I shoved my dagger in his gut.” She said menacingly. Ian smiled at the thought of Gwen shoving a dagger into Zaran. The joy of seeing that happen to him was surprising. “Why did you come into the forest?” Ian sat up a little more and looked at Gwen. 438

“I went into the forest to escape for Zara but I didn’t, he just followed me.” Gwen watched him silently. 439

“You can tell a pretty believable lie you know. You weren’t there to escape Zaran, you were there looking for me. I heard you call my name. When Zaran came, you were as rude to him as he is to you! You know sometimes I think you both have a little bit of each other inside.” Ian stood up, standing over Gwen. He grabbed her shoulders and lifted her up.440

“Fine you want to know!” Ian yelled from the top of his lungs. “He loves you! I can’t stand him. He is always with you. He thinks you’re his property! Just because he’s some kind of fish faced freak, he thinks he can marry you.” Suddenly Ian froze. All his anger he had, he had vented on Gwen. Gwen pushed him away. Her eyes were glistening with tears. Anger rose in her. Tears rolled down her face but she kept silent. 441

“What’s going on?” Mara asked Gwen kept silent but her tears told another story. Zaran rushed over to Gwen and put his arm over her shoulder.442

“Get away from her!” yelled Ian. Zaran glared at Ian then picked Gwen up and left then tent. Sage came and sat by Ian. She put a clammy hand on Ian’s bare shoulder.443

“We will talk about this tomorrow but you need to rest.” Ian stood where he was defiantly but sighed finding it was useless to fight with Sage and laid down. 444

“I will come in later and change your bandage.” Mara said looking at it. “Gwen did a good job cleaning your minor scars and bruises.” Ian cringed at her name. He had hurt her and most likely made her hate him all the more. He would gain her trust and loyalty from her even if he had to cut off his hands himself to make her see he meant what he said.445

Chapter 16446

Gwen opened her eyes slowly. A bright shaft of light hit her in the eyes blinding her from not seeing. When her eyes adjusted she saw she was in a huge green field. A lake with water that sparkled brightly was inviting. 447

“Gwen!” a cheerful voice spoke. Gwen turned around and saw Ian in fresh clean clothes. He wore black tailored pants and a white shirt. A long purple cloak that went to his feet was attached by a thick purple cord around his neck. He wore knee high black boots and a belt that held a magnificent sword. His short black hair was lustrous and thick. A smile spread on his face showing her straight white teeth. 448

“Ian?” she asked. She was amazed at him. He was more beautiful that she had imagined before. His smile got wider and he waited for her. 449

“Yes Gwen?” She was right in front of him only a hair apart. She reached out her hand and touched his face. It was real. It was warm and soft. It was not dream! Ian closed his eyes contently at the feel of her hand on his face. 450

“You’re real!” Gwen pulled her hand back. Shock filled her. How could this be real? Where were they? 451

“Of course I’m real. What made you think I wasn’t?” He stepped closer to her and placed his hands on her arms. He smiled at her lovingly making Gwen blush. Gwen opened her mouth to same something but a voice cut her off.452

“Get your hands of her!” a enraged voice said firmly. Gwen looked at the owner of the voice. It was Zaran. His eyes were blacker then she had ever seen them. An axe with sharp spikes on one end was in his left hand while a copy of the same one except worse was in his right. A tattered black shirt was on his chest and black pants followed. His long black hair swirled around him. Gwen looked at the sky. When it was once bright blue like a robin’s egg was now black with clouds. Thunder roared around them and rain started fall. Ian grabbed Gwen and held him tightly to her protectively.453

“She is not yours Zaran! She belongs to no one!” Ian yelled over the storm. Zaran fumed and ran toward Ian. Ian pushed Gwen out of the way and fought with Zaran. Gwen sat up and watched as the horrible brawl between Ian and Zaran continued. Ian used his sword against Zara’s body crushing axes. They fought equally but Ian started to weaken. Zaran smiled at Ian devilishly.454

“Are you getting weaker? Are your muscles burning? Are you thirst from fatigue?” Zaran taunted. Gwen stood up and yelled at both of them.455

“Stop fighting! I have had it! Just leave each other alone!” Zara and Ian continued fighting for her. 456

“Don’t worry love. I will be with you soon after I kill this little boy and his stick.” Zaran said. Ian yelled and pushed Zaran far enough to look at Gwen lovingly.457

“I’ll always love you Gwen! I’ll fight for you till the end of time! I wont let him hurt you.” Zaran screamed and charged Ian knocking him down and plunging the axe into Ian.458

“No!” Gwen screamed. Tears ran down her face as she ran to him. When she reached Ian, he was laying in a pool of his own blood with a huge hole in his abdomen. Gwen kneeled next to him, not caring that her dress was taking in all his blood. “Ian stay with me. You can do it. You’re a fighter. You have to stay with me.” She tried to stay calm but her voice kept shaking. Ian looked at Gwen and smiled. He placed a cold hand on her face and gently stroked it. 459

“Don’t worry Gwen I won’t ever leave you. I promise.” Ian closed his eyes and stopped breathing. Gwen chocked hard with sobs. He couldn’t be dead. He just couldn’t be. 460

“Don’t fret my Queen. I will join you at the throne.” Gwen narrowed her eyes and looked at Zaran. Taking Ian’s sword, she shoved it into Zaran letting him fall on the ground dying. 461

“You will never join me in anyway!” She turned and walked away. Suddenly a sharp pain went through her middle. She looked down and the same sword that she had put in Zaran was in her. 462

“If you will not join me then you will join him.” Gwen fell to the ground and closed her eyes. She had died. 463

Gwen sat quickly. Her body was covered in sweat. She looked down at her stomach. There was no sword in it. She breathed slowly. 464

“It was only a dream,” she repeated “it was only a dream.” Gwen stood up slowly as not to wake Atherin and walked outside. It was night, the cover of darkness. Every star hung in the sky, like a million diamonds. The fire in the pit had gone out and the wind blew softly sending a cold chill down her spine. Gwen walked towards the old stump and sat down. She hated wearing these stupid clothes. Gwen contemplated the dream. It seemed so real but yet it wasn’t. Was it a sign that those were things to come? No she would not let more people die on her account. The only reasonably thing to do would be to leave everyone and continue on the journey home alone, and that’s what she would do. Gwen walked back to her tent and started packing the few things she had. She looked around the tent and made sure that she got everything. She did. Then placing her pack’s strap across her chest she picked up Atherin and walked outside. Atherin gave a cry of protest but soon quieted down. Oh shoot, Gwen thought, I forgot to change. Instead of changing right there she opened her pack and pulled out her violet dress. She slipped it over the shirt and pants. It was a cozy fit and it kept her warm. She looked at Atherin; he couldn’t stay in the cloth shirt and pants. She opened her pack again and pulled out one of Ian’s shirts and a black hooded cape. Putting the shirt on Atherin made all the difference. Then she placed the black cape on herself. Gwen looked around for anything else she needed to bring. She was ready to go. She looked back at the tents. She would miss them but she had to do this mission alone. She walked towards the beaten path alone letting the darkness rap its cold arms around her. As she walked the camp became only a speck in the forest. 465