“With your magic, and the strength and wisdom of your Arimas, Clan Jasani has a better chance than any in the Thousand Worlds, and beyond, of succeeding in such an undertaking,” Riata said. She paused and raised her head to look out over the crowd. “It is understood that you stopped the Xanti at much risk to yourselves, and your souls. It is understood that your fight has been long, and that you have lost much. Should you decline this further task, there will be no condemnation. But, should you accept the task of healing the destruction and disorder left behind by the Xanti, you must first know that it may be even more difficult, and dangerous, than vanquishing the Xanti was.”
“As ominous as it sounds, it is still my first inclination to accept this charge, Riata,” Garen said. “But, I cannot commit my people to such a dangerous endeavor without their consent.”
“Of course,” Riata replied. Garen leapt up onto the dais, and held his hands high as he turned to gaze out over the gathered clans.
“What say you?” he called out. The mountain shook with the roar of assent that rose from the throats of every man and woman gathered.
“Nay?” Garen asked. Silence.
Garen bowed to his people, his pride in them great. They were few, but they would never retreat from aiding their fellow beings. He jumped off of the dais, then turned to face Riata. “We are honored to undertake this task, Riata. Where shall we begin?”
“Your path will soon become clear,” Riata said with an enigmatic smile. “In the meantime, rest and enjoy the peace you have worked so hard to earn. I must now say my final farewell. My duties here are at an end.”
“We will miss you, Riata,” Garen said. “Wherever you go, know that you will be remembered and honored by the people of Jasan for all time.” With that, Garen bowed low, as did every Clan Jasani present, including the women holding the circle around her. Riata’s smile was wide, a glimmer of a crystal tear shining on one snowy cheek as she slowly faded away.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Laura Jo lives in the Arizona desert with her loving husband, their two children, one very large dog and two interesting cats. Laura Jo loves to hear from her readers. Visit her website at www.laurajophillips.com to see when the next installment in the Orbs of Rathira series is coming, and sign her guestbook. Or, email her directly at laurajophillips.books@gmail.com
While you are there, take a peek at the ever growing Handbook of the Thousand Worlds which details lots of interesting information about the people, technology, governments, and other interstellar information about the worlds the Soul-Linked Saga takes place in.
Table of Contents
Prologue
Chapter 1
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8
Chapter 9
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Chapter 14
Chapter 15
Chapter 17
Chapter 18
Chapter 19
Chapter 20
Chapter 21
Chapter 22
Chapter 23
Chapter 24
Chapter 25
Chapter 26
Chapter 27
Chapter 28
Chapter 29
Chapter 31
Chapter 32
Chapter 33
Chapter 34
Chapter 35
Chapter 36
Chapter 37
Chapter 38
Chapter 39