The tapestry was dry and cracked. The walls showed signs of aging.
Lian took a deep breath. She closed her eyes, trying to focus on the distribution of power. Instead, she clenched her jaw and took in a sharp breath as the strain of ley lines pressed against her mind.
“Lian!”
Lian’s eyes shot open. She was lying on the floor. Solana stood above her with a look of concern. She reached down and helped Lian to her feet.
“I’m all right,” Lian said.
“Liar,” Solana sighed. She turned, showing Lian the long grey streak in her hair. “Neither of us is all right.”
“It was the destruction of Lily’s Rest,” Lian replied. “Losing it weakened our hold. But, without Talis, we were already on borrowed time. So now we are treading water... barely.”
“How long can we do this?” Solana asked.
“I don’t know,” Lian replied honestly.
