“Not anymore. Everyone in Nazil knows Pentanimir is pledged to Lady Denotra. Oh, how the young maids cried,” Nakaris laughed, refilling his mug.
“I didn’t intend to disappoint so many,” Pentanimir said, forcing a laugh. “But it’s true, Lady Denotra holds my heart. I’m not worthy of such a great honor.”
“It is an honor,” Beilzen said, dropping bits of carrots, potatoes, and onions in a small pot.
Nakaris peered over at him. “I heard that you sought that honor for yourself.”
“Only a fool wouldn’t. But my house isn’t as prosperous or as prominent as our First Chosen’s. Still, I’ll have a pledge in good time. My father is communicating with several prominent families in Yarah and Leahcim now,” Beilzen said, confidently, but feeling the futility of it as well. All of their previous offers had been rejected. He thought about Shiloh then. His father was right, and he grieved her loss even more at that moment, knowing that he was still in love with her.
Beilzen sighed, pouring water over the vegetables and sprinkling them with pepper. “What about you, Danimore? Are you seeking a pledge,” he asked, remembering his task.
“I’ve had thoughts of one, but I’ll do so willingly. Until that time, I’ll continue to serve Nazil.”
“Aren’t you eight and ten?” Beilzen asked.
“Aye, I am.”
“I’ll be two and twenty next season. It’s time for both of us to wed and continue our lines.”
“Why do you care, little bird?” Nakaris asked. “Once Pentanimir weds, he’ll sire sons for their family. Their seed is strong, just like mine. You needn’t worry for House Benoist.”
Pentanimir smiled, raising his mug to meet Nakaris’, praying his thoughts weren’t conveyed on his visage. The Benoist name will live on, but not with my firstborn. He won’t have that honor. Why must my son be fatherless? Why must he be like my brother? My brother—you slaughtered your son, Father. He was your firstborn, yet you slaughtered him in the streets like an animal. My son won’t face the same fate. He’ll know his father, and I’ll love him freely, just as I love his mother, he thought, rising up and walking toward a coppice.
“Brother, you shouldn’t leave the fire. Where are you going?” Danimore asked, trailing behind him.
“I need to make water. The wine has traveled quickly.” He laughed, although his heart grieved.
“I’ll come with you and keep watch.” Danimore glanced over his shoulder, coming up beside him. “I know you too well. What’s going on?”
“I’m thinking about my son. I want him and Brahanu with me and my heart aches at the thought of it.” He sighed, meeting his eyes. “I envy you, Dani. When you return to Nazil, Zeta will rush into your arms. Mine will remain empty, as does my heart.”
“Can’t you send a message for her to meet you?”
“It’s not safe to do so now, but I’ll find a way to see her soon. I must. When I look at Zeta, it’s Brahanu that I envision. Not only her, but my son growing inside of her. I long to see him grow and feel him move beneath my touch.”
“I’m sorry, Pentanimir. I’ll do whatever I can to help you see her again.”
“I know,” he said, untying his laces. “I need to focus on other things. I’ll have to see Denotra and the Zaxson when we return. If I’m going to convince them of my gratitude, I must try to push Brahanu from my mind.”
As he finished, he regarded his brother, walking back to their camp. “Is there anything that you’d like to bring Zeta when you return? Mayhaps you should stop by the market.”
“That’s a good idea. Zeta loves jasmine oil and silks. I could buy her both.”
“Take care at the market, Uncle has eyes everywhere. It might be better to buy something for Nikolina, too. Surely, he’ll learn about you gifting such items to her. If he thinks that you’re pursuing Nikolina, his interest in Zeta might dwindle.”
“Why haven’t I thought about that before? Uncle wants to secure our pledges and elevate our house. If he believes that I’m of a like mind, he’ll turn his attention elsewhere.”
Pentanimir grinned. “If it’s sport and whispers he wants, let’s provide him with much.”
“The meal is nearly done,” Beilzen said, stirring the vegetables. “Nakaris, please hand me the small crate. There’s bread within.”
Nakaris said nothing, sliding the crate over with his foot. Beilzen spooned a heap of vegetables on each flat of bread, passing them around to the men. In turn, they pulled fish from the spit.
“Ah, it actually has flavor this time, Beilzen,” Nakaris said through a mouth full of steaming vegetables. “And the fish isn’t burnt.”
“Well, that’s a compliment coming from you.”
As the men japed, Danimore’s mind stayed on Zeta. His brother was right; he was blessed to have her with him and awaiting his return. Closing his eyes, he wondered if she was awake and thinking about him, too.
Zeta sang sweetly, rocking Raithym to sleep. She stroked his pale cheek, seeing only Danimore. To her, the babe belonged to him, just as she did.
“Your father will love you, little one,” she whispered. “When he sees you, he’ll see only himself, just as I do.”
Nestling him beside her, she slid down, closing her eyes. After saying a prayer to keep them all safe, she drifted into sleep.
Rest didn’t come as easily for Danimore. It appeared that as soon as he’d fallen asleep, his brother was shaking him awake.
“Dani, the sun’s nearly risen. We need to load the carts and continue home.”
Danimore sat up, rubbing the weariness from his eyes. “The night was short; my sleep wouldn’t come.”
“It was short for me, too. But thoughts of Nazil will wake you. Come, help me load the cart and we’ll eat as we ride.”
As Danimore gathered his sleeping pallet, he noticed Nakaris and Beilzen breaking their fast. It was time to give Beilzen a new song to sing for Oxilon.
“Good morrow,” he said, packing his pallet away.
“Good morrow.”
“Nakaris, what do you know about Nikolina d’Garrion?”
“Nikolina? Doesn’t her father hold a position at the temple?” Nakaris asked, stuffing bread in his mouth.
“Yes. Allister assists with the scrolls and serves as a scribe.”
“Oh, she’s a fine maid, Dani. The youngest and most desirable of the three sisters. If I hadn’t have secured a pledge with Yael, I would’ve considered her. Beautiful skin, firm round tits, and a nice arse. She’s a pretty one, no doubt. Why do you ask?”
“I was thinking about our conversation and my pledge. I’ve always considered it Pentanimir’s place to continue our line, while ignoring my own responsibility. It’s time that I stood for our house. Nikolina has shown interest for some time, and I’ve always found her lovely.”
Beilzen perked up, straining to hear.
“She’d be a good match, old friend, and beautiful besides. Do you think her father would consent?”
“If he cares for the desires of his daughter, he would. Allister d’Garrion has always been a friend to our house, and Father thought well of him. I think I’ll stop by the market and purchase something for her. I’d like to present it when I visit and learn more of her interest. Once I’m confident, I’ll ask Oxilon to speak on my behalf.”
“She’ll make a fine wife, Dani. Allister dotes on that one for sure. If there’s one to bring sons to their house, it’s you,” Nakaris said, clapping him on the back.
“Thank you, Nakaris. I hope that I have the opportunity to prove it.”
He grinned, peering over at Beilzen. You aren’t the only one who can plant seeds, caitiff. Now, run and report this to my uncle. Sow the seed that’ll lead to my life with Zeta.
The ride to Nazil was short. They made no stop along the way to rest or water the horses, making a steady trek east. The land was flat, and the sun helped drive the chill from the air. As they approached the white gates of the city, Danimore could barely contain his elation. They left the car
ts with the stable workers, retrieving their mounts.
“You travel home, Brother. I’ll meet with the Zaxson.”
“Would you like for Zeta to prepare noon meal for you?”
“No, I’m certain that the Zaxson will provide. Hurry to the market and home.” Pentanimir winked. “Enjoy, Dani. I won’t return soon.”
Danimore hurried through the market, purchasing the jasmine oil, two silken tunics, and ribbon. He barely paused to return greetings as he galloped to his home. After stowing his horse, he adjusted his clothing, taking a steadying breath as he knocked on the door. Moments later, Zeta’s sweet voice called out to him.
“Who’s there?”
“It’s me, Zeta, Dani.”
“Dani! The gods are good!” she said, fumbling with the door and snatching it open. He rushed through, kicking it closed behind him. Dropping his packages, he drew Zeta into him, sweeping her from her feet.
“Oh, I longed for you, Zeta. I longed for you until my heart ached from it,” Danimore said, showering her with kisses.
“I longed for you, too. I prayed the gods would bring you to me soon, and they’ve answered.”
As Danimore drew her closer for another kiss, he paused, his brow knitting. When he lowered her to the floor, his eyes widened.
“Zeta! What happened? The babe!”
“It’s all right,” she said, leading him down the corridor. “He’s asleep. A son, just like you said, Dani. He’s healthy and beautiful. Come.”
Danimore nearly took a step back when he saw him. He glanced at Zeta and then back down to the babe that she cradled in her arms. “Zeta, he—he’s beautiful.”
“He looks like you, Dani.”
He stared, unable to comprehend the divergent emotions surging inside of him. A mix of love, angst, and helplessness encompassed him all at once. This was his family, and he’d protect them.
“When?” was all that he could manage to say.
“Not long after you left. I—I fell and Gali came early and found me.” Her voice trembled through the lie. “He was coming, and she delivered him here.”
“I’m thankful that she was with you. Are you all right? How do you feel now? Are you healing well? And what of the babe?”
Zeta giggled. “There’s still some pain, but it lessens each day. Gali left some broth and ointment for me.”
“What about this bruise?” he asked, caressing her face.
I can’t tell him what happened. I won’t give Oxilon the satisfaction of hurting him. “I—I fell and hit my face. But it’s all but healed now. Gali has been a blessing, Dani.”
“Yannick will hear about it; I promise you. I could never repay what she’s done for our family,” he said, as Raithym began to fuss.
“Is—is he all right? Should I bring Gali?”
“He’s fine, Dani, truly.” She smiled. “He just wants you to hold him.”
“What? No…he…I…no, he’s too fragile for hands like mine. You—you should tend to him.”
“Please, Dani, I’d love to see you holding him.”
Danimore sighed, noticing her expression. “What would you have of me?”
“Just relax, sit comfortably, and extend out your arms.”
Taking a deep breath, he reclined on the bed, holding his arms out to her. When she stepped forward, he flinched, breathing in again. Zeta eased the babe in his arms, positioning his hands in place. As she moved away, she pulled back the blanket, exposing his wisps of white hair.
“You see, my love,” she said. “You were made to cradle babes. You even rock to soothe him.”
“I never realized how pleasing it was to hold them. He’s so small and beautiful,” he said, leaning to kiss the crown of the babe’s head. “His hair, Zeta, it’s like mine.”
“His eyes are the same. If I hadn’t birthed him, I’d think he was wholly Nazilian.”
“Anyone who saw him would think the same. What’s his name?”
“I was thinking of one, but I wanted to ask you about it first.”
“Me? I’ll agree with whatever name you’ve chosen.”
“I wanted to name him Raithym after my uncle. Raithym Jansen Benoist.”
“Benoist?”
“I—I know that he’s bastard born—”
“No, it’s a fine name, and I welcome that. He’s a part of me, Zeta, as are you. Once we’re free of Nazil, no one will know. I’d be honored for Raithym to share my name. Our name.”
Meetings in Cazaal
Itai tethered his horse, entering through the rear door. As soon as he stepped inside, he could hear old Naji and his father arguing. He smiled, shaking his head as he closed the door behind him. They’ll never change.
“Good morrow, Papa, Naji,” he said, taking a seat at the table.
“Well, now. Finally a Gael man with some sense,” Naji said, turning and pointing her long wooden spoon at Tioch. “Yer pa thinks I should be luggin’ that heavy pail back ‘n forth m’self. I told him I’ve grown too old for such work. Now, he’s talkin’ ‘bout bringin’ someone else in here ta take my place. After all the years of servin’ this house. Just thrown out like trash I tell ya. Like trash!”
Tioch stood, pointing a finger at the old woman. “Now, speak true, Naji. I told ya that ya’d stay. I just tended on getting’ someone with a young pair of legs and strong back to help ya out ‘round here. Hells, we both gettin’ old.”
“Ya want a young pair of legs alright. I bet ya want a nice young pair of teats ta go wit it!”
“Naji! I don’t think Papa meant that at all. You could use some help around here. Wouldn’t you enjoy having someone to order around?”
“Humph, I got that already.”
“Ya see, Itai. She ain’t ever happy. If I ask her to heat water for a bath, she’s too old for that. But when I offer to get some help, I ain’t needin’ her no more.”
“Naji, mayhaps you should consider it. I’m not here to help the way I used to be, and I worry about the both of you. Besides, once our babes start coming, you’ll need more time to spoil them, just like you did me,” he said, leaning down to kiss her cheek.
“I’m wantin’ that meself, Itai. I know I’m not able ta do all yer pa needs now. But I’m just gettin’ older and tire easily. I yet have worth.”
“I know ya have worth, old woman,” Tioch said. “Why the hells ya think I’m findin’ someone to help ya? Ya’d train the girl how to do things proper. She’ll do yer biddin’ so ya can rest. I’m not sendin’ ya away. Gods help me for sayin’ so, but I enjoy havin’ ya here.”
“You see, Naji, Papa doesn’t want you to leave and neither do I. You’ve always been a part of this family.”
Naji was full of emotion, yet her fiery temperament wouldn’t allow her to show it. “Well, as long as she does my biddin’,” Naji said, turning away. “And I choose who comes in here. The last thing I need is some loose and used girl thinkin’ she found an old fool ta take care of her.”
“As ya say, Lady Gael.” Tioch laughed. “Now, what brings ya here, Itai? Is Brahanu with ya?”
“No, Lakaar Briac is sitting with her while I—”
“The lakaar?” Naji asked. “What’s ailin’ the poor girl, Itai?”
His face flushed, unable to respond.
“Oh...” she cackled. “Too much for the girl, was ya?”
“Naji!” His face reddened all the more.
“Ah, hells, Itai, I nursed ya and bathed ya. Ya think I don’t know what ya Gael men got b’tween ‘yer legs?” Naji cackled even louder. “Bet you’d put that horse of yers ta shame. The girl’ll mend in time. I was a maid once meself ya know.”
“I’m surprised ya can remember somethin’ so long ago, old woman,” Tioch chuckled. “Now hush and stir yer pot.”
Naji leveled her spoon, narrowing her eyes before turning back around.
“Is that right, son, was it yer bondin’?”
“Yes, but she’s fine. She just needs to rest.”
“And ya did what I
told ya? I mean, ya didn’t rush and made her ready?”
“Papa, can we talk about this another time?”
“Hells, I ain’t askin’ for details: just a simple yes or no.”
Itai sighed, rolling his eyes. “Yes, I did what you said. It was just my size and—and excitement. Can we be done with this now?”
“Well, can’t do nuthin ‘bout the size. Yer mum had the same complaint in the beginnin’. As for yer excitement, you’ll get control of that in time.”
Itai nodded, forcing a smile. Tioch meant well, but talking about such things in front of Naji embarrassed him.
“Papa, I came to ask about having noon meal here on the morrow.”
“I don’t see no reason why not. What say ya, Naji? Think ya can cook a fine meal for us?”
“I can do it for Itai and Brahanu. But ya need ta bring my pots back ta the kitchen and fetch the water. Be nice ta have some coin for the market, too. Some crispy duck would be good with some honey mead.”
“Fine, then. Could be some roast pig, too. Been long since we had some. I’ll take ya to the market after we eat.”
“Thank you. I need to visit the inn and then the Ravenots. I’d like to get back to Brahanu.”
“The inn?” Tioch asked.
“Yes, I need to speak with Aysha about Philomena. Brahanu would like her to work in our home.”
“She needs a helper already? Ya ain’t been wed but a sun.”
“I know, but Brahanu is accustomed to having helpers in the home. She shouldn’t have to be without due to my station.”
“Your station? What’s that ‘sposed to mean?” Tioch asked.
“Papa, Hacom is the Caretaker of Cazaal and Brahanu’s a Lady. She’s not used to daily chores. I don’t feel that having someone to help her is too much to ask. Even though I’m below her father, I can still provide some comforts for her.”
“Ya ain’t below no one, Itai. We might be mere craftsmen, but we’re in line with anyone else. If her pa thinks otherwise—”
“Hacom hasn’t said one word. If he thought us beneath him, he wouldn’t have allowed us to wed. You think more of him than he does of himself,” Itai said, standing to leave. “Naji came here to help Mum. I only want to provide the same for my wife. Is that too much to ask?” he finished, not awaiting a response.
The Rise of Nazil Page 35