The Rise of Nazil- Complete Epic Fantasy Trilogy

by Aaron-Michael Hall

Grabbing the second torch, he walked to the eternal fire, thrusting it within the flames, as Kuhani sprinkled him with blessed water.”

  “You may now enter the temple and light the braziers from your torches,” Kuhani said.

  The heft of the torches pained him, but it was his duty alone to carry their weight. Hosdaq’s teeth clenched, extending them out in front of him as he walked to the temple. After igniting the braziers, he took his place near the altar, awaiting his promised.

  That wait appeared unending until the knocks sounded from the temple doors. Hosdaq’s heart leapt in his chest, turning to see Osmara. She was beautiful, the sunlight outlining her form, causing her to appear more an angel descending from the heavens. To him, that’s exactly what she was.

  After the doors had closed, Malkia and Huname released Osmara’s hands, resting one in Saifu’s.

  “Is it your desire to proceed?” Saifu asked.

  “It’s my desire to do so.”

  Saifu smiled, leading her down the aisle. As he released her hand, he took a place between the couple, regarding the priests.

  “The braziers burn from the home of Hosdaq and the eternal fire,” Nzuri started. “The two which stand before us have been anointed by the blessed waters of the One god. They’ve come to us separate, as individuals. When they leave us, it’ll be as one.”

  With that, Saifu turned to Hosdaq and he knelt, inclining his head. “I present my sister, Lady Osmara Voney, to you. She has willingly accepted your promise and expressed her desire to wed. Take her hand from mine to extend the covering, protection, and love of your home to her forever and always.”

  Hosdaq stood, accepting her trembling hand. Saifu moved from between them, taking his place behind while tying the bonding knot.

  “Osmara Voney, is it your desire to bind yourself fully to the home and heart of Hosdaq Neufmarche?” Nzuri asked, resting his palm on her brow.

  “It is my desire.”

  Kuhani stepped to Hosdaq, repeating the same.

  “There are none now who stand between you,” Yonas said. “Under the covering of the One god, we bind you one unto the other. Take this wine and drink it in sight of those gathered here.”

  As they drained the cup, the Elders celebrated their union.

  “You are now released to your home to continue your bond. Let none disturb this blessed day,” Kuhani finished, handing the cloth to Hosdaq.

  “Thank you, all of you,” Hosdaq said, embracing each of them before leading Osmara from the temple.

  She slid an arm around his waist, helping him to keep his balance. Although he attempted to stand straight and confident, she noticed his unsteady stance and expression. When they entered their room, he sighed, wiping sweat from his brow.

  “I’m sorry, Osmara. It’s our bond day, and I’ve barely the strength to stand for our ceremony.”

  “You’re still healing. We both knew that you weren’t well, even if you attempt to make it appear otherwise,” she said, handing him a cup of broth.

  “I need but a moment and I’ll recover. We’ve both awaited this day, and I won’t allow discomfort to steal from us our pleasure,” he said, draining the cup.

  She sat near him on the bed, flittering her fingers through his hair. “Yes, this is a most special day in many ways. I’ve dreamed of this, Hosdaq.”

  Hosdaq looked into her dark brown eyes, raising her hand to his lips. After a steadying breath, he stood, unclasping his tunic.

  “You’ll have more than your dreams, Osmara. I’ll not cause you to wait a moment more. I’m still healing, but I offer myself to you fully. If I’m your true desire, see all of me.”

  She stepped over to him, gliding her hands down his abdomen. Her hands trembled, tracing the scars on his torso before bringing him in for a kiss.

  “Every part of you is desirable, Hosdaq. I’ve envisioned this moment for years, but now that it’s come, I’m afraid.”

  “Don’t fear me or the love between us. Your dreams will pale in comparison to the pleasures we’ll experience together.”

  She closed her eyes, loosening the laces on her dress. Hosdaq watched with longing as her clothing drifted to the floor, exposing her naked beauty. When she crossed her arms in front of her, he gently caressed them, and then draped them around his waist, drawing her closer.

  “All of you is beautiful, Osmara. Why do you hide from me?”

  “I—no one has ever seen me. You are the first.”

  “I know, and there’s nothing more beautiful in all of Faélondul. Don’t fear,” he said, guiding her to their bed. He kissed her lips and neck, continuing downward.

  “I don’t know how to please you,” she whispered.

  He could feel her shaking beneath him as his hands rested on her thighs. “We’ll both be pleased, my love. Allow me to show you how.”

  He tasted every part of her before joining his body to hers. The pain of his injuries was forced from his mind as their lovemaking intensified. When he tired, he tasted of her again, ensuring her satisfaction. After many turns of the glass, they drifted into sleep, awakening when the sun streamed through the shutters.

  “Good morning,” Osmara said, stroking his chest.

  “Good morning. How were your dreams last night?” He smiled.

  “They haven’t ended, Hosdaq, I’m still in your arms.”

  “You’re in more than my arms.”

  “Was I able to—to please you.”

  “Like no one that I’ve ever known.”

  “My body craves more of you,” she said, moving over him. After a fourth of a glass he called out again, drawing her down to his chest.

  “I’ve never been so well pleasured,” he breathed. “You’d test the strength of any man.”

  “I don’t want any man; only you.”

  He kissed her again, forcing back the emotions welling inside of him. “Thank you, Osmara.”

  “For what?”

  “For loving me, and allowing me another chance at happiness.”

  Visit from Spero

  Brahanu smiled, ushering her parents through the door. They hadn’t visited for some time, and she was excited to see them.

  “Mother, Father,” Brahanu said. “It’s good to see you. I’ve been awaiting your visit. Come.”

  Brahanu closed the door, taking a seat across from them. “Would you like something to drink? Philomena has gone to the market, but I can find my way around the kitchen well enough.” Brahanu chuckled, before noticing their serious demeanors.

  “What’s wrong?”

  “There’s much happening, Brahanu,” Hacom said. “Within the span of four full moons, we’ve had three invitations. Of them, two have come from Nazil. That’s a strange thing, don’t you agree?”

  “Father, I don’t understand. Has there been word from Nazil?”

  “Indeed,” Amani said.

  “To tell it true, it’s from Spero, but one from Nazil sent it.”

  “Spero? Father, please. What’s going on?”

  “We’re going to have a visitor for evening meal,” he said. “Spero is near completion, and Daracus and the new Caretaker have arrived to inspect the city. The Caretaker is en route to Cazaal as we speak.”

  “Are you to provide accommodations for him?”

  “As Caretaker of Cazaal, it’s my duty. In the past, visitors from Nazil would refuse to stay at the citadel. They’d do their business and then move on to Leahcim or Dovak, but not this man. He’s asked to dine and remain at the citadel.”

  “I hear the words, but they hold no meaning. Why are you telling me this?”

  “Brahanu, your father is telling you this because your Chosen is visiting. Pentanimir Benoist.”

  She nearly gasped. Gods, no. Not now. Please. Not here. Brahanu did her best to appear unmoved, but inside, she panicked. Since her return from Bandari, she was finally happy. Pentanimir had no place in her life beyond the possibility of their son. She loved him, but she loved her husband more. She couldn’t subject Itai to
this. She wouldn’t.

  “Pentanimir? Caretaker of Spero? Why is he coming to Cazaal?” she finally asked.

  “They don’t need to offer a reason,” Hacom said. “I thought mayhaps you might know.”

  “Me? I didn’t even know that he’d be the new Caretaker. I haven’t seen or spoken with him since he left me with the Osmonts.”

  “This alone could be the cause. He wants my entire family in attendance for the evening meal. All of us, Brahanu,” Hacom stressed. “Did you tell him that you were my daughter?”

  “Yes,” she said as the thought came to her. “I did mention it.”

  “Well, I don’t know what he wants to learn, but he’ll have it. For good or ill, he’ll arrive with the setting sun.” Hacom stood, helping Amani to rise. “I don’t need to tell you about the possible danger here. Both you and Itai will come dressed for the occasion and be pleasant. Whatever the son of Manifir wants, he’ll have it. I won’t put this village in danger of Nazil’s wrath. Spero is less than a day’s ride. They’re too near, and Nazilians surround us.”

  Brahanu’s face was bereft of all emotion as she walked them to the door. For many long moments, she only stood, watching the carriage pull away. After a sobering breath, she went to the kitchen, grabbing up a ewer of wine. She poured one cup, drinking it down quickly. Her face soured at the bitter taste, but she managed another cup, sitting on the bench in disbelief.

  Why have you done this, Pentanimir? How am I supposed to tell Itai? We can’t refuse, but how am I to do this? My life with Itai has finally begun, and we’re happy. Gods help me. I love my husband too much to be tempted by Pentanimir.

  Brahanu didn’t hear the door open and close as she sat, staring into the flames swaying around the caldron suspended over it. She didn’t blink or move, only gazing at the fire, praying for not only strength, but a solution as well.

  “Brahanu?” Itai said, bending down to kiss her. “Is everything all right?”

  She blinked, nearly jerking back as his lips touched hers. “I—I’m fine.”

  “Where’s Philomena?” he asked, taking the caldron from the hook. “Isn’t she here to help you?”

  Brahanu stood, giving him a proper greeting. “Mena’s at the market, but I’m glad that she hasn’t returned.”

  “Why?”

  “I just, well, we have some things to discuss in private.”

  “Brahanu, what happened? You looked flushed. Is the babe all right?”

  She managed a genuine smile, leading him to the bench. “Yes, Itai. Lakaar Briac says that both the babe and I are fine.”

  “Then what is it?”

  She took a deep breath. “My parents visited recently and delivered some news. You won’t be pleased, but I need to tell you.”

  “Tell me, Brahanu, what’d they say?”

  She nodded, taking another drink. “A message arrived from Spero.”

  “Spero?” He stood. “What do they want from us?”

  “Please, sit, Itai. I’ll tell you all of it, but you must be calm.” She looked up at him, feeling a twinge in her gut. After another deep breath, she continued. “It was a message from the new Caretaker. He’s coming to Cazaal to introduce himself.”

  “So, it’s a show of power.” He scoffed. “Nazil oversteps, and I tire of their intrusion.”

  “There’s more.”

  “Another mulct? Mayhaps they want all of our harvest for their people.”

  “No. The Caretaker has requested an audience with Father.” Her gaze lowered. “And all of his family must attend the evening meal in his honor.”

  “Honor! I’ll take no meal with a Nazilian.”

  “Itai, we can’t refuse. As Caretaker, it’s Father’s duty to receive him. Since the new Caretaker requested the entire family be present, we must attend. Father made certain that I understood that, and told me to convey the same to you. If we had a choice, we’d remain home.”

  Itai stood, pacing in front of her. “Who’re they sending to dishonor our home?”

  “Please, understand, I wasn’t aware of any of this until recently. My parents insist upon our attendance, but I’d never make you part of such a display, never.”

  His face darkened, his eyes narrowing. “No. It can’t be. Tell me it isn’t the Chosen, Brahanu. Who’s coming?”

  “Itai. Please, be calm.” No matter how much she swallowed, the dryness remained in her throat. “He—he’s one and the same. It’s the First Chosen, Pentanimir.”

  He roared in frustration, picking up the ewer of wine and smashing it against the wall. Brahanu screamed, throwing up her hands to block the spray of glass projectiles. As the rear door slammed, she collapsed across the table, weeping irrepressibly.

  When Philomena returned, Brahanu was kneeling and wiping the wine that pooled on the floor. She stared vacantly, her hands repeatedly cleaning the same spot.

  “Milady? What’re you doin’?” Mena asked, helping Brahanu up and walking her to her room. “Milady?” Are you all right? Do I need to fetch the lakaar ?”

  “No, Mena, no. I—I was just a little clumsy. I heated some water for a bath and—and the wine.” She shook her head. “It’s fine. There’s another caldron that’s near ready. Can you pour the bath and then tend to your duties?”

  “You sure that you’re well? Your hand needs tendin’.”

  “Yes,” she said, with an unsuccessful smile. “Mind the glass on the floor. I’ve made a mess in the kitchen.”

  “I’ll take care of it after pourin’ your bath.”

  “Thank you, Mena. Oh, I won’t be here for evening meal. You and Itai will sup alone.”

  “Yes’m, milady. I’ll get the water.”

  Brahanu merely nodded, reaching for her laces. As she raised her hand, she winced, looking down at her palm. After moving to the basin, she pulled out a glass shard, watching blood pour from the wound. The red drops permeated the water, some floating across the surface. Pink-hued ribbons swirled as she submersed her hand, slowly moving her fingers.

  The flood of emotion and dubiety paralyzed her. Brahanu wiggled her fingers again, causing ripples to appear upon the surface. The more her fingers moved, the more the blood tainted the clear water, causing it to appear tenebrous. Just as her life had become.

  When Mena entered the chamber, rolling in the large caldron, Brahanu pulled her hand from the basin, binding it with cloth. She didn’t speak, only watching her fill the tub. When Mena returned with the second caldron, Brahanu thanked her, and then slid beneath the water. The wound on her hand throbbed, but the wound in her heart pained her even more.

  “Are you sure you don’t want me to stay?” Mena asked.

  “No, Mena. Please, continue your duties. The bath is what I need now. Thank you.”

  “Yes’m, milady.”

  Mena was already in the kitchen when Itai entered through the rear door. He rushed into the room to see her sweeping up the glass.

  “Oh, hello Mena. I—I thought you were at the market.”

  “Yes’m, Sir, I got the packages there. Lady Gael was cleanin’ the floor when I came.”

  “Where’s she now?”

  “She’s in the bath.”

  He nodded, taking a deep breath. Itai couldn’t believe his anger or reaction when hearing Pentanimir’s name. He hadn’t intended to hurt Brahanu, but his actions surely did. It was the ghost that caused his rage, but Brahanu suffered from his outburst. He sighed, walking down to their room. When he reached for the handle, he stopped short, knocking instead.

  “I don’t need anything, Mena,” Brahanu said, weakly.

  “It’s not Mena, Brahanu, it’s your husband.”

  Itai closed the door, slowly approaching the tub. He fumbled with his hands, searching for what to say. He could offer no feasible excuse for his actions, and that was disheartening. As he stepped on the platform, he saw the blood seeping through her bandage.

  “Brahanu, what happened?”

  She slid her hand beneath the water, not resp
onding. Her mind was a muddle with thoughts of Pentanimir, and disappointment in herself and Itai. She needed her husband, needed his strength and his love. She felt hollow, and ached from the loneliness that it caused.

  Brahanu loved Itai; always she loved him, and only that love could keep her from Pentanimir. But now, what was she to do? How could she meet him again without her husband at her side? Pentanimir: the one man who caused her to lose herself. She loved him, all of him, and that love scared her. It was irrational, and she wasn’t rational when he was near. She understood Itai’s anger, knowing that she was the cause, but she was angry, too. Brahanu was angry with herself for the person that she became when Pentanimir was near.

  Brahanu, why aren’t you answering me? Your hand, what happened to your hand?”

  “I’m all right, Itai, you needn’t worry. I’ve angered you again, and I never want to do so. Please leave me to my thoughts.”

  “Forgive me,” he said, kneeling next to the tub. “It wasn’t you, Brahanu, it was him. He’s intruding on our lives and our happiness.”

  Brahanu’s red, swollen eyes found his for a moment and then she turned away. “He isn’t intruding on our happiness. Pentanimir has done nothing, Itai.”

  “Nothing?” he said, leaping to his feet. “Didn’t you give yourself to the man, freely?”

  Brahanu rose so abruptly that water splashed on the floor, causing Itai to fall back a step. “I thought you promised that we wouldn’t talk about that? Why are you throwing it at my feet? Why?” she said angrily, and then clutched her abdomen, fighting the sharp pain cascading through her.

  “Brahanu,” Itai said, reaching out to steady her. She swatted his hand away, stepping out of the tub.

  “I’m fine,” she struggled to say.

  “No, you’re not. I’m going to get Briac.”

  “No, you won’t. I’ll not allow Briac to see me like this.”

  “Forgive me, Brahanu. It wasn’t meant toward you. I did promise not to speak about it again, and I’m sorry. He caused this, it’s him.”

  “No, Itai. Pentanimir didn’t smash glass against our walls. You need to accept what you’ve done just as I have to. I understand why you’re upset, but I can’t do anything to change what’s already passed. I’m your wife Itai, yours . You accepted me as your wife despite my transgressions, and I’ve loved you more with each rise of the sun.