volume I

“Tis’ a cold night for you to bring witnesses to my presence Tal”. - winter breezes in a summer night’s.

She steps back a little. - “Not to be shy my dearest. You are already here, are you not? Come closer unto my shade”. - said the visitor.

“It’s been a while old friend”. - he greets the shade as he steps nearer.

Intrigued but not surprised - “Not nearly as warm as you, but I could use a vacation or two. Who’s the girl?”

“We come for the bargain.” 

The shade rushes in towards her face. I know what you want, think of me the fool young lady? Too long I’ve been in the cold and the dark to not know who and what comes to when. Let me remind you not to speak out of turn, manners are important during the night’s sleep. Now, let my friend speak, for asked him, not you. A chill takes over as it backs down calmly.

“She’s no one in our lands but she has been approached by the Whispers. Goes by the name of Neela. As you know now, she’s aware of your negotiations.” - Qur’tal roamed around the shade as he spoke, falling his hands on her shoulders. - “She has information that we both need, I summoned you to learn what all this is about”.

Silent remained for a few seconds as the air grew colder, the shade would stare at the girl. “Speak, girl.” 

The sky has not yet settled, the birds are still asleep. It is only but a whisper that we will hear, now that all is silent.

Is there any other way? - she asked. I’m not familiar with any other traditions, but he who visits the nightly graves is soon to arrive. I wish not be here when he does.

Calm yourself, we are not yet done. Remind yourself, the vessel is not yet full.

Understand, creation takes a toll as well as it takes time. Don’t you feel it resonate? Don’t you feel it’s movements?

Stay within your ground and keep it to yourself.