“Pardons, Sir Ojarz,” he said, tapping a knuckle on the open door.
“Ah, Ahvixx. Please come,” Olam said, motioning to the chair opposite him. He closed the codex he was perusing and shifted the parchments aside. When Ahvixx remained standing, Olam reached for his pitcher, pouring a cup of water for him. “Please sit.”
Ahvixx nodded, slowly taking his seat, but keeping his gaze lowered. He fidgeted with his hair, as his cheeks appeared to redden.
“Are you all right, Ahvixx? Was there a reason for your visit, or would you rather continue examining my floor?” Olam smiled…a smile that wasn’t returned.
Ahvixx drained the cup, continuing to fidget. He wasn’t as comfortable around the others like Droxahn was. What he wanted to discuss made this meeting even more awkward.
“Ahvixx, you needn’t worry. No one here is going to harm you. We hope that you’ll find a home here with us. All of us are starting anew, so to speak. Not long ago, we were in the Animus Wood, and before that, Bandari—”
“Bandari? Nohek Asmaa speaks of the village often. I hope to visit there one day. Is it true that the humans and Nazilians lived there in peace?”
“It was that and more…for all of us. You’ve met the Caretaker of Spero and his family. Hosdaq and Vot established Bandari and were integral in protecting each of us and enriching our lives. You’ll meet many others who lived there as well. Emet is another, and his mother was Nazilian. Mayhaps we’ll have an opportunity to travel together soon. From the reports, much of Bandari has been destroyed, but the hot spring remains. Its waters are blessed by the Guardians themselves.”
“Emet? He’s Nazilian? He looks human.”
“Indeed,” Olam said. “His features are that of his father, Gayu Karidian, but his mother, Tabitha, was Nazilian. Emet’s brother, Nzuri, is the same, save his hair. Other than that, he’d appear human, too. There are so many, young Ahvixx. We could journey together, expanding on what you know, and discovering some things you never knew existed.”
“I’d welcome such a journey,” he said, lowering his eyes again.
Olam’s brow knitted, observing Ahvixx closely. He wore the modest robes of the priests with the emblem of the Seven around his neck. The emblem’s wood was nearly black, made from the trees in the Animus Wood. Olam smiled at that, and the auspicious young man seated before him.
Ahvixx’s hair was much longer than his sister’s, yet not nearly as well groomed. Pentanimir and Temian came to Olam’s mind in that instant. They were the only Nazilians he’d noticed with such long, thick tresses.
Ahvixx’s eyes were larger than most that he’d seen. There was something within them that Olam couldn’t discern. Like all pure Nazilians and some half, Ahvixx’s orbs were pale with the slightest bluish hue. So pale were his eyes, they appeared nearly clear.
Still, with Ahvixx there was something more. He was handsome by all accounts, standing much taller than Olam with broad shoulders. However, Ahvixx’s shoulders always seemed to slump, making him appear less than what he was.
“Ahvixx,” Olam finally said. “Why have you come?”
“I—I’ve heard that you have the ability to see things that are yet to come.”
“In a manner. Does this interest you?”
“It does, Sir Ojarz. How does it work?”
“Of that, I can’t begin to explain. The Guardians blessed me with many visions. Some were of small future events; others were monumental in guiding our lives or offering a glimpse as to what could be. But there’s no trick or command to them. The Guardians imparted these visions and truths, it was up to each of us to decide what course to take after them. I didn’t control the visions, Ahvixx, I merely interpreted them.”
A visible sigh escaped his lips.
“Why do you ask?”
“I’ve seen things, things in my dreams, and then I see them again before me just the same.”
“Do you mean that the visions in your dreams play out before you while you are yet awake?”
He nodded.
“And there’s no change—you see it exactly as in your dreams?”
“Yes, and I don’t understand, Sir Ojarz.”
“How long has this been happening? When was the first that you recall?”
“It was long ago. Now I know what it was, but then, it frightened me. I saw my parent’s deaths. I knew it was going to happen, and could do nothing. I didn’t understand then, as I don’t now.”
Olam closed his eyes in reflection, moving past the unpleasant memory. “Tell me about your recent dreams.”
“I knew that we’d be here, with the Caretakers. I didn’t know how it would come to pass, yet I knew we’d be here with you.”
“Do you recall anything else?”
“Yes, before I came to see you. I saw my sister and Aizen riding out of the stables. I’d seen that long ago, but wasn’t certain who or when. Droxahn cares for him, and he returns those feelings. Or at least, he will.”
“You’ve seen this, too?”
“I saw Aizen and Ahni before we met. I also knew about you and where to find you. Your name has repeated in my mind often, but I didn’t know why until I came to the citadel.”
“Does this frighten you?” Olam asked.
“It did, in the beginning. Now, I accept them as a blessing. Isn’t that how they’re intended?”
“It is, and you’re wise to comprehend that truth. It took some time for me to gain your level of understanding. This alone will aid you in this journey. It isn’t only seeing what may come to pass, Ahvixx, it’s being able to decipher those visions and attaining the wisdom to use these foretellings. The caretakers and priests have always helped me to better understand my visions. This is a rare gift, and not bestowed lightly. The Guardians said I’d meet others with like affinities, and it was my duty to guide them. I’ve been waiting for you, Ahvixx. Will you allow me to aid you?”
A sincere and relieved smile crossed his face, the first Olam had ever seen him offer.
“Yes, please.”
“Good. Now, my friends refer to me as Olam. I’d like you to do the same.”
“You wouldn’t consider it disrespectful to address you in the familiar?”
“Ahvixx, how old are you?”
“I’m seven and ten, milord.”
“I’m no lord. My birth is no higher than yours. I appreciate your willingness to address me respectfully, but there’s no disrespect in addressing me in the manner that I’ve asked. I consider you a friend, and now, my protégé, too. Olam will suffice.”
“Yes, O—Olam.”
“Now, let us join the others for noon meal. There’s much to do, and I’m eager to begin,” Olam said, standing and gesturing toward the door.
“I can take the meal with you?”
“Ahvixx, I’m not certain what’s caused this fear or idea of your inferiority. No one is above you. The first thing that you must learn is self-confidence. I’ve seen your work and know that you have an intelligence far beyond many twice your years. In fact, I’d like you to accompany me to Nazil when I visit the Zaxson. You’re certainly someone Pentanimir Benoist should meet.”
Olam noticed him shrink away at the notion.
“Don’t worry, it won’t be soon. Know that you’re much more than you’ve been led to believe. The fact that the Guardians selected you testifies to that. Together we’ll uncover the answers that you seek. First, we must eat, young Ahvixx. So, stand tall and know your purpose.”
Homecoming
The clopping hooves of the horses echoed around them as the carriages traversed the cobbled streets. Brahanu hadn’t been in the city since their inaugural ceremony as the Zaxson and Zaontras of Nazil. She leaned sideward, raising a small corner of the window’s drape. Even in the fading light, Nazil was beautiful.
She recalled the first time that she’d seen the white city and the terror that filled her that night. If it hadn’t been for Pentanimir, she could’ve been taken as a slave. More than fate had a role in
those circumstances. Although they learned that meeting had been prearranged, the outcome depended upon their willingness to look beyond what was, to discover what could be.
The ramifications of their decisions were still reverberating throughout Faélondul. Albeit, regardless of their losses and sacrifices, the blessings were immeasurable. Two of them accompanied them in the carriage, and Brahanu glanced down at their baskets, feeling the warmth of that truth.
“What has your mind?” Pentanimir asked, draping an arm around her shoulder.
When she turned to meet his eyes, Brahanu felt more content than she had in seasons. The love and adoration exuding from them confirmed what was in both her heart and mind.
“I think we’re home,” she said.
He leaned in for a kiss, as the carriage came to a halt. “I love you.”
“We’ve arrived, Zaxson,” Symeon said, opening the carriage door.
“Thank you, First Chosen,” Pentanimir said.
Symeon inclined his head, extending a hand out to him. As soon as Pentanimir stepped from the carriage, his smile was immediate, seeing his family standing in the courtyard to greet them.
“How was your trip?” Temian asked.
“Interesting, and we have much to discuss. I’ll brief you tonight, but we’ll have a full meeting on the morrow. It was a daunting trip, and I’m certain that Symeon and Wosen would like some time with their wives.”
“Service to the Zaxson takes precedence,” Symeon said.
“For this evening, service to your wives is of greater import.” He winked. “Besides, we’ll be retiring soon ourselves. Please, go and reacquaint yourselves.”
“As you say, Zaxson.” Wosen bowed, and then rushed to join Hibret.
After issuing instructions to the attendants, Pentanimir motioned his siblings to his solar.
“Much lies ahead for all of us,” he said, taking a seat at the head of the table.
“We received the communications from Cazaal, Spero, and Kaleo,” Danimore said. “How were the guards when Hosdaq retrieved them?”
“They were in good health, if not in good spirits. Yonas ensured that they were well treated. He assigned only his trusted sentries to tend to their needs. His younger brother, Amare, accompanied Hosdaq to Spero.
“The guards spoke well of Amare and he remained in Spero to assist the caretaker. Given his family’s past with Nazilians, that was unexpected. Amare shows great promise, and Hosdaq is considering asking him to join his Chosen Guard. He’ll notify us regarding the guard’s destinations soon.”
Temian nodded. “That’s good to hear. Do any of the guards hold any animosity toward Yonas or humans in general?”
“It doesn’t seem so,” Pentanimir said. “They fully understand why they were detained. Yonas denied them nothing but their freedom, and that was merely for their own safety. Hosdaq commented on how well they interacted with Amare. Apparently, they’ve developed quite a friendship. If only all matters in these lands could end so.”
“Agreed,” Thalassa said. “In time, the people will realize the benefit of all you’ve done.”
“Hear, hear,” Temian said, raising his cup.
Thalassa chuckled, lifting her cup to join in the toast.
“The hour grows late, and we all need to rest and prepare for our meeting,” Pentanimir said, standing from the table. “We should meet after noon meal to discuss further business. Hosdaq and Osmara should be in Noraa now. Mayhaps Nzuri will have more news for us then.”
With scattered response, they exited the solar, with Danimore walking at Pentanimir’s side. When he glanced over at him, he noticed Danimore’s troubled expression.
“Is everything all right, Dani?”
“It—I—I think that I’ve made an error and I don’t know how to correct it.”
“An error?” Pentanimir halted the guards, continuing down the corridor with his brother. “What do you mean?”
“Zeta’s upset with me, and she has the right to be.”
“She appeared fine when we arrived. Are you certain?”
“She was happy to see Brahanu and the children, but that doesn’t change anything between us.” He paused, taking a deep breath. “It’s Nikolina.”
“Nikolina?”
“Yes. While you were away, she asked for a private conference and I allowed her to come. It was inevitable, really, we both knew I’d have to face this eventually. When she tried to speak about the pledge, she was overcome with emotion and couldn’t continue. Before leaving, she invited me to her home so we could talk.
“I—I—I wanted to refuse, but when I looked into her eyes, I couldn’t. I’ve never seen her like this, Brother, and I’m the one to blame. I agreed to the meeting as long as Allister was there with us. That meeting is on the morrow, and Zeta isn’t pleased. She’s always been fearful of Nikolina and this meeting has amplified that fear.”
Pentanimir felt a twinge in his gut. He’d suggested offering the false pledge to Danimore. That was Pentanimir’s error in judgment, and now, the consequences were falling on Danimore alone.
“What will you do?”
“I’m obligated to go, but I’m conflicted. I reneged on the pledge. I don’t want to do the same now.”
“Not true, Dani. If you feel this is your obligation, have her return here. I see no reason why you must visit her home. You’re the Nakshij of Nazil now, not a city guard.”
“I know, but I’ve given my word, Pentanimir. Would you have me break it?”
“Of course not.” He sighed. “I’m not suggesting that you cancel the meeting. I’m suggesting a change in venue.”
“I understand, but she isn’t comfortable in the citadel. Perhaps the thought of Zeta and I living here is too much for her to bear. I asked to be her husband, Brother, and now I’ve taken a different wife.”
“Those facts were the same when she attended the ceremonies held here. If she were so distraught, I doubt she would’ve accepted those invitations.”
“Brother—”
“All right, Dani. If your decision is final, at least take Nakaris and Wosen with you. They wouldn’t need to attend your meeting, but their presence would serve to remind the d’Garrions of both your position and importance.”
Danimore nodded then, considering his suggestion. In the end, he stood, shaking his head. “No. I’ll speak with Zeta again. Hopefully, I can help her understand why this meeting is important for our family. After this meeting, we can be free of Nikolina. I’ll hold no more guilt surrounding any of this. If Nikolina needs a proper apology to move forward with her life, the least I can do is offer it to her. I owe her that much.”
“Dani, please think about this. Are you certain?”
“It’s what I must do. Mayhaps Nikolina will accept Velnic’s pledge once this is done. He’s an honorable man and would make her a fine husband.”
“I hope that you’re right, Dani. I don’t agree with your plan, but I understand its importance to you. If this is what you feel in your heart that you must do, so be it.”
Realities
Julaybeim stretched, turning in his bed still half-asleep. Reflexively, he reached over to embrace his wife, but found the bed empty. Sitting up, he rubbed his eyes, seeing Gali standing on the balcony of their bedchamber. His smile was immediate, admiring the way the dawning rays shown through her tulle robe, outlining her voluptuous figure.
The musical songs from the birds in the garden added a serenity to the scene. Tossing the covers aside, he rose, wrapping his strong arms around her. Gali turned, greeting him with a warm smile and an even warmer kiss.
“Good morning,” he said, kissing her again. Julaybeim inched her robe open, drawing her nakedness against his.
“Good morning.”
“Will you come back to bed, Gali?”
She glanced down at his arousal, before meeting his dark, grey eyes again. “It appears that you don’t have sleep on your mind, or does your body show false?” she said, gently caressing him.
Julaybeim flinched, releasing a stuttered breath. “The sight of you always causes such a reaction, from my heart and below as well.”
With that, she guided him to the bed, snuggling into him. He could tell by her mannerisms that she had something on her mind. At that point, his desires could wait. He drew her closer instead.
“What has you up with the sun’s rise?”
She sighed, pondering the question. There had been many things on her mind of late, much more than she could hope to convey.
“I’m thinking about our coming child…our daughter.” Her voice was barely over a whisper. “It seems so strange a thing. Had you asked me but four seasons ago if this was possible, I wouldn’t have hesitated in saying no. But here I am, here we are together. I love you more than I ever thought I could love anyone, and we’re happy. We’ve both suffered, but we’re happy.”
He lifted her face to his. “We’ve been blessed, Gali, not only with Dawntaylesha, but with each other. I love you more than anyone or anything I’ve ever known or will know, and nothing will change this. Why does it sadden you?”
“It’s more than us. I’m concerned about Ameya, Brahanu, my family, Hosdaq, all of them. Faélondul is free, yet some humans have taken on the role of the oppressors. My brother struggles in Kaleo as you do here. What will our children have to face? What horrors will await them?”
“We knew that it would take time. It appears to us as if the time has all but flown by, but it hasn’t. The lands are in flux, and it’ll take numerous people perhaps years to set it right. The Guardians said that Tardison is the true ruler. This means that we’re tasked with readying Faélondul for his reign. Our son will lead here, as Pentanimir’s and Hosdaq’s will do the same in Nazil and Spero. We’ll continue doing what’s right for not only ourselves, but for all of Faélondul. That’s all we can do, Gali.”
“You’re right. I’m just overwhelmed with everything right now.”
“We’ve been blessed beyond measure, but we still have obstacles yet to face. Many people don’t believe that I’m ready to be Caretaker, either. With your help, those people will be proven wrong. Both of us are in a place of leadership, Gali. I need your guidance, your wisdom, and your love. We aren’t alone…we’ll always have each other.”
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