“Your babe is all right, too. Hushar wanted me to tell you that,” Danimore said, noticing her trembling and edging toward the wall. She cradled her womb, putting distance between them.
“Please sir, where is this place?”
“You’re in my home. The Zaxson offered me one of his attendants, and I selected you.”
“Me? But—but I’m of little use. Am I to pleasure you, milord?” she asked, pushing her hair from her face. “I can learn whatever you like. I—I promise to please you well.” As she reached between his legs, Danimore rose, sliding her hand away.
“Zeta, you’re not here to pleasure me or anyone else. Once you’ve healed, you’ll cook, clean, and shop for our home, nothing more. Only my brother and I reside here, and your duties will be light. This room is yours, and you’ll be well treated.”
“I don’t serve the citadel anymore?”
“No. I wouldn’t leave you there,” he said, pushing those memories from his mind. “Your place is here with me, and I’ll look after you.”
Tears spilled down her cheeks as she looked up at him. “I don’t serve the Zaxson?”
“Not anymore. My name is Danimore Benoist, and you’ll remain here with me. I know it’s difficult to understand, but I don’t want anything more from you. It won’t be the same as it was at the citadel. Until you’re able to work, I’ll continue as I have. But these tasks will fall to you when you’re able.”
“Yes, milord, I’ll do whatever you say. I’m a good worker, I promise.”
“I don’t doubt your abilities or your commitment. Just know: you’ll not be beaten or mistreated. I expect you to do your chores and rest. My brother and I need little, but we’ll discuss those details once you’ve recuperated. For now, I’d like to ask you some questions. Do you know the father of your child?”
“No, sir.”
“I was told that you leveraged your body for your freedom, but I don’t believe that.”
“It—it’s as they say. Whatever they’ve told you is the truth.”
He sighed, sitting in the chair beside the bed again. “Zeta, you have no cause to trust me, but I’m not trying to trick you. I’d asked you before how you came to Nazil, and you said that you were aboard a ship. What happened?”
She touched her swollen eye, glancing at him with the other one. She couldn’t stop trembling, but she didn’t perceive any dishonesty in him. However, that misperception had cost her before, and she still bore the scars from that beating. She was reluctant, but didn’t feel that she had a choice. The Zaxson could’ve told him about her capture, and if she lied, she’d be beaten again, or worse.
“I had passage on a ship,” she began. “Some guards came aboard and—and—I—I—tried to escape.” Her tears began anew as she described her capture, yet her face was frozen in a blank, expressionless mask. As if she were retelling events where she didn’t exist, yet another stood in her place, impervious to pain and torment.
Danimore choked back his emotion, listening to the horrific detailed recounting. He wanted her to stop, to walk away, but he remained attached to his chair, unable to move.
“That’s the truth of it, milord? I don’t know who sired my babe or why I love it so. I’d die so it could live free. I was maiden and promised when they took me. Now, I’m but a collection of holes, and they’ll kill me when I’m of no more use.”
Danimore listened helplessly as she lay weeping upon the bed. There was nothing that he could offer to soothe such an ache. He could remove her from danger, but she’d already suffered more than could ever be mended. He hadn’t realized the depth of torture inflicted on Nazil’s captives. Taking someone’s freedom was appalling enough, this, reached far beyond that. Zeta was living, but she wasn’t alive.
“I’m sorry, Zeta, truly. It’s not nearly enough, but it’s all that I have to offer.”
When she looked over at him, he lifted a jar from the table. I’ve mixed a tincture of herbs, and this is kuzbarah oil. I applied it once before while you slept, but you’ll need more soon to ease the pain. If you’ll allow, I can apply some now and then get you something to eat.”
If I allow? Zeta thought, flinching as he reached for the covers.
“I promise not to hurt you,” he said, drizzling some oil in his hands. “Please tell me if I’m too rough. My brother’s touch is gentler than mine.”
“It—it doesn’t hurt.”
“Are you able to sit up?”
She nodded, still uncertain. Danimore’s countenance displayed a kindness atypical of the Nazilians that she’d met. This was the first time since her capture that she wasn’t afraid. Although she didn’t trust Danimore, she didn’t fear him, either.
“You need to drink this,” he said, handing her the cup. “It’s a tea that my mother used to make with valerian, chamomile, imphepho, and a drop of nightshade. It’ll allow you to sleep and relax your stiffness.”
“It’s good. I taste some honey, too.”
“Just a little to sweeten the tea. I’ll leave you now to rest, but don’t try to get up without my aid. My chamber isn’t far from yours, and I’ll leave the door open. After I rest, I’ll make us something to eat. I hope that you have an appetite for fish and rice.”
For the first time, she smiled. “Fish and rice suit me well. Thank you for your kindness, Sir. It isn’t deserved.”
“It’s more than deserved, Zeta, it’s owed to you.”
A Great Decision
Pentanimir was waiting near the eternal fire while Brahanu washed and dressed. He poked at the flames with a stick, noticing the Elders exiting the hall. He’d missed the peace of Bandari. Only here did he feel free in both body and mind, and he longed for such peace to last.
Hearing the door creak open, he stood, tossing his stick into the fire. Damp ringlets clung to Brahanu’s face, outlining her beauty. Even wearing a plain cotton tunic and slippers, she was stunning. The moonlight shone on her glistening skin, reminding him of the first time that he’d seen her. More beautiful now than even then , he thought, reaching forward to embrace her.
“Thank you, Pentanimir, everything that you said is true. The people here are remarkable. I just wish that I could’ve met more of them.”
“You’ll have an opportunity on the morrow. They’d like to meet you, too.”
“How do you feel? Your eye is still swollen. Should I check your wounds before we rest?”
“I’m fine. I went to the dawa not long ago and Saifu changed the bandages. He’d like to tend to you as well, but first, you need to rest,” he said, motioning to the bench.
“All right. I’ve been thinking about something one of the Elders said, the one from Nazil.”
“Elder Hosdaq.”
“Yes. What he said about duty and heart, and then he mentioned your uncle. He didn’t seem pleased at my arrival, and I don’t understand why.”
“What Hosdaq said had nothing to do with you. He was speaking about my Uncle Oxilon. He’s my father’s younger brother and the Zaxson’s High Advisor. I’m certain that the Elders sense our true feelings, and if they didn’t, Olam would surely know.” He sighed, taking her hand. “They’re aware of my imminent pledge to Denotra, and the implications of such a bond. Though it’s not formally announced, I’m certain that the pledge will be accepted. Hosdaq fears that I might choose my love for you over my duty in Nazil.”
“What does this mean for us? Are we supposed to act as if we have no feelings?”
“I didn’t say that, Brahanu. We both knew that our road ahead would be complicated. Regardless of our feelings, we can’t ignore our lives beyond these borders. Your promised awaits you in Cazaal as my pledged waits in Nazil. We’re here to return you to your home, not to forge a relationship. I loathe the thought of it, but that’s the world in which we live. On the morrow, I must return.”
Brahanu drew him closer, resting her head on his shoulder. He spoke the truth, but she didn’t want to face that reality so soon. “When will I see you again?”
>
“Only the gods truly know. It’s they who brought you to me, and they’ll bring us together again,” he said, kissing her lips. “I told you about my younger brother, Danimore. His fate is tied to mine. I’m returning not only to answer my pledge, I’m returning for him, too.”
“So soon? You promised that we’d have time together, Pentanimir. Can’t you stay a while longer?”
“I can’t take that risk. Upon my return, I must visit Noraa to send your message. It could take twice as long to return than when we came. If I stop in Mahlum, even longer. We have this time now, and I won’t waste it.”
“Noraa?”
“There’s someone I trust there that’ll help me. You’ll be safe here, and the Elders will see you home. I promise; I’ll see you again.”
She drew him down for a kiss, knowing the truth in his words, but not wanting to accept them.
“I love you,” he whispered against her lips.
“I love you, too.”
Embracing her again, he kissed her cheek and brow, looking into her eyes. When he leaned forward, Hosdaq stepped near the fire, appearing like a ghost emerging from the darkness.
“Elder,” Pentanimir said. “Please, sit.”
“After such a long trip, I thought you’d be resting,” Hosdaq said.
“I was allowing Brahanu to dress. We were just getting ready to leave.”
Hosdaq nodded, listening to his words, but not caring for the content. He swept the long hair from his eyes, resting his gaze on Brahanu.
“So, Lady Ravenot, how do you find the village?” Hosdaq asked, not awaiting an answer. “Is it the same as you find Pentanimir? What is it that you said? Ah, yes, ‘well.’ Do you find the village well?”
Brahanu bit back her retort, forcing the best smile that she could manage. “Bandari is like nothing that I’ve ever known. It’s a beautiful village, and the people are as gracious as the Elders are wise.”
A broad smile crossed his handsome face. “Do you attempt to flatter? Bandari is like nothing that you’ve ever known because there’s no other like it. What we’ve accomplished here is a rare gift…a blessing from the One god. Vot, in his wisdom was the first to believe such a place possible. It took more years than you’ve lived, suffering, and sacrifice to create what surrounds you now. Many honorable men and women lost their lives to protect and preserve this village. For some, it’s the only home that they’ve known,” he said, and then peered over at Pentanimir.
“Even a place like this can be destroyed as quickly as a serpent can strike. It would be as simple as choosing wrongly. A false choice could have devastating consequences for everyone. Here, all our fates are intertwined,” Hosdaq said, raising the rope that hung from his belt. “It’s like this rope. As you see it now, it’s strong and tightly woven together. But if you pull at the individual strands, it’ll begin to unravel. The more you pull away, the weaker the rope becomes, until, in the end, you’re left with no rope at all. Yes, fragments will remain; but the whole will be lost. You can try to remake it, but it’ll never be as strong or as purposeful as it was in the beginning. Do you understand, First Chosen?”
Pentanimir understood all too well. It was more a warning than a question. If he chose wrongly, he could jeopardize all that they’d built. However, making the correct choice, one that kept him in Nazil, could protect Bandari and possibly aid the lands. But how does Hosdaq know the correct choice for me? Pentanimir met his eyes then. This choice was his to make. Hosdaq had made his choice long ago. It was to come here with Esme and begin a new life.
“Elder, you needn’t remind me of what choices lie before me. I’m aware of my obligations and will honor them. I’m a Chosen of Nazil, but I’ll let no harm come to Bandari. The way to protect this village is to return to Nazil. Brahanu and I were speaking of the same upon your arrival.”
“As you say, First Chosen,” Hosdaq said, gazing up into the night sky. “The night will be short, and I’m certain that you’re tired. My home is always open to you, and Wosen would welcome the visit. It’s past time that Brahanu was able to rest.” Inclining his head, he disappeared just as swiftly as he’d come.
Brahanu stared into the fire as if all the answers she sought could be found amongst the flames. She was empty, and nothing could fill the void that began to consume her.
“Brahanu, speak your thoughts.”
“I’m leaving tomorrow as well. If Hosdaq speaks for the Elders, this isn’t a place for me. I can travel to Noraa as a shadow. You needn’t enter the city; just lead me to it. They’ll receive me at the citadel, and send word to Cazaal.”
Saying nothing more, she stood, walking away from him. Though tears lined her eyes, she refused to let them fall. She could hear Pentanimir’s light footfalls behind her, but wouldn’t turn to face him. He was right, and she needed to remain strong for both their sakes.
“Brahanu, please,” he pleaded. “Please wait.” At his urging, she stopped, but didn’t turn.
“Hosdaq doesn’t speak for the Elders. Those were his thoughts alone. You shouldn’t leave the village, not yet.”
“Hosdaq spoke true, Pentanimir. You are of Nazil, and I’m of Cazaal. The men who attacked us proved what this means beyond doubt. Would I have known what that truly meant from the beginning. Instead, I acted like a foolish young girl, allowing my heart to overrule my mind. For an instant, these lands were of no thought. When we were at the falls and alone in the wood, we were this world. There were no others. To me, there was no choice; it had to be. Now I feel like the nethermost female.
“I can’t claim force or coercion. I begged for your touch, to be one with you, even with my promise to Itai. I betrayed his love for me, a love that has always been between us. I was a fool. I’ve shamed myself and my family. No one will have me. Not Itai, not now that I’m despoiled and no longer maiden.”
After a steadying breath, she turned to face him. “I release you from me, Pentanimir. After you lead me to Noraa, I’ll return to my home, and trouble you no more,” she said, gently brushing his lips before walking away.
Unexpected Kindness
“Are you certain that you can manage?” Danimore asked, escorting Zeta to the kitchen.
“Yes, sir, I’m well enough to serve.”
“I’d appreciate it if you’d call me Danimore. I’m eight and ten, and merely a second guard. The title ‘Sir’ doesn’t apply to me.”
“But I’d offend by addressing you in the familiar. You’re a high lord and my owner.”
He shook his head, leading her to a bench in the corridor. “Zeta, I don’t own anyone. It may be difficult for you to comprehend, but I don’t want ownership of you. I offer you the safety of my home, good food, and a warm bed. In return, I ask you to cook and clean. That’s all I expect and require. I know that I’m Nazilian, but I’m not like those in the citadel. My brother and I speak about it often, and we’re not alone. Even so, we dare not mention this to any other. The kindness that I extend to you could be perceived as a slight by some. But showing kindness isn’t a weakness, regardless of whom it’s offered to. I don’t condone the torture or enslavement of anyone: human or Nazilian. In times of war, ransoms are secured by taking captives. Nazil isn’t at war, and our coffers are full. There’s no need for captives.”
He rose then, helping her to stand. “Has anyone contacted your home demanding a ransom?”
She peered at him from the corner of her eye. “My father’s a smith, and I was promised to his apprentice, Radich. We don’t have the coin for a ransom.”
“A smith? Please don’t take offense, but you seemed learned to me.”
“My mother used to teach me before she passed. Once I was old enough, my father helped at the temple in exchange for my lessons. I helped cook and wash, too.”
“Where are you from?”
“I’m from Noraa.”
“Travel on ships is costly, and from what I’ve heard, they don’t take on many female passengers. How is it that you were traveling alone?
”
“I—I wasn’t alone. My father didn’t want me to go, but I’d never been on a ship. It was just supposed to be a short trip to Kaleo to deliver supplies. We could’ve taken the cart, but I wanted to sail. It—it was my uncle, Raithym. He’s the one that told me to hide, and I haven’t seen him since they took me.”
“I’m sorry, Zeta. I could check to see if your uncle’s in Nazil. If I can find him, I’ll bring him here.”
She halted, looking up at him with tear lined eyes. “He’s not here, not anymore.”
Danimore visibly winced, needing no further explanation. “Forgive me, I didn’t mean to—I was just—forgive me. Why don’t you rest a while longer and I’ll warm the pottage and honey milk.”
Cradling her womb, she hobbled after him. “No, please. It’s my duty to prepare the meals. I’ll be all right, please let me serve you, D—Danimore. I’m a good worker.”
He nodded, allowing her to pass. After taking his seat, Danimore watched her limp around the kitchen, finding what she needed. She was still in pain, but he didn’t move to assist. If she was ever to feel comfortable with him or learn his heart, it would be on her terms, and he’d allow her that.
Despite her numerous bruises, he couldn’t help noticing her beauty. Zeta’s thick, red hair framed her cherubic face perfectly, accentuating her emerald-colored eyes. However, it wasn’t merely her appearance; it was the beauty within. Even with her abuse, a warmth radiated from her that the Zaxson couldn’t extinguish. His admiration grew at that moment.
“Zeta, how old are you?”
“I’m six and ten, milord,” she said, stirring the large pot, and then tasting a spoonful. “A woman grown.”
She looked much younger, barely standing over three cubits and not weighing much more than eight stone, even pregnant.
Setting a bowl of pottage and mug of honey milk on the table, Zeta lifted a pail from the floor. “Please eat while it’s warm. Pottage is never good once it’s grown cold.”
“What about you? Aren’t you hungry?”
The Rise of Nazil- Complete Epic Fantasy Trilogy Page 9