The Rise of Nazil- Complete Epic Fantasy Trilogy

by Aaron-Michael Hall

  “But not everyone in Nazil is aware of it. Her bastard carries the Benoist name. His features might be Nazilian, but he’s an abomination, just like the one who holds the position of Chosen above you. Wasn’t he the same one tortured in the dark chamber?”

  “If you’re speaking of Wosen Neufmarche, he’s one and the same. I don’t care about his position. I only care about completing my duties so that I can take leave at the earliest opportunity,” he lied.

  “Good. Allow me access to the citadel and find yourself freed before your indenture is at an end. I need only a moment with the child. I promise that he won’t be harmed.”

  “How am I supposed to arrange such a meeting? These are the Benoist’s children. One doesn’t merely walk in the citadel and request some playtime.”

  “Don’t worry about that,” Nikolina purred. “Your only duty is to get me within the citadel. The rest will fall to me.”

  “And what about me when Danimore learns of my treachery?”

  “Treachery?” Nikolina’s smile widened, caressing his arm. “No one will learn about your part in this. I need but a moment to look upon the child and confirm my suspicions. After, I’ll leave the citadel and not return. Surely you know when the Zaxson and Nakshij will be away.”

  His patience was nearly at an end dealing with the scheming woman. But he had to persist and learn about her plans for Raithym. He realized Pentanimir must be told. He’d need as much information as possible to counter the imminent threat. Even if he hadn’t found his heart, Beilzen wouldn’t harm a child. Not even Oxilon could’ve forced him to complete such a task.

  “It can be done, but it’ll take time. The Zaxson is receiving important visitors from Noraa and Spero soon. Everyone will be in attendance, including his lady wife. I’ll alert you as to when. Just be ready,” he said, feigning a wicked grin.

  “I’m always ready,” she said too sweetly, before touching her lips to his. Beilzen jerked away, causing her to cackle.

  “I’ll be waiting.”

  More Questions than Answers

  “What do we know?” Urdan asked, taking a seat at the table.

  “There isn’t much information, Father. If there were other conspirators, and I’m certain that there were, they aren’t making themselves known.”

  “Not only that, Caretaker,” Aronin said. “Molag seems to have vanished. He was last seen in the company of a guard.”

  “Where’s the guard? Why hasn’t he been questioned?” Urdan asked.

  “It wasn’t a guard of Yarah. This was a guard of Nazil,” Aronin said, gazing at the men.

  “Nazil? Does anyone know him?”

  “No, Caretaker. I was going to send word to my cousin of the same. Howbeit, without having a name, it would be pointless. Pentanimir already knows there are guards in Nazil and the citadel alike who are under Molag’s influence. I’d rather send information that’s beneficial.”

  “This may be true, Lord Thaon, but the Zaxson must know that a Nazil guard met with Molag. Even if we can’t identify the traitor, he must be made aware of it.”

  “As you say,” Aronin said, standing. “For now, I must meet with an acquaintance from Spero. He may have more information that could aid us.”

  “Spero?” Jarin asked.

  “Yes, although his family is from Leahcim. They’re some of the few who are loyal to the Benoists.”

  “There are few, indeed. Please inform us of anything you may learn.”

  “Yes, Caretaker,” Aronin said, leaving the solar.

  Urdan shook his head. “I was hoping for better news. It seems there’re more questions than answers. The attack on the Zaontras was an audacious move. The wives and children of the Zaxson’s families have always moved throughout Faélondul without incident.”

  “They did, Father, but never before has the Zaontras been human.”

  Urdan nodded with that truth. “Much is different.”

  “Yes, even with the Associate Chancellor of Treasury. I’ve heard the name Beilzen de Braose before.”

  “As have I. However, it’s his father, Perrin, that I’ve known from years past. Perrin formerly served the Nazil temple.”

  “I recall the man, but I was thinking more about the son. Cha Freydon didn’t seem pleased with the information he delivered.”

  “Pleased or no, the scrolls must remain a part of the temple archives,” Urdan said. “Lord de Braose’s visit was enlightening, to say the least. There’s much and more to learn before the end of this.”

  “I agree. He mentioned Lady Voney coming to Nazil. I was thinking about paying a visit.”

  “I need you here, Jarin. In fact, I’m appointing you to the council.”

  “The council? Will they not protest such an appointment?”

  “I care not,” he said with a wave of his hand. “The lands are in peril, and there aren’t many I can trust. I’d have you at my side and involved with all the business of Yarah.”

  “I’m honored, and will serve you and Yarah well.”

  “Of this, I’m certain.” Urdan smiled. “However, of other matters, I am not.”

  “What matters?”

  “Jarin, you’ve been wed over a full moon. Why haven’t you been with your wife?”

  “What?”

  “Gwendolyn awaits.”

  “Waits for what?”

  “You know of what I speak. It hasn’t passed our notice that the time spent with your wife seems limited to the dining hall.”

  “As you said, there’s much transpiring now. Molag is dangerous and still roams free. All the lands are on the verge of an uprising. Did the Zaontras’ caravan not just get attacked?”

  “Yes,” Urdan agreed. “And you were just married. Attention has been paid to all other matters except that of your wife.”

  “Our bond was completed. Gwendolyn is a maid no more.”

  “You think this ends your obligation as her husband?”

  “Father, please. I’ve done what you asked, everything you’ve asked. Can’t you leave me in peace and allow me my life?”

  “Jarin, you have a beautiful wife. No, she isn’t Lady Voney, but she’s no less beautiful. At least, take the time to know her. We’ll continue our efforts to apprehend Molag. The longer he roams free, the more might join his cause. With the issues we’re facing, don’t create one where there shouldn’t be. Gwendolyn told your mother that she wants to give you an heir. Even if you refuse to share her bed, you can at least place the babe.”

  He shook his head, emptying his cup. “There’s much to oversee. I don’t trust the Cha or many in their service. I need to ride to Nazil and speak with the Zaxson directly. This can be the only way to assure those with eager eyes and ears don’t know our plans ahead of their implementation.”

  “On this, I agree,” Urdan said. “However, I believe Lord Thaon is a better choice to send. He’ll conduct his business with the Zaxson and return home to Yarah. He won’t spend endless days escorting young maids through the gardens when he has a beautiful wife awaiting him here.”

  “Even so, I’m going to visit Nazil. If you’d rather Aronin deliver your message, so be it. Either way, I ride for Nazil on the morrow.”

  M’eloahnte

  When she heard the screeches in the distance, Thalassa struggled to push up from the bench. Jahno was quick to her side, offering his support. She leaned, positioning a hand in the small of her back.

  “They’re approaching,” she said.

  “Are—are you certain that this is the best course? I mean, can’t Arinak and Baldon remain here with us? By your mother’s estimation, it’ll be less than one full moon. I’m fearful of your plan.”

  “The Protectors can’t remain in Nazil. Their place is in Afferea with the Guardians. This, too, is our place for now. Our child must be born beyond the falls in Afferea. You’ve known this from the beginning, Jahno. Why now do you turn against that which was agreed?”

  “I’m worried, Thalassa, for you and our child. Taking to the skie
s in your condition is dangerous. The time of birthing isn’t definite, and it’s possible that you could go into labor as we make our way. If such a thing were so, you both could be taken from me. I can’t risk such a loss.”

  “The Guardians wouldn’t have it so. Their protection covers us as we travel with their children, my family,” she said, stroking his cheek. “Our children must be birthed among them. All of them. It can be no other way. Don’t you understand?”

  “I understand that it’s important to you, Thalassa, but I’m afraid for you and our child.”

  “Allay your fears, and have faith in the gods of these lands,” she said as Xandi’s screech caused her to turn. She smiled, witnessing the graceful descent of the majestic beast. “Come, Jahno.”

  “What about my duties here? The Zaxson needs the both of us,” he protested.

  “Beilzen will work in your stead, and Nzuri will continue with the scrolls. I haven’t been training the new sentries since learning about my pregnancy. Everything has been arranged.”

  “Thalassa, pahn’taal m’eloahnte ,” [75] Arinak said, dismounting Xandi and embracing her.

  Jahno bowed to Arinak and Baldon respectively. Each time the Protectors visited the citadel, he couldn’t help but stare.

  The Protectors had pierced flesh adorned with heavy chains. None of the seven had hair upon their head nor hair of any kind. Only a small forehead crest with raised markings was prominent above their hooded brows. Jahno nodded again, looking into Arinak’s eyes. Those eyes also entranced him, with triangular irises and a purple hue, identical to the three large eyes of the beasts they commanded.

  “Ein k’aun zan’ner ?” [76] Baldon’s voice brought Jahno back to the moment.

  “Baldon asks if it’s time,” she translated, turning her attention back to Baldon. “Jahno zo’ton ganalo sorhnye r’aymed ain’shinc r’rabeda ,” [77] she said, reminding them of his poor grasp of the Mehlonii language.

  “We’re prepared to leave,” she said, pointing to the small chest. “What we need is just there.”

  Jahno swallowed hard, gazing up at the Protectors. He could hear the exchange between Thalassa and Arinak, yet couldn’t discern the words. He’d grown used to their presence, but this visit was different. They hadn’t come for their scheduled visit or on urgent business. They’d come at his wife’s behest.

  “Meh’tol, pahn’taal m’eloahnte . R’aymed Guardians K’naan ,” [78] Arinak said, lifting his daughter up in his arms.

  “We’re leaving, husband. Join with Baldon and keep a tight hold. It’s been some time since you rode on the back of a Desu Beast.”

  “What about you, Thalassa?”

  “My daughter rides with me!” Arinak snapped, hoisting his leg over Xandi’s back. He cradled Thalassa securely, gripping Xandi’s raised crest.

  “I’m all right. My father will take care of me,” she said as Xandi began restlessly pawing the ground.

  “K’aun Ein’ Zan’ner ,” Arinak said. “Baatheer Xandi Baatheer !” [79] he continued, commanding the beast to take flight.

  Before Jahno could respond, Xandi charged toward the edge of the citadel’s wall. He tried to protest, but her wings extended, causing him to dive for the ground. When he rolled on his back, Xandi had taken to the skies, banking toward the Animus Wood. His mouth went slack, watching the huge creature speed away with his pregnant wife.

  Baldon’s thunderous laughter further soured his mood.

  “You anger Arinak, husband of Thalassa,” Baldon said, still laughing.

  “Anger?”

  “Thalassa is his daughter. You cause her belly to swell and keep them parted from each other.”

  “Pardon?” Jahno asked, finally understanding some of the acrimony between them.

  Baldon laughed again, securing the small chest in his bag. “Come, husband of Thalassa, before Arinak returns to the mountains instead of the wood.”

  New Beginnings

  “It was a pleasure to witness your ceremony. I’ve known Sahma for many years, and she’s a wonderful young woman.”

  “Thank you, Zaxson,” Ahvixx said. “I feel the same. Sahma has enhanced my life, and I wish to provide her with all the happiness that she deserves. We appreciate the use of your family home. The distractions here in the citadel are greater than the last time I visited. My communing and clarity come more easily in the solitude that you’ve graciously provided.”

  “It was my pleasure. Olam spoke to me about you at great length. I’m just sorry I didn’t have the opportunity to get to know you better during your previous visits. Your abilities amaze even your mentor.”

  “I’m honored, and hope that I can be of help to you. There’s much to decipher, and I need to meditate on the latest images imparted to me. When Olam arrives, he’ll assist me to decipher those images and their possible implications. The High Priest has also shown me better meditative techniques.”

  “Nzuri has many talents, and of them, his service to the Seven is most prominent. However, you’ll find Kuhani extremely beneficial. He was the head priest in Bandari and trained the others. He speaks little, but his erudition and perspicacity are profound. He should be arriving from Spero soon with one of our guards.”

  “Is he Nazilian or human?”

  Pentanimir smiled, pouring some honeyed tea. He thought about Kuhani then, and the unique individual that he truly was. Knowing what he now knew about the lands’ inhabitants, did such a query even matter?

  “Kuhani is neither and both, I’d say,” he said, awaiting the bemused look that would surely follow such a statement.

  “In Bandari, Kuhani was called the warrior priest. He’s from the desert isle of K’ohshul, and is a Drah’kuu . Many believe that K’ohshul is an illusion or myth, but Kuhani and even my First Chosen, hail from the isle. I’ve learned that there’re numerous K’ohshulians residing in Faélondul.”

  “I’ve known about K’ohshul for some time, and have had the honor of meeting several who’d lived there,” Ahvixx said. “I’ve even seen the levitating knolls near the Xatari Mountains.”

  “You’ve been there, Ahvixx?”

  “Not as yet, but I’ve seen them in numerous visions. There are other like lands encompassing Faélondul, with inhabitants as exceptional as the K’ohshulians. Unlike the skeptical, I’ve seen these lands and experienced the uniqueness of their inhabitants.”

  “Other lands?” Pentanimir said, considering the possibilities. “What others?”

  “The seen and the unseen, Zaxson. Vision is beyond sight, but they are there if you move beyond your perceptions. Just as K’ohshul is there. By day, it’s shielded by the sun, appearing as waves and sky. By night, the stars conceal the lights dotting their landscape. These natural safeguards have shielded it from the eyes and reach of Nazil. However, it didn’t shield Nazil from the reach of the K’ohshulians.

  “There’ll be much to learn about such a mystical place in times to come. Turmoil will erupt in Faélondul, Zaxson, and K’ohshul is where our aid shall come.”

  Pentanimir’s expression changed from awe, to concern, and then finally bemusement. He regarded Ahvixx, his eyes squinting. What did this intriguing man know that others did not?

  Ahvixx’s smile faded, morphing into placidity. He sucked in a sharp breath, stiffening in his seat.

  Pentanimir gasped, witnessing Ahvixx’s eyes shift from pale blue to lavender, and then to completely black. Before Pentanimir could utter a sound, Ahvixx’s head turned, though the rest of his body appeared frozen in place. He stared toward and through the Zaxson, unblinking.

  “Allay your fears, son of Manifir,” Ahvixx began in a voice not his own. “The Protectors will be at your side as we are yet with you. Ahvixx, son of Haden, will be your guide, and lead where you must follow. Ayrmeis will need him if he chooses to accept his task.

  “Remake that which is broken. Mah’saahc will have no victories in Faélondul when the pure of heart stand united against the blood of Oisin.”

  “G
uardians?” Pentanimir gasped, staring into the blank visage of their host.

  “We are with you. Remember our words.”

  “Your words? What must I know?” he asked, scrambling for a blank vellum.

  “Find what has been taken. To recover what has been lost. In a land that time’s forsaken. Or the victories for naught. For the man who soweth no seed. In a field that cannot take hold. The fruitless branch adorneth. What the leader shall behold ,” the melodious voices spoke as Pentanimir frantically scribbled each word.

  “The fruitless branch? What does that mean?” He wrote feverishly, not ceasing until Ahvixx inhaled a deep breath.

  “Ahvixx?”

  He regarded the Zaxson curiously, reaching for his cup. “Yes, is there something wrong?”

  “You don’t know? You didn’t hear it?”

  “What have I missed?”

  Pentanimir squinted again, nodding. “The Guardians.”

  “Yes. The Guardians protect K’ohshul. There’s a symbiosis between the Drah’kuus and the Affereans. Little is known about the other like lands, but Shy—”

  Pentanimir upraised a hand.

  “You don’t know, do you? When they speak through you, you’re truly unaware.”

  “They’ve spoken to you?” Ahvixx asked. “The Guardians?”

  “Yes, through you. I wrote most of what you said, but I wasn’t aware in the beginning.” He slid the parchment across the table. “Do these words hold any meaning for you?”

  Ahvixx perused the parchment, moving his lips with every syllable. When he’d finished, he read it again. “I don’t understand. What’s been lost?”

  “I don’t know,” Pentanimir said.

  “This is what I said? This—this riddle.”

  “It’s what the Guardians communicated through you. Before this, you mentioned Mah’saahc and the blood of Oisin. I was told that you’d lead where I must follow.”

  “I’ll lead?”

  “Yes. Ahvixx, think. You said that Ayrmeis will need your assistance for a task, and we must mend something broken. You don’t remember any of this?”

  Ahvixx shook his head, ruminating on those words.