Free Silevethiel by Andi O'Connor

cut. Someone who will never turn their back on you. Someone who would never even dream of deceiving you.”
    “Aye, it is wonderful,” Laegon agreed, feeling Brégen delight in the compliment.
    «I always knew you would make a decent Protector,» the Guardian quipped before slowly retreating. His presence quickly became nothing more than a dull pulse in the back of the elf’s mind.
    “Like elves, the Guardians are blessed with long lives,” Laegon continued, grateful for the privacy. “I have lived over two hundred years and was chosen by Brégen when I was only fifteen. I cannot remember what it was like not to constantly feel his presence in my mind. There are many times when I wonder how the rest of the world manages to survive their daily lives without such companionship. No matter how far away we are from one another, Brégen is always there.”
    “I never realized the connection was that strong,” Irewen commented. “In a way, it must be rather uncomfortable. To have someone constantly in your mind, always listening to your thoughts.”
    “All Guardians, even Brégen, are capable of some discretion,” Laegon explained. “Just because we always feel our Guardian’s presence does not mean we are bereft of privacy.”
    “I don’t understand.”
    “A Guardian’s constant presence in our minds is simply a way for them to ensure that his or her Protector is not in danger,” he clarified. “For example, at the moment, Brégen can simply sense that I am calm and there is nothing posing a threat to either my safety or your safety. He does not know what I am thinking or feeling, nor can he hear what either of us are saying. Most of the time, this is how Brégen is connected to me, prepared to jump to my aid at the first hint of danger.
    “That being said, there certainly are times when I allow him to read my thoughts and, if a situation warrants it, listen through my ears. Of course, our connection with one another is strongest when we use Míendvel—Mind Voice in the common tongue—which, as you witnessed firsthand, can lead to rather embarrassing situations in the company of others. Still, every Guardian knows when to retreat and give their Protector privacy, even Brégen.”
    “Are you in Brégen’s mind?”
    “Most definitely. Everything I have just said is true in reverse. Brégen can feel me in his mind as I can feel him in mine. I know he is in high spirits and does not feel threatened. Should that change, I will know instantly and will do what I can to protect him.”
    “That sounds quite lovely actually,” Irewen replied with a longing smile. She wished Silevethiel had stayed with her after saving her from the abyss.
    “What was it like when Silevethiel spoke to you?” Laegon asked, as if sensing her thoughts.
    Irewen closed her eyes, reliving the experience. “It was absolutely glorious. It was as though I had discovered a part of myself I never knew existed. I felt whole. Complete. When she left, it felt as though a part of me died. I knew I would never again feel such a magnificent and joyful peace. It may sound strange, but even after being connected to her for such a short time, I feel rather lost without her.”
    Silence fell between them. Laegon studied her, surprised her connection with Silevethiel had been that strong. “Aye,” he said quietly after a time. “That is exactly what it feels like.”
    “Then why did she leave?” Irewen demanded. Her expression betrayed her hurt and frustration. “I have elven blood.”
    “Unfortunately, that is a question I cannot answer. Perhaps she did not think it was the proper time to cement your relationship. Perhaps she did not feel such a strong connection as you did. That is rare, but sadly it happens. It is true you have elven blood, but only a quarter. Perhaps that is not enough, or perhaps there is not the blood of a Wood Elf in your ancestry. We are the only elven race with Guardians. Even then, only a select few of us are