The Gates of Night_ The Dreaming Dark - Keith Baker [17]
Xu’sasar was crouching against the wall, ready to spring, and Daine thought the battle would begin all over. Then the dark elf relaxed.
“Well met, weaver Lei,” she said. “When we next do battle, let us fight on equal terms.” She turned back to Pierce. “So, man of metal, where does our hunt begin?”
“Right here,” said Lei. “Welcome to Thelanis.”
The planar transition was completed successfully, but this vessel has suffered considerable damage. In this instance, Shira’s insight was unnecessary. A web of fine fractures spread across the ceiling, and powdered glass and crystal shards littered the floor. The lines etched into the floor still burned with mystic light, but that radiance was faint and flickering, and many of the sigils scattered around the chamber had faded completely.
What is the impact of the damage? Pierce thought.
Any attempt at further travel would likely result in the destruction of the vessel and all aboard.
Lei had apparently come to the same conclusion. “Let’s hope we’re in the right place, because I don’t think this hunk of crystal’s going anywhere soon.”
“What was that?” Daine said, running a finger along the crack on one of the walls.
An attack by some form of predator native to the ethereal plane.
I thought there were no ethereal orb-eating—
It wasn’t a whale.
It was the first time Shira had actually interrupted his train of thought, and it was a disturbing sensation. But even as he considered this, he could feel the spirit’s remorse.
It has been a considerable time since I have been able to share my thoughts. I do not intend to interfere with your actions.
But could you?
There was no response. Shira was not an active presence in Pierce’s mind. He could only feel her when she “spoke,” and when she chose to retreat there was no way for him to sense her thoughts or emotions.
Was he concerned?
A moment ago, he had allowed Shira to take control of his voice. It was Shira who had concluded that beneath her bravado, the drow woman was confused and afraid, and it was Shira who spoke the language of the dark elves. While Pierce focused his attention on his bow, remaining ready to loose an arrow the instant danger threatened Lei, Shira spoke through him and tried to calm the drow warrior. She had asked his permission, and Pierce felt as if he’d been in control of the situation, but could she have taken his voice against his wishes?
We were designed to work together. The thought blossomed in his mind. I have no desire to take away your freedom.
But could you?
“Pierce?”
Lei’s voice pulled Pierce from his reverie. Both Daine and Lei were staring at him. Usually he could listen to Shira and another conversation at the same time, but this time he’d been so distracted by the inner voice that he’d lost track of the outside world.
Daine asked if you were prepared to explore.
“Yes, captain, I am ready,” Pierce said. “I apologize, my lady. There is much on my mind of late.”
Daine nodded, but Pierce could see concern—or was it suspicion?—in his eyes.
“Well, Lei,” said Daine, “open it up.”
Lei laid her hand on the center of the floor. “Doreshk tul’kas,” she murmured, invoking the powers of the sphere. Light pooled around her hand and surged toward the wall. A moment later the glass fell away from the light, opening a portal to the outside world.
And the night flowed in.
There was only a whisper of wind, but the change in the atmosphere was remarkable. The air of Thelanis was moist and rich, heavy with the scent of grass and fresh rain. Both Karul’tash and the crystal capsule had been dry and sterile, and his three companions paused to enjoy the cool breeze and fresh air. Pierce didn’t breathe. Though he felt the change in temperature and humidity, there was no pleasure in it; the sensations were simply information, warning of what might lie beyond the portal. He glanced at Daine and received a confirming nod. Bow in hand, Pierce slipped through the opening and into the