The Rise of Nazil- Complete Epic Fantasy Trilogy

by Aaron-Michael Hall

“I have everything we need from the kitchen,” Osmara said. “Do you want to take the table and benches?”

  “We’ll need them in our new home. The bedding must go as well. If the stools fit, we’ll take them, too. Bandari has been our home for many years, and I want to take as much of it with us as possible.” Hosdaq lifted the baskets from Osmara’s hands, setting them on the floor. “What about you, my wife? Aren’t there items that you want to bring?”

  “I have all that I need right here. You and Malkia are what’s precious to me.”

  “If the One god has blessed us, we take another which is precious as well,” Hosdaq said, resting a hand on her abdomen.

  “I pray that it’s so. I want to make you happy, Hosdaq.”

  “Despite my earlier mood, you’ve done that and more. I must believe that Wosen will be with us again. We’ll all be together in a new home with as many babes as we’re blessed with.” Hosdaq smiled, kissing her nose before grabbing up the baskets. “I need to load some things in our cart. We’ll be ready soon.”

  Osmara lifted a pile of blankets, moving to the door, looking out over Bandari. One after the other, carts lined the center of the village. She glanced around at their houses, the hall, and the temple they’d labored so hard to build. Looking at the dawa , she smiled wistfully, recalling helping her brother to teach lessons and prepare herbs. The hot spring of blessed water steamed in the coolness of the morning air.

  “We mightn’t ever find another.”

  “Let me help you,” Aizen said, taking the blankets.

  “Thank you. We’re nearly done.”

  “What’s left?” Ahni asked.

  “I need to roll two mattresses and load our provisions last.”

  Ahni nodded, moving past her. “I’ll roll and bring the mattresses. Ready your provisions and we’ll meet you in the temple. Father would like to offer a prayer before we leave.”

  She noticed the villagers filing into the small temple. A smile found her lips as Hosdaq approached, extending out his hand. “The Elders wish me to join them, and I want you at my side as we enter for the last time.”

  “Then, that’s where I’ll be.”

  “I never thought that I’d leave this village,” Hosdaq said, looking around affectionately. “This is where my life truly began. I was born in Nazil, yet I never belonged there. I didn’t want the life my father had arranged for me. He wanted me to serve on the Zaxson’s guard. But the more I learned about Nikolaj and Draizeyn’s nature, the farther I wanted to be from them.”

  “Nikolaj?”

  “He was Draizeyn’s elder brother, and meant to serve as Zaxson. However, his passing elevated Draizeyn to the position.

  “It wasn’t until I met Esme in Hyorin that I understood.” Hosdaq paused. “I didn’t have to be what others wanted; I could be and love whomever I chose. When Esme returned my affections, I thought it was a sign from the gods.”

  “How did you meet her?” Osmara asked, resuming their pace.

  “Her father was a merchant, a very prosperous one. I was on business for Nazil and chanced upon her. It was difficult in the beginning. Things weren’t as they are now, and we couldn’t openly meet. Regardless, I still found cause to be near her. Soon after, we’d meet at the falls. Nearly every full moon, we’d be together.”

  “No one ever knew about your relationship?”

  “Her brother, Kilan.” He sighed. “He followed her and found me waiting. When I moved to embrace her, he charged at me with his weapon drawn. He wanted to kill me, and I couldn’t fault him. But Esme pleaded for my life, and that’s when I learned about our babe.”

  “She was with child?”

  “Yes. Kilan was furious, and I was in awe. At that time, I didn’t know of anyone with a blended heritage. The way the Cha spoke about humans, I thought my seed wouldn’t take hold. There were many high lords interested in marrying Esme. Because of me, that couldn’t be.”

  “Was the babe Wosen?”

  “No. Her brother forced her to drink the maiden’s tears .” With a wistful smile, he raised Osmara’s hand to his lips. “Enough about the past, my wife, let us move toward our future, together.”

  As they entered the temple, the last of the villagers filed in behind them. Osmara sat near Saifu while Hosdaq went up to join the Elders and priests.

  “My family, don’t let your hearts be troubled as we prepare to leave this place,” Yonas began. “To some, Bandari has been the only home they’ve known. To others, it’s been a sanctuary. Like some, I left a family back in the lands. I escaped capture from Nazilian pirates when they attacked our ship. The One god led me here, to this new home, and here I’ve remained. If he was able to deliver me from Nazil’s grasp, he’ll deliver us all.” Yonas closed his eyes, raising his hands to the heavens as Nzuri and Kuhani came to his side.

  “We come humbly before you now, asking that you’ll deliver us safely as we traverse these lands unknown. Without your love and guidance, we’d be lost. We offer our gratitude to you now for those you’ve sent to aid our journey. We thank you for the ones you’ll place in our path to ensure our safety. Thank you for the blessing of the Guardians and Tesu, whom you sent to us through Olam’s visions.

  “Thank you for protecting and guiding your son, Wosen. He may be apart from us now, but we have faith that you’ll bring him safely home to us. Heal his body and his mind so that he may live among us once more. Thank you for our new home where we may live free and without fear. We offer our love, our worship, and our service to you alone. You are our One god, and we follow wherever you might lead.”

  “Blessed be the One,” the villagers said in unison.

  “As I look around this temple, I’m reminded of the day we first arrived in this village,” Vot said. “Some thought that we should move on, but the One god reserved this land for us. We moved dirt and tree to build this temple. Many good friends were lost before its completion, but it’s stood through the years and served as a worship center for our people. We’re all saddened that we must leave our home. But know that we’ll be blessed with a new and glorious home far from Nazil’s reach. Don’t be troubled at the things we must leave behind. A building can be rebuilt, but once a life is taken, it’s gone from us forever. As we move our carts toward the Animus Wood, don’t mourn what we must leave behind. Rejoice at all we have yet to discover.”

  As the villagers rose, Kuhani began the procession toward the exit.

  Taking two torches from his cart, Vot plunged them deep into the flames of the eternal fire, setting them ablaze. Attaching them firmly into the crafted holders on his cart, he took his seat, gesturing to his sons.

  Aizen and Ahni led the villagers on horseback while Huname and Vot were the last. Vot turned, watching the flames of the eternal fire sway beautifully in the wind. He caressed his wife’s hand as they entered the pass, leaving everything they knew behind.

  Nazilian Threat

  “He rides alone?” Riok asked.

  “Yes, Caretaker. His guards are visiting the temple. He claims his words are urgent and meant for only you,” Llewelyn said.

  “It would seem if it were so that his father would’ve come instead of sending his son,” Nesdin said.

  “Could be that his father had other business. Hacom did meet with us not long ago. If Julaybeim has come all this way, we must hear his words.”

  “I’ll escort him in,” Llewelyn said, bowing.

  “Lord Vaughan, why are you speaking against Julaybeim?” Riok asked. “He might have important news. They could’ve sent a bird, but he rode instead.”

  “I merely grow tired of the business of the day,” Nesdin said. “With the threat of Nazil looming in the distance, my mind cannot still. I’m concerned about my people and yours.”

  Llewelyn opened the door, offering another bow. “May I present, Lord Ravenot of Cazaal, Caretaker.”

  “Caretakers, I’m honored,” Julaybeim said, glancing around the room. “Thank you for receiving me.”

  �
�Of course, Julaybeim. We always welcome those of Cazaal. How are your parents?” Riok asked, motioning for him to sit.

  “They’re well. I’ve come at my father’s behest.”

  “Good. Good. And your sister, Brahanu. I hear she’s with child.”

  “She is, nearly seven full moons now.”

  “I see.” Riok grinned. “Janshai won’t be pleased to hear it. Nevertheless, do offer my congratulations to her and her husband…what is he now? Oh yes, the carpenter.”

  Nesdin sniggered as Julaybeim took a deep breath, ignoring the slight.

  “I’ll convey your sentiment to her and my father as well.”

  Riok’s smile faded. “Well, what news do you bring from Cazaal?”

  “If it pleases you, Lord Estenbrook, my father wanted me to speak with you alone. I was glad to learn that you were in Noraa, Lord Vaughn. We were received well at the citadel in Kaleo.”

  “It doesn’t please me, Julaybeim. My guard is loyal and will remain. This might not be true in Cazaal, but that’s the way of things in Noraa.”

  Julaybeim inclined his head, standing from the table. “In that case, my Lord, forgive me for wasting your time. I must return to my father and tell him about my visit.”

  “Wait,” Nesdin said. “Lord Estenbrook, if the information is such that only we may hear it, mayhaps we should accommodate young Lord Ravenot. We wouldn’t want his trip to be for naught.”

  “Fine,” Riok said, throwing his hands up. “Everyone out! Leave us, and keep everyone from the corridor.”

  As the servants and sentries exited, Riok drained his goblet, holding it empty toward Julaybeim. “Now, who’s going to fill my cup?”

  Julaybeim stepped to the large man, lifting a ewer from the tray. He filled Riok’s cup to the brim and set the pitcher down in front of him. “There. You have no need to even stand now, my lord. Everything you need is around you. May I inform you of my news, or do you need some sweets, too?”

  Lord Vaughan laughed aloud, sipping from his goblet. “It’s certain that he’s Hacom’s son. Of that, there’s no doubt. Go on, Lord Ravenot, tell us why you’ve come.”

  “My lords, there’s some disturbing news from Nazil,” he spoke quietly, retaking his seat.

  “Nazil?” Riok said. “We haven’t heard anything.”

  “Yes, but we’ve suspected much. Tell us about this news,” Nesdin said, leaning in.

  “Draizeyn has given an order for his guard to prepare for war.”

  “War!”

  “Be calm, Lord Estenbrook,” Julaybeim warned. “We mustn’t be overheard.” Julaybeim peered around the room again, continuing. “The details are many, and I don’t have time to discuss intricacies. We’ve received word from friends of Nazil that they’re preparing. The time is not long to come.”

  “What reason was given for such an action?”

  “Nazil needs no reason, Nesdin,” Riok said. “I’ve felt something coming for some time now. There’s been movement in Mahlum and the outposts, and I’ve had reports of guards arriving in Kumasi. There’re more coming here, too.”

  “The Zaxson is fixed on Noraa, Lord Estenbrook,” Julaybeim said.

  “Why are you so certain that he’ll come to Noraa?”

  “When Hyorin was destroyed, many fled to the mountains. In all this time, they were thought dead, and only a few were aware of the contrary. Those few reside here in Noraa. Draizeyn has learned about this village and the ones that helped keep it secret.”

  Nesdin scoffed. “Why would he care about another human village? Many survived Hyorin. Both Riok and I are survivors of that pogrom. What does he demand from them, gold for his bonding ceremony?”

  “You misunderstand,” Julaybeim said. “This village is like no other. There were many Nazilians thought lost as well. However, they fled with the humans, and built this new village together.”

  “That can’t be,” Nesdin said. “No human would be with a Nazilian.”

  “No, Nesdin,” Riok said. “You’re wrong. I’ve seen children with Nazilian features. They attempted to hide beneath their cowls, but I know the look of the ghosts. I have no doubt that such a place could exist.”

  “You speak true, Caretaker. Most children in this village are of a blended heritage, and are now at great risk.”

  “Julaybeim, how did Draizeyn learn about the village?” Riok asked.

  “One of these children wanted to be a Chosen like his father. He thought if he traveled to Nazil, they’d allow him the honor.”

  “Honor? Was he mad?” Nesdin asked.

  “From what’s told, he wouldn’t heed his father’s warning. Now Nazil has him, and he’ll lead them to this village. Draizeyn wants everyone who had knowledge of it, and this is why he’ll come to Noraa.”

  “His father?” Riok leaned forward. “Do you know his name?”

  “He was a former Third Chosen of Nazil named Hosdaq.”

  “Hosdaq! Hosdaq Neufmarche?”

  “Did you know him, Caretaker?” Julaybeim asked.

  “I made it a point to learn the names of all the Nazilians who frequently visited. He and a few others were said to appreciate human women.” Riok drained his cup and sighed. “What would Hacom have of us?”

  “My father only wants you to be ready. No one should know about the captive, Hosdaq, or the village. If these facts come to light, Draizeyn will know that a Nazilian told of it.”

  “Forgive me, Julaybeim,” Riok said. “I japed when you arrived with urgent information. Make our gratitude known to your father. I understand why he couldn’t come himself. Cazaal is preparing.”

  “Indeed, Lord Estenbrook. The sentries have already been increased, and they train hard. We’re putting new watchtowers in place, and my father will visit the Neema Outpost soon. Nazil mustn’t be allowed another victory. This time, we’ll stand ready.”

  “As will we,” Nesdin assured, raising his goblet.

  “Take great care, my lords. There’re many spies in the cities and villages. Trust no one.” Julaybeim stood, proffering a bow. “If you’ll excuse me, I must meet with my guards.”

  “Lord Ravenot, a question. How did you come by such pertinent information?” Riok asked.

  “By the Seven’s grace, my lord. There’s at least one Nazilian who doesn’t want this to come to pass.”

  “You trust this Nazilian?” Nesdin asked.

  “We do. He’s earned that trust and our respect. It wasn’t easy to hear his words.”

  “No,” Riok said. “Your father has the same regard for Nazilians as I do. If Hacom takes his words for truth, that’s no small thing. Thank you, Lord Ravenot. Noraa will be ready.”

  “Thank you for receiving me.” As he exited the chamber, the Caretakers looked on in disbelief.

  “Do you truly believe him, Riok?”

  “I’ve never had cause to doubt Lord Ravenot. He’s always served with honor. If he didn’t believe this threat real, he wouldn’t have sent his son.”

  “When Hacom came for the meeting, he didn’t seem interested in your talk about Nazil.”

  “Nesdin, I spoke about what I feared was to come and the pledge. I didn’t have proof of my suspicions. Hacom didn’t rebuke me; he took heed of my warning.”

  “So, what’ll you do now, dear friend? Will you call your sentries and have them stand upon the ramparts until they see the claws of Nazil waving on a flag?”

  “You jest, Nesdin. The threat from Nazil is serious. If the village he spoke of is—”

  A soft tapping on the door interrupted them.

  “Who is it?”

  The chamber door opened, and Nohek Asmaa stepped through. “Pardons, Caretaker. Your men told me that you were in a private conference with Lord Ravenot. I wanted to join the discussion,” Asmaa said, glancing around the room. “I see that he’s already taken leave.”

  “If you knew that we were in a private conference, why would you disturb us?” Nesdin asked, disrespectfully.

  “Because, Caretaker, the
Nohek is aware that he’s the only person that I truly trust in this city,” Riok said. “His insight is invaluable to me.”

  “Hacom didn’t want this information shared,” Nesdin said.

  “There isn’t any need to tell me about the news. I know that the Nazilians are preparing for war.”

  Nesdin looked at Riok and then back at the Nohek. “How would you know what we discussed if you weren’t lurking in the shadows?”

  “Speak softly, Caretaker. The Nohek is no spy. He knows many people and hears much. Tell me, Nohek Asmaa, is there more that hasn’t been said?” Riok asked, pouring him some wine.

  “It’s not certain. For more than a full moon, the Nazilians have made plans to attack the human villages. They seek those who escaped their grasp, and the Nazilians who’ve helped them.”

  “Does this village truly exist?” Riok asked.

  “I’ve heard rumors about such a place. There might be some that you’ve known personally who reside there. But if that’s so, I fear they’ll be lost.”

  “Wait, how does he know all of this? Does he aid the very people Draizeyn hunts?”

  “Nesdin, the Nohek serves the temple and the gods. Don’t speak to him in such a manner. He’s loyal to me and to this city.”

  Asmaa nodded. “Your words are true, my lord. Still, I hold no malice toward anyone seeking such peace. The rumor of this village found my ears long ago, yet I didn’t want to verify it. I’ve known goodly people from Nazil and beyond. Even before Hyorin’s fall, I knew many Nazilians who loved humans. What place did a love as this have to grow? If these people chose to live in this manner, who am I to tell them any different?”

  “You’re the Nohek Karab of Noraa. That’s who you are. You’re meant to guide the people, not lead them astray,” Nesdin said, loudly.

  “I do this for all the people, Caretaker, but I won’t lead anyone from the purpose of the gods. There was one from Nazil well known in Hyorin seen fleeing with several humans. They could be in this village, or he could’ve taken them captive. When there’re only questions, how are you to know the truth? No, I’ve never doubted that such a village could exist. But having evidence of its existence wasn’t information that I wanted to have.”