The Rise of Nazil- Complete Epic Fantasy Trilogy

by Aaron-Michael Hall

  He reached into a singed pouch, carefully removing a scorched piece of parchment, batting at the fringes and knocking the embers away.

  “Z’-R-----YN,” he said, trying to decipher what he could of the remaining words. “Mayhaps Weisheng can make sense of this.” As he pushed up to stand, he was forced back to his knees, feeling cold steel edged against his throat as his head was wrenched back.

  “K’ahndelae mahn Weis aut vis’vorl suok yutāsi, kryehn sorhnye pahn’tah, Déshì Xaahn, k’iende resh vis’vorl rahymed r’rshena tak k’ahndelae?” [61] he heard a woman say, while edging the blade closer.

  “Y’einz zhrezrae,” [62] he said, slowly raising his hands up in surrender. “Are you volunteering for the job?”

  “Someone needs to.” She sheathed her dagger, crouching beside him. “After all these years, you still attract trouble.”

  “Mayhaps I’m orchestrating these events to gain your notice. What better way than to have you come to my rescue?” He turned, facing her. “Otherwise, I’d never get to see you. Where have you been? I haven’t seen much of you of late.”

  Natelegé flipped her braids to her back, nodding. “I know, but once you’ve returned with me, you’ll understand why. I’ve been looking for you.”

  “We were on our way, but other matters took precedence,” he said, gesturing to the corpse. “We’ve felt the shift…the imbalance. Something stirs, but we haven’t ascertained the source. After we’ve visited the Animus Wood, Weis will return to Syahndru while I trek to Naidisia.”

  “Have you spoken with Mother Iya?”

  “Not as yet, but it’s past time we did so. The others will soon arrive.”

  “The others will definitely be an asset, while the Brothers Xaahn are but two, and the AsZar wishes to see you.”

  “And what of you? Am I who you want to see?”

  “I believe the AsZar’s wishes supersede my own. She’s awaiting the Brothers Xaahn, but she needs to speak with you most of all.”

  “Well, don’t tell Weis about that. He’s already jealous enough, forever in the shadow of his handsome elder brother.”

  Natelegé chuckled, and then gestured to the corpse. “Who is he?”

  “That’s what I was hoping to find out; however, he had a differing mind. At least he mentioned a sellsword named Tolnain who sent him to… detain us. Mayhaps we’ll learn more once Weis returns with his captive.”

  “Weis? You know how he changes when his blood ignites. The hunt doesn’t end until he’s captured his prey.” She sighed. “It’s usually mortal. Most likely, the man’s already dead.”

  “I won’t be doing any chiding this time. Hells, I only meant to stop the arrow, not incinerate the man. I used to have better control.”

  “It’s not your control, Déshì. Your abilities are evolving and will continue to intensify.” She rested a hand over his. “Just as mine have. There’s never been anyone like your brother and you. I know it’s been difficult at times, but that uniqueness is something I’ve always admired in you. Only your father can truly assist you during this transition.”

  “You admire me?” He grinned. “What parts, exactly?”

  She smiled, shoving him off balance. “I’m serious, Déshì. I know you want to travel to Nazil, but it’s not the time. Allow the Drah’kuus to aid the Zaxson. Once Shintao and Zol arrive, they can provide more assistance. You’re not invulnerable, you know.” She leaned in, pecking his cheek. “Besides, after you return, I’ll even tell you exactly what I admire.”

  “That alone might be worth the trip. But I can’t sit idle and do nothing. As you’ve said, my brother and I are disparate from the others. Our abilities differ from theirs.”

  “They do, and that’s something the AsZar needs to speak with you about. She’s crossed the threshold, Déshì, and your father awaits.”

  “I can’t remain in Naidisia. Not now. I can feel the disturbance, the shift in the balance. I’m needed here in Faélondul. Both my brother and me.”

  “You are, but even Weis’ abilities don’t mirror your own. You are as your father, Déshì. As such, you need to return to the Fire Lands of Naidisia. Whatever is causing this shift, the AsZar will be ready.”

  Unforeseen

  “How did you learn to do this?” Aizen asked, watching her replace the horse’s shoe.

  Droxahn brushed the dirt from her hands, tossing her long, white hair over her shoulder. “I learned from my father. He tended the stables, and I was always underfoot. When I was older, Ahvixx taught me how to care for the horses properly. We both love horses. I guess we inherited that from our father.”

  “Is that why you come here so often? I mean, because it reminds you of him…of your father?” he asked, taking a seat next to her.

  “How do you know that I come here often?” Her brow raised. “I’ve never seen you here when I come, only the stable workers.”

  Aizen’s face flushed, considering his response. He had been following her. It wasn’t due to any distrust he felt, only curiosity.

  “I—I noticed you as I passed. I enjoy riding and—and caring for the horses, too. I wasn’t spying on you, you know? I wanted to talk with you, but I didn’t think you wanted any company. Both you and Ahvixx tend to keep your distance from everyone, and I wouldn’t intrude upon your privacy.”

  She smiled, feeling it was more than that. “It isn’t an intrusion to offer friendship, Aizen. My brother and I have been here for quite some time and no one appears to have an interest in getting to know us.”

  “That isn’t true. We didn’t know how to approach you. The two of you ate alone and didn’t accept any offers from our parents to join us. We were instructed to permit you your solitude and allow you to come to us when you were ready. If I’d known differently, I would’ve spoken to you long ago.”

  “Well, I guess I have a confession to make, Aizen.”

  “A confession? What could you possibly have to confess?” he teased.

  She bit her bottom lip, meeting his eyes. “I’ve been watching you, too.”

  “Too?”

  “Yes, too. Just like you’ve been watching me.”

  When he attempted to respond, she took his hand, shaking her head.

  “There’s nothing to explain; not to me. When we first arrived, I noticed you and your brother sparring in the practice yard. I’ve returned each morning since to watch your training…to watch you ,” she clarified.

  “Me?” he asked, looking at her with new interest. “You’ve been watching me?”

  “I have. Does that bother you?”

  “No, I mean, I just didn’t know that you were interested in our training. If you like I can—”

  “I’m not interested in your training, Aizen. I’m interested in you.” Her lips twitched up in a grin, noting his shocked expression. “Now, would you like to join me on a ride or just continue following me from a distance?”

  When his eyes widened, so did Droxahn’s smile. He relaxed then, reaching to brush some hay from her hair. When he leaned forward, she met his lips with hers. He jerked, yet held there a moment more before pulling away.

  “I—I didn’t mean to—”

  “I did,” she said. “Should we ask Ahni and Ameya to join us, or shall we ride alone; just you and me?”

  “To—tomorrow. We can ask them tomorrow. I’d rather ride together…I mean, just you and me. Alone.”

  “Good,” she said, taking his hand and leading him to the horses.

  Ahvixx watched as they left the stables. Once the doors closed behind them, he turned, rushing into the citadel to find Olam. He was in his study, buried beneath a pile of old parchments.

  “Pardons, Sir Ojarz,” he said, tapping a knuckle on the open door.

  “Ah, Ahvixx. Please come,” Olam said, motioning to the chair opposite him. He closed the codex he was perusing and shifted the parchments aside. When Ahvixx remained standing, Olam reached for his pitcher, pouring a cup of water for him. “Please sit.”

  Ahvi
xx nodded, slowly taking his seat, but keeping his gaze lowered. He fidgeted with his hair, as his cheeks appeared to redden.

  “Are you all right, Ahvixx? Was there a reason for your visit, or would you rather continue examining my floor?” Olam smiled…a smile that wasn’t returned.

  Ahvixx drained the cup, continuing to fidget. He wasn’t as comfortable around the others like Droxahn was. What he wanted to discuss made this meeting even more awkward.

  “Ahvixx, you needn’t worry. No one here is going to harm you. We hope that you’ll find a home here with us. All of us are starting anew, so to speak. Not long ago, we were in the Animus Wood, and before that, Bandari—”

  “Bandari? Nohek Asmaa speaks of the village often. I hope to visit there one day. Is it true that the humans and Nazilians lived there in peace?”

  “It was that and more…for all of us. You’ve met the Caretaker of Spero and his family. Hosdaq and Vot established Bandari and were integral in protecting each of us and enriching our lives. You’ll meet many others who lived there as well. Emet is another, and his mother was Nazilian. Mayhaps we’ll have an opportunity to travel together soon. From the reports, much of Bandari has been destroyed, but the hot spring remains. Its waters are blessed by the Guardians themselves.”

  “Emet? He’s Nazilian? He looks human.”

  “Indeed,” Olam said. “His features are that of his father, Gayu Karidian, but his mother, Tabitha, was Nazilian. Emet’s brother, Nzuri, is the same, save his hair. Other than that, he’d appear human, too. There are so many, young Ahvixx. We could journey together, expanding on what you know, and discovering some things you never knew existed.”

  “I’d welcome such a journey,” he said, lowering his eyes again.

  Olam’s brow knitted, observing Ahvixx closely. He wore the modest robes of the priests with the emblem of the Seven around his neck. The emblem’s wood was nearly black, made from the trees in the Animus Wood. Olam smiled at that, and the auspicious young man seated before him.

  Ahvixx’s hair was much longer than his sister’s, yet not nearly as well groomed. Pentanimir and Temian came to Olam’s mind in that instant. They were the only Nazilians he’d noticed with such long, thick tresses.

  Ahvixx’s eyes were larger than most that he’d seen. There was something within them that Olam couldn’t discern. Like all pure Nazilians and some half, Ahvixx’s orbs were pale with the slightest bluish hue. So pale were his eyes, they appeared nearly clear.

  Still, with Ahvixx there was something more. He was handsome by all accounts, standing much taller than Olam with broad shoulders. However, Ahvixx’s shoulders always seemed to slump, making him appear less than what he was.

  “Ahvixx,” Olam finally said. “Why have you come?”

  “I—I’ve heard that you have the ability to see things that are yet to come.”

  “In a manner. Does this interest you?”

  “It does, Sir Ojarz. How does it work?”

  “Of that, I can’t begin to explain. The Guardians blessed me with many visions. Some were of small future events; others were monumental in guiding our lives or offering a glimpse as to what could be. But there’s no trick or command to them. The Guardians imparted these visions and truths, it was up to each of us to decide what course to take after them. I didn’t control the visions, Ahvixx, I merely interpreted them.”

  A visible sigh escaped his lips.

  “Why do you ask?”

  “I’ve seen things, things in my dreams, and then I see them again before me just the same.”

  “Do you mean that the visions in your dreams play out before you while you are yet awake?”

  He nodded.

  “And there’s no change—you see it exactly as in your dreams?”

  “Yes, and I don’t understand, Sir Ojarz.”

  “How long has this been happening? When was the first that you recall?”

  “It was long ago. Now I know what it was, but then, it frightened me. I saw my parent’s deaths. I knew it was going to happen, and could do nothing. I didn’t understand then, just as I don’t now.”

  Olam closed his eyes in reflection, moving past the unpleasant memory. “Tell me about your recent dreams.”

  “I knew that we’d be here, with the Caretakers. I didn’t know how it would happen, yet I knew we’d be here with you.”

  “Do you recall anything else?”

  “Yes, before I came to see you. I saw my sister and Aizen riding out of the stables. I’d seen that long ago, but wasn’t certain who or when. Droxahn cares for him, and he returns those feelings. Or at least, he will.”

  “You’ve seen this, too?”

  “I saw Aizen and Ahni before we met. I also knew about you and where to find you. Your name has repeated in my mind often, but I didn’t know why until I came to the citadel.”

  “Does this frighten you?” Olam asked.

  “It did, in the beginning. Now, I accept them as a blessing. Isn’t that how they’re intended?”

  “It is, and you’re wise to comprehend that truth. It took some time for me to gain your level of understanding. This alone will aid you in this journey. It isn’t only seeing what may come to pass, Ahvixx, it’s being able to decipher those visions and attaining the wisdom to use these foretellings. The caretakers and priests have always helped me to better understand my visions. This is a rare gift, and not bestowed lightly. The Guardians said I’d meet others with like affinities, and it was my duty to guide them. I’ve been waiting for you, Ahvixx. Will you allow me to aid you?”

  A sincere and relieved smile crossed his face, the first Olam had ever seen him offer.

  “Yes, please.”

  “Good. Now, my friends refer to me as Olam. I’d like you to do the same.”

  “You wouldn’t consider it disrespectful to address you in the familiar?”

  “Ahvixx, how old are you?”

  “I’m seven and ten, milord.”

  “I’m no lord. My birth is no higher than yours. I appreciate your willingness to address me respectfully, but there’s no disrespect in addressing me in the manner that I’ve asked. I consider you a friend, and now, my protégé, too. Olam will suffice.”

  “Yes, O—Olam.”

  “Now, let us join the others for noon meal. There’s much to do, and I’m eager to begin,” Olam said, standing and gesturing toward the door.

  “I can take the meal with you?”

  “Ahvixx, I’m not certain what’s caused this fear or idea of your inferiority. No one is above you. The first thing that you must learn is self-confidence. I’ve seen your work and know that you have an intelligence far beyond many twice your years. In fact, I’d like you to accompany me to Nazil when I visit the Zaxson. You’re certainly someone Pentanimir Benoist should meet.”

  Olam noticed him shrink away at the notion.

  “Don’t worry, it won’t be soon. Know that you’re much more than you’ve been led to believe. The fact that the Guardians selected you testifies to that. Together we’ll uncover the answers that you seek. First, we must eat, young Ahvixx. So, stand tall and know your purpose.”

  Homecoming

  The clopping hooves of the horses echoed around them as the carriages traversed the cobbled streets. Brahanu hadn’t been in the city since their inaugural ceremony as the Zaxson and Zaontras of Nazil. She leaned sideward, raising a small corner of the window’s drape. Even in the fading light, Nazil was beautiful.

  She recalled the first time that she’d seen the white city and the terror that filled her that night. If it hadn’t been for Pentanimir, she could’ve been taken as a slave. More than fate had a role in those circumstances. Although they learned that meeting had been prearranged, the outcome depended upon their willingness to look beyond what was, to discover what could be.

  The ramifications of their decisions were still reverberating throughout Faélondul. Albeit, regardless of their losses and sacrifices, the blessings were immeasurable. Two of them accompanied them in
the carriage, and Brahanu glanced down at their baskets, feeling the warmth of that truth.

  “What has your mind?” Pentanimir asked, draping an arm around her shoulder.

  When she turned to meet his eyes, Brahanu felt more content than she had in seasons. The love and adoration exuding from them confirmed what was in both her heart and mind.

  “I think we’re home,” she said.

  He leaned in for a kiss, as the carriage came to a halt. “I love you.”

  “We’ve arrived, Zaxson,” Symeon said, opening the carriage door.

  “Thank you, First Chosen,” Pentanimir said.

  Symeon inclined his head, extending a hand out to him. As soon as Pentanimir stepped from the carriage, his smile was immediate, seeing his family standing in the courtyard to greet them.

  “How was your trip?” Temian asked.

  “Interesting, and we have much to discuss. I’ll brief you tonight, but we’ll have a full meeting on the morrow. It was a daunting trip, and I’m certain that Symeon and Wosen would like some time with their wives.”

  “Service to the Zaxson takes precedence,” Symeon said.

  “For this evening, service to your wives is of greater import.” He winked. “Besides, we’ll be retiring soon ourselves. Please, go and reacquaint yourselves.”

  “As you say, Zaxson.” Wosen bowed, and then rushed to join Hibret.

  After issuing instructions to the attendants, Pentanimir motioned his siblings to his solar.

  “Much lies ahead for all of us,” he said, taking a seat at the head of the table.

  “We received the communications from Cazaal, Spero, and Kaleo,” Danimore said. “How were the guards when Hosdaq retrieved them?”

  “They were in good health, if not in good spirits. Yonas ensured that they were well treated. He assigned only his trusted sentries to tend to their needs. His younger brother, Amare, accompanied Hosdaq to Spero.

  “The guards spoke well of Amare and he remained in Spero to assist the caretaker. Given his family’s past with Nazilians, that was unexpected. Amare shows great promise, and Hosdaq is considering asking him to join his Chosen Guard. He’ll notify us regarding the guard’s destinations soon.”