Earth(30)

Arianna stepped to the side, revealing a long line of Shades waiting patiently on the stairs.

"All of them? Now? That would take all night!"

"Have somewhere to be?"

Someone in the line cleared their throat, bringing Shawn's attention back to them. They had all taken solid form now. Shawn grumbled, lifting his hand over the first Shade in line.

Arianna grasped his wrist, "Make sure to do it right, Athame Wielder. Not only are we connected to the Athame, but we are connected to each other. We'll know if our sisters do not end up with the Goddess."

Shawn ripped his arm away from Arianna, glaring at her. He turned back to the first in line and forced his fist to open. "In love and in trust, in peace and in wisdom, I release you, so mote it be."

The woman smiled, shimmering from head to toe. Parts of her went translucent, then opaque again. Shawn frowned.

"Try harder, Athame Wielder." Arianna's voice echoed around the cavern. She was in her ethereal form, floating above him.

Shawn repeated the chant. The Shade shimmered more violently this time, and Shawn poured some of his energy into her. She brightened, enough to burn Shawn's hand. He pulled back with a hiss, and she lifted from the ground then disappeared in a puff of smoke.

Shawn shook his hand, trying to stop it stinging.

Laughter floated down from above. "A release always comes at a small price."

Quiet waves of chatter drifted through the line of women, and the air charged with excitement.

Shawn cleared his throat and wiped his palm on his pants. "Next."





Chapter 19





Meditation





I jettisoned through space, holding my breath, though I probably didn't have to. Instead of flailing limbs, I kept my arms and legs rigid and straight. Wind caused my eyes to tear up, but still I spotted that tiny pinpoint of light and angled for it.

The shapes were still there. Just as their blurry outlines came into focus, I saw them raise their arms. This time I was ready for it. I spun a web of elements, creating a shield in between me and them. I left my weaves loose, ready to absorb the ball of light now racing toward me. It worked like a charm. My shield shivered; silver waves of energy pulsated.

I moved closer to the men. Their arms rose again, shooting another blast at me. Again, I absorbed it. The shield was growing more solid and steady with the added energy.

I was close enough to hear their voices now. One loud, commanding tone followed by several shouting their consent. I needed to find the one in charge. I lowered my shield and turned my ear toward the group. Another shout, and smaller but numerous blasts flew by, narrowly missing me. I dodged some and absorbed the others. I had to remind myself my body wouldn't tire here, just like it didn't need to breathe. But the mental exertion was exhausting. Soon, they were going to catch me off guard.

Come on guys, I thought. I am taking everything you're dishing out. Give me a break.

The entire right side paused their attack long enough to build momentum together. I turned, using my shield to block their blast just in time. The left side did the same seconds later. Their aim was slightly off, but caught my arm nonetheless.

I looked down, a searing blade of light slashed across my bicep. I flexed, confused that it actually hurt. I forced myself to ignore the pain. Instead, I focused on the group of men. Self-preservation mode apparently wasn't convincing them; I had to try something different.

I held one hand to the back of my translucent shield, and drew some of its energy. I felt the men's signature on the elements; lots of air and fire. I weaved it together, trying to emulate their power, with a personal touch of my own. As soon as my weapon formed, I looked up and took aim.

I almost stumbled back at the sight. They all lowered their hands and took a step back.

Except one.

He launched himself forward, meeting me in the inky black atmosphere. I positioned myself, keeping him and the other men to my front, with the shield in between us. As soon as he stopped, I released a little bit of earth from the shield, making it transparent.

Well-defined muscles covered his abdomen and chest, over his shoulders and down his arms. He wore nothing except a loincloth covering the essentials. Very barbaric; he probably had a name like Conan, or Thor.

"I am Ted," he said in a higher voice than I would have suspected with that chiseled jawline. "We are Shades, and although I understand you currently wield the Chalice – you are not welcome here."

"Why not?" My voice was also slightly higher than I wanted it to be.

His eyes narrowed, as if debating how much to tell me. "Why have you come?"

"I need your help."

He didn't respond.

"Earth needs your help."

That might've done it; I could swear his jawline softened. I glanced down at my arm, the wound seeping blood.