Illusional Reality

by Karina Kantas

  “I understand why I was brought forth,” he said. “Though I am well acquainted with this gift, I am sad to remark that I do not retain the power to cancel the enchantment. My talents lie only in the tuition of such gifts, not the removal. I am unable to aid you though I believe there is one among us who can.”

  Thya listened to Alkazar, only her mind wandered back to the dreadful afternoon when she and Kezar laughed and enjoyed each other's company. She visualised Kezar raising the poisoned cup to her lips….

  She snapped out of her memory and came back to the present. Thya pointed a finger at the chained prisoner. “You murdered Kezar,” she accused. “Tis you who deposited Strikler into the wine.” There was a stunned silence as she walked towards the unfaceable. “I command you to reveal yourself.” She lifted her arms and spread her fingers wide. “I, heir of Tsinia, guardian of the Changlins, command you to unveil yourself.”

  As if her words were a spell, a scared, pathetic looking Senx, clad in worn trousers and a soiled jacket, was revealed. Thya lowered her hands to her side, her sight still upon the spy.

  “Your name?” she commanded.

  “Jakar,” he spluttered.

  Alkazar watched on with pride, the council gazed in wonder.

  “You have been detained for slaying, and for being a herald to our enemy. In advance of your judgement, remark to me… who issued the order to poison the wine?”

  Omad was slightly stunned by her question. Jakar was not. He stood as straight as his bent body would allow, lifted his head, and answered, “My lord and master, Kovon, the great warlord of Senx.”

  “And declare, what will transpire when he discerns of your failure?”

  With that, Jakar turned back into the quivering, helpless Senx he was before.

  “You have responded to my query. Remove him,” she commanded.

  The guards came forward to escort the messenger away.

  “Safeguard his wellbeing and treat him justly,” she added.

  Thya did not return to the throne but walked to the addressing star. She faced the council, who were too stunned to speak and sat open mouthed.

  “As you have witnessed, Jakar is not responsible for Kezar's death, nor of being an informer.”

  The council was silent no more.

  “Not responsible?” they protested.

  “My friends; permit the lady to close,” Alkazar broke in.

  Once the noise quietened down, Thya continued. “He was heeding orders from his lord, as you have done yourselves, when once you were governed. Kovon is the enemy, tis he that is blamable, and he that will be punished, not his herald.”

  “You would absolve this informant and permit him release to prolong his surveillance?” Zarc quizzed.

  “Certainly not,” she retorted. “He will return to Senx without his ability. I hold the belief that he will not hinder us again.”

  A member of the council who had so far been silent spoke out. “How do you propose to eliminate his ability? You are not a sorceress. Though we have witnessed a metamorphosis in your persona that astounds us, we are doubtful that you can expel such a possession. Only the Changlins can execute such a feat, as you are familiar with, Alkazar.”

  Alkazar's face turned red with anger. “You fools!” he growled. “Are you blind? Did you not sight the impossible? The informer cannot retain his gift. Did you not sight the wonder our lady performed? Was it not her power and hers alone that uncloaked our enemy? I have accompanied the princess to the Plecky. I have beheld the parallel between the Changlins and herself, and I am convinced. Tis not the Changlins that supply her with power, tis she that powers the Changlins.”

  There was an almighty uproar. His statement shocked even Thya. Alkazar ignored the shouts and cries and raised his voice above the others. “Have you not regarded the peace around us since our lady's arrival? Omad, you yourself expressed alteration in our sacred stones. When it was uncertain if she would retain breath while in the proximity of death, the light within faded. And when she revived, so did the light, and more so.”

  “Tis so, Alkazar,” Omad confirmed. “Nevertheless, what you remark is close to impossible. The Changlins have been the source of Tsinia's power ahead of our lady's arrival. The stones have guided and provided us with the elements to survive. If what you remark has any genuineness, then let it be understood, how have we succeeded to exist?”

  The others agreed. Alkazar was ready with his reply. “We have existed, my loyal friends, because Thya existed. In a different dimension to us, only she was active, and for this reason, so were the Changlins.”

  Tasark then rose to speak. “Then what transpired prior to her birth? Enlighten me to this?”

  “Have the Oracles not inscribed of a Tsinian born with the capability and gifts unlike another. The Changlins held awareness of her pending arrival. Though merely a myth discoursed in passing, you currently sight before you a legend.”

  Again they argued among themselves until Omad silenced them.

  “Are you confident of this? If what you remark is genuine, I rejoice and praise the Changlins and bestow worship to our lady. Revile to us, at once. How can you be free from doubt?”

  Thya felt she had been silent long enough. “Though I am still acquiring awareness about who, and what I am, and not as yet sure how much ability I possess, I am aware I retain the gift of Flite, born to all Ganties. In addition to this, I possess the gift of Yepsy.”

  A sudden intake of breath was heard among the council. Thya continued, “I sensed a connection with the Changlins the moment I stepped foot in Tsinia and am led to gather that I am the only Ganty who retains this attachment. Although I do not agree, nor disagree with Alkazar's certainty, I feel an inner strength, which I am continuing to master. I hope that ultimately, my power, depending on how much I retain, will aid Tsinia in the fight against Kovon.”

  Omad turned and addressed Alkazar.

  “You are witness to these wonders?” he inquired.

  “I am,” Alkazar answered. “We came upon the gift by chance, though tis written about. I have tutored and trained our lady on the employment of Yepsy. I believe there is naught among you that are ignorant of the code.” No one answered, so he continued. “Our lady holds the ability to control the forces of nature, which leads me to believe she has a connection with the Changlins. This alone is remarkable, yet what we have just witnessed leaves me complexed. I am uncertain what further abilities she may possess; we are continuing in our understanding.” He turned and smiled at her. “What I do believe is that her arrival was a blessing. Even though I am unsure how she will conquer Kovon, I am convinced she will.”

  Then Alkazar walked over to Thya and bent down on one knee before her.

  “Thya, heir of Tsinia and guardian of the Changlins, I pledge to you my trust, love and service until my final breath.”

  Thya felt deeply moved by his words. “And I accept your service and will hold you to your oath, Alkazar.”

  All of the councillors stood, bowed, and swore to protect their princess.

  Once the pledges were over, they re-seated. They felt the change. Even though she had yet to accept the crown, many believed they once again had a ruler. The council sat erect, waiting eagerly for her command. Thya sensed a respect and power of authority. She returned to the throne before addressing the council. “Tis the period of alteration. I will face my destiny and accept my fate, whatever that is. I shall compete in battle if the requirement arises. I believe Alkazar is of the same mind. I retain comprehension of the code and of the arts, and I doubt there is more to ascertain. We will release Jakar from his chains and return him to his land with a declaration for the great warlord. I will encounter with him in one tril moon.”

  Omad rose from his seat to speak. “Though we desired an alliance, tis obvious now that will not occur and we beg absolution for our demands on you, they were unjust. We are but a peaceful race and consider defence only for the protection of our land. Even so, you have sighted that we do not
retain weapons and employ our powers only as a deterrent, which themselves are few.

  “We have so far protected Tsinia. Though I fear the warlord's power is growing and I am doubtful we can resist longer.”

  “Be seated, Omad,” Thya instructed. “You are not required to stand to address me. I do not desire warfare. I hope my encounter with Kovon will conclude the evil shadowing my kinsmen.”

  Omad re-seated then continued his questioning. “If not war, then let it be voiced how you purpose to halt the warlord when he retains the power of the Darkeye?”

  “I will destroy the Darkeye,” Thya declared.

  “Surely you do not presume to venture to Senx unassisted?” Tasark dared to ask.

  “With certainty, I believe Kovon would desire this approach.”

  “Are you not fearful that he will prepare a trap for you, my lady?” Tasark questioned.

  “Do not be troubled. I will spin my own snare,” she answered.

  “Though I do not take pleasure in uttering these words, I believe I ought to,” Tasark pressed. Thya nodded in acceptance. “What if you do not succeed, my lady? What will befall us? If Alkazar is just, and your resource powers the Changlins, then all will be lost and Tsinia will be destroyed.”

  Alkazar broke in. “And if our lady does not face Kovon, and we position an attack, again we become defeated and our land will be seized. These are dark moments, my friends, yet I sight a light, and it glows brighter.”

  “What if you fail?” Tasark mumbled.

  “I will not,” she retorted. “Although I understand your fear. Organise provisions, Omad, have your kin prepared to depart at a moment's notice if this satisfies you.”

  Tasark nodded his head.

  “Tis late and I have much to undertake. Return Jakar to me,” she commanded.

  Within moments, the two guards brought Jakar in and forced him to kneel before her. His head remained bent, too frightened to look at her.

  “Jakar, messenger and servant to Kovon of Senx, I choose to be merciful and spare your miserable existence.” He lifted his head with surprise as a guard unclasped his chains.

  “Let not one voice that Thya is unjust or unruly. Depart and relate to your master that I desire to convene with him in one tril moon from the present.”

  Jakar smiled. The message would please Kovon and should ease his punishment for failure.

  “And be aware,” she continued, “if you are caught upon my land thereafter, you will sustain pain for your defiance.”

  Jakar eyed Thya suspiciously before getting up and running out of the Escos.

  ***

  Although Jakar returned with good news, he was severely punished for failing to kill Thya and getting caught. Kovon considered his options.

  Jakar was inadequate. He couldn't complete an effortless order without messing it up, only some good had come of it. Thya intended to come to Senx. Once she was upon his land, he would tend to her. This duration she would not depart.

  Kovon couldn't decide whether to retain and employ her at his leisure or eliminate her once she had moaned with both pleasure and pain. He called for an attendant.

  “Ready a chamber for confinement. I am anticipating a guest.” He smiled smugly to himself.

  Thya returned her attention to the council. “I understand you have many queries to place onto me. Nevertheless, I am tired and will rest. Alkazar, you will escort me to the Plecky, and then I will return to the Recas where I require council from Alkazar, Omad and Pertius.”

  Thya stepped down from the throne, took Alkazar's arm, and left the Escos.

  “I appreciate your words, Alkazar. I know who I am and where my duty lies. My burden has lifted since I accepted my responsibilities. Defeating Kovon represents an itch that requires scratching, naught more than that.”

  He nodded his head. “Tis not until I voiced my findings that I finally understood. Tis a huge liberation for me as the conclusion plagued me for some while. We are both granted peace.”

  They reached the Plecky, only Alkazar would not enter.

  “Tis not a concern of mine, Thya. I will remain until your reappearance.”

  When Thya emerged from the Plecky, she looked stronger and more determined than Alkazar had ever seen her. He felt desperate to know what had been conversed. Despite this, he remained silent.

  Thya was lost to her thoughts and did not speak until they reached the Recas.

  “Alkazar, I desire for you to be aware of how significant your companionship is. I could not have reached this juncture if it was not for you.”

  He bowed his head and motioned for her to enter before following quietly behind.

  Pertius and Omad rose from their seats as Thya entered the attendance room. She bade them to remain seated and then sat in deep thought before speaking.

  “I do not know what will occur in Senx so I am unable to prepare myself. Regardless, I am certain that with my powers and by the will of the Changlins, I will defeat Kovon. Tsinia will once again exist in peace.

  What has been revealed to me, and which I knew in my heart, is that I am compelled to destroy the Darkeye. Alas, I am unacquainted with this power. Omad, how informed are you?”

  “Little I fear, my lady,” he answered. “Though tis understood to be a crystal, large and black as its heart.”

  “Alkazar, perhaps you retain an understanding of the eye, for it seems more of your concern,” Thya asked.

  “I am of some understanding,” he replied. “The Darkeye habitats within Darthorn's dwelling, pardon—Kovon's dwelling. Though tis not acknowledged in what location. The Lords of Senx employ the eye for guidance to sight future occurrences.”

  “As do we with the Oracles,” Thya inquired.

  “Tis so,” Alkazar answered, “Only, the Darkeye holds an evil strength within it, familiar to us as the Dark Force. The Lord of Senx controls the employment of this force, and we have all witnessed its strength.”

  “Tis why it ought to be destroyed,” Thya declared.

  “With certainty, my lady,” Alkazar agreed. “Yet, how do you intend to achieve this feat?”

  “I am undecided as yet. Even so, I am not anxious. I believe that when the moment arises I will understand what must be done.”

  Omad nodded. He thought she had the demeanor of one without a care—positive and brave. He hoped it was not a pretence for their benefit. Could it be possible that Alkazar was just in his conclusion? Omad would pray to the Changlins to provide their princess with the strength she needed, although it seemed at the present that none was required.

  Thya laughed joyfully as she chatted with Pertius and Alkazar, as though she had nothing to fear.

  “Advise me, Pertius, with awareness of my intentions, is there a section of the code that forbids me to proceed?”

  “Nay, my lady, not to my recollection. An act of war relaxes the code, somewhat. If I remember otherwise, you will be the first I inform.”

  “Tis good,” Thya laughed. “Omad, I am told that unless I accept the crown, you retain the title of governor. Therefore, I require your consent to proceed to Senx alone. Is it permitted?”

  “Tis, my lady. Yet, I believe you would proceed, nonetheless.”

  Thya laughed aloud, only the others did not feel it right to be merry at such a climatic time.

  She held her hands out. “My loyal friends, your fight is verging to a conclusion. Why so glum? Begin the celebrations. Rejoice in your freedom,” she declared.

  “How are you convinced you will be victorious when you understand not what will occur, or how you are to defeat Kovon?” Pertius asked.

  Thya looked to Alkazar for an answer.

  “If the guardian of the Changlins assures all will be well, then it will be so. Do not query her judgement,” Alkazar lectured.

  Thya smiled. “Well remarked.”

  “And yet,” he continued, “we ought to prepare for an assault. Omad, I believe tis prudent to be organised.”

  “Agreed,” Omad said.


  There was a strained silence. “Very well,” she relented. “Do as you will. Now, allow me my rest and do not disturb me for I will be in vigil from first light until my departure. Omad, prepare my escort; I depart as soon as the tril moon is upon us.”

  All three stood up to leave.

  “Alkazar, linger a while,” she called. He re-seated while the others took their leave.

  “I hold preference to pass my moments with you rather than in solitude. Alas, the Changlins command this, so remain a while and bestow companionship and love.”

  Holding her arms out to him, he picked her up, carrying her out of the attendance room and into her bedroom amid the astonishment of the servants.

  Thya spent the following day in solitude, meditating and relaxing her mind and body and preparing for the confrontation. She decided to give Kovon the impression she was venturing to Senx in the hope of another alliance. There was no reason for him to think otherwise. If he had the smallest inclination to Thya's resolve, he would most likely be prepared for her. The Changlins assured her he knew nothing of her plan. An element of surprise was the only way she would defeat the warlord. Even so, her mind was split in two and she had a hard time struggling between doubt and certainty.

  How could she feel so calm and sure of herself when she had no awareness of what would occur or how to destroy Kovon? Yet she believed she would succeed. It was the unknown that scared her.

  The time came for her departure and Alkazar was soon by her side. She dressed in a white flowing silk dress, the colour of which symbolised peace and wore her mother's necklace. With her hair loose, she looked and felt like a Ganty. This new awareness caused her determination to grow.

  “Alkazar, you appear un-rested,” Thya remarked. “Did you not slumber satisfactorily?”

  “My rest was troubled by disturbing images,” he said. “Thya, I implore you. Do not proceed to Senx. I retain a belief you will face unknown dangers.”

  “Do you not deem me fit to protect myself?”

  “You misunderstand,” he answered. “I do not doubt your powers. I am anxious for your safety. I am convinced Kovon holds perilous intentions and desire for you to be prepared.”