The Rise of Nazil- Complete Epic Fantasy Trilogy

by Aaron-Michael Hall

  “Don’t you understand? This is exactly what she wants. She made that plain. Nikolina is maiden no longer. She used me well, many times. I only pray that my seed didn’t find her womb. I couldn’t stop it. I tried to fight, to resist. I tried to call out, and no sound would come. She barred the door and removed my clothing. I couldn’t resist. I felt the seed leave my body. She’s taken everything from me.”

  “I—I’m sorry. What are we to do? Should we take her and her father? For this offense, what are we to do? You’re the Nakshij of Nazil. No one can be allowed to treat any of our family like this. They’ll pay for this treachery.”

  “No. We can’t and Nikolina knows as much. Zeta mustn’t know about this, Pentanimir. She begged me to stay clear of her. Zeta warned that she put a fear into her that couldn’t be explained. If she learned of this—,” Danimore turned his head toward the wall. “I’m a fool.”

  “You’re no fool, Brother. No one could think such a thing possible. What she’s done must be punished. If it’s true that she desired your seed, Zeta will surely be told. Do you think that this wretch would carry your child and not tell of it? No, Dani. We mustn’t allow this violation to go unanswered.”

  He took a sobering breath. “You speak true. She wouldn’t keep this to herself. As her womb swelled, she would tell of it. Everyone knows about her desire for me and the dissolution of the pledge. They would think I gave myself to her willingly.”

  “The maiden’s tears,” Pentanimir said.” We could force her to drink them and your seed couldn’t take hold.”

  “I cannot kill a babe, not even one conceived in such a manner. Forever it would haunt me.”

  “Then, we won’t allow her to keep it. Your seed was stolen, Dani, and if it takes root in her womb, the babe would belong to you. It was theft that created it…a violation of the foulest kind. You must speak to Zeta and soon. She won’t be pleased, but we must be ready. Nikolina won’t be allowed that which she covets. The babe will be with us.”

  “Do you hear what you speak? Zeta won’t want someone else’s babe. She’s pregnant with our child. I’ve betrayed my wife and may soon have a bastard in the city.”

  “Are you to say Zeta cannot do for you as you’ve done for her?”

  “What do you mean?” Danimore asked, straining to rise.

  “Raithym. You accepted him as your own because of your love for his mother. Are you to say that her love for you isn’t equal to that in your own heart?”

  “It isn’t the same! There’s no parity here. Zeta didn’t want to be used like she was. She became with child against her will. It isn’t fair for you to say this.”

  “By what you’ve told me, isn’t it the same? Did you willingly give your seed to Nikolina?”

  “No,” he relented.

  “Brother, Zeta is a sister to me as Raithym is my nephew. I don’t want to harm either of them. However, you must realize the truth before you. Zeta’s love for you is unending. She’ll be wounded when she learns about this, but I’m certain that she’ll accept this babe as you’ve accepted Raithym. We must tell her. She must hear it from you. If Nikolina is given the opportunity, she’ll be most cruel. Please, if you insist upon not punishing this violation, at least consider what I’ve said.”

  “I don’t disagree, but I wouldn’t place this burden upon Zeta without cause. It’s my prayer that my seed won’t find Nikolina’s womb. Until it’s proven otherwise, I’ll keep Zeta ignorant of my treatment.”

  “Are you certain? It would take time, but Zeta will understand. She loves you and knows Nikolina’s heart even more than both you and me.”

  “I’m certain. We must return to the citadel.”

  “Are you well enough, Dani?” he asked, taking his arm.

  “I am. I’ll have Nzuri tend me when we arrive.” He winced. “Then, I need the arms of my wife about me.”

  Spero

  “Liam said that you wished to speak with me, Caretaker,” Amare said, standing beneath the arched doorway of the solar.

  Hosdaq sat alone near the conference table, contemplating the future for both Spero and his family. He pushed some fallen hair from his face, standing to address him.

  “Yes, Sir Yeondi, please, join me. Would you like refreshment?”

  “No, thank you, Caretaker.”

  “Well, then I won’t hinder you for long. There’re many opportunities that I have for you to consider. After I’ve presented them, I’ll release you to your duties.”

  “I appreciate that. Sir Wesfain and I were making our rounds. It isn’t a task easily completed by one.”

  Hosdaq smiled at the ever-serious sentry. Amare’s dedication to duty is one of the reasons he truly respected and appreciated him.

  “Of course,” Hosdaq said, taking his seat, and gesturing for Amare to do the same. “Sir Yeondi, I’ve known and respected your brother for many years. No doubt, he’s mentioned me to you as well.”

  “He did, many times. Yonas speaks highly of you and others of Bandari.”

  “It pleases me to know so. Yonas was an asset to Bandari, and now to Kaleo. Speaking of, when we arrived to extricate the Nazilians, I was impressed with your handling of not only the guards, but the situation as well. I spoke with your brother at length regarding the same.”

  “Thank you. I’m honored,” Amare said.

  “As you know, several of the Nazilians have decided to make Spero their home. Sir Wesfain is one of them. This is very much appreciated and needed at this time of reclamation.”

  “Indeed.”

  “Sir Yeondi, Spero is a fledgling city. When the Zaxson was Caretaker here, he was only beginning to populate not only the city proper, but also the temple and citadel. Sir Benoist had merely fifty guards assigned to the city. Of those, less than twenty returned from the battle in Cazaal. The guards we now have are all honorable and capable men of Nazil. Yet, there isn’t one among them that I’d grant the title of First Chosen. It’ll take time and training for these men to become worthy of such an honor. I don’t doubt for an instant that each and every one will exceed the expectations of not only myself, but of Sir Benoist as well.”

  “I’ve met your guard,” Amare said. “Some are young, but they train well and will be ready to protect the city and its citizens. Nurul works them hard and forces them to reach beyond their self-imposed limitations.”

  “Nurul is a fine swordsman, and he assisted with our guard’s training in Bandari. Even his son, Antenah is as such, and will make an exceptional Chosen. However, this isn’t where Nurul’s strength lies. For now, he’s able to teach the guard what they need to know. But his knowledge is limited on fine and enhanced training. His skills are basic by his own admission. I’m in need of a seasoned guard to assist.”

  “What would you have of me, Caretaker?”

  “I’m asking for you to remain, Sir Yeondi. Your brother has given me his permission to ask, but leaves the decision to you. In addition, I would ask if there are any other human sentries that you feel able to join you here in Spero.”

  “My brother has given his permission?”

  “He has. Yonas was quite pleased with my assessment of your skill. Kaleo has a lead sentry, and a second and third as well. The opportunity to rise within the village won’t come for many years, if at all. Here, there’s no such hindrance. It isn’t the lack of skill and discipline that won’t allow you to elevate; it’s merely circumstance. I have a need for you, Sir Yeondi. If you have the desire, Spero will be your home.

  “Though, I won’t come false. It pleases me that you’re human. Spero was meant to be a Nazilian city. I don’t want it to remain that way. There must be unity among the peoples of the lands. This cannot be so if everyone who lives here besides my family is Nazilian.”

  “I agree. There are a number of sentries in Kaleo that would welcome the opportunity you offer.”

  “And what of you? Will you lay down the title of sentry to embrace the honor of First Chosen?”

  Amare tightened his s
quare jaw, and met the Caretaker’s eyes. With perfect posture, he rose from his seat, unsheathing his sword as he knelt. Placing the blade across his knee, he bowed respectfully.

  “My sword is yours, Sir Neufmarche. I give my life and my skill in service to Spero.”

  Hosdaq stood, drawing his Xtabyren. He tapped the sword across Amare’s knee and then rested the blade on his right shoulder.

  “Rise then, Amare Yeondi of Kaleo, and take your place as First Chosen of Spero, until the Guardians bid you to their side.”

  With a nod, Amare stood, replacing his sword. “Thank you, Caretaker. I’ll honor that which you’ve entrusted me.”

  “Of that, I have no doubt, First Chosen,” Hosdaq said. “You’ll meet with Nurul after your rounds, and he’ll assign you chambers more befitting your position. Take time to consider those you’d have as your brothers. I leave the decisions to you, and trust that which you shall present.”

  “Again, I’m honored.”

  “As am I,” Hosdaq said, clasping his hand. As they moved toward the door, a soft knock sounded from the other side.

  “Come.”

  Slowly, the door pushed open, and a small head with long, silvery-white hair peered along the side. “Father?” she called out, sweetly.

  Both Amare and Hosdaq smiled at the appearance of the young girl.

  “Yes, my little one. Don’t be frightened. Come in and meet Sir Yeondi.”

  Hosdaq lifted Malkia from the floor. “First Chosen, this is Malkia, and for now, my youngest. I don’t think that you’ve been formally introduced.”

  “No, Caretaker. However, I’ve seen her about quite often. This one seems very interested in the movements of the guards,” Amare said, pinching her cheek. “So young and already she commands the attention of many.”

  “Not so young anymore, I fear. Malkia is one and ten now. Soon, she’ll leave me behind for another,” he taunted, setting her back on the floor.

  “Never will I leave you,” Malkia said, hugging his waist while clutching her doll.

  “I’ll finish my rounds, Caretaker, and then meet with Nurul.”

  “Rounds? Are you going to walk the grounds?” Malkia asked.

  “I am, young miss. We must keep everyone within the citadel safe,” Amare said, kneeling.

  “May I go with you? I promise that I won’t get in the way. May I, please?”

  Amare looked up at Hosdaq. The Caretaker shrugged, leaving the decision to him.

  “If your father agrees, I’ll allow you to assist. Though, you must have the proper attire for such a duty. Have you armor, young miss?”

  Malkia giggled, shaking her head. Her long, white hair landed in her face with the exaggerated movement.

  “Well, that shall be our first stop, then. We must at least find you a proper shield. How else to defend our great city?”

  Amare stood, taking her offered hand. Hosdaq’s smile was broad as he regarded the two. It pleased him to have found such a man to lead his guard. It took more than might and skill to lead the Chosen. Amare had just proved beyond doubt the goodness of his heart as well.

  Revelations

  Allister continued to fidget, peering at the pile of parchments on his desk. He ran his hands through his hair, trying to concentrate on deciphering the passages. As hard as he tried, he couldn’t focus. His mind stayed fixed on his daughter and the healer attending to her.

  It had been more than three full moons since the Nakshij had visited their home. After that encounter, he’d feared that the guard would surely come and collect them. But there had been no word of such retribution. Nikolina had been correct in her assessment of the man. He’d thought much the same of their father, Manifir.

  Now with her persistent illness, he couldn’t concentrate. Since her encounter with Danimore, she hadn’t been herself. Allister worried about her and the troubling ailments hindering her movements.

  With a resigned sigh, he pushed up from his desk, making his way down the corridor. The more he thought of his precious daughter, the quicker his steps. As he approached Nikolina’s bedchamber, the healer opened the door.

  “Is—is she all right? How is my daughter?” Allister asked before the man could speak.

  Arilian paused, glancing at Nikolina and then back to him. “She’s fine. Nikolina will tell you about her…predicament .”

  Allister fixed him with a quizzical stare.

  “Come, Father. I’ll explain everything.”

  He gave a nod of appreciation to Arilian. “Allow me to see you to the door,” Allister offered, placing some coin in his hand.

  “Thank you, but there’s no need. I know the way. Good day.”

  With the healer gone, Allister sat by his daughter’s bedside, caressing her face.

  “Are you well now?”

  “I’m more than well, and soon you’ll understand why.”

  “Are you to tell me, or am I to guess?”

  She kissed his hands and then rested them on her abdomen. “Father, I haven’t been ill. I thought that it could be, but I didn’t want to tell you without certainty. It isn’t illness; I’m with child.”

  His eyes widened, as he sprang from his seat. He pointed a shaky finger at her, trying to find his voice.

  “No. No, Nikolina,” he insisted, shaking his head. “It cannot be. You—you are maiden. How? It cannot be!”

  “Please, this is what I wanted. I feel no shame in my choice. I prayed it would be so, and the Four have blessed me, blessed us.”

  “No! There’s no blessing in carrying a bastard. Who’s done this? Who has brought shame unto our home? I would have his name, Nikolina. Now!”

  In all her years, her father had never raised his voice to her. She rose up from the bed, collapsing in his arms. Allister sighed, hugging her tight against him. Her tears continued as he rocked her in his arms.

  “Please, my dearest,” he said, moving her back to the bed. “Please tell me how this happened. You spoke about accepting Velnic’s pledge. We can’t move forward with such plans now. Who’s done this to you?”

  “Father, please understand that this was the desire of my heart. No one took advantage of me. This, I did on my own. Can you not see my joy at this news? Whether a pledge or no, I wouldn’t change it. I’ll stay here with you. Together we’ll care for the babe, and I’ll always be with you. If I’m to have a son, he’ll be a d’Garrion. A son, Father. Would that not please you?”

  He did welcome the thought of an heir. With both of his wives, he’d only sired daughters, and none to carry on his name. Still, to have his Nikolina with a bastard in her womb was unthinkable.

  “You know not what you do. I welcome a grandson to carry the d’Garrion name, but I wouldn’t have you bear this shame. Who’s done this? He’ll give this child a blessed birth. Shame won’t cover you. I won’t allow it.”

  “It cannot be.” Her eyes lowered. “My babe’s father has already taken a wife.”

  “What?”

  After taking a shaky breath, she met his eyes. “Danimore is the father.”

  “Impossible! The Nakshij wouldn’t do such a thing. The Benoists do have honor above all else. Whether I agree with their path for Nazil or no, I understand this truth about the men.” Allister paced the room, seething, until he noticed Nikolina’s expression.

  “What haven’t you said?”

  She stood then, nervously wringing her hands. How could she tell her father what she’d done?

  “It’s true. Danimore wouldn’t take me abed even if he weren’t wed to that human whore. His honor would prevent it.”

  “Then how Nikolina? Are you certain that the babe is his?”

  “He’s been the only one that I’ve known. My child will be a Benoist by blood if not by name.”

  He threw up his hands in frustration, groaning in protest. “How, Nikolina? When could you have—,” his voice trailed off, considering the timing of her supposed illness. He turned back to her, wide-eyed.

  “Never would you do such a
thing. Is this why you wanted the serpent’s venom? Tell me you didn’t do this, please.”

  She could only nod, turning from his stare.

  “This is why Sir Benoist was ill and could barely stand when he left. I understand now the look of hatred splayed across his face. You violated the Nakshij of Nazil? Surely, this is a bad jape. Please tell me you haven’t done this.”

  “I’m sorry, Father. It was the only way. No longer could I be his wife, but I can have his child. I don’t care about a pledge and bond. It’s this child I desire more than anything else. Can you not forgive me this, and see the blessing behind my actions?”

  When her tears returned, he embraced her, fighting against the myriad of conflicting emotions surging inside of him. After she’d calmed, he walked her to the bed, tucking the covers around her.

  “Rest now,” he said. “I’ll have Dalinda bring your meal later. For now, just rest.”

  When Nikolina nodded, allowing her eyes to close, Allister stormed down the corridor to his chamber. Though he wouldn’t show anger toward his daughter, he couldn’t let the violation stand.

  He pulled on his cloak, retrieving his horse. Setting out into the approaching night, only thoughts of his daughter inundated his mind. The more he thought of the child that she carried, the harder he put his heels into his mount. Allister didn’t slow until he reached the outer portcullis of the citadel. The guards halted his approach, but not the rage or desire that burned within him.

  “What’s your business?” the first guard called down to him.

  Most of the men he knew, and made certain that they recognized him as well. “I’ve come to speak with the Nakshij.”

  “What would be your business, Sir d’Garrion? Do you have an appointment?”

  “My business is with the Nakshij alone, good sir. I’m certain that if you announce me and tell him it’s of great importance, he’ll allow me entry.”

  The guard said something Allister couldn’t hear to another man beside him. The second guard disappeared and was gone for some time. When he returned, Allister observed the pair closely. Finally, the first guard gave a nod, and both portcullises raised. Allister entered the citadel grounds and was met by the largest man that he’d ever seen.