Veiled in Glass and Silence: The Tree of Offerings Trilogy, #2

By L.R. Bryant

"Bold moves. Desperate moves. They're all we have left."

 

A hidden magic endangers Lenora in the spellbound realm of Kenosopia. The small Isle is secluded and full of charmed wonders, but also haunted by deadly secrets. All the residents risk a fate worse than death, for everything is not as it appears.

 

From the Glass Palace, Queen Mirria and her trusted mage Manidhar wage a silent war over the seemingly peaceful kingdom. Information locked within Lenora's mind could be the key to saving countless lives; but remembering comes with a cost that might be too steep to pay.

 

Nobody will know who to trust and who to follow as an ancient darkness returns, determined to finish what it started. Friends become enemies as brother turns on brother in a race to thwart the deadly spell and cease the destruction.

 

If Lenora and her companions succeed a new reality will dawn; truth will be set free. But if they fail, all will be lost and evil will reign.

 

Author L.R. Bryant presents Veiled in Glass and Silence, the heart pounding sequel to dark portal fantasy debut Bound by Blood and Shadow. Join Lenora in a new land shrouded in secrecy, where terrifying creatures are just the beginning of the dark torments that await.

• Language: English
• Publisher: L.R. Bryant
• Release date: Aug 18, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223921790

Book preview

Chapter 1

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P erfection is relative, and anything perfect isn’t perfect at all.

Pushing the whispers away, I ignored the insanity they implied. Today was a perfect day. The palace floors were shimmering brighter than usual as the ocean breeze drifted in through the balcony and tousled my hair. Rhythmic clicking from my heels hitting the marble floor gently sang in my ear while sweet whiffs of lavender filled my nose. Passing by each of the ground staff, they gently bowed with a smile, then resumed preparations for the Violet Gala. Flowers from all over the isle were brought in and displayed: from aster to purslanes, lilacs and sea thrift. Waves of white fabrics meeting all shades of purple invaded the kingdom for a solid week before a grand ball every year in Spring. Quickening my pace, I lifted the front of my dress to descend the spiral staircase. If I hurried, I still had time to visit the gardens before meeting Queen Mirria for afternoon tea.

Not surprisingly, the gardens were busier than the palace. There was only a full week, starting tomorrow until the violet sunrise, marking the start of the year and preparations were keeping everyone busy. I had come down here for a bit of quiet, but instead found myself immersed in more decision-making clamor.

Lady Lenora. What do you think of this arrangement? One of the flower masters stopped me, motioning to a beautiful vase filled with cuts of purple and white flowers with greenery accents. The man that waited anxiously for my reply was dressed in a tux, as were all men who worked in the garden.

Wonderful. I smiled broadly. Good day to you, sir.

Dodging more questions, I tried to appear mission-bound to avoid any more interruptions from the staff. Moving along the marble walkway I passed into the greenhouse where people moved around watering new plants, tending to the sick, and praising the new growths. Pausing to briefly admire a water lily beginning to bloom, I stood in awe of its simple beauty. Reaching out I touched the delicate white petals ever so gently, just a brush of my finger…my temple burned as pain shot through my face. The white petals became streaked with blood dripping from the center.

You must get us out!

Screams filled my ears and throbbing invaded my skull. The servant woman next to me tending the blossoms flashed from a well-dressed gardener of plump proportions to a frail maid in rags who clawed at my dress. Free us! Jumping back, I knocked one of the pots from the shelf as my shoulder made contact, and it shattered when it hit the floor.

Confused, the greenhouse attendant ran to my aid, her plump and proper form returned. Lady Lenora, are you alright?

Annoyed and embarrassed, I straightened my dress, fussing about the poor plant whose roots lay exposed on the ground. I’m fine, just tripped is all. Carry on.

Moving out of the greenhouse hoping to avoid more stares, I entered one of my favorite parts of the garden. In the far corner, hidden away, was a fountain that moved its small cascading streams over large stones and into a small pool. The ground was only dark dirt, per my request, surrounded by many archway trellises housing tons of dark green vines that hung down, providing seclusion. In the center was a small bed where three Violet Isle Stars made their home. It was a local plant that produced beautiful six-pointed star-like blossoms of deep violet. The Isle of Kenosopia revered the rare flower. My part of the garden here was a secret kept horribly from the palace staff, but successfully from the Queen. Quickly I shed my heels, digging my toes into the cool earth and moving to run my hands in the water over the wet rocks.

I thought I’d find you here. The sharp female voice came out from behind me following the rustling of vines.

I ignored it.

She’ll have my head if you’re late.

Matching her tone, I replied. That day can’t come soon enough. In that case, I choose being late.

Turning I looked at the petite woman standing at the edge of the sidewalk, her sapphire dress matched the fierce blue eyes and paled her blonde hair that was carefully tied up in a bun by a matching ribbon.

No more could we continue the stare off as we both broke into ravenous laughter.

Lady Vera, why don’t you come join me? I taunted.

She rolled her eyes, took a few looks to ensure we were alone, and slipped off her own heels before plunging toes into the cool dirt. Vera was my very best friend, one of the only friends I had in the palace. The two of us were known to stress the Queen on occasion.

Vera was rambling on about something, but I barely noticed while I gently splashed the cool water repeatedly. The whispering had returned, louder than usual after my small mishap in the greenhouse. Try as I may to forget the face of the frail woman, it kept pushing itself forward in my mind.

You aren’t even listening, are you? Vera stood, annoyed.

Leaning my head against the back of the stone wall near the water I sighed heavily, avoiding her stare.

Oh boy, I know that look. She replied crossing over to sit next to me on the simple bench. More visions, huh?

Gently I lifted my head to meet her gaze. Am I going mad Vera?

No. Well…you have always been a bit- you know- mad on your own. She rocked her shoulder into mine playfully.

Turning my face back to the water I stroked the smooth stone gently; I wasn’t in the mood for her jokes. The power water had amazed me. Even such gentle streams could smooth the roughest of rocks over time.

It’s just awful thoughts. Nothing bad happens here, you know. Your mind is playing tricks on you like the Queen said, that’s all. Vera stood and retrieved her shoes. Are you going to tell her again? Concern filled her deep blue eyes.

Resigning to my fate, I followed, but not before brushing the dirt from in between my toes. No. You’re right, I just wish they would stop. The tea does nothing for the headaches anymore, I’ve just given up on it.

Don’t tell her that. She warned.

Using my right hand to wave her off, I simply stated I had no intentions of speaking about it further. Vera was right, I didn’t need to concern the Queen with such silly troubles, she had enough on her plate. The two of us hurried through the rest of the gardens and across the courtyard in the direction of the awaiting tea we both were late for.

Queen Mirria had a grand palace; the bottom two stories were made of shimmering silver marble. The top floor was made solely of glass, as was one of the three towers; the largest one in the center that protruded higher than the others. You could not see through from the outside, but one could look out from the inside. It was a stunning work of art, these grounds we had come to reside in.

Tea was to be taken above the Queen’s private gardens. A glass sitting room sat at the base of her private quarters on a balcony overlooking the impressive display of flowers. Upon my first visit I had found walking on the paneled glass to be downright unnerving, but now I strode across the apparent floating floor with ease. Vera fussed once more over my hair that I hadn’t taken the time to contain, something the Queen held a particular disdain for, as we stepped onto the balcony under the entryway.

You’re late. Her voice stated the obvious, calmly disappointed. Delicate long hands that held three gem rings set down the glass teacup, which clinked ever so tenderly on the matching plate beneath it.

Letting Vera go before me, she entered with a curtsy and an apology for both of us. Sorry, your Grace. We were awestruck by some of the flowers in the garden and were helping the caretakers make a few arrangement decisions. I followed in behind with a matching curtsy before we each shuffled into the plush blue chairs set around the table.

The masters of the garden are just that: masters. They do not need your opinions on such simple tasks. Leave them be to do their work during such an important week.

Yes, your Grace. Vera and I replied in unison before servants stepped in to prepare each of us tea. The aromas from the loose leaves that had been held under the steamy water were pleasant, floral and fruity with a hint of spiced earth.

The Queen had chosen a simpler gown today, white with light blue trim to match the pale blue stones that dangled from her ears. Her light brown hair was pulled into a tight bun as usual to help support the crystal glass crown that sat upon her head. She was going on about preparations with Vera. Letters had gone out with less response than last year for the Violet Gala. It was frustrating: the Queen didn’t understand the drop in attendance. She was going to send them out again. Clearly there must have been a logistical problem because everyone should have wanted to come.

Vera was given the honor of planning the dance this year, so she updated the Queen about the food, the gowns, and the music while I gently swirled the light amber liquid around my cup. Looking down I watched many of the gardeners bustle about beneath us, cutting flowers, watering and caring for the Queens prized plants.

…what do you make of that, Lenora? Raising my chin in response to my name, I met the Queen’s pale blue eyes.

Why yes, that sounds lovely I should think. I quickly replied, taking a hurried sip of tea.

The two women turned to me in surprise before the Queen spoke again. "You think the lack of responses to my Violet Gala is lovely?"

Almost slamming my glass down, I corrected myself. Not at all, your Grace. I must have misheard, I thought we were speaking on the music for the dance.

Vera shot me one of her looks while the Queen eyed me suspiciously.

Wait. There was an opportunity here, one that I almost missed. Why don’t you send Vera and I into Sandmere? We can hand-deliver your invites. That way there are no more accidents along the roads.

Lenora, I think that would be less than ideal. The Queen shut down the idea instantly.

Vera gave me another look that begged me not to press the issue, but I didn’t heed her warning. Queen Mirria, we would consider it a high honor to advocate for a festival as grand as this. Vera and I have been in your service closing in on a year now with no visits off the grounds. This could be a wonderful opportunity for all of us.

The Queen softened her face, lifting a small smile in my direction. I know. You two missed most of the celebration last year, it’s lucky we found you when we did. You girls looked dreadful when the guards brought you in, but now look at you two: like the daughters I could never have. You are safer here. Look around, don’t you want for nothing?

Reaching across the table she grabbed each of our hands, but after a brief moment I withdrew my own, still devoted to my cause. Your Grace, I cannot…we cannot ever repay you for your kindness. You saved our lives and we are in your debt. We could go with escorts, multiple guards; please consider this request.

I give and give. When will it be enough? No, this is the end of the discussion. Do not ask me again.

Vera piped up. My Queen, we are forever grateful for your hospitality, we do not wish to upset you further.

Thank you, my dear but I think we ought to cut this short, so much to do and so little time. There’s work to be done. You two run along now. The Queen stood and approached me before gently gripping the edge of my chin to draw my gaze to hers. Lenora darling, how are those headaches? Do you need more tea from Manidhar?

Meeting her eyes, I lied. They’re much better your Grace. I haven’t had one in weeks, and there’s still some tea in my room. I smiled the sincerest smile as she bid us good day and retreated to her quarters, her handmaidens following close behind.

Vera pinched my arm with a sour look across her face. What are you doing?

Pausing, I turned to ensure we were alone. Leaving.

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Mani! The Queen called out after dismissing her handmaidens. Lifting her dress carefully, she climbed the glass tower stairs as they circled into a narrow hall. Arriving at the top, her eyes scanned the brightly lit room for her consort. She found the prodigy at his lab table, toying with herbs and other manners of alchemy. His bright red hair was disheveled and his deep blue eyes were wide; a clear sign of a hard day.

He didn’t look up from holding a glass vial with one hand and an eyedropper with the other. Yes, My Queen? One drop hit the vial turning the contents brown with a hiss, followed by the disgruntled mutterings of Manidhar.

Mani, what do we do? The girls are asking to leave again. The Queen questioned.

Setting down his tools, Mani walked over to place his hands on the shoulders of his exasperated Queen. Now my dear, relax…they are not children, they are women.

You promised me this was going to be easy.

"Simple, My Queen; nothing you gain is easy. We have learned nothing of where they come from or what power they may possess. Patience." Mani reminded her.

If we weren’t constantly drugging them, we could question them. The Queen’s eyes sharpened. They have been here almost a full year Manidhar, locked upon the palace grounds. Lenora will start asking questions again; during tea she became disgruntled, as if she was angry with me. You said that was not supposed to be possible-

He cut her off. My Queen, have I ever failed you?

She softened again. What do you propose then?

Sighing, he moved back to attending his alchemy. Let them go into Sandmere, give them what they wish so they will not seek it elsewhere.

Shocked, the Queen’s eyes widened. Excuse me? Let them get close to those ruffians? They are trying to destroy my kingdom; you know that. What if they get a hold of the girls…

…women. Mani corrected again.

Yes, I know that, but those two could be dangerous in the wrong hands. She continued. We still don’t know anything about The Order, who they are, what they are capable of. This year is the lowest attendance to date. Have you seen only twenty-five families have sent responses in for the Violet Gala?! There are over three hundred reputable families in that town! Someone should be held responsible; those fools must have taken the invites.

While the Queen paced anxiously, going on with her hands, Mani piddled about his work until she stopped for a moment to breathe. My Queen, you should let them go. Show the people through the ladies’ testimony how wonderful a ruler you are and remind them how grand this isle is. The peace and prosperity were brought to these lands because of you, the mildest mannered, fairest Queen to date.

She paused to take in his words. That’s right, before me…it doesn’t matter. I have provided, sacrificed so much for them, for this land.

Looking up, Mani smiled. Yes, my Queen. Now, why don’t you go tell Lenora and Vera they can go into Sandmere? Then you can focus on your duties here, to prepare the most wonderous Violet Gala the Isle of Kenosopia will ever remember.

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It didn’t take much more convincing before the Queen retreated down to her quarters with a decision made. Mani took in a long, calming breath as he continued his work. Lenora and Vera would prepare to leave for Sandmere with the Queen’s best guards to accompany them. Finally.

Queen Mirria needed to internalize her identity as queen; to pretend this life was the reality she had always held and forget the past that got her here. Lenora, on the other hand, was dying to remember…something of power arrived with her and it favored the lady.

Mani was no closer than he had been six months ago to finding a substitute for their spell. An ingredient they had relied on from the beginning would no longer grow, and it was maddening him. He gave months of his time obsessing to learn why before conceding its finality. They needed a replacement, a flower that had similar power, but he had scoured the entire kingdom pulling blooms from across the isle and nothing responded in the way he needed. He was becoming desperate and if the Violet Sunrise rose before he could find the substitute, all that they had accomplished with their sacrifice would be undone.

Hand-delivering invitations wasn’t a bad idea, if indeed they had been lost. He was hopeful that Lenora or Vera could be useful after all with this trip.

Those two had been a thorn in his side since day one. Not only was managing Mirria a full-time job, but keeping the women from remembering what they had seen upon their unusual arrival had proven quite the task. At first, it was a relief; the Queen had become maternal once again. A few months in however, Lenora started having disturbing nightmares that turned to outright walking visions, things she shouldn’t be capable of seeing here in Kenosopia. Her unusual responses to his tonics became enough reason to keep them close, until now.

Allowing them into Sandmere would get the attention of The Order and Mani needed help at this point, willing or not. What little he did know was disturbing. When the first signs of disruption began, they had barely paid any attention. After all, they were commoners who had gone missing and their disappearances had little effect on the Queen’s world. It began with only a few every year, but each year the numbers increased.

Last year they caught whispers of a cult hiding in The Veil that quickly became known as The Order. As time went on the whispering turned into treason. One man publicly spoke out only weeks ago, mentioning magic and stating the Queen was a liar with no claim to the throne. Sowing such division so close to the Violet Gala was dangerous, for all involved.

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My handmaid and I were excitedly packing away more clothes than needed for the overnight trip when a slamming noise jarred us both, interrupting our banter. Vera had come through the door that joined our rooms together before dismissing everyone except the two of us.

"What did you mean when you said leaving?" Vera pushed the issue again, still bothered. She had refused to drop the comment even after learning that we were, in fact, being released to go to Sandmere on the Queen’s errand.

Let it go, Vera. Look on the bright side; we are leaving now, aren’t we? I continued to put more clothes in the small chest.

She walked over to push the top of the chest, which resulted in it closing as I snatched away my hand. I’m serious, Lenora, you said you were leaving before we got the Queen’s approval. Why would you say such a thing?

Something inside growled, my head began to throb. With my manners forgotten I snapped back at my friend. What do you want me to say Vera? That I didn’t mean it, to take it back and pretend everything is so grand here? I kept my voice low but irritable.

Vera locked eyes with me, a look of confusion in her gaze. Well, isn’t it? It is grand here, perfect even most days. Do you want to go back…

For a moment a fog lifted, just briefly while my hands had grasped tightly around something hard. Go back where? To the place we can’t remember, to the lives we lived that neither of us know anything about.

Vera stuttered. It’s the amnesia, what we went through…Manidhar said if you keep drinking your tea…

What, Vera, what did we go through…the wreck we also have no memory of? And if I hear one more thing about that tea! Heat rose from my belly into my arms, like lava. No longer did I wish to hold anything back, I felt like we were living lies, playing house in a place we didn’t belong.

What’s happening to you? Vera’s blue eyes were filled with fear as she stepped back from me.

Her face. My posture sagged forward as I reached for Vera’s arm. I’m sorry, I don’t know. Forgive me, Vera. I don’t know what all that was, I just…I’m sorry.

Vera released the tension in her face before she hugged me tightly. It’s ok. We have been given such a great opportunity, let’s not mess it up. Releasing me, she searched my face for acceptance, which I freely gave.

You’re right, I don’t know what I’m thinking. This is exactly what I wanted and once more our Queen provided. She's so good to us. Smiling brightly, Vera dismissed herself to pack again.

My hands relaxed with the soft clicking of the door being closed as a small thud hit the floor, I had dropped something. Looking down, my eyes found a lump of black fabric near my foot bound with a simple piece of leather. Slowly I reached for the object, my mind buzzing as my hand made contact. It was hard, small and I thought it called my name as I untied the leather. Underneath the fabric was a small amulet. White wood encased a six-pointed crystal star, and it was damaged.

When my thumb found the sides a voice called quietly, Remember… as the memory slammed into view: I have to be quick; can’t let anyone catch me with it. It’s the amulet, when I hold it, pieces come back. I must hide it, they can’t know, not even Vera. Not yet. Not until I can get her away and alone, help rationality return, that is if we can. Somehow, they always get us back into compliance.

My heart raced, realizing I had packed this away in my chest the last time I had tried to escape the palace. It had been in my hand as I spoke to Vera, this was what helped me feel my anger. I knew the truth was being held from us.

Chapter 2

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It had been difficult to keep Lenora from that black gelding who had been found close by upon her arrival. In time though, she paid less attention to the horses and more attention to the domestic duties just like Mirria had hoped. They had given the animal a new name, as they