Soul Seeker (The World of Lasniniar Book 1) Read Online Free PDF

looked right through them as she gazed in their direction. She wore an ethereal-looking gown that leached the color from her golden skin. She drifted between the trees as she continued to sing, oblivious of her audience. After a few moments, she disappeared. Her voice faded into the distance.
    “What was she singing?” Barlo asked Iarion in a hushed voice.
    “She was looking for someone. I think she might be Quenya-touched.” Iarion used the euphemism for someone who was not considered of sound mind. He took a long swallow of wine before standing. “I think I’m going to get some sleep.”
    “You go ahead,” Barlo said. “I’m going to stay up a while longer.”
    “Good night.” Iarion went back into the pavilion, leaving Barlo on his own.
    Barlo sipped his wine and contemplated what he and Iarion had agreed to. How would he explain this to Narilga? He knew his wife would understand his need to accompany Iarion. Sometimes his journeys with his elf friend lasted for months. She wouldn’t worry if he didn’t come back right away.
    But she would be upset if he didn’t come back at all.
    Still, he couldn’t go home when his best friend was going on a potentially fatal quest. He also knew if he went home to tell his wife what they were up to, it would be even harder for him to leave.
    “You are a good friend.”
    Barlo was startled from his conflicting thoughts to find the elf princess, Silvaranwyn, sitting next to him. He leaped to his feet.
    “My lady.” He sketched a hasty bow.
    “There is no need for formalities. After all, we will soon be traveling companions.” She gave him a small smile.
    Barlo sat. “Forgive me for saying so, but your parents didn’t seem too happy you’re coming with us.”
    “They do not like that I will be leaving our wood, especially to go on such a dangerous quest. But they cannot dispute the wisdom of the Quenya.”
    “No parent likes to send their child into danger,” Barlo said. A moment of thoughtful silence passed.
    “Did you see another elf on your way here?” Barlo asked. “Iarion and I saw a maiden wandering through the trees, singing. Her song was a sad one. How could anyone be so sad in a place like this?”
    “You saw the Lady Finiferia. She is my brother’s wife.” Silvaranwyn’s golden eyes became distant. “Her name was Eransinta once—Eyes of the Heavens. Now she is the Shroud of Sorrow. All elven names have meaning. Did Iarion ever tell you this? His name means ‘Shining Hope.’”
    Barlo shook his head. “What does your name mean, lady? What happened to your brother’s wife to make her change her name and become so sad?”
    “I am the Maid of Sunset. My parents are learning how apt my title is.” Silvaranwyn’s gaze refocused on Barlo. “Elven names are important. They are given to parents by the Quenya and say something of the child’s nature or destiny. Finiferia is the only elf to ever change her name.
    “Twins are rare among elves. Finiferia’s twin was killed during the Age of Sundering in the Kinslaying. Ever since, it has been as though a piece of her were missing. No elf knows what happens to the souls of those whose lives end in violence before they fulfill their destiny. None have ever returned. She has found some measure of happiness in my brother and their two children, but at night she wanders, searching.”
    “No wonder she is so sad. But please, what is the Kinslaying?”
    “You should get some rest while you can,” Silvaranwyn said. “Iarion and Lysandir are already asleep.”
    “Very well,” Barlo said. “If you won’t answer my question, then let’s talk about Iarion and Lysandir. If you’re coming on this quest and only an elf can touch the Quenya, why do you need Iarion?”
    “This is Iarion’s quest. I do not believe it is coincidence he came seeking our counsel at the same time Lysandir arrived with news of the Forsworn.”
    “Lysandir.” Barlo made a sour face. “Why does he have to come?”
    “You do