The Gems of Raga-Tor (Elemental Legends Book 1) by CA Morgan

overhead the two glass panels met as did the elements of water and fire, from which emerged the face of the woman who stood behind him.
    “There you see the greatest tale of elemental passion that can ever be told. That of Raga-Tor and Kemara-Tir, first elemental of water. For thousands of years the elementals created and destroyed, because they didn't know anything else. In time, reason and thought coalesced and they began to control the raw elements of their powers. They began to communicate and create a world, which none could do alone. I have the distinction of being the first child born to any of the elementals. But, as I’m really my father's daughter rather than my mother's, they named me Keku Raga-Tir,” the woman concluded.
    The spawn of devils is more like it.
    “How can you not be your mother’s daughter?” he asked.
    “That is something we rarely discuss with mortals,” Keku-Tir answered. She eyed Eris thoughtfully. “I suppose, though, if my sire sought you out he must have good reason, so maybe I could tell you.”
    “Then you don’t know what has supposedly happened?”
    “Yes and no. I hear stories, but then there are always stories. You have one yourself, don’t you?” she probed and rested a hand on his shoulder.
    Eris felt the heat in her touch and shied away.
    “I have all the answers I need,” he said abruptly and headed for the door.
    “I doubt it,” Keku-Tir said, cutting off his path. “You will soon see that all your answers lead only to more and deeper questions. Your fate, as the flames of vision show me, is not that of an ordinary mortal. But, enough of this serious talk. Look again at the glass overhead. Do you see something missing?”
    “No.”
    “Too bad, because I do. For three millennia not one soul, mortal or elemental, has been worthy in my estimation to be the catalyst for my progeny, to join in the creation of a new soul. That was until today. And now,” Keku-Tir said, running a warm hand down Eris’ cheek and under his chin, “I may have to change my mind. It’s a rare thing for any elemental to purposely seek out a mortal. Something I shall explore further when you’re finished with Raga-Tor.”
    “I think not.” Eris quickly side-stepped the sorceress and was out the door.
    Keku-Tir stood next to the window and watched him disappear around a stand of trees. She hummed an ancient tune and a pleased smile lit her face. The fire in her eyes burned a little brighter as her vibrant gown faded to the plain, gray work dress of the old crone, who stoked the fires in the temple of Keku Raga-Tir.

    By the time Eris returned to the Black Mare Inn, it was almost noon. The common room was empty as he passed through and headed up to his lodging. Raj was already afield as the plan was to spend a part of the day with their comrades inspecting incoming caravans. All that was left for him to do was await the dreaded arrival of Raga-Tor. It wasn’t long until there was a heavy knock on his door.
    “At least you used the door this time,” Eris said, stepping aside to allow Raga entrance.
    “It’s good to see you too,” Raga commented, coming into the room. “This place is a lot shabbier by daylight. Seems a bit below your standards, I’d say.”
    “It’s none of your business.”
    “Have you decided what you will do?”
    “It seems I have no other viable option but to join you. You obviously won’t leave me alone until you get what you want.” The words nearly gagged him. He forced down the revulsion rolling in the pit of his stomach. “But I warn you, old man, I’ll be watching your every move. Trick me, and I’ll kill you.” Once I figure out how .
    A broad smile gleamed on Raga’s face, threat or no. He turned and clapped Eris on the back.
    “Good! I knew you would see things my way. Trust me, I’m really not such a bad fellow.”
    “I’m not sure your daughter agrees with you.” Eris went to answer another knock at the door.
    “Lunch,” Raga said,