Page 12 of Of Blood & Stone

A bold question to ask,a voice whispered.

Sylzenya’s back ached. The strange voice filled her ears, neither male nor female, caught in between a song and a growl.

Please, Sylzenya begged the voice.I’ve been poisoned and require healing, or else all of Estea will starve.

For life there is a price, the voice answered.And only in pain can it be made whole.

Sylzenya flinched at the use of the scriptures.

Before she could reply, the bird flew from its branch and landed in front of her. Its gaze pierced hers, and she knew the voice belonged to the creature.

I do not fear pain, Sylzenya replied.

A lie.

Iwould not lie about this.

There is more pain than that which carves into your back, Sylzenya Phatris.

The bird flipped the ring in its mouth. Sylzenya’s vision blurred, but she quickly called the tree back into focus. The last remnants of her power were fading, and she wouldn’t let this warning deter her from her path.

Are you Aretta?Sylzenya inquired.

Aretta sacrificed herself centuries ago to destroy her brother, the god of chaos, Distrathrus. I would think you, a daughter of her temple, would know this, the bird answered.Ask your question, Sylzenya.

Does Aretta’s Willow live? she asked.

It does.

Her heart pounded hard in her chest.Do you know where it lies?

I do.

Can it restore my power?

The bird blinked.Yes.

Please,show me the way.

There is a price for such knowledge.

Sylzenya took a deep breath.Is there another way to restore my power? To save my people?

The bird blinked twice.

If you are to restore your power and protect your people, then Aretta’s Willow is the only way.

Name your price.

The price for life will always be pain.The bird tilted its head.But you will regret choosing this path. I have seen it.

Sylzenya gripped the splintered root until it pierced her fingers, the crystal willow fading before her. She didn’t have time to consider consequences, for nothing could be worse than her purpose ripped from her body.

The only regret I would have is failing when I’m needed most.

The bird blinked again before dropping the gold ring onto the dirt.

Very well, Sylzenya Phatris.

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