Illusional Reality

by Karina Kantas

  Omad found Thya lunching with Kezar underneath the shade of a tree, close to the Upess.

  “My lady, pardon the intrusion. Tis pressing I converse. Kezar you will depart,” he instructed.

  “Very well, only remain close at hand,” Thya told Kezar.

  Kezar left, walked a short distance, and sat on the ground waiting for Thya's call.

  “What is the urgency, Omad? You look pale with fear. Please, sit. Inform me freely.”

  Omad seated himself upon the ground cross-legged. “You recognise our plight and realise your fate—”

  Thya interrupted him. “Not that again. I have declared I have yet to accept this. You will provide me duration. I thought this was agreed upon?”

  “It was,” Omad answered. “Only Darthorn refuses to tarry.”

  “I understand. He commands you to jump, and you inquire how high? Well, I am not ready as yet. I understand your plight and I am aware of my chosen destiny. However, I do not accept this, and doubt I ever will. I am not your princess, and I can never be.

  “You expect me to exist in a land that is heading for certain destruction. It is too much. I am sorry for your plight, and I pray you locate the strength to overcome Darthorn. Only tis not my fight. I will not be forced into wedlock!”

  She was near to tears, yet none would come; enough had been shed during the time she had been in Tsinia.

  Omad was desperate and needed to think carefully. Why would she not listen to reason? For some moments, they sat in silence, when at last the answer came to him. “I recognise your distress, Thya, and I concur with all you declare. Alas, whether you believe this or not, Tsinia is your home and has always been. Even if you depart, you are still the rightful heir. Recall if you will what occurred on your land, England. If you are to return, I am convinced your duration will be plagued with attempts to destroy you. Darthorn will not cease. He will continue dispatching Senxs to Earth. Here you are protected by the employment of your gifts and your loyal subjects. On Earth, you will have naught to protect you. Unless you confront your destiny and aid your kinsmen, you will surely die.”

  Thya was speechless. Either way, she would lose. She knew Omad was just in his words. Nothing would stop Darthorn from sending more Senxs to kill her, unless she found a way to stop him herself.

  “Depart,” she said. “I will dispatch word when I have decided what to do.”

  Omad stood up. “By your leave.” He bowed. “I pray to the Changlins to bestow on you the strength in producing the correct decision.”

  Kezar watched Omad depart then rejoined Thya.

  “I sense bad tidings,” Kezar said.

  “Tis. I fear my rest and peace have come to a conclusion. Summon Alkazar to my counsel, I will return to the Recas in waiting.”

  “At once,” Kezar curtsied then ran off in haste.

  Thya had barely time for thought before Alkazar's quick arrival to the Recas.

  “You requested for me, my lady,” he said, breathless, as though he had run all the way.

  “I did, Alkazar, sit.”

  Kezar then left, shutting the door behind her.

  “I sense the cause of your summons,” he told her.

  “I assumed you would. The moment has arrived. Darthorn will endure not longer and tis the duration to face my doom or continue with the consequence of yours. As I have confessed prior to now, I have a belief, deep in my heart. I understand what I will do, only I cannot accept this. Alkazar, I have not duration to welcome my fate. I summon you for advice and in the hope of consolation. I am not afraid. The struggle tis that I cannot accept the burden. I am not your saviour.”

  “How I sympathise with you, such is the responsibility that comes with your standing. You are resolved to proceed?” he questioned.

  “Do not force me to utter such words, yet I realise I am. Do you deem me set and fit?”

  “Unfortunately, you are able. Tis not my standing to state otherwise. Suppose the requirement arises, you retain the power to protect and control yourself, although I desire longer in session you are well trained. I believe there is more I can absorb from you, a greater strength of your power I have yet to discover. Alas, this will remain so, until your introduction to your future spouse.”

  “Do not utter such words!” Thya cried. “I will venture to Senx for peace without a union. I will not discuss this proposal, and I believe tis wise to relate Darthorn of this prior to my visit.”

  “Tis by Darthorn's authority that the alliance is settled with wedlock. Do you consider he would consent to a treaty absent from this?” Alkazar asked.

  “Nay, I do not. Even so, I will attempt this. What other option do I retain? He has not yet met with me, he is not acquainted with my charm and persuasion,” Thya joked.

  Alkazar forced a smile then took a deep breath of satisfaction. “Then tis set in motion. In any case, a discussion will come to pass and as the Oracles predict, we will be victorious. I will inform Omad of your resolve. This ought to release the pressure on you. Arrange this instance when you are to encounter, or Darthorn will dictate.”

  “Very well, one tril moon from the present. I will not linger. I am resolved to proceed and I desire to put closure to this unpleasantness.”

  “Tis your command so be it. We will meditate and consult the Changlins.”

  Under the guidance and watchful eye of Alkazar, Thya meditated and prayed for strength and guidance.

  ***

  Alkazar did not sleep well. His fear for Thya's safety kept him awake through the night. As always, he ran scenarios through his head. His mind raced, and always he came up with a counter attack. He wanted his princess prepared for anything.

  “She ought not to partake in the consumption of food and drink,” he said, shattering the silence of darkness.

  Thya spent the next light preparing herself for the confrontation with Darthorn. Pertius gave instructions to her on what she should say, and the correct way to behave. He instilled into her the importance of decorum. Alkazar bombarded her with a series of imagined events and instructed her on how to attend to them. By the time they had finished, her mind was reeling. She had barely enough time to visit the Plecky for a short prayer before her departure.

  The journey was slow and torturous to the legs. To Thya, the mountain seemed to grow with every step. It seemed like hours had passed before she sighted the black gates of Senx. She prayed for strength, questioning if this was the beginning or the end?

  Armed guards escorted Thya through the city. The sight stunned her, though she wasn't quite sure what to expect. She presumed the Senxs would appear vicious looking, like her escort of guards. To her surprise, the citizens appeared similar to Tsinians. They hurried around, busy with their tasks, yet merry. They were well groomed and appeared healthy and happy. It was obvious that no matter what she thought about Darthorn, none could say he wasn't good to his kinsmen.

  Thya was led to a large, bare chamber. The hall was constructed in gold. It glittered and shined, giving the chamber a rich and powerful feel.

  The guards withdrew from the chamber without announcement. It was then Thya became aware she was not alone.

  On the far left side of the chamber stood a Senx; his back was to her, his interest otherwise occupied as he stared out of the window covering most of the wall. It was obvious to Thya who he was, for she had seen him in her dreams. His large hands were clasped behind his back, his stance proud and dominating. He was wearing a long dark red and gold kimono type gown. His jet-black hair hung loose down his back, the length almost touching his hands. There was no doubt in her mind. This was Darthorn; the ruler of Senx.

  Thya waited for Darthorn to acknowledge her, but soon realised he was not going to. Her patience could hold out no longer. Coughing loudly, she stirred Darthorn from his thoughts. His head whipped around, his scorn turned into an artificial smile, or so Thya thought.

  “Welcome, Princess,” his deep voice boomed.

  It took him four powerful strides to reach h
er. He extended his arm, which she took, then led her to the middle of the open spaced stone floor. With a wave of his hand, a gold, regal style table and two chairs appeared. The table was laden with fruit and beverages. Thya gasped. Still the magic and mystic of her new world surprised her.

  “Be seated,” he instructed, pointing to one of the chairs.

  As Thya took her seat, Darthorn poured a liquid that looked similar to Tsinian wine into two goblets and handed one to her. Remembering what Alkazar had said, she held the cup in her hands, not daring to let the wine touch her lips.

  “I am pleasured to lay sight upon you, finally,” he added, “for I have lingered long for our rendezvous. Your reputation precedes you. Tis an honour you travel to my land.”

  “I do not concur,” Thya retorted.

  His eyes turned black and his face displayed a frightful scowl. Thya stiffened, startled by the abrupt change in his persona.

  His false smile recovered. He took control of his anger but wanted to tear her apart where she stood. What was stopping him? It was, of course, prudent to keep his enemies close. He didn't yet know her, or what she was capable of.

  Thya recalled Alkazar's words. 'If you journey to Senx carrying a stance of arrogance and bravery, then I guarantee you will throw away any hope,' he had told her. It was essential to tread carefully and be aware of her tongue.

  “I will permit that to pass,” Darthorn said, though it was spoken as a warning. “I do not doubt your subjects have voiced their opinion of me—my evil doings and how loathsome I am.” His cruel laughter echoed through the empty chamber. “Do not presume to understand me, Thya. Why heed idle gossip? Judge for yourself. I desire to persuade you of my genuineness. I long to unite in friendship.”

  Thya doubted his words. She had laid judgement upon him and found him guilty on all accounts. She opened her mouth to speak and then stopped as footsteps approached. Darthorn rose from his seat and Thya, sensing it was polite to follow his example, did the same. Then, not wanting to seem interested in Darthorn's business, she turned away from him.

  “Greetings, Father,” a clear and soothing voice rang out.

  Out of curiosity, Thya turned in the direction of the sound.

  Kneeling beside Darthorn was a younger Senx, certainly younger than Thya expected. He possessed hypnotic blue eyes but carried the same discourteous attitude as his father. He rose and acknowledged Thya with a smile that faded when it was not returned. He was handsome, Thya could not deny that, distinct features and a pleasing face, except she had learnt from experience that looks could be deceiving. Without taking his eyes off her, Kovon took Thya's hand and kissed it.

  “Tis an honour to lay sight upon you, my lady.” He bowed courteously.

  She felt a sudden urge to wipe her hand.

  “Absolve me for my lateness, Father. I deemed it prudent for you to encounter one another without the burden of my presence.”

  “I will depart,” Darthorn announced, and then turned to address Thya. “Tis inevitable we will encounter one another in passing. When this occurs, I require for us to converse further.”

  With a swish of his gown, Darthorn departed, leaving Kovon and Thya alone.

  Kovon seated and turned to address Thya. “I will be direct,” he announced. “I have been impatient for our encounter ever since I was informed of your planned arrival.” His smile was sickly sweet and caused her stomach to churn.

  “You are fortunate I was able to attend at all. There was an ambush on Earth—an attempt to remove my breath.”

  Kovon face was expressionless. “I am rejoiced to sight you well,” he finally answered. Why should he pretend he knew nothing of the attack, it was obvious she was not to be fooled. Even so, he was not put off. “Tis desired our wedlock would present union to our great lands. My subjects are as anxious for peace as your own. Sighting you resolves my wait. I have visualised your beauty, and I am pleasured that you exceed my expectations. You are an astounding Ganty and I am impatient for our union and the alliance to commence.”

  Thya listened, only she couldn't bear to hear any more. Forgetting Alkazar's warning, she spoke her mind. “Okay, Kovon, you can cease with this charade. I am aware, as are you, what you are truly after, and I am certain tis naught to do with me. You desire for Tsinia. You always have and forever will, and the only means to do this is by becoming one with their heir.”

  Kovon smiled. “Bright as well as beautiful. You have been taught well. Yet why would a union with me be so terrible? I would present to you all you desired.”

  He contemplated their union with relish, more so now he had encountered her. She took his breath away. She was stunning, almost bewitching, and her stubborn streak made him want her more.

  Thya laughed. “Well, well, well, the mighty Kovon befallen by a woman. Enlighten me. If I bat my eyelashes will you fall on your knees in worship?” She laughed again. “I do not desire to wed you, Kovon. You repulse me. I would rather subsist in celibacy then allow you to touch me.”

  “Do not mock me, Princess,” he warned. “Performance of matrimony is not necessary for me to rule Tsinia. There are additional methods, as you are familiar with.”

  Thya stood up in anger. “I journeyed in the hope we could build an alliance absent from wedlock, peace absent from bloodshed. I understand now tis impossible. The Tsinians are desperate to exist, absorbed from the wrath of your father. I have bequeathed my word that I will aid them in their struggle, with the exception of a union with you.”

  “Thya, you do not want to create an enemy out of me. I too hope for peace, yet I am convinced you doubt my words. I sense you have resolve of me, and I will not persuade you otherwise.”

  “I believe our encounter is concluded. Tis obvious you have not the intention of peace, as I have not in a union with you. Although it was gratifying to sight you. I have learnt much, and from what I have observed tis all genuine.”

  Kovon stood up. The chair fell to the floor with a crash, making her jump. The dark expression she had seen in Darthorn was displayed on Kovon's face. Only something more sinister was present, if that was at all possible.

  “You retain a sharp tongue, Thya. Tis prudent you do not remark more. I recognise the duration spent absent from your land has not taught you manners. Tis prudent you depart. I will permit you duration to mull over your decision, for your heart will alter.”

  Thya was seething. “I do not require duration to mull over your pathetic proposal. You will never control Tsinia. I will rule henceforth.”

  She regretted the words immediately. Did she realise what she had said? Would she keep to her word? Could she?

  “You will pay for your impertinence,” Kovon warned. “What I do hereafter will be on your head, remember that, Princess!”

  Thya left then, knowing that if she said anymore, her subjects would be put in further peril.

  ***

  Kovon paced up and down the chamber. How dare she address him so? He had never encountered a female Bora with such spirit and stubbornness. She was born a queen, that much was obvious from her regal manner. It was regretful she would not have the opportunity to rule as she intended, for if his father's plan did not transpire, Kovon retained his own preparations for the princess. Why had he permitted her to depart though? He ought to have imprisoned her. She would not have escaped. Nay, his father's games were foolish. If Kovon were warlord, all would bow to his feet.

  Darthorn had listened in on the conversation between Thya and his son. It amused him to see Kovon so affected by another. Should he be wary of Thya? Was she an enemy he needed to watch? She was brave, even if that bravery was employed through stupidity. She ought never to have stood up to Kovon. It had been some time since Darthorn had witnessed his son's temper. If Thya understood him, known what he was capable of, Darthorn was certain she would have not have confronted him. Nevertheless, the damage was done now. She would soon regret her outburst.

  What distressed Darthorn however, was her announcement on ruling Tsinia.
Was it a provoked reaction to the moment, or was she serious about accepting the crown? Jakar had given him the impression Thya wanted naught to do with Tsinia. Only now he understood it differently. He decided to consult the Darkeye about her, and so left without delay.

  The Darkeye was housed inside the rock of the mountain and could only be accessed through Darthorn's abode. There it sat for many ages, never once removed. It was said that if any other than a warlord looked into its light their life would be forfeited.

  Darthorn entered the cold, damp cavern. With a wave of his hand, two torches glowed, though the cave was still cloaked in a dark shadow. A light brightened the gloom as the Darkeye acknowledged its master.

  He approached the eye, situated on top of a large rock column, and placed his hands on either side of the crystal. An image appeared; unclear at first, it became sharper, until Darthorn was staring into the face of his enemy. He despised the sight of her, and yet kept his vision upon the revelation the eye displayed.

  He examined a session between Thya and Alkazar, mumbling to himself. “So, Thya possesses the gift of Flite, tis good to acquire, yet damaging to my plans…”

  She was strong-willed, and having conversed with her, Darthorn judged her to be impossible. She had developed into a bigger threat than initially believed. “Curse them for her reinstatement. They will pay for her defiance!”

  Darthorn removed his hands from the Darkeye and the image faded. It once again looked like a harmless gem. There was only one answer, and so he spoke the words that even the great Darthorn dreaded to utter.

  ***

  Omad had been waiting outside the gates of Senx for Thya's return. He was not permitted entrance into the city, and Thya insisted that he wait. Even though he feared for the safety of his princess, he was more worried about his own.

  Armed Senxs surrounded him. They looked as though they would like nothing better than to tear him from limb to limb. Omad kept his eyes to the ground, fearful of making contact with one of the monsters. As time passed, he became agitated. Maybe it wasn't such a good idea to allow Thya to go alone, unprotected. However, Darthorn had presented his word that she would not be harmed. How good was his word though?