The Rise of Nazil

by Aaron-Michael Hall

  Zeta set a plate piled high with fried potatoes and onions, bacon, fried bread, and eggs down in front of him. After pouring him some tea, she joined them at the table.

  “What, no pottage this morning?” Pentanimir japed. “These are delicious, Zeta. Your cooking is much better than Dani’s,” he laughed, clapping Danimore on the back.

  Danimore nodded, returning his smile. “Are you going to meet Uncle this morning?”

  “I doubt that I can avoid it. Uncle will have his meeting and his pledge. I’ll see my obligations to their end.”

  “There’s more that he would have of you.”

  “More? Isn’t that enough? I’ve only just returned.”

  “It’s actually what Draizeyn’s planned. I just learned about it myself. Draizeyn wants us to trek to the Dessalonian Wood.”

  Pentanimir paused, his visage aptly displaying his concern.

  “Dessalonia? Why?”

  “You already know, Brother. If the land is worthy, we’ll expand Nazil’s reach.”

  “He’d clear the wood for a new city?”

  “Uncle didn’t discuss any details with me. We’ve been assigned to survey the lands and make a report,” he paused. “Uncle has assigned to others to accompany us.”

  “What others?”

  “Nakaris and Beilzen.”

  “Beilzen? That caitiff with a false tongue? Why?”

  “Uncle trusts Beilzen’s whispers. Mayhaps if you joined your words with mine, he’d give our concerns a proper hearing.”

  “No, he’s blind when it comes to the snakes of Nazil. Whether false or true, he listens. That’s one of Oxilon’s greatest weaknesses, yet he sees it as strength. At least Nakaris is well suited. Beilzen lacks much, and is better with counting coin than wielding a sword.”

  Pentanimir picked up a piece of fried bread, dipping it in the honey. “Zeta, I wanted to speak with you, but it’ll have to wait. The meal was delicious,” Pentanimir said, taking a bite of bread.

  “Thank you, milord.”

  “Are you leaving now, Pentanimir?”

  “If I don’t, Uncle might send Beilzen to fetch me. I’ll change and head to the temple. Isn’t that where Uncle spends most of his time now?”

  “It is, and I’d like to know the why of it.”

  “There’s much with Uncle of late that gives me pause. I honor him as our family’s head for now, but his continued interaction with Beilzen troubles me.”

  “Yannick, too. Neither of them have been the same since Uncle’s influence.”

  “Aye. Beilzen, I can understand. Doing Uncle’s bidding helps him gain position. But Yannick is a high lord and Second Chosen. Uncle can offer him little.”

  “Mayhaps the fact that Yannick is as a brother to you is reason enough,” Danimore said.

  “I’ve felt much the same,” Pentanimir said, moving down the long corridor. As he donned his formal tunic, he couldn’t stop thinking about Bandari. It’s too soon for Nazil to build again, he thought. I’ll have to send the Elders a message somehow. I can’t return to Noraa with Beilzen casting suspicion my way. Dani might need to assist me. He’s the only one that I trust.

  He sighed, pulling on his leather boots. The swirling emotions inside of him caused his eyes to close, attempting to push all else from his mind. This was a meeting that he wished he could avoid.

  Pentanimir stared at his reflection, clasping his cloak. He paused, his fingers tracing the gold Nazilian sigil that adorned it. “Honor Above All,” he said, grabbing his belt and leaving the chamber.

  “Good morrow, Cha Temian.” Pentanimir bowed. Temian was the newest member of the temple and the most intriguing and auspicious. There was a familiarity about him that Pentanimir couldn’t place.

  “Good morrow, First Chosen. Have you come for atonement and supplication?”

  Pentanimir’s brow furrowed. “I’m here to meet my uncle, Cha. Why would you assume that I need atonement?”

  “Are any of us without transgression?” He smiled. “I was merely asking about your need so that I could fulfill it. Even those of the Brotherhood offer propitiation for our deficiencies,” Temian said, stepping closer. “Sir Oxilon is in conference with the Cha Asham.”

  “Mayhaps I should return when they’ve completed their business.”

  “That won’t be necessary, son of Manifir. You’re expected. I trust that you remember the way.”

  “Indeed. Until the next time, Cha,” Pentanimir said, moving off down the corridor. He could at least pretend to show love for me. Forever will I pay for my father’s sins. Mayhaps I’ve erred, and he’s as corrupt as the rest.

  Reaching the large chamber, Pentanimir clasped the heavy iron ring on the door. The subsequent thump…thump…thump, resonated off the marble surfaces. Moments later, a servant opened the door and showed him in.

  He took a steadying breath, forcing the best smile that he could muster.

  Three servants hurried around the room, stoking the fire and setting another place on the table. Pentanimir looked at all the jeweled adornments and finery, shaking his head. No one in the lands should ever be hungry with such waste as this. Each time he visited the lavish temple, his revulsion only grew.

  “Greetings Cha, Uncle. It’s an honor.”

  The Cha Asham turned, his wisps of white hair swaying through the air. “My son, it’s good to have you back home in Nazil. How was your journey?”

  “It’s good to be home, Cha. The journey was long, but not without rewards. I trust that you’ve enjoyed my gift.”

  A wide smile crossed his thin lips. “Yes, yes, I did. Mayhaps you would care to join me as I partake,” he said, clapping his hands. Two servants hurried to the table, filling goblets with wine.

  “It’s good to see you well, Uncle,” Pentanimir said.

  “Indeed, however, I would’ve been better had you informed me of your leave.”

  “Forgive me. The hour was late, and I didn’t want to disturb your rest. Danimore was to report my whereabouts and concerns. When I saw trees collapsing in the growing darkness, I knew that I needed to check for damages.”

  “It’s not your reasoning that’s in question. It’s the fact that you chose to leave under the cover of darkness. Some reported unfavorably regarding your actions.”

  Pentanimir smirked. “I’m not concerned about the whispers of a craven. They have only their false words to prosper them. Albeit, they need to guard their tongue, or risk losing it.”

  Oxilon reared his head back, laughing. “You sound more like your father than yourself. That’s refreshing,” he said, taking a long drink. “It’s good that you’ve lost none of your fire, Nephew. It will be needed.”

  “Yes, Danimore informed me about a journey.”

  “We’ll speak about that soon. Most important is the pledge to Lady Denotra. I’m certain this is of greater interest to you, is it not?”

  Actually, it’s of no interest at all. “Of course, Uncle. I didn’t want to appear anxious regarding the pledge. Lady Denotra is never far from my thoughts.”

  “This is good news, my son,” the Cha said with a flourish. “Good news, indeed.”

  “It is, Nephew. The Zaxson and I met with the council to discuss worthy candidates to wed his daughter. There were a few in opposition, but the Zaxson saw them for what they were.”

  “What was his decision,” Pentanimir said, leaning forward with feigned interest.

  “The Zaxson selected you to wed Lady Denotra.”

  “I’m honored, and will visit the Zaxson personally on the morrow to convey my gratitude.”

  “I’m glad that you appreciate the significance of your selection,” Oxilon said. “Some spoke to the contrary.”

  “Who wouldn’t be pleased with such an honor? Lady Denotra is both beautiful and intelligent. She’s the cynosure of all of Faélondul, and no one stands as her equal.”

  The Cha nodded. “You speak true, my son. Many objected to this pledge, and some rather strongly. Your uncle was even tho
ught biased on the matter. But Lord Draizeyn saw the truth of it. You have served Nazil well, just as your father before you. The house of Benoist has always served Nazil with honor.”

  “Hear, hear,” Oxilon chimed in, raising his goblet. “Honor above all!”

  Pentanimir raised his cup, reluctantly joining in the toast. The wine didn’t taste as sweet. He glanced around the room, feigning a smile. In truth, the words didn’t touch him. He saw the servants standing amidst them, scarred and ruined. Never had it passed his notice how the young female slaves were used in the temple. One after the other, the Cha would rape them, purging their fleshly desires to better hear the will of the Four. At least, that’s how they justified the brutalities. Pentanimir held in his breath, forcing the bile threatening to rise back down. We drink toasts to ourselves while those we’ve stolen and enslaved stand and serve us. Draizeyn won’t rest until all the lands are subjugated to him alone. How vile a thing it is we do. Yet, we think ourselves superior.

  “More wine, Pentanimir?”

  “No, thank you, Cha. I have much to attend to this day.”

  “Yes, you do, Nephew. We must meet with Danimore, Nakaris, and Beilzen. You’ll need to take leave soon.”

  “Beilzen? Has he earned a promotion since my leave?” Pentanimir asked.

  “Promotion?” Oxilon said. “Nothing but my word is necessary to elevate Beilzen to the position of my choosing.”

  “As you say, Uncle. Regardless of his appointment, he’s the lowest ranking guard, and I’ll not tolerate his insolence. He might be of great use to you, but he serves no purpose for me.”

  “His purpose is of no concern. Beilzen will do his duty, I assure.”

  “Uncle, why such expedience? Spero is yet under construction. We’ll be spread too thin if we begin to build in the Dessalonian Woods.”

  “Spero is of little matter. The Zaxson has ordered this report to confirm the viability of our new city’s location. Once that’s known, all else will fall into place.”

  “Well, if our Zaxson has ordered it, we’ll see it done,” Pentanimir said, standing. “If it pleases you, I must take leave.”

  “Ah, wait, Pentanimir,” Oxilon said. “Have you seen the slave your brother chose for your home?”

  “Yes, I’ve met Zeta. She seems pleasant enough and cooks a fine meal.”

  “Is that all you have to say about her?”

  “It’s all that I know. The house was very clean, my clothes were neat, and the food was hot and tasty. She’s even ventured to the second level, clearing and organizing the chambers there. Is this not an attendant’s duty?”

  “I’m not speaking of her duty. What about her condition?”

  “As to this, I didn’t inquire. Her pregnancy hasn’t hindered her work thus far. If it becomes an issue, I’ll deal with it at that time.”

  “Did Danimore tell you how she was acquired?”

  “Yes, the Zaxson gifted her to us. When I visit, I’ll express my gratitude for this as well. It was much needed and long overlooked.” Pentanimir inclined his head. “Now, if it pleases you, Cha, Uncle, I must take leave. I’ll see you on the morrow.”

  “Yes, my son. It’s good to have you back in Nazil where you belong.”

  “Thank you, Cha. It’s good to be home.”

  Homecoming

  Brahanu’s face scrunched as she stretched, arching her back. The beds at the inn felt like they were filled with rocks instead of hay. And judging from the small bites on her arms, filled with fleas, too.

  She looked out over the Great Sword, and the ships at the quay. Soon, she’d be home, and that thought alone was heartening. She contemplated how to explain everything to Itai. That was her greatest concern. Although she longed to see him, she dreaded his reaction. He loved her, but this betrayal could end their relationship that had flourished over the years.

  She leaned on the railing, inhaling the scented air. The sun’s light reflected off the blue-green water as the small boats left ripples in their wake. Those ripples were reminiscent of the choices that she’d made, and the consequences that would inevitably follow them.

  “Brahanu,” Aizen said. “How are you?”

  “A stiff back and a few bites, but I’m fine.”

  “That’s good. I’ve arranged for our passage on the Spicy Lass. However, the captain wasn’t pleased to learn that you were accompanying me. They hold that there’s foul luck when a female boards a ship.”

  “Do they truly believe such twaddle?”

  “To the sailors, it’s truth. It’s their ship and their rules, but I gave him extra coin to allay his fears. Even so, it’s best if you remain below deck as much as possible.”

  “Below deck?” She protested. “I wanted to view the lands from the deck. Our crafts are much smaller than these and I’ve never sailed the Great Sword. Besides, the stench from those spices and animals will be unbearable.”

  “I’m sorry, Brahanu. If the winds are kind, we’ll be in Cazaal in a sun. They’ve but two stops this trip, and one is port Cazaal. You’ll not have to endure it for long.”

  Brahanu didn’t argue. She nodded, admiring the water’s beauty again.

  Vendors rolled carts up and down the platform: Fresh clams! Fresh mussels! Fresh crab! She heard the fishmongers shout as they passed.

  Rugged shipmates and lumpers of all sorts crowded the port, mingling with scantily dressed women who inveigled them, selling their own wares.

  “Brahanu?” Ahni said. “I wanted to wish you well before I left for Noraa. It was a pleasure to meet you, and I hope to see you again.”

  “Thank you, Ahni. I hope the same,” she said, offering a quick embrace.

  “Aizen, I’ll purchase the supplies and retain our usual accommodations. Don’t delay.”

  “Take care, Brother. My return will be swift.”

  When he heard the Captain’s call, Aizen clapped his brother on the back, and extended out an elbow to Brahanu.

  “We must take leave now, Ahni. The captain doesn’t seem like one to keep in wait.”

  With a wave to Ahni, Brahanu raised her cowl, accepting Aizen’s offered arm. When she came upon the Spicy Lass, she was in awe. Even though this was merely a merchant transport, it was impressive.

  Regardless of the ship’s size, their cabin was much different. Most of the space was allotted for cargo and stores. With the short jaunts up and down the Great Sword, the majority of sailors didn’t need accommodations.

  Although Brahanu enjoyed being allowed on deck that night, the constant motion and waves made her queasy. Twice she’d heaved over the side. After the wind shifted, covering her with vomit the first time, she learned from her mistake. Brahanu chuckled, recalling Aizen’s face. She’d splattered him with vomit, too, and they both needed a bath.

  Tucking her brush in her satchel, she stood, draping her cloak over her shoulders. The constant calls from the corridor alerted to their location.

  “Brahanu,” Aizen said, tapping on the door. “May I enter?”

  “Yes. I’ve finished dressing.”

  He smiled, closing the door behind him. “It was definitely worth the wait. Your promised will be pleased, Brahanu, you look beautiful.”

  “Thank you. I didn’t mean to be such a bother. I just wanted to freshen before we arrived.”

  “It wasn’t any bother. Do you have everything packed? They’ll be dropping anchor soon.”

  “There wasn’t much other than the new items that we purchased.”

  Aizen turned, hearing loud voices and heavy footsteps in the corridor.

  “It seems that we’ve arrived. Gather your belongings, and I’ll be back in a moment.”

  Brahanu nodded, feeling her heart rate increase. She was glad to be home, but she feared what was to come.

  “Are you ready,” Aizen asked.

  Brahanu took another deep breath, joining him at the door. Aizen extended out his arm, watching the movement up and down the companionway. After a group of sailors passed, they slipped t
hrough, hurrying up the narrow stairs. With every step, the air became fresher. She inhaled deeply, enjoying the smell of home as Aizen led her on deck. After navigating through the morass of sailors, he stopped, gesturing down to a skiff.

  “Allow me ta help ya, lass,” a gruff voice called out.

  Brahanu turned, seeing an older man with deep pits in his face. His large nose was red on the tip and full of little white bumps. When she regarded Aizen, he patted her on the shoulder.

  “This is the captain’s purser, Rannoon,” Aizen said. “Thank you for your assistance, Rannoon. Will you help to lower Brahanu to the skiff?”

  “It’d be me pleasure ta aid such a lovely lass.” Rannoon held Brahanu’s other arm, lowering her to the waiting boat. Once she finally found her footing, she took a seat, glancing around at the men crowded near her.

  “Aren’t you coming with me?”

  “Mayhaps I should,” Aizen said, climbing down into the crowded boat.

  Brahanu grasped his elbow, scooting closer to him. “Thank you, Aizen,” she whispered.

  “No, pardon me. You shouldn’t of had to remind me. You’re not home yet.”

  “No, but soon. Can you visit Cazaal. My family would love to meet you?”

  “I’d be honored if time would allow, but the captain won’t wait for me. Once his business is concluded, he’ll be off.”

  “Will you be waiting here for my return?” Aizen asked, helping Brahanu from the boat.

  “No, we ‘ave another two hauls. If ya plan on comin’ back aboard, ya needs be waitin’ ‘ere when we return.”

  “I’ll be returning with you.”

  Brahanu took Aizen’s arm, walking inland. When they reached a double-knotted tree with a bench in front, Brahanu sat, motioning for him to join her.

  “This is my favorite place to sit and watch the ships arrive,” she said. “It’s away from the usual traffic and vendors, and the setting sun looks beautiful from here.”

  “It does. This port is different than Noraa’s or even Kaleo’s. I see why you’ve missed Cazaal so.”

  “I’d really like for you to visit Cazaal and meet my family. It’s not far from here, and the people are wonderful. My younger sister, Ameya, would truly enjoy meeting you.”