The Rise of Nazil- Complete Epic Fantasy Trilogy

by Aaron-Michael Hall

  Itai managed a smile as the room erupted with applause. He accepted the claps on his shoulder as he walked to the table, taking a seat beside Hacom.

  “Now, friends, please find a place and enjoy your meal. Tonight, we welcome one of our own home,” Hacom said, raising his mug. “Play something soft for my daughter. She loves a sweet tune.”

  The guests took their seats, as the musicians began playing a soft melody. Soon, the servers weaved in and out, carrying large trays and vessels of wine. The feasting began with stag, gosling, and loins of veal. On each table sat an enormous pie, containing deer, rabbit, a minced loin of veal, hard-boiled eggs covered with saffron and flavored with cloves. There hadn’t been a feast this grand in the village for many seasons. The guests continued to gorge themselves on roe-deer, pig, sturgeon, wine and mead.

  Brahanu could barely eat a bite, watching the celebration while peering over at Itai. It wasn’t until the honeycakes and plums stewed in rose-water were brought to the tables did Amani notice her lack of appetite.

  “My little dove, why aren’t you eating? Your father went to great effort and expense to ensure you’d have all the dishes that you love.”

  “It isn’t the food, Mother, I’m just wearier than I thought.”

  “Yes, you’ve had a long trip, but you’re home with your family now. You’ll rest in your own bed tonight. For now, honor your father and eat. Almaz prepared the honeycakes just for you.”

  Brahanu smiled, taking a small bite. As she slowly chewed, her gaze rested on Itai. He didn’t appear any more interested in his food than she was, yet he managed to make it seem otherwise.

  Brahanu took a drink and then leaned in toward her mother. She hoped that her announcement would lighten Itai’s mood. “Mother, Itai and I talked on our trip to Cazaal. After everything that’s happened, we don’t want to waste any more time apart. We’ve decided to wed as soon as the Nohek can arrange it.”

  Amani’s smile took in her entire face. “Brahanu, there couldn’t be better news. You’ve been returned to us and now you’re going to wed. The gods are good. We dreaded when you postponed another year, now, I’m so happy, little dove. Itai loves you so.”

  Amani leaned to her husband, whispering the same.

  “Ho ho!” Hacom said, standing while banging his empty mug on the table. “Friends and neighbors. My lady wife has just informed me of another reason to celebrate. My daughter and Itai have announced their plan to wed. The ceremony will take place as soon as Nohek Glennon can arrange it.”

  Hacom gestured to Glennon and he stood, clearing his throat. “The ceremony can take place within a fortnight. We need only to consecrate and prepare the circle.”

  “There you have it, friends and neighbors,” Hacom said. “Tonight, we celebrate our daughter’s return. Next, we’ll celebrate their marriage! Raise your cups and join me in a toast to their future.”

  The guests raised their cups and servers moved about the room, refilling them. Julaybeim winked at his sister while clapping Itai on the back.

  The food and music continued throughout the night. Although Brahanu wanted to be alone with Itai, she endured, dancing with her father and brother as Itai did the same with her mother and sister. The wine flowed as the music slowed, and conversations continued. One by one, the guests began to offer thanks and congratulations before they returned to their homes. Others milled about, trading stories and laughter while sampling sweets and drink. As the numbers decreased, so did the speed of the music. Only soft melodic tunes played, blending with the villagers’ voices.

  Brahanu was finally able to ease over to Itai. He’d been leaning up against the wall, a part of the festivities, and yet, not so. His eyes had never left his cup nor did a smile find his face.

  “Itai, please tell me what’s wrong. You don’t behave like our wedding was just announced.”

  “I’m thinking about many things, and can’t seem to hold the moment. Mayhaps rest in my own bed will help ease my thoughts,” he said, leaning down to kiss her.

  When he started to walk away, Brahanu took his hand, leading him to a bench outside.

  “Please, Itai, don’t do this to me. Tell me of your heart and mind. If you’ve changed your mind about our wedding, I won’t force it. Your happiness is too important to me. I’ll make my parents understand.”

  “No. Our wedding plan stands. It’s the one thing that’s brought some joy back to my heart.”

  “I see no evidence of that joy, my love.”

  “I don’t intend it that way. I love you more now than I did before you were lost, but all things in my heart aren’t about you. There are worries and concerns that live there as well.”

  When she attempted to respond, he lifted her hand to his lips. “They aren’t about you, my love. But seeing and holding you again has begun to take them from me. Goodnight, my beautiful Brahanu.”

  She watched as he disappeared into the darkness. As his image faded from her view, swirls of emotions invaded her mind. Lowering a hand to her abdomen, Brahanu contemplated their future. She couldn’t help but wonder if Itai had known of the child that grew inside of her. At that, she shook her head, not willing to accept Olam’s prophecy. She wouldn’t birth a son for Pentanimir. She’d birth a child for her future husband, for Itai.

  “Brahanu? Why are you sitting out here alone?” Amani asked.

  “I—I wasn’t alone, Mother. Itai just left. We wanted a moment to speak privately.”

  “Oh, I understand, my little dove. You’ve barely had time alone since you returned.”

  Brahanu merely nodded, lowering her gaze.

  “Many good things are coming to pass, Brahanu, starting with your wedding. We’re pleased that you’ve decided to wed. Itai has always loved you, you know?” Amani said, taking her hand. “When your father accepted the promise, he angered many established men. Caretaker Estenbrook in Noraa had asked for your promise to his eldest, Janshai. But your father wouldn’t be swayed. He knew as did I, that Itai was the right choice for you. We are all one here, Brahanu, no matter what station we’re born into.”

  Just like in Bandari, Brahanu thought, meeting her eyes.

  “Now, let’s go inside and speak with your father. Our guests have departed and we’ve much to discuss.”

  When they entered, Brahanu looked around as if she’d never been there before. Wherever she turned, she was reminded of Itai. Whether it was the furnishings, sconces, or her father’s overstuffed chair, Itai’s hands and skill was prevalent in their home. Why she’d never realized the comfort that brought to her, she didn’t understand.

  Hacom lit his long pipe, turning as they entered. Billowing plumes of smoke wafted above him as he exhaled, gathering his thoughts.

  “I know that you’re weary, little dove, but we need to talk with you,” Hacom said. “We’re overjoyed that you’ve returned safely, but would like to know how you ended up so far from home. The word from Kaleo is that the Nazilians are still ambushing ships and taking captives. Of course, the Zaxson refutes this, but we know the truth. Besides his pirates, they keep a constant watch on Depero Wood. How did you pass through without notice?”

  “I don’t understand any more than you do, Father. Mayhaps it was due to the storm. I was disoriented when Ared threw me and couldn’t find my way. But I noticed smoke and a fire in the distance that led me to safety.”

  “Fires? But they couldn’t have been from Cazaal. Was it the Neema Outpost?” Hacom asked.

  “No, Father. It wasn’t the outpost or Cazaal.”

  “Not the outpost? But you weren’t supposed to be traveling far. In fact, you should’ve returned within five turns of the glass.” He looked up, his brow knitting. “Was it one of the bands of rogues seen recently in the wood? That filth holds fealty to only the coin dropped in their pockets.”

  “No, I didn’t see anyone in the wood. Isn’t that why you allowed me to go?” She paused, taking a deep breath. “I traveled the same path that I’ve shown Itai. I didn’t stray fro
m it or travel beyond what’s known. Or, at least, I don’t remember doing so. It doesn’t make any sense, and I can’t explain why or how. I—I just remember waking up and seeing the fires. That was all that I could see through the haze of the storm. When I neared the fire, I still didn’t know. But once the guard approached me, I learned that I was near Nazil.”

  Ash and embers spread across the floor as Hacom’s pipe tumbled from his hand. “Nazil? No, Brahanu. It could’ve been Dovak or…or even Yarah. I’ve known some decent men in Yarah, but not Nazil. You were confused, Brahanu, it couldn’t be.”

  She shook her head, feeling her heart beat increase. “There’s no mistake. It was Nazil. When the guard first revealed himself, I fought to break free. I wasn’t going to let him take me. But…but he concealed me in a nearby cove, away from the city’s gates.”

  “Forced you into some cove?” Julaybeim nearly shouted. “Why? What did that Nazilian filth do to you!”

  “Speak softly,” Amani said. “You’ll frighten Ameya.”

  “No,” Brahanu said. “I thought the same, but it wasn’t like that. He took me there to keep me hidden from the other guards.”

  Julaybeim scoffed. “We know the hearts of these ghosts. They don’t do anything unless it benefits them or their Zaxson. They’re soulless monsters with hearts as black as night.”

  “Julaybeim speaks true,” Hacom said. “When a human is taken to Nazil, they’re seldom seen again. In days past, some would be ransomed, but no longer. There’s a maleficence in Nazil that’s been festering for decades. Guards can gain great honor for delivering valuable captives. So, this guard’s motives are perplexing. Why didn’t he take you to Draizeyn?”

  “I asked him the same, Father. Well, when I stopped fighting against him. He tended my wounds, brought me food, and a warm cloak and clothes. He took the greatest care of me, truly.”

  Hacom and Amani exchanged a look. “You speak as though you admire this ghost,” Hacom said, warily. “Did he tell you his name?”

  “Yes, his name’s Pentanimir, and he said that he was First Chosen. I didn’t know what it meant, but learned later that he held a high rank.”

  “First Chosen? They’re known as Nazil’s elite, and trusted to serve the Zaxson’s impious demands.” His eyes narrowed, a flicker of recognition invading his thoughts. “Wait, Pentanimir? Is that what you said?”

  “Yes, his name’s Pentanimir. What’s wrong, Father?”

  “It’s customary for them to speak their father’s name, too. What did he say?”

  “Hacom, why does this matter?” Amani asked.

  “Just let her answer.”

  “I’m not certain, but it’s close to his own. It sounded like Manthofir. Yes, I think that was it.”

  Hacom leapt from his chair. “Manifir! Was it Manifir Benoist?”

  “Yes, that was it. Manifir of House Benoist. What’s the matter?”

  Hacom paced, running his hands through his thinning hair. “Manifir Benoist was also a First Chosen. He led raids, attacked ships, and was responsible for Hyorin’s destruction! He implemented that savage attack, killing more women and children than men. The captives were tortured and some were even mutilated.”

  Hacom stopped abruptly, pointing a finger at Brahanu. “He raped young girls, forcing them to bear his children only to watch them die as they were pulled from their wombs. He had a son, a son...”

  “Hacom, enough,” Amani said. “Don’t you see your daughter?”

  “Forgive me, little dove,” he said. Ameya’s knees were tucked beneath her chin, rocking as tears streamed down her cheeks. “I shouldn’t be speaking about such things. It’s late, mayhaps you should go on to bed.” Hacom sighed. “Amani, please take her in to Kailen so she can ready her for bed.”

  “Father, was everything you said true?” Brahanu asked after they’d left. “Was Pentanimir’s father such a monster?”

  “Yes, that and more. I was there to see the carnage left in Nazil’s wake. When the bird arrived, it was far too late to be any aid during the battle, but we helped to salvage what we could.”

  “How do you know about the women and babes?” Julaybeim asked.

  “Ransoms were paid for far too few captives, but those who returned told about their treatment. One young girl of four and ten was returned to her father ruined. Neither knew that she was pregnant until it was too late. When the child was born, it looked just like a ghost. She couldn’t bear such a memory and leapt into the depths of the Great Sword, holding the child in her arms.”

  “Why haven’t the humans joined together to defeat the Nazilians? Surely our number is equal or greater than theirs,” Julaybeim said.

  “A rebellion isn’t something to consider lightly. Everyone would have to agree and trust the other. That’s not easily done. Some humans would rather remain under their rule than to reclaim these lands. With the spies reporting to Draizeyn, no one would risk such a move.”

  Brahanu looked at her father with a visage displaying both pain and disbelief. “Then why would Pentanimir risk so much to help me? I asked him the same, but he never gave a proper answer.”

  “What did he say?” Hacom asked.

  “He said that most Nazilians weren’t like the Zaxson: they serve from fear, not allegiance. Pentanimir thought me beautiful, and only wanted to keep me safe.”

  “He thought you beautiful?” Julaybeim spat the words as though they were poison. “Keep you safe? What did he demand for this safety?”

  Brahanu flinched. “What—what do you mean?”

  “You know exactly what I mean. What did that damn ghost demand for your safety? Are you to bear a demon child of Nazil, too?”

  “Julaybeim!” Hacom said. “Hold your tongue. You’re talking about your sister.”

  Brahanu’s face burned. She was angry at Julaybeim’s assertion, but angrier still that he was right.

  “I’ve told you the truth,” she said. “If not for Pentanimir, I wouldn’t be with you now. We were attacked by a pair of human hunters in the Dessalonian Wood, but Pentanimir refused to kill them. He did all that he promised and left me with Aizen’s family to bring me here.”

  Julaybeim crossed his arms over his chest. “Why didn’t he just bring you back through Depero Wood? Why take you farther from your home and then return you? Was it due to his sudden affection for human women?”

  “He said that it wasn’t safe due to the Nazilian patrols.”

  “On that, he spoke true,” Hacom said. “The Nazilians oft do patrol the north and west wood. Still, his actions are suspect. And what about these humans? Why would they trust a Chosen of Nazil?”

  “Aizen’s parents have known Pentanimir for some time. When he was with them, it was as if we were all the same. There wasn’t a separation, not there.”

  “I hope that they guard themselves well. At the first opportunity, he could betray their trust. The Nazilians aren’t known for their honesty, or their honor.”

  “What’re we going to do?” Julaybeim asked. “Should we try to find this…this ghost?”

  Hacom shook his head, pushing up from his chair. “No, that would be foolish. Just the thought of the Nazilians taints the peace of our home and our hearts. We must focus on your sister’s coming wedding. Brahanu is safe, and we’ll think of Nazil no more.”

  Heart of de Braose

  Perrin’s expression was forlorn, listening to the exchange. He wanted to put an end to this, but he hadn’t the standing or position. Oxilon was the Zaxson’s High Advisor. A man with such power could crush him with merely one word. That thought only caused his already dour mood to worsen, and he worried about his son.

  Perrin inched forward a bit, keeping well within the shadows. His brow creased, noticing Beilzen’s continuous genuflections.

  “He isn’t above you,” he whispered, feeling ignominy at the display.

  He edged closer when Oxilon stepped toward the door. No doubt, he’d ordered Beilzen to spy or act as his messenger with promises of a better
position. How he wished he could’ve provided more for his son.

  Even though Oxilon’s days of a Chosen were long past, he still had a muscular and intimidating build. His very presence made others feel small. Beilzen was smaller still. He stood barely over three and a half cubits, with a slight frame. Perrin peered down at his own body at the thought. He’d never been a large man, but he stood much taller than his son. Beilzen inherited his mother’s build, though Perrin wished it otherwise. Not for his sake, but for that of his son. Mayhaps merely that one change would’ve allowed Beilzen to have more confidence and know his worth.

  The sound of the closing door brought Perrin from his contemplations. He hurried into the room, and then paused, observing the distant look in Beilzen’s eyes. Perrin knew his son well: he was troubled.

  “Are you all right?”

  “Of course, Father. I’ve been selected for an important assignment.”

  “Is that what Sir Benoist came to tell you?”

  “Indeed. He selected me above even the first guards,” Beilzen said, feigning importance. “I told you that if I continued to assist Sir Benoist that my position and standing would improve.”

  When he attempted to leave, Perrin grasped his shoulder. “Have you forgotten to whom you speak? Others might accept this man that you’ve become, but I don’t. I won’t. You don’t behave like the son that I raised. Was your position in the temple not high enough for you?”

  “With all due respect, Father, you don’t know me. Counting coin for the Cha may serve you, but I desire something more. I want a fine home, clothes, servants, and a beautiful wife. I can’t have that assisting you in the temple. No one would accept a pledge from such a man. You’ve seen this.”

  “No one? I held the same position when your mother accepted my pledge, or was Hasina’s family not prominent enough to matter?”

  Beilzen’s head snapped up. “I didn’t mean it like that. Things were different when you and Mother wed. You did well for our family and are still held in high regard throughout the city. There’s talk about your association with the humans, but your skill and honor have never been in question.”