The Oracle of Avalbane

Chapter 17

Chapter 17

                            Elys

 

     My father died and I wasn’t even with him. I can’t believe how painful this grief is. I hurt all over, but mostly my heart hurts. Now I know where the phrase “broken heart” comes from. It feels true.

     Everyone has left me alone for a little while. I could tell they didn’t want to, that they wanted to stay and console me, but I need some time to come to terms with things.

     My father is gone, but there is a new Oracle. I would never have wished for Zach to go through what he has these past three days, but somehow the near-death experience at Orla’s hand has made him ready and willing to take up his new responsibilities. I can still see the uncertainty in his eyes, but the fact that he is dreaming so vividly about Avalbane is all the proof I need. It was what I was hoping would happen to me. But I feel less and less concerned about that—I’m not sure what my role will be, but I feel confident in my ability to do whatever is needed.

     I am glad we will all travel to Lynwellin together. I can bury my father and reassure our people that all is well. Then, I can make the amulet and we can take up our journey to Tavorian and use the amulet to rescue Cole. Hopefully, we can rescue Dulcina and Tania also, but it will take some thinking to get around Orla’s enchantments.The path will be difficult, but…

     Garrick is here. One look at his face tells me that there is bad news.

     “We’ve received a message from Orla,” he said.

     “What does it say?”

     “Come,” he answered, “the others wanted to wait until we are all together to read it. But by the attitude of the messenger who brought it, I think we will not like its contents.”

     “You mean she actually sent it with a Faery?” That was pretty bold since Orla had to know that we hold her responsible for my father’s demise and for Zach’s brush with death.

     “Yes, and that tells me she believes she has the upper hand. Surely she knows we would imprison any messenger from Isidril immediately.” Garrick’s tone was short and we hurried down to the Great Hall where the others were waiting.

     It wasn’t just Kate and Zach and my aunt and uncle. Several of their closest advisors were also there.

     “Kella,” I spat out when I saw the pink Faery who rested, apparently at ease, in front of the King and Queen.

     “Elys,” she replied sweetly, then turned her gaze on Zach. There was amusement in her eyes. “Zach, so lovely to see you again.”

     Zach turned red, but his eyes showed more anger than embarrassment. “I can’t say the same,” he retorted.

     “I’m sorry to disturb you, dear,” said Aunt Elanor, slipping an arm around me, “but Garrick thought it best that we all be together to hear what Orla has to say.”

     I nodded, not trusting my voice. I had felt mostly despair at my father’s passing, but Kella’s arrogance reminded me of who was responsible and I seethed with fury.

     Elanor sighed, understanding my silence and unrolled the parchment. She read aloud in a clear, firm voice.

To Zach and Kate McKinnon:

Just so we are clear, I know exactly who you are. Between my spies and what we learned from Zach when he succumbed to our magic, I am way ahead of you. I know of your plans to save your brother, Cole. But let me assure you, it cannot be done—not if you want to survive. The only way you will ever see him again is to complete three tasks which I will give you. If you bring me what I want, then I will release him with the understanding that you will all leave Avalbane—never to return. Not you—not your posterity. I won’t make the same mistake twice.