Water: Rise of the Elementals Volume: 4

Rise of the Elementals

Volume: 4

By: Melissa Roberts

Copyright © 2017 M. J. Roberts

Smashwords 2nd Edition

Cover Art and Illustrations

By N. M. Shannon

Copyright © 2017 N. M. Shannon. Used by permission.

Smashwords 2nd Edition

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to your favorite ebook retailer and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

Dedication

To Phillip and Mitchell. Your ideas brought the story to life.

Map of the Kingdom of Theron

Table of Contents

Title

Dedication

Map of the Kingdom of Theron

Prologue

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

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 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Other Works by M. J. Roberts

Prologue

Did you hear the news, Phelan? The butcher asked as he slapped two lamb chops up on the counter.

I'm sure I haven't. Phelan answered as he glanced down at the meat he had ordered. After all, he spent most of his time hiding in his home.

That bastard Morfran is dead, along with his ragtag followers.

I had not heard. Phelan replied softly.

Yes. Killed by the Queen herself the way I heard it. The butcher went on as he quickly trimmed the meat and wrapped it. With that wicked Morfran dead we are at peace at last.

Yes. Peace. Phelan answered as he took the bundle the butcher offered him eager to get out of the shop before the subject touched any closer to home.

What with that, and the trade routes back open to Ionia, things should start looking up again.

I'm sure they will. Phelan responded as he quickly paid his bill and headed out into the sunshine, lost in his own musings.

He had met Morfran, not that he would ever tell anyone in this town. As things stood, he had to hide in his home most of the time. He had managed to convince the townspeople that he knew nothing about his son Weylyn's abilities, but he could still see condemnation in their eyes everywhere he went. Many years ago, Phelan had tutored Stephen, the Duke of Larcond, before he became the duke. Years later, he had sent his son to train under him. He had wanted his son to train under the best in the land, and everyone knew Stephen was the best. Little had he known that Stephen was also an elemental, no one did. Stephen, and his friends, had taught his son that Weylyn was an elemental as well. They all possessed strange and rare powers that allowed them to control the elements. His son's ability had been controlling fire. From what Phelan had heard, Weylyn had been one of the most powerful fire elementals, that is, before Stephen murdered him. Yes, his son murdered the King and Queen, but he had good reason. Weylyn understood that he deserved to be at the pinnacle of society. After all, God had given him wondrous powers, and surely that was a sign.

When Weylyn died, his follower, Morfran, had taken over. He had been an even more powerful elemental. One of the most powerful of all, if the tales could be believed. He had possessed all the powers; controlling fire, earth, water, and wind with his mind. Phelan hadn't known that when he met him, just that he was an elemental. Morfran had come to him, late in the night, not long after his son's death. He had thought his son lost to him forever, but he had learned that night that he was wrong. Morfran had brought him his grandson, a brilliant child named Drudwyn. His grandson was an elemental as well. Morfran had known this, and he had wanted Phelan to raise the boy to eventually join him, but that would never happen now.

Phelan crossed the street and entered the back door of his home. It was a fine home, he had inherited it through his wife before her death. His father-in-law had been a profitable rancher with one of the finest horse ranches in Jostlen Province. The house he now lived in had been the family's town home. The ranch still existed, but Phelan had hired men to run it after the death of his father-in-law. He had always been more of the scholarly type, and even now he admitted that he knew little of the business that provided for his living. His wife died just after her father, long before their son died, and since then he had been alone. Until Drudwyn. It seemed like everything in his life fell into two categories, before or after Drudwyn. He lived for the boy, and the plans he had for him. Drudwyn would avenge his father. Phelan would see to it. It might be harder now that Morfran was gone, but somehow, Stephen and everyone he held dear would die. Drudwyn would bring him sweet revenge.

Phelan closed the door behind him and crossed the kitchen before placing the meat on the table in the center of the kitchen. Just as he turned to leave the room, Drudwyn came bounding through the door.

Grandfather!

Hello, my child. Phelan said as he embraced the boy.

There is a man here to see you. Drudwyn informed him as he darted away before Phelan could tussle his hair.

What man? Phelan demanded, his hand stilled in mid-air.

He didn't say his name. Drudwyn said as he grabbed a scone off the table. He's waiting in the parlor.

Phelan hoped the boy didn't notice how his hands shook as he reached for the door handle. Who could it be, and what did he want? Stay here. He ordered before shutting the door behind him. He drew in a steading breath and headed down the narrow hallway beside the stairwell. When he reached the entryway, he paused before the double doors leading into the parlor and steeled himself for what he might find inside. After gaining his courage, he swept the doors open and strode inside.

Standing before the fireplace was a tall man Phelan had never met before. The man was in his twenties and well built. His clothing wasn't expensive, but it was clean. Startled by the sound of the doors opening, he spun around and faced Phelan, but said nothing. Phelan made a show of closing the doors behind him before walking over and taking a seat in a chair before the fire. He gestured for the stranger to take the seat opposite him. My grandson says you are here to see me.

The stranger sat down, perched on the front of the seat as he studied Phelan. Are you Phelan Winchell, father of Sir Weylyn Winchell?

I am. Phelan answered hesitantly.

And the boy, he is Weylyn's son, Drudwyn?

I'm afraid I'm going to have to ask what this is about.

Just answer the question.

Now you see here, this is my home, and you have come here uninvited... Phelan's words died away as a great wind picked up inside the home and rushed around the chair where he sat. You're... you're... one of them?

The wind died off as suddenly as it had come up. The child?

Is Weylyn's son. Phelan finally answered.

And are you aware that he is an elemental?

I am.

And does that bother you?

No. He is my grandson and I would give my life for him.

The stranger visibly relaxed and sat back in the chair. I am glad to hear it.

May I ask who you are, and how you know this information?

My name is, Kieran, and I was one of Weylyn's followers. Since his death, my twin brother and I followed Morfran." Kieran rubbed his hands on his pants nervously.

I thought all of Morfran's followers were dead?

Not all of us. Morfran left a few of us behind to protect the camp on his last mission. However, my brother Bowen was executed along with the rest of his men.

I'm sorry for your loss.

As I am for yours. Weylyn had a great vision.

Surely there is a reason for your visit, beyond shared condolences.

There is. Kieran sat forward again, staring intently at Phelan. I intend to make them pay.

Who? Phelan asked cautiously.

All of them. The ones who betrayed Weylyn, the ones who killed Morfran and murdered my brother. They will all die.

And why do you feel the need to share this information with me?

I can't do it alone.

And you think I will help you? I am not a warrior, nor am I an elemental. How can I help?

When we learned of Morfran's death, the rest of us scattered to the wind. I can fight, but the time for war has come and gone.

What is it you have planned?

I will strike them when and how they least expect it. One at a time, until none of them are left. But I need resources and a secure base of operations.

So, you need my money and my home.

Partly. I need finances, but your home will do me no good. Kieran paused for a moment before continuing. Too many people know that I followed Weylyn and Morfran, I'm not safe here.

Where do you intend to go?

Ionia. Kieran answered quickly. I can live safely there while I make plans, but I can't do it without money and help.

I have money, but I still don't see how else I can help you.

It's not your help I need, it's your grandson's.

He's just a boy! Phelan exclaimed.

He won't be one forever, and I am a patient man. Kieran stood up and paced before the fireplace. Let me take him with me. Pay our passage to Ionia and I will raise him to know the atrocities committed against your family and mine. Together we will get our revenge.

Phelan sat in his chair and studied Kieran as he waited patiently for an answer. He could never let him take his grandson away, but there was another possibility. I am a very wealthy man, Phelan began.

I'm aware of that.

Let me finish! Phelan barked. I am a wealthy man, but all the money in the world can never replace my son, or my grandson. I could never let you take him, but I have an alternative proposition.

I'm listening.

Drudwyn and I both go with you to Ionia.

You said it yourself, what use are you to me?

Money, connections, and my understanding of how the nobility live. Phelan replied logically as he stood up and faced Kieran. You will need all of those things and more if you will have any hope of succeeding. He extended his hand to Kieran. Do we have a deal?

All right, we have a deal. Kieran said as he reached out to shake Phelan's hand.

Chapter 1

A cool summer breeze blew in from the balcony doors as Phelan and Kieran opened shipping crates full of their belongings. The journey to Ionia had been long, but uneventful. Upon arrival, Phelan had secured an estate outside the capital city of Sativola. It was a beautiful home, perched on the cliff over-looking the ocean. The estate possessed plenty of land and was large enough to ensure their privacy. The climate in Ionia was much warmer and more temperate and the home showed it. Beautiful columns supported a large veranda that stretched all the way around the house. The home was shaped like the letter 'U' with all the rooms opening into a large inner courtyard that extended to a balcony over-looking the ocean. Both men had quickly shed their woolen tunics and now worked in their undershirts with the sleeves rolled up. They would have to adopt the Ionia dress consisting of sheer fabrics, long shirts, and sandals just to survive the heat.

Where is Drudwyn? Phelan asked as he worked to shimmy open another crate.

Last I saw him, he was out on the balcony watching the ships in the harbor. Just as he finished speaking, a serving girl they had hired in the city entered the room.

Excuse me, Master Winchell. I have finished making diner and I was checking to see if you needed anything further before I headed home.

No, that will do. We will see you in the morning.

Kieran waited for the girl to leave before speaking. We have to be more careful. What if she heard you use Drudwyn's real name?

I know. We have to come up with new names.

I agree. Although, I must admit, I like the way they call us 'Master' here.

Phelan smiled, It is refreshing for servants to know their place. Why don't you call Drudwyn in for diner?

Kieran disappeared for a few minutes and when he returned, he had Drudwyn in tow. Let's eat, I'm famished. He said as he gestured for the other two to follow him. The threesome headed for the kitchen where the serving girl had laid out dinner for them on the only table in the house. They were going to have to go shopping soon.

As they were eating, Phelan noticed that Drudwyn kept rubbing his eyes as if they were bothering him. What's wrong, son? Are you tired?

No. I'm not tired, why do you ask?

You keep rubbing your eyes.

I'm not tired, it's just something funny is going on with my eyes.

What is it? Kieran asked.

Well, there is this strange haze when I look at you.

Just me? Kieran asked, puzzled.

Yes, just you. It's like you shimmer. Everything else is the same.

Wait a minute, isn't one of the powers of a light elemental the ability to tell other elementals on sight? Phelan asked.

Yes, but they describe it as a white glow, or halo surrounding elementals. However, the only light elemental I have ever talked to was Cecelia; and she was blind.

Can new powers emerge? Phelan asked.

I don't see why not. He replied with a shrug. Drudwyn is still young.

Are you saying I'm a light elemental as well? Drudwyn asked.

Maybe. There is only one way we can be sure. Kieran replied.

How? Phelan asked.

If he has the power to heal, then we will know for certain.

Phelan grabbed a sharp knife from the table and sliced open his own palm without hesitation. Fix it, son.

Drudwyn looked at Kieran for advice, and Kieran gestured for him to cover the bleeding wound with his hand. Drudwyn did as he was told, but nothing happened.

Think hard about what you want, picture your energy flowing into your grandfather. Kieran suggested.

Drudwyn's face scrunched in concentration as he pictured his energy flowing into his grandfather, suddenly an extremely painful electric shock passed between them.

Ouch. they both shouted at once as their hands flew apart.

Phelan's hand had stopped bleeding, but the tissue surrounding the cut didn't look healed, it looked burned. His hand throbbed painfully, and he rushed over to the water basin and quickly put his hand in the cool water to soothe it. Well, that didn't work.

Yes, but something happened.

I'm just wondering, but he has obviously developed new powers, is it possible that he may have others?

Anything is possible. Phelan mused. He placed a piece of parchment on the cold stone floor and then turned to his grandson. Drudwyn, set that on fire. He ordered, pointing at the parchment.

Drudwyn concentrated on the paper, his brow furrowed. They all jumped when the parchment erupted in flame. With almost no effort, Drudwyn snuffed out the fire almost as soon as it started.

Can you raise a wind around the kitchen? Kieran asked.

Drudwyn barely tried and a wind suddenly chased itself around the room, scattering the ashes of the parchment in its wake.

What am I? Drudwyn asked as he shook his own hand which still stung.

I don't know. I'm going to have to think about it. One thing is for certain, you have control over all the elements. Maybe in the morning we can try some other things, but for now we all need sleep. Phelan said, holding his hand to his head. He felt very strange. The others readily agreed, and they all headed off to bed.

The next morning, Phelan woke up later than usual. He couldn't explain it, but he felt drained, like his energy had been stretched to its limit. The move must have taken more out of him than he thought. He slowly got dressed and headed for the kitchen to get some food before getting back to work unpacking.

Who the hell are you? Kieran yelled at Phelan as he shoved back his chair and stood up. He didn't notice that Drudwyn's hand had frozen in midair, halfway to his mouth.

Very funny, Kieran. What's for breakfast? Phelan said as he rubbed his eyes. Both Kieran and Drudwyn had a strange shimmer this morning.

Father? Drudwyn whispered.

Look, I don't know who you are, or how you know my name, but I suggest you get out of this house immediately. Kieran declared.

What is with you two? Phelan asked.

This is your last warning, get out of this house! Kieran roared.

Cut it out, Kieran. You're scaring my grandson. The poor kid looks like he's seen a ghost.

I am seeing a ghost. Drudwyn whispered.

This isn't funny. Knock it off. Phelan quit rubbing his eyes and studied his grandson. Somehow, this morning, he knew that his grandson possessed all the abilities, but there was something else, a warmth that he had no name for.

Do you know this man, Drudwyn? Kieran asked, turning to the boy.

Drudwyn nodded. That's my father.

Don't be silly, Drudwyn. I am not your father, I am your grandfather, Phelan.

Holy shit! Kieran exclaimed. Drudwyn, does this man shimmer, like me?

Yes, he is an elemental. I don't know how I know that, but I do. But, not like any others that I know of. I get the sense of a shadow passing over me when I look at him. Drudwyn looked over at Kieran. Not like you, somehow I can tell you are a wind.

Would somebody tell me what the hell is going on here? Phelan shouted.

You're young. Kieran said, a touch of awe in his tone. I'd say no more than forty.

What do you mean? Phelan sputtered as he looked down at his hands. Then he gasped. His hands were those of a much younger man. He quickly ripped off the bandage he had put on his hand the night before and marveled that the wound was completely healed. Quickly he felt his face. Most of the wrinkles that were so familiar to him, were gone. What happened to me?

I think Drudwyn somehow made you an elemental last night.

Is that even possible?

It is now. Kieran whispered.

But what kind am I? A light? Because it seems like I healed myself.

Not a light. Drudwyn said as he studied his grandfather. Not exactly anyway.

I say we test it like we did Drudwyn's power. Kieran suggested and he quickly reached for the same sharp knife they had used before.

Wait. Phelan barked. If my powers are the same as Drudwyn's, we need to test them on a non-elemental.

That servant you hired in the marketplace should be here soon. Kieran replied. Let's test it on her.

There can be no witnesses if it fails. Phelan cautioned Kieran.

I'm aware of that. Just as he finished speaking, they heard the girl call out from the entryway that she had arrived. Drudwyn, go feed the horses. Kieran ordered. Drudwyn quickly did as he was told, leaving the room just as the girl pushed open the kitchen door.

Good morning, Master Winchell. She said as she entered.

Good morning, miss. Phelan intoned politely as Kieran moved around the table.

I see you found the breakfast I left for you, was there anything in particular I can do for you this morning? The girl asked as she headed over to the sink to start washing the dishes. She didn't see Kieran move up behind her until it was too late. Let me go! She screamed as Kieran pinned her arms behind her.

Hurry up. Kieran called to Phelan.

Phelan rushed over and quickly sliced her arm with the knife. She screamed in pain and fought harder against Kieran. Stop it! Why are you hurting me? She cried.

Be quiet. Phelan hissed, not wanting Drudwyn to hear her struggles. He quickly put his hand over her wound and did as Kieran had instructed Drudwyn the night before. He pictured energy flowing between them. Suddenly, the girl grew quiet and Phelan noticed a feeling of intense pleasure come over him. It was intoxicating. Never in his life had he felt such ecstasy. He nearly cried out in grief when the feeling abruptly ended.

The girl is dead. Kieran whispered as he let her body fall to the ground. I guess you're not a light. He said with a harsh laugh.

Phelan staggered back, he felt empty without that sweet ecstasy flowing into him from the girl. He put both hands up to his face as he sagged into the chair behind him. Suddenly, he felt a strange pulling sensation all over his body. Just as quickly as the sensation came, it went away. Phelan dropped his hands and looked up at Kieran.

My God. Kieran breathed, barely above a whisper. Before his eyes, the years on Phelan's face had melted away. You're even younger!

Phelan looked down at his hands in shock. They were now the hands of a young man, full of strength and vitality. He felt his face again and was startled to feel the full and supple skin of his youth. How old am I?

You look maybe twenty or twenty-five, I'd say. Kieran answered. You seem to be the reverse of a light. Instead of healing the girl, you absorbed her energy and it made you younger.

A shadow. Phelan said thoughtfully. Isn't that what Drudwyn called me?

It's as fitting as anything else.

This certainly changes things.

What do we do with her? Kieran asked inclining his head in the direction of the body on the floor.

Put her in the cellar. After dark, ride down the coastline and throw her body into the sea.

Chapter 2

The air is a little nippy this morning, Father. Evan said as he pulled up on his reins and surveyed the valley before them.

Especially for September. I suspect we are in for an early winter. Stephen replied.

Could put a damper on the festivities next week. Evan commented. All over the kingdom, people would be leaving in the next day or two to make it to Cathal in time for the annual memorial banquet. It honored those who fought and died in the Elemental Wars. The banquet was held on the anniversary of the Ionian surrender. This year marked the twenty-first anniversary.

Maybe. Stephen said thoughtfully. But with the council meeting a few days before, I think the banquet will still be crowded.

I hear Maddox and Bryan will be home by then. It will be nice to see them.

How long have they been gone, a year?

Just about. Stephen was quiet for a minute as they spurred their horses and started across the valley. I think Maddox is interested in Evelyn.

My Evelyn? Evan asked incredulously. They have been like brother and sister since they were infants.

And? So were you and Jennyfer, and Keane and Etain. Some of the best marriages grow from old friendships.

Not this time, I'm afraid.

Why? What don't I know?

I've had a request for Evelyn's hand in marriage, and I've given my consent. Evelyn is quite pleased with the match.

Who is the lucky man?

Sir Alan. He... Evan never got a chance to finish his sentence before an arrow whizzed past his head from behind him.

Evan and Stephen whirled their horses around as more arrows flew in. Stephen's horse was hit in the second volley and he was instantly thrown to the ground. Five riders burst from the trees and headed straight for their position. Evan quickly pulled his bow as the riders tried to close the distance. To his horror, Evan realized that as they notched additional arrows, they all took aim on his father and ignored him. That would be their last mistake, he thought as he notched his first arrow and let it fly. It found its mark as it went straight through the throat of the lead rider. Before that arrow even hit home, Evan had already notched and fired his second arrow. It soared straight and true and struck the rider to the right of the leader. The arrow penetrated the man's chest with enough force to throw him backward off his mount.

As Evan reached for his third arrow, the remaining three riders realized the threat and they turned their horses and tried to make a run for the cover of the trees. Evan hit the rider in the rear straight through his left shoulder and the man tumbled to the ground. He quickly launched another arrow and took out the fourth rider with an almost identical shot. By now, the last rider was far enough away that most archers could not even think of hitting their target. The leader pulled up his horse and turned to look at Evan just before he reached the safety of the trees. Evan notched another arrow and took careful aim. His aim was perfect. The arrow pierced the left knee of his opponent, and Evan could hear the man scream as he quickly let a second arrow fly. That arrow pierced the right knee. Smelling the blood and spooked by the man's screams, the leader's horse reared and threw him to the ground. Evan jumped off his own horse and ran to his father.

Are you okay?

Fine. Stephen said as Evan helped him to his feet. Just a little shaken up. I see your skill with the bow hasn't changed.

Evan grinned wryly. I guess they were unaware of it. Did you notice they were all targeting you?

No, I didn't. I was too busy trying not to get flattened by my horse. Stephen said in surprise. Why would anyone do that?

I don't know, but I'm going to find out.

That could be hard considering that you killed them all.

No. Evan said as he glanced toward the tree line, I left one alive."

Four hours later, Evan and Stephen joined King William at the palace. Stephen had already sent a rider ahead with news of the assassination attempt, and William had sent guards to intercept them and relieve them of their prisoner. They were about to head down to the dungeons to interrogate the man when Brent burst through the palace doors.

Father! Are you all right? He asked as he ran forward and embraced Stephen.

I'm fine, I promise. Stephen replied. Just a few scratches and bruises. I'm more pissed off that they killed my best stallion.

And you, Evan? Are you okay?

Not a scratch. Evan replied.

Your brother took out all five of our attackers in seconds. Stephen replied.

Brent chuckled. Had your bow with you, I take it?

Never leave home without it.