Niv'leana Read online

  Ni v’leana

  The First

  Sign of Alchemy Novel

  by

  Robert W. Oliver II

  The Sign of Alchemy Series, Book 1.

  Niv’leana Copyright © 2018 by Robert W. Oliver II.

  All Rights Reserved.

  No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever, including internet usage, without written permission from the author, except in the case of brief quotes in critical reviews.

  FIRST EDITION

  Library of Congress Cataloging Data

  ISBN: 9781731353214

  Edited by Carla Rossi

  Story Consultant: Daniel Tidwell

  Publicist: Jami Albright

  Robert W. Oliver II

  Cider Grove Media

  a division of OCS Solutions, Inc.

  PO Box 3355

  Florence, AL 35630

  To contact the author or learn more about The Sign of Alchemy, please visit his website at www.jeweledwoods.com.

  To my dearest Marsha.

  Her brilliant and insightful counsel, ideas, support, and

  guidance add texture and spirit to these words.

  May she one day understand the magic she wields.

  Chapter 1

  “Niv’leana.”

  Niv jumped. She put down her journal and looked around the clearing. Surely, she was daydreaming.

  “I’ll be there soon.”

  This was no daydream. Niv was certain she heard a distant female voice.

  I’m losing my mind.

  She searched the sky for answers. The afternoon sun shimmered through the tall canopy of the Jeweled Woods, scattering multicolored light onto the forest floor. Squirrels scampered across limbs gathering nuts from the vibrantly colored trees, and birds chirped as they enjoyed the bounty of late summer. Green, blue, orange, red, and purple leaves sheltered the grove, creating a mystical haven for its inhabitants. The scent of lush vegetation filled the air, accentuated by notes of pine and the fragrant orange flowers that lined the floor.

  And yet, in this serene landscape, she knew she heard a voice.

  “At least it’s a beautiful day to go insane,” she said.

  She brushed the leaves from the skirt of her long green dress and walked home, staying aware of her surroundings along the path. Nothing seemed out of place.

  “Fresh bread is on the table if you’re hungry,” Cherin said.

  She inhaled the aroma of her mother’s bread. “You know I can’t resist.”

  Cherin placed a bowl of honey next to the bread. “That’s all we have left. Your brother was going to fetch more, but I think he forgot.”

  “He’s the only person in the entire woods who doesn’t like honey.”

  Cherin shrugged. “Strange, I know, but Jarris has a way with bees.”

  “Where is he, anyway?”

  “He went to see a friend in town. He said he’d be back later. I never know where to find him, but it’s always a safe bet you’re at that stump writing in your journal.”

  “Am I that predictable?”

  “When it comes to where you spend your time, yes, dear, you are.” Cherin handed her a gathering bag. “I’d like to have Elvemon tea tonight. Will you find some berries for me?”

  “Fresh bread, venison stew simmering on the stove, and tea for dinner. We must be having company.”

  “We are. How perceptive of you.”

  Niv pulled on the metal handle of their heavy wooden front door. It gave a creak that prevented anyone from making a silent entrance or exit.

  “Remember the berries, Niv.”

  “I will.”

  Niv figured she had plenty of time to gather berries, so she walked to the stream at the edge of their property and sat on a mossy log along the bank. The water was crystal clear, and there was enough warmth left in the late summer sun to tempt her into dangling her feet in the stream. Icy water enveloped her toes, causing her to jump. Ripples peeled away and disappeared as her foot adjusted to the temperature.

  Niv set the journal in her lap. A map of the continent fell open in a pastel-colored display of lands and villages beyond the border of the Jeweled Woods. She’d never left home but embarked on countless journeys by way of vivid imaginings and the maps her uncle had drawn. As creator and queen of made-up worlds, she explored, in detail, every legend and tradition of the fantasy realm.

  Her mother encouraged creativity, but her father placed more emphasis on practical affairs. Somewhere in between, Niv escaped into the pretend places beyond the exquisite canopy of the Jeweled Woods.

  Jarris approached Niv on the bank. “Soaking your feet after a hard day’s work, eh?”

  Niv displayed her bag. “I’m working. Or will be soon, anyway. I did your chores, so you owe me tomorrow. Except the bees. I’m not going anywhere near that hive.”

  Jarris took off his shoes and put his feet in the stream. “Ah… that’s better. And the bees aren’t that big a deal. You have to know how to work with them.”

  “You’re braver than I,” Niv said.

  “Oh no, you’re the brave one.”

  “How so?”

  “You have the guts to share with people the stories you write in your journal. I could never write anything that was good, let alone have the courage to let anyone read it.”

  “They’re just childish imaginings.”

  “You’re not a child anymore. You’re twenty. And those stories are really good.”

  Niv played with a stick on the ground. “It’s an outlet for me. I don’t know what to do. My friends are getting married. One of them is even pregnant. And I can’t get my head out of the clouds.”

  “These woods aren’t going to hold you forever, Niv.”

  A breeze blew and stirred a small vortex of yellow and purple leaves. Clouds approached from the south, obscuring the sun.

  “I think we are at the limit of our procrastination,” Niv said.

  “Mom wants berries?”

  “Yes. We’re having company.”

  Jarris smiled. “That means we’ll eat well tonight.”

  “We always eat well.”

  “Yea, but it’s even better when we have company. Did she say who?”

  “No.”

  Niv dried her feet and put back on her shoes. “Come on, help me find berries.”

  The two trekked through the woods, searching the bushes for the red, elusive fruit. They were having some luck, but the sky was turning dark. They picked up their pace, hoping to have enough before they had to return home. Moments later, a cold raindrop hit her head. Wind swept through the trees, and rain began to fall.

  “We’ve got enough, let’s go,” Niv said.

  The two giggled as their clothes became soaked. Their desperation to get home turned into laughter as they skipped through puddles. Niv’s dark, thick hair lost its usual full body and clung to her head. Despite the downpour, they were having fun.

  A wagon was parked in front of their house, and they noticed two beautiful white horses in the barn. Niv flung open the door and they piled into the living room. Water dripped onto the wood floor. Their parents were sitting at the table with the visitor—a middle-aged woman in a beautiful blue dress. She stared directly at Niv and spoke without moving her lips.

  “So we finally meet, Niv’leana.”

  Chapter 2

  Niv was stunned. The woman’s voice was identical to the one earlier that afternoon.

  “This is Maeva,” Cherin said.

  Niv stared in confusion. “Nice… to meet you.”

  Cherin took the berries. “You two are soaking wet! Go change into dry clothes and I’ll make some hot tea.”

  Niv tried not to stare but was unable to resist her curiosity. Maeva wore a long, blue gow
n that shimmered in the cloudy daylight peering through the kitchen window. Her long, dark hair was speckled with hints of gray and cascaded effortlessly over the luxurious fabric. She smiled when she became aware of Niv’s gaze.

  Niv ducked into her room and changed into a clean dress, combed her hair with her fingers to remove the excess water and tangles, then returned to the main room. She laid her wet garments on the cobblestone fireplace and sat at the kitchen table.

  “Dinner’s almost ready,” Cherin said, stirring a pot on the wood-burning stove.

  Maeva’s hands were folded neatly on the table as she closely observed Niv.

  “I hope your journey was pleasant,” her father said.

  “The weather wasn’t as nice as I’d hoped, but it was worth it. Niv, your eyes are even more blue as I remember them.”

  “As brilliant blue as the waters of Sapphire Creek,” Cherin added.

  Niv blushed.

  You don’t remember me, do you?” Mae asked.

  “No, I’m sorry.”

  “You were a little girl when you left Selandis. I told Cherin and Ren you would grow up to be a beautiful woman. My prediction was correct.”

  “Thank you, but I’ve never been to Selandis,” Niv replied.

  Mae glanced at Ren. “You’re right, I’m sorry. My memory isn’t what it used to be.”

  “You’re just tired from the trip,” Ren replied.

  Mae started to reply but was interrupted by Cherin. “Have some of this lovely Elvemon tea. Niv picked the berries.”

  Citrus-sweet aroma filled the air as Cherin filled everyone’s eagerly awaiting cups. Niv took a sip, savoring the flavor and using the steam to warm her cold, wet nose.

  “It’s been so long,” Cherin said. “I’m glad you could come.”

  “It’s been too long,” Mae replied. “I have missed you.”

  “How are your sister and father?”

  “My sister is well, but my father died last winter.”

  Cherin took Mae’s hand in hers. “I’m sorry.”

  Niv cradled her tea, drawing its warmth into her. She wanted to ask Mae a million questions but didn’t want to interrupt such a somber moment.

  Cherin fetched the stew and placed it on the table. “I hope you’re hungry, Mae.”

  “I’m starved!” Jarris exclaimed.

  Ren flashed Jarris a disapproving glance.

  “I’m sure you’re hungrier than me after all of that traveling,” Jarris said.

  Mae chuckled. “I am.”

  “Here’s some bread and cheese,” Cherin said. “And I’ve got apple turnovers for dessert, so save room.”

  “This stew is delicious,” Mae said.

  “Aren’t you curious as to why you can hear me?”

  “No,” Niv replied out loud.

  “No what?” Jarris asked.

  Only Mae looked directly at Niv.

  “Sorry, I was thinking,” Niv replied. She was talking to me.

  “Yes, I was, Niv.”

  A chill ran through Niv as she realized this was a telepathic conversation. She was unsure what was more disturbing: that she could hear Mae, or Mae could hear her.

  “Have you never experienced this before?” Mae asked.

  “I don’t know.”

  Niv wondered how much of Mae’s thoughts she could hear.

  I wish Mae would hand me another piece of bread.

  She waited a moment, then was relieved Mae wasn’t aware of her inner dialogue.

  Niv directed her thoughts towards Mae. “Please hand me another piece of bread.”

  “Certainly.”

  She expected Mae to reach for the bread, but instead, Mae asked out loud, “Would anyone like another piece of bread?”

  “I would,” Jarris said with a mouthful of stew.

  Mae looked at Niv. “Wouldn’t it look strange if I gave you bread you did not ask for?”

  “Me too, please,” Niv said.

  After dinner, Ren and Jarris fed Mae’s horses in the barn, then Jarris excused himself and went to his room. Niv’s parents and Mae asked that she join them at the table.

  “Your father and I have some things we need to discuss with you,” Cherin said.

  “It’s never good when someone says they need to talk to you before they actually do,” Niv said.

  “You have nothing to worry about dear,” Mae said to Niv.

  Niv relaxed her posture. “I’m not worried. But I do want to know what’s going on.”

  “I promise we’ll explain everything.”

  She started at the familiar voice. Her mother? Now she was hearing her mother? One glance confirmed her mother hadn’t said a word out loud. Anxiety heightened as she waited for an explanation. How had she not known about this before?

  “There are things we haven’t told you,” Cherin said. “But there’s nothing to be afraid of. Mae and I are old friends. She helped take care of you when you were a baby.”

  “You never told me I lived in Selandis. Why did you lie?” Niv asked.

  “Your mother and I used to live there,” Ren said. “We moved here with you when you were an infant.”

  “Why would you keep this from me?” Niv asked.

  Cherin put her hand on Niv’s shoulder. “I was in the order of the Ael’Shanar.”

  Niv pulled away. “What?” She crossed her arms as if to shield herself from the shock as she absorbed her mother’s words. “This can’t be true.”

  “I assure you, it is.”

  Niv’s knowledge of the Ael’Shanar was limited to her books and lessons in school. They were highly educated and trained spiritual leaders - enlightened masters who held no political authority.

  “If you are in the Ael’Shanar, why do we not live in Selandis?” Niv asked.

  “When we moved to the Jeweled Woods, we wanted you to have a normal life - to grow up like all the other children. That would have been impossible had we stayed in Selandis and I remained in the order.”

  Niv knew she was right. Children of parents in the Ael’Shanar were sheltered and often trained to be members themselves.

  “Why are you telling me this now? Why is this secret? Even if I had known you were in the order, I could have lived a normal life in the woods.”

  “Had you known, it would have changed everything,” Cherin said. “This way, you were free to make your own choices.”

  “I would still have the same choices,” Niv said. “I'm not going to be swayed by what other people think I should become.”

  “The pressure would have been enormous,” Ren said. “We wanted you to grow up without that in a safe environment.”

  Niv's arms fell limp at her side as she glanced out the window. The rain had slowed, leaving only small droplets sliding down the panes. Her parents’ sacrifice had kept her safe, but also in the dark.

  “I always wanted to visit Selandis. I thought it was part of my desire to see the world. Perhaps I remember it.”

  “What do you want to do with your life, Niv?” Mae asked.

  “I’m not sure,” Niv replied. “I don’t think I’m ready to start a family. I love reading, writing, and learning as much as I can. I want to see all of the places I've read about.”

  “There’s a strong tradition of children of Ael’Shanar joining the order,” Mae said. “You could learn a lot from them.”

  “I’m not sure that’s for me.”

  “My mother was in the order as well,” Cherin said.

  “Was it because you wanted to, or because you thought you had to?” Niv asked.

  “A little of both, I think. But I didn’t regret it.”

  “Then why did you leave?” Niv asked.

  “We were going to stay, but we decided against it after you were born,” Cherin replied. “We wanted to avoid the influences of the city.”

  “This didn’t have to be a secret. I’m an adult. I can handle the truth.”

  Mae smiled. “Niv, parents will always think of their children as young kids, no matter h
ow old they are.”

  “We understand,” Cherin said. “We should have told you.”

  “I need to be alone with my thoughts for now. Please excuse me.”

  “Of course, dear,” Cherin replied.

  “It was nice meeting you, Mae.”

  “Likewise. You have grown to be a fine young woman.”

  “Thank you. Have a good night.”

  Cherin followed Niv to the doorway of her room. “I’m sorry we didn’t tell you the truth. We were trying to protect you.”

  “I'm glad Mae spoke out of turn or else I might never have found out.”

  “We’ll talk more tomorrow,” Cherin replied, then Niv closed the door.

  ***

  Cherin returned to the table with Ren and Mae. Her hand trembled on the table. “I’ve dreaded that for years.”

  “You were afraid of telling her she was born in Selandis?” Mae asked.

  Cherin and Ren looked at each other. “The thought of telling her everything became more intimidating as she grew older.”

  “Cherin, this isn’t fair to her,” Mae said, then paused to carefully consider her words. “She’s been denied the chance to find out who she is. She must have many questions.”

  “A few things have come up, but we’ve handled them,” Cherin replied. “She spends a lot of time alone in the woods.”

  Mae took a deep breath and leaned back in her chair. “I know it’s hard, and I know you want to keep her safe.”

  “That was our highest priority,” Ren said.

  “I respect the sacrifice you made more than you will ever know,” Mae replied. “But how could you have let time slip away so easily?”

  Cherin started to tear. “How do you tell your child something like that?”

  “You just do, and as soon as possible,” Mae said.

  “Please let us be the ones to tell her” Ren implored.

  “I owe you that,” Mae replied. “But I won’t leave until you tell her everything.”

  Chapter 3

  “I’m going fishing,” Jarris declared. “Want to come along?”

  Niv wiped the sleep from her eyes. She was still in her nightgown. “Alright, but I am still half asleep.”

  Jarris dashed to the door. “I’ll meet you there.”