Description: Daine learns some uncomfortable truths while the mages plan unfolds.

Disclaimer: I do not own any of the characters. Everything belongs to Tamora Pierce.

Author's Note: Poor Arram, it seems all the gods have got it in for him. I'm not sure why I decided to have them all gang up on him. You might have guessed that I had a ridiculous amount of fun with the shapeshifting scene.

Chapter 13

"What d'you want?" Daine planted her hands on her hips to glare at the Graveyard Hag who materialised in the centre of the room with an eyepatch, old robes and leaning on her cane.

"Please forgive her, goddess," Arram bowed low while trying to pull the young woman behind him. "She doesn't know to whom she speaks."

Daine pulled away, not appreciating the protective gesture, and spread her feet in a fighting stance. "I know exactly who she is, and I don't care! Why are you here?"

The Hag grinned wickedly with her seven yellowing teeth, "I told you before that you couldn't have him, dearie. He's mine!"

The young woman's eyes widened in realisation before clenching her fists until the knuckles turned white. "You're the reason he won't leave!" All this time she'd believed it was the emperor who kept him captive when there was a far greater threat at work.

"We have a bargain," Arram spoke softly at her side.

"Release him from it this instant!" Daine snapped at the goddess.

"Watch your tone, Weiryn's daughter," the Hag pointed a gnarled finger at the young woman. "I like you, but I will only tolerate your sass so far. Besides, Arram still has a service to perform."

"I am yours to command, goddess," the mage bowed his head.

"Two days. I will not wait any longer. You will come when I call," the Hag commanded.

"How dare you do this! Hasn't Arram been through enough?" Daine muscled her way to stand in front of the mage, much to his exasperation. "If you wanted to destroy Carthak then why not just get on with it yourself instead of forcing others to do your dirty work."

"I asked the Goddess to stay her hand," Arram placed a restraining hand on her shoulder. "We needed time to free as many slaves as possible."

"And to get the members of the secret coalition to safety," Lindhall added quietly.

The Hag's eyes glittered as she reached out to pat the young man's cheek. "Don't worry handsome, it won't be long now."

"Use me instead," Daine said abruptly, rage boiling up inside of her. "Release him from whatever bargain you've made –"

Arram covered her mouth with a large hand, cutting the young woman off and pulled her close to his bare chest. "Don't listen, Great Lady. She doesn't know what she's saying."

Daine scowled up at him tempted to bite the hand that was silencing her.

"Careful, dearie, or I might just take you up on that offer," the Graveyard Hag winked before she vanished into thin air.

The mage removed his hand to place it on Daine's shoulder and turned her to face him. "I agreed to this without coercion. When Ozorne stopped paying tribute to the gods and told the people to worship him instead, he incurred their wrath. The Graveyard Hag promised me retribution and in return she interceded on our behalf before the Great Gods, talking them out of complete destruction."

"You stayed for revenge?" the young woman cried in disbelief.

"Ozorne commanded me to kill thousands of innocent lives. I will not allow him to do that again. I won't be used as a weapon in his wars!" the mage's brown eyes begged her to understand.

Daine stepped back angrily shrugging off his hands. "So instead, you'll just let him hurt you?"

Arram swallowed and looked away, voice bleak. "I deserve it for what I did to the people of Siraj…" Noticing the time, he shook his head. "I must return before my room is searched."

Lindhall nodded solemnly. "I'll protect Miss Sarrasri and make sure she's hidden."

Arram gazed at her, brown eyes intense, before he took a deep breath and transformed into a black hawk right before her eyes. Stepping forward, the young woman crouched to admire him with his vicious hooked beak, gold-brown eyes, and razor-sharp claws. He was gorgeous!

"You know, I've never seen any hawks like you," she smiled.

Arram turned on ungainly claws using his large wings to stop himself from falling over. It looked quite comical.

"You're a bit too big, you know? And solid black." He should've had a white band on his tail as Daine lifted the mage into her arms and carried him to the window. "Heavy too."

Arram ruffled his feathers, mildly offended, while she placed him on the windowsill.

"Your feathers don't have the usual gloss to them. They look more like velvet," Daine stroked her hand down his chest to see if they felt the same which caused all his feathers to puff out. On impulse, she leaned forward and placed a chaste kiss on his beak. "Return safe now."

The mage stared at her unblinking which was when the young woman realised she couldn't hear him. So, a hawk but not a member of the People then. It was a way to identify him, and maybe other shapeshifters, in the future. Looking away quickly, Arram took a few experimental flaps before launching himself into the sky, wavering unsteadily until he found a thermal and soared away.

"Ozorne tortured him again," Lindhall sighed quietly behind her.

"Because he helped us escape." Daine slammed her fists on the windowsill and looked back at the elderly mage. "Why would he let the emperor do that to him? Was Siraj really his fault?"

"That depends on your definition of the word," Lindall said carefully. "Was it his choice to invade Siraj? No. Did he choose to unleash his Gift to wipe out most of the country? No. But it was his Gift that killed them."

"I don't understand."

The elderly mage closed his eyes as if deciding how much he could tell her. "Sometimes men are forced to act whether that is due to subjugation or by magical means."

He was playing with words, and she didn't like it. Daine preferred plain speech to all this dancing around. "You mean the emperor made him kill all those people?"

Lindhall nodded. "I have tried to assuage that young man's guilt more times than I can count over the years but to no avail," his blue eyes held deep regret. "This is the path Arram has set himself upon. All I can do is protect him from the worst of Ozorne's evil. I would ask one favour of you," the elderly mage stared at her gravely. "Do not judge Arram by what the history books say."

Daine thought about this before answering. "I want to help."

"The best thing you can do is to leave. It's going to get extremely dangerous here shortly. Arram wants everyone out before the Graveyard Hag uses him." Lindhall informed her gently when a giant tortoise approached introducing himself as Sunstone. "Would you like to meet some of my friends?" the mage smiled, taking the opportunity to distract the young woman.

Daine spent the rest of the afternoon talking with a variety of animals who all spoke very highly of Master Lindhall and his treatment. Unfortunately, Kitten and Sunstone didn't get along at all with the giant tortoise constantly trying to take a bite out of her tail until the mage shut the reptile away in another room. Lindhall's aviary was quite different to the emperor's, mostly containing birds native to the north but it was no less beautiful, although Daine's enjoyment was somewhat dimmed by the torture she'd witnessed earlier which she couldn't seem to shake from her mind.

Late that night, after the evening meal, a soft knock came at the outer door leading to the gardens. Lindhall opened it for Arram to stumble through, grey and gasping for air. The elderly mage caught him under the arm before he collapsed as Daine rushed to support his other side.

"What –" she started to ask.

"Help me get him to the side of the room," Lindhall cut her off, nodding to the wall near his desk. "This is the result of the spelled collar."

It wasn't easy to carry a semi-conscious man of six foot five inches across the room, but they managed it between them. Lindhall used his Gift to sweep aside a heavy rug to reveal a large circle on the floor inscribed with runes.

"Place him at the centre," the elderly mage instructed, touching his hand to the circle, and speaking words in a language Daine didn't understand.

As soon as the spell activated, Arram's breathing became easier, and he started to regain his usual swarthy complexion.

"Is he going to be all right?" the young woman asked, worried.

"He'll be fine in a few minutes," Lindhall reassured her, his blue eyes never leaving his friend. "The spell mimics the one that keeps Arram bound to the palace grounds and tricks the sigils on the collar into believing he's still there."

Kitten whistled in appreciation having come close to investigate the runes.

"Arram said you were good with wards," Daine grinned.

"Oh, this isn't my doing." The northerner nodded towards the younger mage who had managed to get to his hands and knees. "Our friend here created this and figured out the displacement theory needed to replicate the magic of the palace grounds within the circle."

The young woman waited until Arram was able to sit on his own before her temper snapped. "What were you thinking coming here? You could've gotten yourself killed!"

The mage smiled wryly up at her. "This isn't the first time I've done this, and we needed to talk – Weiryn's daughter."

"Yes, I picked up on that too," Lindhall commented coming up to stand beside his desk to study the young woman.

Daine looked between the mages frowning in confusion. "I'm not sure I understand… What does that mean?"

"That the Banjiku were right, you are the daughter of a god," Arram tilted his head with interest.

"No – I'm not…" she backed away shaking her head. "I never am…"

"Weiryn is the northern god of the Hunt in the Eastern Lands," Lindhall supplied helpfully. "He is worshiped by woodsman and huntsman in the forests of Galla, Tusaine and Scanra. I have a book around here somewhere…" The elderly mage went to search through his shelves until he held up a weathered leather book. "Here it is."

Lindhall flicked through the pages until he reached the correct chapter and held it out for Daine's inspection. She took it in trembling fingers as if the book might burn her. Someone had drawn several artistic impressions of the Hunt God with dark muscular arms, carrying a large bow and a quiver full of arrows. It appeared the artists couldn't decide on the size of the impressive set of antlers that rose from a head of curly hair.

"I've seen him – in my dreams," Daine spoke in a trembling voice. "Standing beside a cottage – with Ma..."

Who now resides with him in the Divine Realms as his mate. – Silvery light bloomed, and the badger god walked forward.

"Why'd you never mention this afore?" the young woman sank slowly to the floor, her eyes filling with tears.

You weren't ready to hear it – the badger shot a disgruntled look in the mages' direction before approaching to nuzzle Daine gently. – You dreamed truly. They were a gift from your parents who wanted you to know they were watching over you. Your mother is now a minor goddess. Weiryn petitioned the Great Gods and requested for her to come and live with him. –

"Why've they never visited me like you do?" Daine buried her face into his fur breathing in the scent of earth and musk, not sure how to deal with this revelation.

Your parents are bound to Weiryn's lands for a hundred years. It's not often one of us asks the Black God for one of his mortal souls out of the Peaceful Realms. –

"Daine, is this…?" Arram inquired politely.

"My friend," she looked up to see soulful brown eyes studying her carefully. Struggling to find her voice she made the introductions. "Arram, Master Lindhall, this is the male god of the badgers."

Both mages bowed their heads respectfully in greeting.

"Pardon me for asking, but why do you know so much about me?" Arram asked the animal god. "I don't believe we've ever met."

You are meant to teach my kit, mage. – The badger informed him gravely. – It was a great deal of effort getting her to you. I knew once the two of you met, you wouldn't be able to resist. –

Arram stuttered and blushed crimson.

"What d'you mean by 'getting me to him'?" Daine demanded. "I was sent here by the king!"

Do you believe it an accident that you ended up in Cría with a female who brought you to Tortall's king and queen? I knew they were having trouble with Carthak and at some point, you mortals would end up talking. – The scornful way the animal god said the last word made it clear what he thought about two-legger negotiations.

"You can't have known they'd send me, though," the young woman argued.

You've proven your worth enough times over the years. – Badger grunted.

"If it isn't too rude to ask, why didn't you yourself train Daine on how to use her magic?" the mage queried.

The animal god ruffled his fur and huffed. – I can't be spending all my time with her. I have my own business to attend. –

"Yes, of course, how foolish of me," Arram blushed again. "But – why me specifically?"

Because of all the mortals, you are the most knowledgeable about wild magic. – Badger explained. – Daine must learn to control it before time runs out. There is a storm coming. –

"What do you mean by that?" the mage frowned, shifting restlessly.

There are forces at work beyond your foolish mortal wars. She is breaking free. –

"She?" Arram came to full attention in an instant. "You mean Uusoae, the Queen of Chaos?"

Daine had no idea what they were talking about but even Master Lindhall leaned forward to listen.

You will both be needed. – The badger turned his stripey head towards Daine. – I'm sorry to push you so hard, kit, but your mortal time runs short. –

"How much time do I have?" she asked as Arram echoed her question.

I cannot say... – Badger growled in frustration before directing his gaze to Arram. – Will you do it, mage? Will you teach my kit how to use her magic? –

"I'd love to – but, I have an obligation to fulfil here," the wistful expression he cast towards Daine made her heart leap in her chest. "I made a bargain with the Graveyard Hag, one that cannot be broken."

The badger puffed up his fur in irritation. – Then I will give you something to aid in your task if you promise to train Daine after the Hag's game is over. –

"I –" Arram swallowed hard, bowing his head, looking torn.

Badger growled a low rumble in his chest before he slammed his head into the floor once, twice, making Daine cry out in alarm. The animal god grunted and spat out a tooth onto the floor in front of the mage. – Keep that with you. –

"Thank you," Arram whispered, picking up the tooth delicately between his forefinger and thumb.

Listen to the mage and learn from him. No arguments! – Badger ordered the young woman before pressing his face into her chest. – You will do well. Take good care of my kit, Arram Draper. Oh, and tell the Banjiku, Lushagui never intended for them to be slaves. – There was a silver flash and the animal god vanished.

No one spoke as Arram sat back on his legs with a rather stunned expression on his face. Daine realised she was still sat on the floor when Kitten crawled into her lap for a cuddle. Her Ma was a goddess!

"Life is certainly eventful around you, my friend," Lindhall chuckled dryly.

Arram scowled before running a hand over his face still making no move to get up from the floor.

"People say the same of me," Daine commented making Kitten chuckle.

"At least this gives you a reason to live beyond Ozorne's demise," the elderly mage emphasised softly.

"You were planning on killin' yourself?" Daine looked at her new teacher in horror.

Arram paused to wet his lips before answering. "A more accurate summation would be that I am not expecting to survive the ordeal. That certainly answers the question as to how you knew about my ability to shapeshift."

Daine glared at him, not liking the blatant shift in topic. Now she knew about all this mess, the young woman was more determined than ever he wouldn't face it alone. It was quite a shock to remember she'd only known him for five days, it felt more like years.

"What was the badger god saying about Uusoae?" Lindhall frowned. "You never mentioned any impending doom."

"It had somewhat slipped my mind since it was first mentioned to me," the younger mage admitted sheepishly. "He's not the first god to warm me She is breaking free."

"Was that why you were forever studying the legends of Chaos and requesting every book on the subject the library held?" Lindhall mused.

"One of the reasons," Arram smiled wryly.

A thought occurred to Daine when she remembered a promise she still had to keep. "This Uusoae doesn't also go by The Dread Queen, does she?"

Arram blinked in surprise and nodded mutely. "Why do you ask?"

"Ernimi, the male god of the hippos, said to remind you that you have a destiny," the young woman responded.

The mage's jaw dropped before he recomposed himself, shaking his head. "Dare I ask how you know him?"

Daine blushed making Arram chuckle, a fond expression on his face.

"Not that I wish to get rid of you, but what time do you need to return?" Lindhall interrupted the pair, concern radiating from him in waves.

"I have a few hours yet, and it seems I have a student to teach," Arram gave the young woman a very boyish grin, brown eyes twinkling.

Daine returned the grin feeling a thrill run through her at the prospect of having a first official lesson with him.

"Could I have some cord please?" The younger mage requested of Lindhall. "I shouldn't like to lose this token," he held up the tooth. "Make yourself comfortable," Arram advised Daine, crossing his legs, and sitting tailor-style to face her.

The young woman mirrored his position, crossing her legs at the ankles, eager to learn. Would he teach her more healing? Daine barely understood her power let alone what she was capable of. Speaking with the People was easy enough but could she, maybe, learn to speak with the Immortals? It would be wonderful if she could speak with Kit the way she conversed with the People.

"Let's meditate," the mage's voice was deceptively mild when Lindhall returned and handed him a length of leather cord.

"That's it? Meditation?" Daine demanded hotly.

The corners of his mouth twitched in a smile while Arram wound the leather around the silver tooth. "I told you, it's a necessary skill to learn, especially for a mage."

"But I'm not a mage," the young woman grumbled.

"Of course you are. A wild mage," Arram's eyes danced with barely restrained amusement as he knotted the cord around his wrist making a simple bracelet before resting his hands gently in his lap.

Daine rolled her eyes but copied the position trying to force her body to relax.

"Now my Wildmage, we begin with breathing," the mage closed his eyes and took a deep breath.

Begrudgingly the young woman closed her eyes and complied with her teacher's instructions. It was difficult to empty her head of any thoughts. There were too many animals around she could hear, including Zek and Kitten who were trying hard not to distract her. After an hour Arram called it a night so he could return to the palace. It was awful how fast the spells on the collar took effect when he left the protection circle, making him struggle to catch his breath. Lindhall assured her Arram would be well, but his face suggested he didn't believe his words any more than she did.

Lindhall gave the young woman his assistant's room who was away studying mermaids by the coast. Once alone, the events of the day started to catch up with her and Daine worried how Alanna and the others had reacted when they'd found her gone. The Lioness was going to string her up by her ankles when she got home but it would be worth it if Arram returned with her. Idly the young woman wondered if Master Lindhall might join them. She had become quite fond of the Animal Studies master who had granted her access to his entire collection of books. Daine had spent several hours after Arram had left reading The Magic of Birds by Ayna Wingheart until she couldn't keep her eyes open any longer. Readying herself for bed, the young woman let her mind return to Badger's earlier visit. I have a Da, she thought. I could change my name! Veralidaine Weirynsra. Daine scowled at the mouthful and decided she preferred her normal name. She'd had it all her life after all, and it didn't seem right to change it when her Ma had been the one to raise her. Horse Lords, how was she going to tell Cloud? Or Onua? Or any of her friends back home?