Prologue

She slept. And as she slept, she dreamt. In this dream she stood in the center of a meadow covered in the grass of a more vivid green than she had ever seen; a green that would put to shame even the most precious emerald known to man. The field was covered in flowers of the most delicate white that swayed gracefully in the gentle breeze.

Gliding towards her was a woman. A beautiful woman. Her hair was as black as the feathers of the crow that sat on her shoulder. Her eyes, as green as the grass on which they stood. Her skin, a smooth and flawless white, as delicate as the flowers in the meadow. Her lips wore a smile full of love and knowledge. A love for her many children and the knowledge of many worlds. Her name was Morrigan. And when she spoke, Hayley knew she was no longer dreaming.

"My lady." Hayley kneeled and bowed her head to show her respect. What else was there to do in the presence of a goddess?

"My child." Her smile was warm and her touch gentle as she lifted Hayley's head then pulled her to her feet.

"Is it time then? Is that why you're here?" Though her face and voice showed only calm acceptance, the goddess could see the fear in Hayley's heart. Because of that fear her voice was soft when she answered.

"Not yet, little one. But the time is near."

"I don't think I'm ready. I haven't learned enough."

"You will be when the time comes. You have learned much and still you have much to learn. But you will not battle alone. The six of you shall form a strong circle." Hayley's eyes showed her shock at that announcement.

"The six of us? But Grandmother said—"

"Your grandmother did not know everything, my child. Though she knew plenty for a mortal."

"Who are these others then? When will I meet them?"

"You will meet them when it is time."

"But how are we supposed to train enough to fight if we don't even know each other? Shouldn't we—" Morrigan's perfectly arch eyebrow rose a fraction in amusement.

"You will meet them when it is time, Hayley." Hayley could tell from her tone that the goddess would soon tire of the barrage of questions from the mortal.

"Of course, my lady. Forgive me. I am just worried."

Morrigan brushed her hand across Hayley's cheek. Her touch was gentle and maternal, meant to comfort and relieve a fraction of Hayley's anxiety.

"I know, dear one. I know."

Morrigan watched with rueful eyes as Hayley's form began to fade as her real body began to awaken. Sometimes the responsibilities of the gods were a heavy burden for even a deity's heart to bear.

They are still so young and have had to grow so quickly. And will have to grow quicker still in the time to come.

Chapter 1 »