“Devon!” Muffled as it was, he could still make out the shrill shriek of panic in her voice. “Why is it not working!” The anguish and fear in her words transcended the world of the living into the realm of the dead. 

“I… I don’t know my queen. I’ve invoked the proper rites. I can’t imagine Bahamut would oppose this intervention. Perhaps he doesn’t want to return.”

Aliyeah, Queen of Dragons’ eyes ignited with fire as rage consumed her. “Try again. There is no way he’d choose to be apart from me.” She looked at Cam. Anger gave way to fear and devastation. Tears rushed down her face. “Cam. Find Jarath and bring him here now!” 

“Are you certain…” Cam was emotional as well, fighting back tears of her own.

“Go!”

The gold dragon bowed and was gone. 

Devon awoke on the ground. Soft grass cushioned him as the overgrown canopy of the forest provided shade. He surveyed the area somewhat confused. He had no idea how he’d gotten here. Last he remembered he was in the town hall at Westport introducing himself to the new mayor. There was the sound of exploding glass then…

“Huuuh!” 

He lurched forward gasping for air, clutching at his breast for a wound that wasn’t there. He looked at his hands.  No blood. A few deep breaths later he decided to stand. The chirping of a small gray bird drew his attention to a white oak tree. He took a few steps toward it trying to gather his bearings. 

“An onyx canary?” He thought to himself. “Rather unusual in a deep wood setting.” The bird continued singing even as he drew closer. Surprisingly, it didn’t seem afraid of him at all. He reached for it, palm open. The bird hopped onto his hand, turning its head quizzically to the side. 

“If you think you’re going to stay dead, Darkstar, think again.”, a menacing hiss threatened off in the distance. “I’ll drag you back from hell itself if I have to.” A woman’s voice. He could smell the acrid odor of acid.

“Maya?” He looked around but the black dragon was nowhere to be seen. The canary leapt from his hand and into a tree where seven of its kin sat quietly waiting. Beyond them was a path alight with a warm golden glow. He took a step toward it but came to an abrupt halt, an unnatural chill had taken hold of him. A current of air drove him back. A soft spectral voice whispered to him across the wind.

“Where are you going, my child?”

To his left a second pass revealed itself. It was darker than the first. The path was laid in gray cobblestone. The vibrant green foliage surrounding it gave way to winter scarred shrubbery and lifeless bush. He looked toward the scenery and despite the foreboding visage he did not despair. Flowers suddenly began to bloom with the ivory and mauve petals of hellebore plants, yule roses as they were better known. He was familiar with them. The Pale Lady kept them in the chapel of the Raven Queen as well as elsewhere about the manor. Devon eased his way toward the stone walk. More blooming. He was greeted by the deepening blue of honeywort.

The canaries began to tweet, their song one of panic and warning.

“Is there danger ahead?” He asked the birds.

The onyx canary jumped off its perch, flying directly toward him only to be brushed aside by a frigid winter wind. It took refuge in the branch of a golden snapdragon, frantically fluttering its wings, pleading with him to join them down the illuminated walk.

“What could you possibly have to fear from me? Come and be welcome.” The disembodied voice offered.

He heard a caw. A stark black raven had appeared, flying toward him from further down the trail. It landed on his shoulder, meeting his gaze with cold black eyes before taking flight again, down the pass, cawing once more, harkening him to follow.

Devon’s heart wanted… yearned for the warmth of the golden path but his spirit was drawn into the darkness. He couldn’t explain it, but he knew before he could accompany the canary, he needed to know who had beckoned him from beyond the frost laden footway. “I’m sorry.” He said to the bird. He felt the cold soft caress of a hand across his cheek and was drawn away.

Devon walked along the cobblestone trail. He shivered when a winter’s breath was exhaled on the back of his neck, sending a chill running down his spine. The raven flew branch to branch leading him deeper and deeper into the undergrowth. Sharp holly leaves grabbed at him, nicked him, scratched his skin then finally bit him drawing blood almost as if they were trying to prevent him from moving any further. He ignored their warning. Pressing forward, he broke from the forest into a large clearing of frost coated ground. A solitary stone tower loomed in the distance protected by a black wrought iron paling, not so different then the one guarding his home in Sanguinar. The raven flew straight and true perching upon the entry gate. It watched as he passed the portillon, arriving at a blackened wenge wood door. He tapped on the truesilver knocker and waited. The door opened of its own accord.

“Welcome my child. Please, come inside.” A woman’s voice called to him, floating on the cool night air.

Devon passed through a foyer. A sweet lemony scent grabbed his attention. He knew it well, winter honeysuckle, Ria’s favorite fragrance. He looked around to see a sparsely furnished parlor decorated with several vases containing the cold weather flower. Its fireplace was alight with a cold blue flame. He continued beyond a pair of open double doors leading into a stone audience chamber with all the warmth of a mausoleum. Stained glass windows were set high into the stone walls depicting death in all her many incarnations. Tapestries of artistically spun winter scenes hung below them. He had the feeling that he’d been here before, or at least in a place quite similar. Ravens rested upon rafters and unlit free standing candelabras. Several more perched on an intricately cut stone throne. One in particular looked as if it had taken a great interest in him. A woman wearing a close fitting ankle length dress of midnight blue sat patiently waiting for him to approach. She had straight, raven black hair and pale, winter white skin. Her lips were the azure color of frostbite and her eyes… her eyes gleamed brilliant ice blue more so than any vampyr he had ever met. They were beautiful yet at the same time cold as death. They bored deep into his soul. Moonlight glinted off her crown of truesilver and frost.

“I’m sorry if I have intruded, your grace.” Devon found himself instinctively dropping to a knee and bowing his head.

“It is no intrusion, my child. You were invited to my court due to your… circumstances. Though if I’m being honest, you don’t belong here. Not yet…”

Devon remained silent.

Allow me to introduce myself Devon. In a past life I was known as Ravenovia Koroleva. Now…”

“Koroleva.” The name held meaning for him. It was the Sanguinari word for queen. “Ravenovia…”

“You’re the Raven Queen.” He answered, bowing his head lower still.

“Rise.” And as he did she smiled, “Do you know what they call a flock of ravens my child?”, opening her arms and motioning to the birds about her.

“I’m sure I did once. I apologize, my goddess. My mind seems a bit out of sorts right now.”

“That would be the poison.”

“I can’t be poisoned. My sire’s blood…”

“What courses through your veins is no ordinary toxin but one made to slay gods… or so it’s named. I digress. Allow me to remind you then. There are two names by which congregations of ravens are known, both of which apply to you, child. The first is an ‘unkindness’, by that I mean the unforgivable act done unto you against my will, against the laws of the gods and in contradiction to the prophecy of the four. The other is a ‘conspiracy’, a word describing the situation that sadly you are caught in the center of.”

“I don’t understand.”

“I didn’t expect you would. There are powerful forces tearing at you Devon, threatening to rip you asunder. Your heart is called in one direction, your soul another. It’s a very precarious position to be stuck in, my child. You can’t choose and you won’t. You’d sooner die than disappoint either.”

“Death is not to be feared. You come for all eventually my mistress.”

The Raven Queen smiled again. In her voice he could swear he heard Selene. “I’m glad you’ve not forgotten all your lessons.”

“So I’m dead then.”

Her expression grew grim. “Yes… and no. Not by natural cause or destiny. Certainly not final as the vampyr know it. As such you could go back.”

“Could?”

She nodded. “But not before I say what I must.” She paused, seemingly deep in thought.

Devon remained silent waiting for her to speak again.

A Raven flew in, landing next to him. It bowed its head before transforming into a bald, slender, chalk white, elf looking humanoid wearing leather armor. “Goddess. He has arrived. Just as you expected.”

“Delay him for just a bit longer. I’m nearly done here.”

“As you command.” In an instant the man was a bird again, flying off.

“Where was I… Oh yes. Conspiracies. Be wary of who you trust Devon. Long time friends, loves, allies. Mortals all have their own selfish motivations for why they do what they do. I fear you face great betrayal in the near future and your willingness to put faith in your comrades may not serve you well in the war to come. Be careful and always consider the why behind a person’s actions and the message hidden beneath their words.”  

“Sound advice, your grace.”

“I should not be telling you this but seeing as rules have already been broken… You and your friends are part of a greater plan than most realize. The runes of creation are a great and terrible power. Should they fall into the hands of say… someone looking to remake all that is, all that was and all that will be, the complete set could destroy the very fabric of existence… Which would certainly please a certain other someone looking to cause the genocide of all living things. For this alone I should send you back. Without your help, your allies are doomed fail.”

“There are other heroes.” He replied with disconsolation.

“Spoken like a man made tired and worn, downtrodden by destiny’s wheel. Everything you have done until now has forged you into the person you need to be, to assume your role in averting disaster. The matter of your impending death however was not to be. That said, you are here. So I will offer you a choice.” 

She stood and walked over to him taking his arm in hers. A single raven leapt onto her shoulder. She led him to an altar he was certain was not there moments ago. They stepped up onto the dais where a bowl and chalice had been set. The Raven Queen released him then turned to face in his direction. With a wave of her hand a silver tendril appeared. It emanated from his chest and trailed away lost in the dark above. She drew a kukri, forged of truesilver and etched in runes, from her side. 

“I can sever your connection to the mortal world if you wish. You’d be free to remain here, safe and unmolested by those you’d leave behind. You could assume your deserved place among the favored in my court.”

“Or?”

“Listen carefully. Do you hear it?”

Devon focused all his attention, searching for the sound she was alluding to.

“Enough you bastard. Stop playing around.”

 An angry voice, but one bleeding with worry. 

“You’re not through yet. There’s still so much to do. Come back brother. By the light of Heironeous I implore you to return.” 

“Jarath.” He whispered.

“The dragons have already tried to take you away. I stopped it.” She looked toward the entry doors. “That’s the reason he’s come to call.”

“You have no right!” 

An elderly man leaning heavy on a walking stick boomed in a voice that bespoke of power far beyond his appearance. Seven canaries rested on his shoulders and arms.

“I have every right. The only right. I am death. He is dead.” The Raven Queen countered.

The man lowered his tone. “Ravenovia. You know you can’t keep him. The laws…”

“Have already been broken. Spare me the lecture Bahamut. I’ve already given him the choice.”

Devon, for the first time in his life, was at a loss for words. Were gods really arguing over his fate? The Raven Queen turned her attention back to the rogue. 

“As I said child. You may remain here.” She angled her kukri as if preparing to strike. “I can sever your connection and it’s done.”

“WAIT! DON’T!” The platinum dragon yelled.

“Or you can heed the call of your friend and return from whence you came. Destiny, conspiracies and unkindness. All of it goes with you. Decide.”

The elderly man looked upon him with kind eyes. Devon had a sense he meant to influence him to return. Devon mindlessly reached for the ring that had been on his left hand. Gone. His palm fell to his waist where the kukri he’d worn since he was a boy had rested ever since the day he earned it. It too was missing. He looked at the old man. “My lord Bahamut.” and bowed. His eyes found those of the Raven Queen. They blazed brilliant blue as the cold of a winter’s night rushed through him. Interestingly enough he found comfort in it. 

“You’ve made your choice. You’re not ready to leave it behind. Go Devon. Mina will show you the way.”

The raven that had perched quietly on her shoulder jumped and became human… or human of sorts. She had hair red as the deepest wine and pale skin. Her eyes were the same verdant green as his. Sharp incisors exposed themselves when she smiled. The woman was Sanguinari. She gently reached for his hand, clasping it tightly into her own. “This way little lord.”

Devon bowed in deference to both deities. 

“Thank you for coming, my lord. It’s been an honor my goddess.”

The old man exhaled in relief and turned to leave.

“Before you depart… If I may have a word. Angel of the Seven…” She called out to the Platinum Dragon.

Mina escorted Devon from the chamber and up the tower stairwell. They climbed seven flights of stairs that reminded him specifically of the Magister’s tower in Westport. Once in the sitting room she smiled at him still holding tight to his hand. “Come.” She led him to the edge of the room where an ornate door, intricately carved with winter flowers and ravens had materialized. The frame bore etchings of magical runes. “Before you go.” She rotated his hand, turning his forearm face up. “I want you to have this, as a memento of your time here. You’re likely to forget a great deal of it upon your return to the world of the living. This will help you remember some.” She traced a sigil on his skin that left a lurid blue glow behind as she did. Her finger was cold, her touch transferred the chill to his skin.

“Are you allowed to do this?”

“No. But I’ve always had a defiant streak in me.” She placed her arms around his neck, drawing him in, then hugged him close. “Be careful my son. Until next we meet.” She kissed his cheek. “Farewell.”

Devon’s mind took a few moments to comprehend what had just happened. The poison, much as the Raven Queen suggested, had dulled his faculties. Mina opened the door and ushered him through.

“And Devon. Do tell your godmother I do not approve of her taking your hand. There will be words.”

He passed through the portal when realization struck, sadly, a moment too late…

“Damn you Devon!” Jarath scowled as he recited the prayer again. “Breath!”

His eyes flashed open, bright and blue as the priest had ever seen them. To Jarath, it seemed as if someone else was staring back at him. An unnatural fear forced a shiver through him. The room grew so cold the condensation of breath could be seen from all the living occupying the space, Devon included. He lurched up gasping for air, coughing, barely able to catch his breath. 

“Have to go back.” He choked. “Rayne… Assassin.” More fits of coughing. “She’s in danger.”

“I’m here my lord.” The bronze dragon pushed through the people crowding him, grabbing his arm. “I’m safe. I’m sorry.”

“Thank the goddess.” He croaked. “Not your fault. The gods…” He fell back onto the floor. The room was spinning. “Poison.” he choked out. ‘Arrow.” As a second even more violent fit of coughing took hold of him.

Aliyeah threw herself on him, sobbing then crying. “Thank Bahamut you’re ok.”

Maya had fixated a murderous glare at Rayne. “You   were   supposed   to   protect   him.” She growled, slow, low and threateningly.

Rayne, who had been crying the entire time, began to shake. “I… I… There was no sign of danger. I don’t know what happened.” She tried to explain through free falling tears.

The black dragon hissed and the putrid stink of her potent acid filled the air. 

Rayne looked around the room. Cassie had a reproachful look about her. Vignette’s expression was downright accusatory. Even Anika slanted her eyes and looked away. The bronze dragon was devastated. Devon grabbed her wrist. “Not… fault.” She broke away and rushed from the room. 

“What are your orders my queen? Shall I level it to the ground?” Maya offered most willingly.

“No.” Devon answered for her. “Stand down darlin.” His breathing had somewhat normalized. “Check on your sister.”

“I don’t have a sister, Darkstar.” She glowered angrily.

Jarath, who had taken a step back, found Jenna tucked into him, her eyes still raw, wet with tears. “Will he be ok?”

“Yeah. He’ll be fine, though he’s going to need some rest.” 

He looked to Aliyeah who mouthed ‘Thank you.’ He nodded in return.

“Maya, see the Highlord to the queen’s bedchamber.” Cam commanded. “Jenna, please help your aunt along. The rest of you, I want guards around him at all times. No one enters the gold spire without the queen’s approval. Am I clear?”

The room nodded. 

“I’m going to have a talk with Rayne and find out exactly what happened, my queen. I’ll return to you after I do. Hey scown…” She looked at Jarath. “…Well done. Thanks.”

Jarath gave her a knowing smile as she left. He plucked the arrow from the floor while the room emptied and placed it in a pouch before he took his leave.