The last thing he could recall was feeling a dagger sinking into his neck. Ladir, Velnic thought, wide-eyed. When he raised up in the bed, a shooting pain caused him to fall back again, groaning.
Nzuri checked his bandages as Velnic moaned, desperately trying to clear the haze covering his eyes. He could hear Nzuri speaking, and feel him repositioning him in the bed, but nothing else was lucid.
When Velnic felt a cup touch his lips, he painfully drank down the tincture, moistening his dry throat.
“Where?” His hoarse voice strained through the word.
“You’re in the citadel,” Danimore said. “When the guards found you and Ladir in the corridor, we feared the worst. You’d lost a lot of blood, but Nzuri was able to mend most of your wounds. After you’ve rested and had time to recover, we’ll need you to tell us everything that happened.”
“Wh—where’s Ladir?”
“Don’t worry, he’s in the cells. My brothers are interrogating him now, and he won’t be released. Much will depend on your report, Velnic.”
“Agreed,” Nzuri said. “Mayhaps in a few suns Velnic will be well enough to answer questions. Speaking now would only serve to undermine his healing.”
“Very well,” Danimore said. “Elodie and Rholand will remain here. When is Micah due to arrive?”
“Soon. I’ll relieve him after I’ve finished my duties at the temple. We’ll inform you as soon as Velnic is well enough to speak.”
“Thank you, Nzuri. I’m going to join Pentanimir and Temian. If you have a need, we’ll be there.”
“The—they’re looking for allies,” Velnic struggled to say.
“Allies?”
Velnic cradled his bandaged neck, weakly nodding. After taking several pained breaths, he looked in Danimore’s direction. “To—to help them usurp your power, by ending all the Benoists’ lives.”
Tortured Soul
Droxahn pulled up the cover, snuggling in to Aizen. The setting sun illuminated the winter sky with stunning streaks of pinks and purples, and in the fading light, the snow-covered rooftops and trees glistened with the splendor of sparkling gems. The couple hadn’t spoken for some time, just observing the natural beauty as they had each night since the first. The heavy chill in the air caused them to lessen the time they’d spent looking out over the city.
Not this night.
“Will you share with me your thoughts?” Aizen asked, hearing her soft sigh.
“My thoughts are many.”
“Since you learned about your uncle, you haven’t been yourself. Was this not welcomed news?”
“It isn’t that. I was glad to learn about Allister d’Garrion. Ahvixx and I knew only our parents, and didn’t know they had any siblings. We hoped there’d be someone, but no one came to claim us when our parents were killed.
“It was difficult being alone, just the two of us. Ahvixx did his best to care for me, but he was just a boy himself. When the cold season neared, we couldn’t remain in the streets any longer, and the meager coin Ahvixx earned doing chores was barely enough to feed us.”
“You’ve never talked about your time in Nazil.”
“No. I didn’t wish to suffer the pain of the memories.” She craned around, looking into his eyes. “My brother endured so much for me. Had it not been for him, I would’ve been lost.”
“You don’t need to talk about it if it causes you pain. I don’t need to know, Droxahn.”
“I can no longer hide from the truth. My brother suffered for me, and we only had each other. Now, to learn about an uncle, someone who could’ve protected us from those hardships.”
“My father said that your uncle looked for you.”
“We weren’t hard to find. There weren’t many sullied waifs littering the white city’s streets.”
“I thought you were hiding from the guards?”
“We were. My brother thought they’d come for us, too. We didn’t know why they’d taken our parents. We were afraid, Aizen, and had no one to help us.”
“That’s not so anymore. You have all of us here.”
“And you, most of all,” she said, turning to kiss him. “I do need to visit my brother. I can’t fathom how this revelation is affecting him. To have had an uncle then could’ve made all the difference. He could’ve saved and protected my brother.”
“Saved Ahvixx? From what?”
She took a deep breath, settling into his arms. “We were aware of Nohek Asmaa here in Noraa. If anything were to happen to my father, my mother was to bring us here. But—but they killed her, too. Ahvixx tried to earn coin for passage, but it was never enough. My father had a little hidden, but we couldn’t return to our home due to the guards.
“There was a group of men who transported wares to Noraa for trade. They were a nasty sort, and my brother kept them away from me when they visited the inn.
“Even so, one night Ahvixx brought me some food after finishing his chores. The innkeeper had stopped giving him coin, and instead allowed us one meal and the cover of his barn. We appreciated not having to sleep in the streets, but we needed the coin for passage,” she said, pensively.
“Ahvixx was always serious, it seems. That night, it was even more so. I was small, Aizen, so small. He always allowed me my fill before he’d eat anything himself. I didn’t understand the enormity of such a gesture, not then. I only knew that my stomach ached from hunger. I never considered that he was starved and worked the entire day for that one piece of hard bread and cup of broth.” Droxahn took a steadying breath, trying to contain her emotion.
“Ahvixx said that he’d found a way for us to get to Noraa. We’d be able to travel by cart and be brought directly to the temple. I was so happy when he told me. It was too dangerous for us to travel alone, and we didn’t know the way. All I could think about was being with the priests, being warm, and having plenty of food. He was smiling when he said it, yet his eyes were filled with sorrow, sorrow that I couldn’t know,” Droxahn lamented. “When he brought forth the knife, I was both frightened and confused.”
“A knife?”
“Yes. My hair reached down my back, almost as long as his. Ahvixx used the knife to shear it to my scalp. I almost cried.”
“Why, Droxahn?”
“He wanted me to appear as a boy. I was so small then, but Ahvixx was much the same. He was tall and very slim with those beautiful large eyes.” Droxahn smiled at the memory. “Still, he has them.
“He told me to stay hidden. When the caravan left Nazil, we huddled in the last cart, surrounded by crates. When they set camp at night, Ahvixx would hide with me under a tattered blanket, and made me remain quiet. We nestled in together, keeping each other warm.
“But by the third night, we didn’t have anything left to eat. Ahvixx had brought some bread and fruit with us, but I was so hungry, that I’d eat more when he’d leave to help set the camp and tend the carts.
“It—it was my fault that…that.” She took a steadying breath. “Ahvixx said he was going to ask the men for some food. We’d smell them cooking every night, and my stomach ached so that I cried. Ahvixx tried to explain to me, but I didn’t understand. I—I was hungry, and I didn’t understand.”
“What, Droxahn? What happened?”
“He said he was going to ask for some bread. Nothing more, he just wanted some bread so I wouldn’t be hungry. When he left, he covered me with the blanket and promised to return soon. But he didn’t. Ahvixx was gone so long, that I’d finally fallen asleep.
“I didn’t wake again until I—I heard him crying, moaning near our cart. When I looked around in the darkness, I saw him there, shivering in the cold. He—he dipped a cloth in a bucket, washing the blood away. He tried to muffle his cries, but I heard them as clearly then, as they ring in my mind now.
“He was so small, Aizen, covered with scratches and bruises. He lifted the bucket, pouring the remaining water down his back. It mixed in with the blood, still oozing down his thighs.
“It was so cold�
��so cold and dark. He stood there, shaking and crying, struggling to cover his nakedness. I—I remember his tears,” Droxahn said, wiping away her own. “I wanted to run to him, but I was too afraid.
“When he came back to the cart, he’d brought some bread and water. Ahvixx couldn’t sit on the crates, or at all. He lay on his stomach, turning away and allowing me to eat. I wanted to ask what had happened, but he never turned to face me.
“The next night, when Ahvixx left, I refused to go to sleep. I was so tired, but I couldn’t sleep, I had to find my brother. When—when I heard the muffled screams and cries, I crept toward the sound. He’d told me to stay hidden, but I knew that it was him. I couldn’t stay and do nothing. But what could I have truly done?
“I crawled along the ground, staying in the shadows of the carts. And when I saw the campfire, I nearly screamed out. I wanted to yell or run, anything to stop them from hurting Ahvixx, but I couldn’t move. I stood there trembling, watching the filthy men whooping and laughing as they took turns with him.”
Aizen clenched his eyes tight, drawing her in closer.
“Never have I seen such cruelty, Aizen, never. My brother was so small, and the men were fat and filthy. They didn’t care what they did, how they hurt him. It wasn’t enough that they—they abused him that way. Some forced his mouth while others—” She shook her head, still weeping.
“They made the vilest comments and threats toward me as well. Ahvixx begged and cried, promising to please them if they only left me alone.
“Do you see? Ahvixx sacrificed himself to keep me safe. It was me they wanted, and he knew that. Ahvixx was never the same. Never.
“That night, I watched him stagger back to our cart, crying and bleeding. Once he’d finished washing, he brought me the bread and water, but I couldn’t eat. I snuggled in next to him, crying and begging for him not to allow it again. I said that we could walk to Noraa. I pleaded, and he wouldn’t hear me. He was angry that I saw what they did to him…angry that I knew his sacrifice to keep me innocent.
“The last night,” Droxahn continued. “They came to the cart for me. When Ahvixx protested, they beat him: one punching and then another. He screamed for me to run, and I didn’t hesitate to do so. I didn’t know where I was going, but we’d crossed the Nazil Bridge. I think the Guardians were with me even then as I looked out over the Great Sword, praying for their help.
“That’s when I heard the bells, the temple bells, and I ran toward them. I stumbled through the darkness, but I wouldn’t stop. I had to reach the bells.
“I hid somewhere overlooking the water. I don’t know where. I remember the fullness of the moon and being beneath a canopy of stars. Such beauty was above me, with such dolor in my heart,” she said, glancing up to the night sky.
“The—the insects covered me, biting, and stinging, but it didn’t matter. I could only think about my brother, praying as I sat staring up at those stars, twinkling above me.
“It was near sunrise when I saw him. Ahvixx was naked and covered with cuts and bruises. I cried so when I ran to him. And—and he smiled, Aizen. Through all of it, he smiled, reaching out for me. Once I had him in my arms, he collapsed on the banks of the Great Sword.
“There he lay beside me until the fishermen saw us. My first instinct was to run, but I couldn’t leave Ahvixx alone. I wouldn’t. I held onto my brother and wouldn’t let anyone come near.”
“What happened?”
“The—the fishermen were human, and they helped us. They wrapped Ahvixx in a blanket and carried him to their boat. After giving him some herbs, they shared their mulled wine and fish. That was the best meal we’d had in seasons. The—the men continued toward Kumasi. After retrieving their cart, two of them escorted us to the temple.”
“In Noraa? To Nohek Asmaa?”
“Yes. Asmaa knew the men. After they’d left, Nohek Asmaa had us both well-tended and bathed, while he had a meal prepared. We—we ate with forks and plates, sitting at a real table.
“That was the last I saw my brother for nearly a fortnight. When I was finally able to see him, everything had changed. He still loved me dearly, but so much had been stripped away. That’s when his isolation truly began.”
“I’m so sorry, Droxahn.”
“Ahvixx and I don’t speak about it. I tried to mention it once, but he silenced me, and asked that I never speak of it again. I know that Nohek Asmaa counseled him, and I get some comfort from that,” she said, turning to face him.
“When the Nazilians turned their backs on us, the humans saved us from their cruelty. It’s difficult to know that we had an uncle in Nazil who could’ve taken us in and spared us such torment.”
“I know that it’s painful, but he was searching for you. Sir d’Garrion would’ve taken you into his home, regardless of what others thought. He loved your father, and the both of you. He might need you now, just as you needed him then,” Aizen said, kissing the crown of her head.
She forced a smile. “I’ll go to Nazil to meet him. Ahvixx needs me with him now.”
“You need him as well,” he said, kissing her again.
Benefactor
“Symeon, forgive me for not allowing you time,” Pentanimir said. “I know you need to rest, and Sarai needs you most of all. I’m pleased that you’ve returned safely, and with so many of the Jasiri. The citadel and Nazil will be secured.”
“I’m pleased as well, Zaxson. I knew this opportunity would intrigue my brothers, but it’s remarkable to have enlisted the most formidable warriors from each region. My uncle has done well for us and the warriors he leads.”
“Agreed. I’ve sent attendants to my uncle’s former home. Oxilon had a large dwelling with five bedchambers. If the Uzon would rather reside there, he and his sons may claim the home while they’re in the city. Temian and Nakaris are arranging suitable quarters for the others. We’ll move some of the Nazilian guards, but they have homes in the city. It shouldn’t be taken as a slight.”
“My uncle would appreciate the offer. He requires solitude, but would keep his sons at his side. He may also have two or three others that he’d prefer to stay with him.”
“He may have whatever he requests. We’re honored by his swift arrival and the assistance that he offers. Your brothers are no small blessing.” Pentanimir halted. “This is the first time I’ve felt my family truly safe within the city. It’s due to your efforts, and the Jasiri. Whatever they need, we’ll provide.”
“The honor is ours. The Jasiri seek the challenge of this posting, but proper attire is necessary. There’s no chill on the isle,” Symeon said, smiling.
“We’ll see it done. Firstly, we must visit this benefactor of Nigel’s.”
“Are you certain that you should attend? There are still dangers in the city, and Nigel might not have been completely forthcoming.”
“We can’t be certain, but I must go. If Nigel’s words are to be believed, the Cha is near expiry. I’ll need to be with the guard when they apprehend him. If not, I mightn’t have another opportunity to question the man. Besides, my sword is as good as any other.”
“Your prowess is beyond that of most, Zaxson, but the dangers are still there. Many of the guard aren’t loyal, and some would welcome the opportunity to have you with limited numbers in the dark of the city.”
“This is true. However, the worry should be theirs. I have the finest First Chosen in Faélondul, a Jasiri warrior at my side.” Pentanimir smiled.
“Again, I’m honored.”
“Do you have anyone that you’d like to accompany us? Temian, Nakaris, and Wosen have already mentioned their interest. Thalassa asked to remain here with the Uzon.”
“What did Nigel say about guards and defenses?”
“There are but two guards, he claims, but I’ll err on the side of caution and prepare for three times that number.”
“Agreed. My cousins, Hanif, and Jishnu will accompany us. With the cowls pulled over our heads, no one should notice that we aren’t Nazilia
n. I believe the seven of us could handle anything that arises. A smaller contingent will definitely draw less attention.”
“Indeed, my friend, you alone could handle nearly twenty,” Pentanimir said, clapping him on the back.
“Zaxson, how fares Ayrmeis?”
“Ayrmeis? He’s doing well. He’ll be ready to resume his training as soon as you’ve rested. The cold will pass soon, and he’ll advance again.” He shook his head. “I don’t know how to deal with such a miracle. To see my sons and nephew grow at such a rate. We haven’t had the time to enjoy them as children, and soon they’ll be men grown.”
“I’ll retrieve him after noon meal on the morrow, if it pleases you. Who will be charged with training Tardison and Raithym?”
“Wosen and Temian have begun their instruction. I need no others to know about their state. You’ll retain your practice chamber, and I’ve alerted the guards that it’s not to be used. Whatever you need, you’ll have, Symeon.”
“Time,” he said, meeting his eyes.
“That’s the one thing that we don’t have in abundance. I have no doubt in your ability to mentor my son. Ayrmeis will learn well under your tutelage.”
“The Guardians guide my steps, Zaxson. Ayrmeis will have everything he needs.”
“I’m grateful for this. Now, you must ready yourself and inform your cousins. We’ll meet in my solar as soon as everyone is ready. Don’t wait; come as soon as you’ve changed.”
♦
Uzon Osei bowed respectfully as Ahvixx entered the Nakshij’s solar. He could sense Ahvixx’s mind reaching his, as he returned the bow, closing the door behind him.
“It’s an honor, Ke’ohnzi ,” Uzon Osei said.
“The honor is mine, Uzon. Our paths have crossed often, and I’m pleased that they’ve finally done so in the mortal world. Drah’kuu Malachi didn’t accompany you?”
Osei inclined his head, resting a hand over his heart. “The Drah’kuu is aged, and there are matters of greater importance that he must oversee. I was told that Odahg is with you.”
“He is. Both Odahg and Tika returned with us from Noraa.”
“Then they, too, are where they should be.”
The Rise of Nazil- Complete Epic Fantasy Trilogy Page 142