The Rise of Nazil

by Aaron-Michael Hall

  “Yes. I don’t want to return to the citadel. Pentanimir ensured my placement for now, but if you anger the Zaxson, he could change his mind. If I was forced away from you, I wouldn’t last, Dani…neither would my child.”

  “I wouldn’t allow it. I promised to keep you safe and I’ll hold to that.”

  When she began to answer, Pentanimir entered the room with Gali. As Danimore motioned her over to the bed, he stepped away, allowing her room to work.

  “When did you first start having pain?” Gali asked.

  “It’s been about three or four suns.”

  “Zeta, why didn’t you say anything?” Danimore said.

  “I thought that it would pass, truly.”

  “I’ll need to check inside for the position of the babe,” Gali said, turning to Pentanimir and Danimore. “Pardon, milords, I’ll need some privacy if you’d allow.”

  “No, please, Gali, it’s all right.”

  “If you wish.” Zeta focused on Danimore as Gali pulled the blankets back, sliding an oiled hand inside of her. When she winced, Danimore stepped forward, but Pentanimir stopped him.

  “May I have a clean cloth?” Gali asked, removing her fingers.

  After cleansing in the basin, she dried her hands, sitting beside Zeta again.

  “Sirs, do you have oils of aloe, olive, and kuzbarah?” Gali asked.

  “We’ve had no need, but there’s kuzbarah,” Pentanimir said.

  “She’s fine now, but her babe’s coming soon. You’ll need to have the oils and a few other things before that time.”

  “What do we need?” Pentanimir asked.

  Gali looked bemused for a moment, not understanding their concern. “You’ll need sheets of wool, olive oil, a pillow or soft place to lay the babe, bladders to fill with warm oils and water, and herbs for pain and soreness. If you don’t have sewing needles and thread, you’ll need those, too.”

  “We must visit the market soon,” Danimore said. “I can get some this morning, the others will have to wait.”

  “Yes, milord,” Gali said, covering Zeta again. “I’ll need to make some warm broth for her. Dream wine would serve best, but the herbs must do. She needs rest more than anything now. Will you please direct me to your kitchen?”

  “Come with me,” Pentanimir said. “Dani, you remain here with Zeta. I’ll assist Gali in the kitchen.”

  Pentanimir pulled some herbs from the shelf, leading Gali from the room. As they entered the kitchen, she immediately began mixing the herbs in a shallow pan and set it over the fire.

  “Gali, will Sir Merrimont allow you to tend Zeta daily?”

  “Mayhaps if you request it, Sir Benoist. It would be my pleasure to do so.”

  “How long have you been with Sir Merrimont? I recall him mentioning you often, but I’ve only seen you a few times.”

  “Twelve, no, sixteen seasons, milord.”

  “Four years?” Pentanimir shook his head, recalling how often Yannick had spoken of Gali. She was near Zeta’s age when he’d purchased her, and Yannick never tired of her pleasures. In fact, he’d bragged about them often…too often.

  That thought caused his mood to sour. Gali was a lovely young woman and intelligent as well. Yannick spoke of her fondly, and he couldn’t help but wonder about the life that was stolen from her.

  “Gali, Sir Merrimont has mentioned that you were a healer before arriving in Nazil.”

  “Yes, milord, for many years,” she said, adding honey to the steaming liquid.

  “Have you ever delivered any babes?”

  “Yes, Sir. In Kaleo, I helped my father with deliveries. I’ve also visited the Neema Outpost and Cazaal in aid to their lakaars.”

  Pentanimir flinched. He wanted to ask if she knew Brahanu’s family, but thought better of it. “Do you think Zeta will be all right until we return?” He asked instead.

  Gali smiled up at him, her large, ebony eyes glistering in the fire’s light. “It’s good that you care for them. If she rests, everything will be fine. The babe could arrive sooner if she doesn’t stay abed. With you and Sir Danimore departing, mayhaps her duties will be light enough to allow it.”

  “I hope so. We do worry about her. When I see you home, I’ll ask Sir Merrimont if he’ll permit you to visit. We’d rest easier knowing that she was under your care.”

  Gali nodded, handing him the mug. “It’ll be an honor, my lord. This broth is ready. She’ll need to drink all of it and warm the rest later. It’ll ease her soreness and allow her to rest.”

  “Thank you. I’ll give this to Dani and be back in a moment.”

  “Yes, milord.”

  After delivering the broth, he escorted Gali out, helping her into the cart. He was still curious about her ties to Cazaal, and considered how to ask about it.

  “Gali, you mentioned Kaleo and Cazaal. Was one of them your home?”

  “Yes. I was born in Hyorin, but my family moved to Kaleo after the troubles there. I was merely a babe at that time. It was difficult in the beginning, with so many relocating to start a new life. It was better for my parents, though, since my father was a lakaar. I learned all I know about healing from my parents. I was training to replace my father in a few years, but it wasn’t meant to be.”

  “Tell me: how did you come to Nazil?”

  “Milord?” Gali peered over at him, the trepidation seeping into every part of her.

  “I asked how you came to Nazil.”

  “Uhm—Sir, I was brought here along with one other. There were three, but one was lost in the depths.”

  “Brought here? Was your ship ambushed?”

  “My—my master treats me well, and my duties are light. I’m honored to serve such a fine house,” she muttered, looking away from him.

  The twinge in his gut worsened. “What about your friend who was brought here with you?”

  “It wasn’t my friend. It was my father.”

  “Your father? Is he one of Sir Merrimont’s attendants?”

  “No, milord,” Gali said, finding the courage to raise her eyes to his. “He was killed during our first season.”

  Pentanimir winced. He wanted to offer some words of comfort, but there were none to be had. After what Gali had suffered, there was nothing to soothe such an ache or erase those painful memories.

  He was relieved when they approached Yannick’s home. They didn’t speak as she entered, leaving him in the solar while fetching Yannick. Although the home was quiet, the eruption of thoughts and regrets inside of him weren’t. They screamed at every part of him, and he didn’t think they’d ever quiet again.

  “Pentanimir,” Yannick said warmly, tying his robe.

  “I didn’t mean to wake you, old friend. I wanted to thank you for allowing Gali to tend Zeta.”

  Yannick motioned for him to sit. “Whenever you have a need, my friend. You’ve done much for my family and me.”

  Gali returned, carrying a tray of refreshments. After serving them, she went to the corner, awaiting instruction.

  “It’s good wine, Yannick. A sweet blend.”

  “It’s one of Sidra’s favorites. I try to keep an ample supply for guests. But you know how she is with wine, and even more so with food.” Both men laughed at the private jest regarding Yannick’s full-figured wife.

  “How fares Bastian?” Pentanimir asked. “It’s been too long since we found the practice yard.”

  “He trains hard in hopes of joining the Chosen Guard. Birthing Bastian was the one thing Sidra did well. For now, he’s visiting Xonath Karrhig in Yarah. He misses the lessons of his godfather, though.”

  “I miss it as well. Bastian has always been like a son to me, as you are my brother.”

  “And you are mine, First Chosen. I owe you much.”

  “Yannick, your offer of assistance is well received,” he said, bringing the conversation back to its purpose. “I came to ask if Gali could tend to Zeta in our absence. It would only be necessary once daily if you’d allow.”

  “Of co
urse, but why such concern for your slave? If she’s unable to tend to her duties, why not rid yourself of her and acquire another? That would surely please your uncle.”

  “It’s not as simple as that. Zeta’s duties aren’t the issue, her condition is. If she doesn’t receive proper care, her condition could worsen. In that case, we’d have to acquire another. It’s simpler to provide the care she needs than replace her.”

  “As you say. I’ll send Gali over after evening meal. She’s experienced with herbs and healing and I’m certain that she’ll serve you well. If that isn’t so—” Yannick threw a glance in her direction. “It’ll be a disappointment that she’ll not soon forget.”

  “There’s no need for concern, Yannick,” Pentanimir offered, quickly, noticing Gali’s expression. “Gali is extremely knowledgeable and provided great care. It’s a blessing to have such an attendant for your home.”

  “Ah, yes. She is indeed, in many ways.” Yannick licked his lips. “Would you like to sample what she has to offer before your journey? It’s been long since we visited the pleasure houses, old friend. Gali’s skill rivals that of the most seasoned whore, and I’m selective about who I allow to partake. Recently, I’ve refused everyone who asked, no matter the gold they offered, but you’re my brother. Gali can lessen your stress and satisfy you like none you’ve ever had,” Yannick said, gesturing Gali to his side. He raised her tunic, exposing wisps of curly black hair.

  “Remove this.”

  She pulled her tunic over her head, allowing it to drop to the floor. Yannick smiled, reaching up, caressing her smooth, chestnut-colored skin. He rested her hand over his groin, while one of his found its way between her thighs. Gali grimaced as his movements increased, still stimulating him. When he removed his hand, his fingers glistened.

  “You see, she’s always ready to be pleasured. No matter how many times I take her, it remains tight.” He sniffed his fingers euphorically, licking the wetness from them. As his excitement grew, he gripped her arse while caressing one of her breasts.

  “Have you ever seen nipples this dark and round? At first, I found them unsightly, but I learned that they bring me great pleasure,” he smiled, stroking one with the tip of his finger. “See how large they grow at the slightest touch?”

  Pentanimir was sickened, unable to believe that Yannick was capable of such depravity. Since his interactions with Oxilon, he’d become vile and almost sadistic. Though Yannick was nearly ten years his senior, he’d always been respectful.

  He looked at Gali again, envisioning Brahanu. Would this have been your fate? Had I not taken you from the city, would it be you standing before me shamed and broken?

  “If you choose not to enter her, I’ll permit her to please you with her mouth,” Yannick continued. “It took some time, but she’s the best I’ve had. This, she does for only me.” He smiled. “My Gali always knows how to please me, don’t you, my Sweetling,” he said, drawing her down for a kiss. He moaned, fondling her breast again, and then kissing down to them, while pushing his robe aside. “Oh…Sweetling,” Yannick said, positioning her on his lap and becoming part of her.

  “No, thank you, Yannick. I haven’t the time for such activities, but Gali is quite beautiful.” Pentanimir turned away.

  “Oh, she’s that and more,” he said, straining through his completion. “Gods…Gali,” Yannick called out, enjoying her ample chest. “You don’t know what you’re missing, Pentanimir. She’s the only one who can satisfy me so quickly.” Yannick pulled her in for a kiss, before moving her from his lap. Gali grabbed up her tunic, rushing back over to the corner to cover herself.

  “Thank you for your hospitality and allowing Gali to assist us, Yannick. I’ll repay you in kind,” Pentanimir said, standing to leave.

  Yannick fastened his robe, taking a long drink. “There’s no need. It’s always an honor to assist your house. If not for you, I wouldn’t hold my current position. I owe you and your father much.”

  “Sir Manifir thought highly of you, just as I do. I’ll inform Zeta of Gali’s visits. If you’ll excuse me,” Pentanimir said, inclining his head.

  As Gali opened the door for him, he noticed the tears lining her eyes. Pentanimir rested a hand on hers, but could do or say nothing more.

  “Make haste, Gali, I need to taste your sweetness,” Yannick called out from behind her. Her eyes lowered, closing the door.

  As Pentanimir rode back to his home, Gali wouldn’t leave his mind. It wasn’t merely her servitude, it was the way Yannick had taken her right there in front of him. Not even in the pleasure houses had he ever done such a thing.

  Although he was raised around servants, his attention never rested on their treatment. Manifir, his father, was always kind to those who served their home. To him, they were workers providing a service. Since discovering the Bandari village, his thoughts couldn’t turn from them. Before being forced here, they, too, had families they loved. They’re people, just as we. What perplexed and disappointed him was the fact that he’d never contemplated those deeper truths before.

  After stowing his horse, he paused, lowering a hand to his pommel.

  “Nephew.” Oxilon’s tone was surprisingly pleasant as he came into view.

  “Uncle? What brings you here at such an hour? Could you not find rest?”

  “I rise before the sun as did your father, and you’d be wise to do the same. Much can be learned from observing the city in both darkness and light.”

  “I’m sure you’re right,” Pentanimir said, entering his home with Oxilon following close behind.

  “It’s that and more,” Oxilon said. “How else would I notice you and a slave entering Yannick’s home. This did interest me.”

  Pentanimir nearly rolled his eyes, going to the kitchen.

  “What did Yannick say about Gali?” Danimore asked, rushing down the corridor.

  “Gali? Is that the dark slave that I saw you with?”

  Danimore’s mouth gaped. “Un—Uncle, welcome. I—I didn’t know you were here. Come to see us off?”

  “You haven’t answered my question. What were you doing with the Merrimont’s slave?”

  Danimore sighed. “She came to tend Zeta, nothing more.”

  “Again with this? Must the entire city know of your care for this whore? Your father would be infuriated by such behavior. He wouldn’t allow it.”

  “Uncle, please,” Pentanimir interrupted. “Father knew that providing good care for our attendants was an investment worth making. Mithu was with us for years, and when she ailed, Father had her tended well. It was that care that kept her in our service. No, Father wouldn’t be infuriated. It’s his lessons, values, and guidance that have shaped us into who we are. You place your values upon his shoulders, but we remember well the teachings of our father and hold to them.”

  “You hold this whore up to Mithu as though they’re equal? Mithu was Nazilian, and only her station caused her to serve. This whore you treat as a wife is diseased human filth. There’s no parity between the two.”

  Danimore’s face darkened. “Yes, Mithu was Nazilian and still served. I find no difference between them. Well, as I think of it, there is a distinct difference, Uncle. Because Mithu resembled us, she didn’t have to suffer rape and torture. Her maidenhead wasn’t brutally taken from her by hordes of Nazilian reprobates. No, she wasn’t taken captive and forced to perform obscenities at the whim of sick and twisted animals touting, honor above all while claiming to be men. She wasn’t ripped, torn, beaten, and forced to carry a child she never wanted. We save such treatment for those who don’t look like us. We make them what they are because we loathe who we are. I wonder if you’d think the same if Zeta were a Nazilian woman stolen by humans.”

  Before Pentanimir could intervene, Oxilon reared back, punching Danimore in the face. He staggered backward, crashing into the wall.

  “How dare you speak to me that way, you cockhold bastard! I could have you scourged and flayed for your insolence!” Oxilon shouted, raising
his fist again.

  “Uncle, enough!” Pentanimir said, moving between them. “Dani meant no disrespect to you or Nazil. In his heart, he knows that the humans are beneath us. He didn’t mean to imply they were equal. The stress of this journey and lack of rest plague us both. Please, he knows better than what he speaks,” he said, glaring at Danimore. “Do I have the right of it, Brother?”

  “Yes,” Danimore muttered through clenched teeth.

  “Well, you use your mind before addressing me,” Oxilon said. “My ire isn’t a thing you wish to raise.” This, too, you should’ve learned from your father.

  “Uncle, please, sit,” Pentanimir said. “We’ll be leaving for the citadel soon. Are you going to accompany us?”

  “I had thoughts to do so, but I need to speak with Cha Reaglen. Tell me: where’s your slave?”

  “We told you that she was ill,” Pentanimir said. “She’s abed.”

  “So, you prepare your own meal with a slave serving your home?”

  “No, Zeta prepared our morning meal, Uncle.”

  “Well, that’s something,” Oxilon said, turning on his heels. “I need to leave, but I’ll return later to check on your little slave.”

  “Gratitude, Uncle, but that isn’t necessary,” Danimore said too quickly. “We couldn’t bother you with such a task. Gali will be looking in on her for us.”

  Oxilon smirked. “Very well. I’ll leave everything in your capable hands. Have a successful journey, and I’ll meet you upon your return.”

  “Thank you, Uncle,” they said in tandem.

  “Have you lost all wit?” Pentanimir asked when the door closed. “Why do you antagonize him so? Do you really want his wrath to fall upon us?”

  “Why should we fear him? You are the one who’ll have a greater position. I won’t allow him to rule over me as if he’s Zaxson!”

  “Use your mind, Dani. If not for him, I wouldn’t have this honor, and it hasn’t come to pass yet. He’s our father’s brother. His respect doesn’t need to be earned, his position within our family demands it.”

  “He shows no respect for us.”

  “No, he doesn’t,” Pentanimir admitted, dabbing blood from Danimore’s lip. “Even so, we’re leaving Nazil soon. Do you truly want to anger him while Zeta is unattended? Hold your tongue when speaking to Uncle. He’s not like Father, and is viler than even the Vereuxs.”