Pentanimir nodded. Everything that he wanted to say was lost in the deep brown of her eyes. None of that mattered, at least, for now. He edged closer, caressing her cheek. The heat elicited from that touch sent urgings through his body, an ache reminiscent of the last time they were together in Cazaal.
“Julaybeim had your bedchamber prepared for us,” he spoke softly, tickling her neck with his fingertips.
Brahanu’s subsequent moan made his smile broaden as he helped her to stand, and then reunited Tardison with his brother.
Pentanimir barely had the bedchamber door closed before feeling his back pressed against it. Brahanu savored his lips as he grappled at her laces, tugging the confining dress free. When her garments met the floor, he swiveled away from the door, holding her out at arm’s length.
“Gods, I’ve missed you,” he said, breathily, enjoying her nakedness. It had been too long since he’d seen her…kissed her…and made love to her.
Brahanu covered his lips again, tossing his belt aside and unclasping his tunic. As she led him to the bed, he laid her down in its center, removing his boots and allowing her to do the same to his trews. When her hands glided down his abdomen, he shook his head, moving over her. His lips traced down her body, leaving teasing tickles ending with an intimate kiss.
When last they’d made love in Cazaal, it was rushed and unplanned. This time would be different. Pentanimir was unrelenting, not allowing his own completion until Brahanu was exhausted from the numerous eruptions of pleasure. As he gave into the feeling, she drew him down, enjoying his lips and the heat of his satisfaction filling her.
“That was like never before,” she breathed, as he collapsed beside her.
“Were you pleased, my lady?” he asked, still catching his breath.
Brahanu chuckled, snuggling into his chest. “I’m always pleased with, and by you, Pentanimir, from the very beginning.”
For a moment, he didn’t respond, relishing the feel of her. He hadn’t realized how much he needed to be with her. It wasn’t merely the joining of their bodies, it was the joining of their hearts. Pentanimir needed her in Nazil with him, but he didn’t know how to ask of it.
“What’s wrong?” she asked. “You don’t look like a man who’s just made love to his wife.” She raised up then, taking his hand in hers.
“I’m all right. I’ve just missed you.”
“It’s more than that, Pentanimir. Please, what’s happened?”
“Nothing…everything…and more.” He shook his head, sitting up and embracing her. “I’ve missed you, Brahanu. I didn’t understand how much until smelling the sweet oils on your neck and feeling you next to me. Being at your side now causes me to realize how incomplete I feel when you’re away from me. I couldn’t bear it another moment. We were apart for too long before the war. I don’t want to be apart from you now that we’ve won it.” He sighed. “I don’t mean to be selfish, but I need you, Brahanu. I need both you and Eytan in Nazil with me.”
“It’s not selfishness, Pentanimir, it’s love. I’m glad that you’ve come, truly. Being in my former home brings both joy and anguish. I can feel and see Itai within every shadow with his voice whispering in my ear. The Guardians’ words are true, Husband. The connection remains.”
When Pentanimir attempted to speak, she rested a finger on his lips. “But my place is with you. Tioch and Naji have spent time with Eytan, and I’ll visit again soon. For now, I need to be with my husband in Nazil.”
“Are you certain?”
“I am. Eytan and Tardison mustn’t be separated.” She paused, leaning in for another kiss. “And neither should we.”
He nodded, drawing her in closer. “I’ll wash up now and then speak with Hosdaq. Will you stay here with me, Brahanu?”
“I will. There’s no other place I wish to be, my love.”
Pentanimir smiled, moving to the basin. As he dipped a cloth in the water, Brahanu laid back, admiring his nakedness.
“My love for you is eternal, but that’s all I have left to give. If you can have the happiness you brought to my life with another, I’d have it so. Know that my heart never belonged to any other. Now, the love of you and my son will fill me as I await you beyond the falls.”
Brahanu closed her eyes, recalling Itai’s words. I will, my husband. I’ll always love you, Itai, but my life isn’t in Cazaal. It’s with Pentanimir, she thought, gazing over at him again.
“Would you like to join us?” Pentanimir said, patting himself dry. “Hosdaq brought a half dozen bereles of tej. It’s authentic, not like the last we had.”
She smiled at that, having grown fond of the flavorful honey wine. “I’ll need to recover my strength first. My husband was relentless in bed this eve. I’m not certain my gait will be steady.”
He chuckled. “If you haven’t noticed my weakened stance, I doubt your gait will matter. Besides, I’d like you to hear the news from Kaleo and Spero. Much is taking place, and I’d have you involved in all matters of the lands.”
“I’ve heard some of the troubles we’re facing. Julaybeim has met opposition here, too.”
“So I’ve learned,” he said, taking a seat beside her. “There’s considerable unrest, especially amongst the Nazilians.”
“I understand, Pentanimir. This change won’t be swift, but you have both men and women of honor supporting you. In time, the lands will mend, and common sense and logic will prevail. You are the Zaxson of Nazil, my love. Through you, Faélondul will unite.”
“Hearing you speak those words calms my spirit. We are a part of each other, you and I, and I’ll forever love you.”
“As I will, you.”
The conversation was much the same when Pentanimir arrived. He slipped through the door, trying to remain unnoticed. He failed.
“Ah, it’s good you could join us,” Julaybeim said. “How was your visit with Brahanu?”
Pentanimir flushed, seeing the men’s grins. “Yes, Lady Benoist was indeed gracious.”
Symeon clapped him on the shoulder as he sat beside him. “What have I missed?” Pentanimir asked, and then cleared his throat.
“We were speaking about some news from Kaleo,” Hosdaq said. “Once we’ve visited Noraa, Osmara and I plan to speak with Yonas directly.”
Pentanimir’s brow creased. “Kaleo? What news?”
“Several things,” Julaybeim said. “When Yonas visited not long ago, he mentioned some Nazilians that were detained before the war. He’d liked them returned to their homes as soon as possible. Mayhaps a word from you could see them safe.”
“They still have captives?” Pentanimir asked. “Why is Yonas holding them?”
“Faélondul might’ve been liberated, but many humans remember when it wasn’t,” Julaybeim said. “After the increase of violence, Yonas didn’t want to release the Nazilians within the populace. He’d prefer they be escorted from Kaleo by a sizeable retinue.”
“I understand some trepidation,” Pentanimir said. “But certainly escorting them to the gates should be sufficient.”
“The Kaleon Council advises against it. Many denizens await such an opportunity to waylay these men once their free from Kaleo’s protections. Their concerns are valid, Zaxson,” Julaybeim said. “Yonas holds them not for reprimand, but for protection.”
“How many Nazilians remain guests of Yonas?”
“There are merely eight,” Julaybeim said.
Pentanimir thought for a moment, and then shifted to look at Symeon.
“Would you have Wosen and me travel to Kaleo, Zaxson?” Symeon asked. “We could take possession of the men and deliver them to Spero.”
“I had thoughts of the same, but I’d need to travel with you. Your appearance would serve well the people of Kaleo, but it would be prudent to have at least one Nazilian, too. We don’t know the nature of these men, and I don’t want any complications on the trek to Spero.”
“I’ll go in your stead,” Hosdaq said. “It isn’t the Zaxson’s duty to attend captives. Besides, I’ll as
sign them quarters in Spero if they wish to remain. They may not have a home to return to. If they do, I’ll arrange their transportation after ascertaining their disposition.”
“I’m not certain that’s the best course, Hosdaq. As you’ve said, we don’t know who these men are or their character. It could be dangerous.”
“All the more reason that I should go in your stead. I’m merely the Caretaker of Spero, but you’re our Zaxson. Your worth is greater than mine.”
Pentanimir’s mouth quirked up in a grin. “I doubt that your wife and children would agree with that assessment, my friend.” He upraised a hand, shaking his head. “However, I’ll acquiesce to your reasoning. If Julaybeim agrees, I’ll remain here until Symeon and Wosen return. You must take care and stay on your guard. Not everyone in Kaleo will be pleased at your arrival.”
Hosdaq nodded, glancing at Wosen. “I’m traveling with the Chosen guard of Nazil,” he offered, proudly. “No one will harm us.”
“I’ll send word of your coming on the morrow,” Julaybeim said. “Yonas will be pleased to see you.”
“And I, him,” Hosdaq said, lifting his cup.
Casualties of War
Vot closed the solar door, looking back at his wife. The meeting with Ona Estenbrook was more cordial than either of them had expected, but their position as caretakers was a source of contention. Although Ona and her daughters were indifferent, her eldest, Janshai wasn’t of the same mind. They’d lost their father during the war and Janshai had expected to succeed him. Riok Estenbrook was well regarded in Noraa, and they hoped this appointment wouldn’t be seen as a slight.
“Janshai seemed receptive to his new position,” Vot said. “Once he returns from Cazaal, we’ll make everything official. We don’t need any conflicts on the council or with our sentries.”
Huname nodded, accepting his offered hand as he sat beside her. She understood Ona’s willingness to return to her home. The memories lingering in the citadel would haunt her family, just as the memories of losing her children in Hyorin haunted Huname now.
“We don’t have to remain in Noraa,” Vot said, as if reading her thoughts. “We’re here to assist Pentanimir during this transition. After which, Aizen and Ahni can take their place over the city.”
Huname managed a smile, leaning her head on his shoulder. “I know. It’s difficult, but necessary. We’ll do what we can to protect this new peace and bring the people together. According to the recent messages, there’s dissention amongst the Nazilians. I fear for Pentanimir and what’s yet to come.”
“We mustn’t worry about what could be, my wife. We need to focus on what is,” he said, kissing the crown of her head. “Speaking of, I noticed Emet’s interest in Maisha Estenbrook.”
“Indeed, and her mother’s as well. The Karidians are highly regarded throughout Faélondul, even with the Nazilians.”
As he began to respond, the door creaked open before Aizen and Ahni entered the room.
“We’re not interrupting, are we?” Aizen asked, pausing at the door.
“Not at all. We were waiting for you before leaving for the hall. Was the message urgent?”
“No,” Ahni said. “Elder…I mean Caretaker Hosdaq’s visit will be delayed. We also received word of more bands of rogues in the Dessalonian Wood. The scouts didn’t interfere with them, they only made note of their numbers and location.”
Vot sighed. “We’d hoped they’d disperse and trek to Kumasi or Yarah. Pentanimir hasn’t appointed a caretaker over Kumasi yet, and they appear agreeable to the new edicts and direction he’s leading Faélondul.”
“From what I’ve heard, it was the same when Draizeyn ruled. The people in Kumasi are mostly fishermen and farmers or considered lowborn. They traded often with Kaleo and Noraa for extra coin or wares. Draizeyn treated them like nothing more than cogs. I doubt they’ll mourn his deposing.”
“They might not, but many others do. With the destruction of the Nazilian villages, some regard the Guardians and any who serve them as enemies,” Vot said. “The Cha always touted the belief that the Animus Wood was a cursed place. After the casualties of this war, more Nazilians believe their erroneous allegations.”
“Then, we have much work to do,” Olam said, entering the room.
“It’s good to see you, Olam,” Huname said. “We didn’t know you were back in the city.”
“I arrived some time ago, but Nohek Asmaa needed to speak with me.”
“The Nohek?” Vot said. “Is everything all right?”
“It is. Asmaa wanted me to meet his wards,” Olam said. “Apparently, he’s been caring for them for some time and would like to introduce them to you. I hope that I didn’t overstep by inviting them to the citadel.”
“Of course not,” Vot said, helping Huname to stand. “Asmaa has been a trusted friend for many years. Had it not been for his assistance, Bandari wouldn’t have flourished as it did. He’s welcome here at any time.”
Olam inclined his head, turning back toward the door. “They’re waiting in the corridor.”
When he returned with his guests, Huname and Vot exchanged a look.
“Gre—greetings, Nohek Asmaa,” Huname said. “It’s good to see you again so soon.”
Asmaa smiled, motioning to his companions. “It’s always my pleasure, Caretakers. I’d like to introduce you to Ahvixx and Droxahn Ahllendale.”
The pair fidgeted nervously, bowing their greetings. Ahvixx’s eyes never left the floor as Droxahn stepped in front of him. “Thank you for having us,” she said, softly.
“Please, please sit,” Vot said, looking from one to the other, attempting to keep the shock from his visage. “Are you to tell us about our guests?” Vot asked, as Aizen pulled a chair out for Droxahn.
“Yes, Caretaker,” Asmaa said. “Ahvixx and Droxahn are siblings, and originally from Nazil. They’ve been my wards for years since leaving the city.”
“Your wards?” Huname asked, glancing at the Nazilian siblings. “How’s that possible?”
“Like many unfortunates of lower birth, their parents were servants. I was acquainted with her mother when Hyorin yet stood. That’s why the children came to me at the temple. Upon their arrival, much healing needed to take place,” Asmaa said, glancing at Ahvixx. “Both of their parents were killed by Draizeyn’s order: falsely accused and quickly executed.” He sighed. “I’ve kept them with me and away from the populace since then. With the lands now free, I thought it safe for them to venture into the city, but I was mistaken. They were attacked two suns past.”
“What?” Vot said. “Why, Asmaa?”
“Because they’re Nazilian. At this time of unrest, that’s enough.”
“Has it come to this? After the sacrifices to liberate Faélondul, is this what it’s come to?”
“It was but one group seeking trouble, but I’d rather them not be unattended in the city. Ahvixx and Droxahn need to experience life beyond the confines of the temple. Most of those in the city wouldn’t commit such acts. Still, I worry for them. Mayhaps you could allow them to travel with Emet when next he visits Nazil. With the sentries’ escort, I’m certain they’ll have no trouble.”
“No,” Droxahn said, louder than she’d intended. “Pardon me. I—I mean that we don’t want to return to Nazil. Please.”
When Aizen rested a hand atop hers, she jerked away.
“I’m sorry,” Aizen said, confused. “I didn’t mean to frighten you.”
“Forgive her, young Aizen. They’ve had little contact with anyone other than the Nohek and Tumishi,” Asmaa said, and then regarded Droxahn. “Why don’t you want to return to Nazil?”
Ahvixx shook his head. “I don’t ever want to return to the white city.”
“Ahvixx, Pentanimir Benoist is the Zaxson now,” Olam said. “It’s not as it was when last you where there. Sir Benoist would allow no harm to befall you.”
“Our family and home are gone,” Droxahn said.
Aizen turned to face her. “Would you li
ke to stay here with us?”
“We do have the room,” Huname said. “If you’d like them to stay, Asmaa, we can assign them some chambers and make the appropriate arrangements.”
When Asmaa looked at the two, they nodded. “Of course,” Asmaa said. “If it’s possible, Caretakers, can your sons get them settled while we discuss particulars?”
Vot gestured to his sons. “Please find them appropriate chambers, and have Rhindel heat water for their baths.”
“Yes, Father,” the twins offered in tandem.
“It appears Aizen is somewhat taken by the lovely Droxahn,” Olam said once they’d left.
“Not so young anymore,” Huname said. “Aizen and Ahni are nearly seven and ten now; men grown.”
“Droxahn is as brilliant as she is lovely,” Asmaa said. “Ahvixx is my helding, and shows much promise. I offer my gratitude in allowing them to remain. It’s time for them to truly begin to live rather than merely existing.”
“What would you like for us to do, Asmaa? Do they have any areas of expertise?”
“Both read and write exceptionally well. We didn’t have much to offer in the temple, but they’ve learned numerous trades and assisted the scribes, sorted scrolls, tended the gardens, and Droxahn works well in the kitchen. They were diligent in their studies, as well, and could match wits with the best scholars in the lands.”
“I’m certain that they’ll find their place,” Olam said. “Mayhaps Yeshe could pay them a visit soon.”
“I’ll ask her about it after our meeting,” Huname said. “Have you received any word from Nazil?”
“Nzuri and Thalassa are deciphering the scrolls,” Asmaa said. “It appears Nzuri’s skill goes far beyond that of a lakaar and priest. He’s discovering great truths, and uncovering even greater mysteries.”
“Mysteries?”
“Yes, Olam,” Asmaa said. “It would seem so. Have any of you heard of Sanctium?”
“Sanctium is a place of myth, Asmaa.”
“Not long ago, the same was said about the Guardians and Protectors. Before them, it was the Naidisians, the Shadow Frost, and even the depths of the Shadokyn. Isn’t it enigmatic how purported myths transpierce into our reality?”
The Rise of Nazil- Complete Epic Fantasy Trilogy Page 89