The Rise of Nazil

by Aaron-Michael Hall

  At that, he turned the cart, heading for his sister’s home instead. He arrived quickly, pacing outside after rapping on the door. He attempted to organize his thoughts and feelings, but the myriad emotions were nearly overwhelming.

  “Sister?” Julaybeim said, surprised. “I didn’t want you to get up. Where’s Mena?”

  “She’s helping her mother at the inn. It’s been busy with the sentries increased training.”

  “How do you feel? You’ve grown larger since last I saw you.”

  “Yes, Eytan takes after his father, and makes himself known often. His kicks have become most powerful of late,” Brahanu said, as he released her arm, lowering her down on the divan.

  “Do you need anything: food or drink? Your face has become too thin, Brahanu. I’m worried about you.”

  “No, thank you. I just need to rest, and haven’t been able to hold my food. Lakaar Briac mixed a tincture of herbs that should help.” Brahanu shifted on the couch, leaning awkwardly. “Aren’t you training today?”

  “I was helping Gali gather some herbs and roots for Briac. Even with the increased sentries, I didn’t want her alone in the wood.”

  “I’m glad that she’s found a place here, Julaybeim. She appears a sweet young woman, and Briac speaks highly of her. He’s known her family for many years.” She chuckled. “Naji has even taken a liking to her, and you know how she can be.”

  “Indeed. I find Gali much the same. In fact, that’s part of the reason for my visit.”

  “Part? What has your mind, Brother?”

  “I wanted to ask you about the Animus Wood. Have you been given leave to go?”

  “Father has finally agreed, but Itai is still unsure, and I understand his trepidation. Eytan could come at any time, and traveling could be dangerous with only Dani to protect us.”

  “It is, and I’ve been thinking about the same.” He shifted, clearing his throat. “Can I ask you something?”

  “Of course?”

  “What do you think about Gali, truly?”

  “Gali? She’s very intelligent and quite knowledgeable regarding healing. I’m glad to see her becoming more herself after all that happened in Nazil. Once she returns to Kaleo, she’ll be able to reclaim much of what was stolen from her. Why do you ask?”

  “I was thinking about escorting you to the Animus Wood. If Father and Itai don’t trust Danimore, surely they’d trust me.”

  “You? I thought that you’d remain and help protect the village?”

  “There’re many to protect the village, but only one to protect you.”

  “I fear that there’s more to it than that, Julaybeim.”

  He sighed, slumping back in his chair.

  “Sister, I can’t explain everything to you; I’m still sorting it out myself.” He paused. “Do you think Father and Mother would find Gali suitable for a promise?”

  “Do you understand what you’re asking?”

  “Of course, I do. I’m certain many people asked the same question when Itai petitioned for your promise.”

  “That’s not the same. The Gael’s are well known and respected in Cazaal. I like Gali, but she was a slave in Nazil. Do you know what that means?”

  He stood, throwing his hands up in frustration. “Of course, I know what it means, and I loathe the thought of it. I look at her and I–I–I can’t explain what I feel, Brahanu. It’s just right. Every part of me knows that it’s right. Her father was a lakaar in Kaleo, and held in high regard. Had the ghosts not taken her, she would’ve been adequate for promise. What Gali suffered can’t be changed. She’s a wonderful person, and I find myself drawn to her like no other. How they used her isn’t her fault. Don’t you understand that?”

  Brahanu thought about Pentanimir then. She couldn’t find reasoning for her love for him either, yet she yearned for him daily.

  “You have the right of it, but that’s not the only concern. Gali is four years your senior. You’re merely six and ten, barely a man grown. And what about Nesrine?”

  “I am a man grown, and Gali is yet young. Besides, Nesrine isn’t interested in a promise. She and Aschelon have grown close of late. When the sight of them together caused no stir in me, I knew that she wasn’t the one. But Gali, when she touches me—”

  “Touches you? What happened?”

  At that moment, he wished that he’d spoken differently. “The fault was mine,” he said, flopping down in his chair. “I had to kiss her. She didn’t ask for it, and I was ashamed after I’d done so. She forgave me, yet, I repeated the same moments later.” He sighed. “Never have I felt a desire so strong, never. She—she allowed our closeness soon after. I know we shouldn’t have, but the feeling overwhelmed me.”

  “What does she expect from you now?” she asked, fearing the answer.

  “Nothing. She doesn’t feel herself suitable for a Caretaker’s son. She wanted to share a part of herself before returning to Spero.”

  “She’s right, Julaybeim, but it doesn’t have to be. I’ll support your decision to escort me, and I understand why you want to do so. I know that you wish to keep Eytan and me safe, but Gali will be with us. If she’s truly who you desire, no one should keep you from her. I’ll speak to Father on your behalf if you like.”

  “Thank you, but no. Gali is coming for noon meal on the morrow, and I plan to talk with Father before that. If he agrees, I’ll tell her about it then,” he said, standing to kiss her. “Whatever is decided, we’ll have to move soon. It’ll take at least six suns to reach the Animus Wood through the pass. I’m heading back home now, can I help you to your room?”

  “No, I can manage. If I stop moving, I won’t be able to walk at all.”

  After embracing her again, he returned to his cart. Although he wasn’t certain what his father would say, he felt more assured regarding his feelings for Gali. He just hoped that his parents would allow him to escort Brahanu’s carriage to the wood.

  “Did you have a good day, milord?” Katar asked, taking the reins.

  “One of my best.” Was all he said, rushing inside the house to find Almaz. After hanging his belt and cloak, he went down to the kitchen.

  “Almaz, I have a great need of you on the morrow.”

  “You always need me, Ly-be. What’s so special ‘bout the morrow?”

  He smiled. Almaz was the only one he allowed to call him by that name, and it soothed him every time she did so.

  “Well, I have a greater need on the morrow then.”

  “And why is your need so great?”

  “I’ve invited over a special guest and we’d like to take noon meal in the garden.”

  She tossed some beets in the pot, giving it a quick stir. “Ain’t no great need there, Ly-be. I’ll get Malia to set up a table near them flowerin’ bushes.”

  “It’s not that simple. This must be a special meal for a very special guest.”

  “Oh, is Miss Nesrine comin’ for a visit?”

  “Only if Aschelon was here to enjoy it with her,” he quipped. “No, it’s a friend of mine…a special friend.”

  “Well, tell me what you’re needin’ so I know what to get from the market.”

  His face scrunched, trying to recall everything that Gali requested. “Uhm…she’d like some stuffed eggs, mushrooms, and almond milk to start.”

  “Well, we gots that here. What else?”

  “Some juicy sausages, roasted rice, fresh turnips, and uhm, spiced sauce. Then, zabaglone and fried fig pastries to finish. The fig pastries are the most important, and some sweet hypocras to wash it down. ”

  “Whose gonna eat all that, Ly-be? Sure you just got one friend comin’ for noon meal?” She laughed. “Best write it down, ‘afore you forget. If you’re needin’ it, I’ll get it fixed up for you.”

  “Thank you, Almaz,” he said, kissing her cheek. As he passed his mother in the corridor, he kissed her, too.

  “Julaybeim.”

  “Yes, Mother.”

  “Will you walk with me? I need to g
ather some flowers for our table.”

  He nodded, taking her arm and escorting her to the gardens. She didn’t miss his blissful mood as she begun snipping her flowers.

  “I couldn’t help but overhear what you asked Almaz. Is Nesrine visiting on the morrow?”

  “No, Mother, I’ve invited Gali to share the noon meal with me. I’m still ashamed for the way I treated her and Zeta when they were guests in our home.”

  “Gali?” she said as if it caused pain to speak the name. “Haven’t you made a proper apology already? Besides, I heard that she received nearly a score of garments from the seamstress. Are these not gifts from you as well?” Amani asked, disapprovingly.

  “I did apologize, but not like I wanted to. The dresses were a small thing and cost little. Gali didn’t want to accept them, but I convinced her otherwise. You saw how broken she was when she arrived here. Now, she’s becoming more herself, and I enjoy spending time with her. I wish to make amends for my callous behavior and truly offer my friendship.”

  “It’s a kind thought, but unnecessary. Mayhaps you’ve spent enough time in the company of this Gali already. Your attention should be on Nesrine. This experienced young woman should remain in her place, and that’s no longer at our table.”

  His mouth gaped. Gali and Brahanu were right. She’ll never be accepted for me, Julaybeim thought, bitterly. “What’s that to mean? What exactly is her place?”

  “Julaybeim, don’t act like a child. Gali needed the maiden’s tears when she came here. Those herbs have but one purpose. How many men used her before she came to Cazaal? One hundred? Two hundred? And how many babes have been flushed from her womb after such disgusting behavior? I understand that she didn’t choose to do this, but it happened, and I cringe at the thought of her.”

  He stood aghast, watching her snipping flowers, unaffected.

  “I’m sorry that you feel that way, Mother. Howbeit, if not for grace and mercy from the Seven, the same could be true of Brahanu. Would you feel that same disgust toward your own daughter?”

  “Julaybeim! You’ll not speak in such a manner.”

  “I mean no disrespect, but I will have Gali over for noon meal. If you won’t permit her here, Brahanu will receive us.”

  “She’s unclean, Julaybeim. It’s not her fault, but that doesn’t change the truth.”

  “I don’t regard her in such a way. I’ve had an opportunity to learn more about her, and she’s quite wonderful. Lakaar Briac says that she’s as good a healer as he is. If the Nazilians hadn’t taken her, she’d have been a lakaar in Kaleo with her father. I beg of you, Mother, allow me this one kindness. I won’t ask about it again; I give you my word. I’ve already extended the invitation, please don’t force me to renege on what I’ve promised.”

  Amani sighed, shaking her head. “You’re not unlike your father. Hacom has always extended kindness to those of a lesser station. It’s only right that your appearance as well as your heart is like his. I’ll allow this only once. Gali can come for one meal, but directly after, I don’t want her to linger. Katar will escort her back to Tioch’s home and you’ll remain here.”

  “Thank you, Mother,” he said, taking her arm. “Your kindness is appreciated, and I’m certain that Gali will enjoy the visit.”

  “If it pleases you, my son, I’m pleased, too.”

  Temian

  “Am I interrupting, Caretaker?” Temian asked.

  Pentanimir was leaning over a large table in the center of the room, not turning to regard him.

  “No, Cha Temian, you may come,” he said, taking his seat.

  Temian bowed, and then stepped forward, scrutinizing the map. “What do you hope to find, Caretaker?”

  “I’m just looking at the site for the new city. Whomever created the map was unfamiliar with the actual terrain.” It was a lie, but he didn’t intend on telling him the truth.

  Temian nodded, glancing around the room. “I’ve noticed that you never have slaves about you.”

  “Is this why you’ve come? To inform me about my lack of attendants?”

  He chuckled, taking a seat across from him. Pentanimir peered up at him warily, pouring cups of tej.

  “So, why have you come then?”

  “There’s been a bird from Nazil, Caretaker.”

  Pentanimir sighed, draining his cup. When Temian attempted to hand him the scroll, he waved dismissively.

  “Just tell me what it says. I’ve no desire to read it.”

  “As you wish. Your uncle would have you send word to Lady Denotra since she hasn’t heard from you in some time. Even the Zaxson is becoming concerned.”

  Pentanimir slapped the table, leaning back in his chair.

  “Have I spoken out of turn?”

  “Of course not. I merely tire of word from Nazil and my uncle most of all. I’m trying to concentrate on my duty and this…this coming battle. I don’t have time to placate young maids.”

  Temian’s brow raised. “Has Sir Oxilon offended you?”

  “When does my uncle not offend? Since my father’s death, this seems to be his primary objective. My brother and I grow weary of his interference.”

  “Sir Oxilon has only attempted to lead the family as Sir Manifir would have. Securing your pledge was no small feat. He does well for you and your brother.”

  Pentanimir scoffed. “He does well for himself, Cha.”

  “You don’t desire your pledge?”

  Pentanimir sat up then, facing the older man. In truth, Temian was quite young to have a position in the Nazilian Temple. He couldn’t be more than a few years older than Pentanimir, yet looked even younger. However, Temian carried himself as one much wiser than his years. Perhaps Pentanimir had said too much.

  “I’d be a fool to not appreciate and recognize such an honor. Although my uncle secured the pledge to further his own position, it’s an honor for me, too. Ensure to send a message telling Denotra that she’s missed.”

  “I see. Since you’ve spoken honestly to me, I’ll do the same for you,” Temian said.

  “What do you mean?”

  “Surely, you’re aware that there was some opposition to your pledge.”

  “I was. It’s expected for the council to disagree. This isn’t news, Cha.”

  “No, not in itself. Albeit, I spoke out strongly against your pledge.”

  “What cause would you have to speak against me?”

  “It wasn’t you that I spoke against. I was concerned about your uncle’s motivations and voiced the same.”

  “Uncle? What do you know about him? You’ve been in Nazil but a few years.”

  “It’s true that I’ve only been in Nazil for a few years, but before that, I spent time in Noraa and Hyorin.”

  “Hyorin? There’s been much talk of the city of late. You couldn’t have been but a child when it was destroyed. Even then, my uncle spent little time there. What you’re saying doesn’t make sense.”

  “I was young, indeed, but not unaware. Your uncle kept a presence in the city, but it was your father who visited often.”

  “Watch your tongue, Cha,” he muttered. “I’ll not have you speak against my father.”

  “I’m not attempting to anger you or speak against Sir Manifir,” Temian said, quickly. “In many ways, you and I are much alike. I’m certain that you’d disagree, but that doesn’t change the fact. We both believe in honor and truth. We judge a man by his deeds, not by his words.”

  “What’s your point? I grow tired of your riddles.”

  Temian watched Pentanimir drain his cup, and then pour another. He considered revealing everything that he knew. With the impending war, he felt that there was no alternative. Whether Pentanimir would accept his words was irrelevant. He could wait no longer.

  “I’m from Yarah, did you know that?” Temian said, changing the direction of the conversation.

  “Of course, I did. You’re Lord Urdan Swayne’s eldest. My father always spoke highly of him and his family. I recall visiting Yarah y
ears ago. When I considered you for placement, I checked your recent record and rank within the brotherhood.”

  Temian inclined his head. “He spoke highly of your family as well. It wasn’t until my third year of study that I was granted admission into the Noraan temple. There were many Nazilians there at that time, and the Cha had a presence there, too. I became familiar with the Nazilians who frequently visited the city, and your father was one of them. He’d come to the temple often to offer prayers, and ask for guidance. At that time, I hadn’t earned my title. I mostly tended the scrolls and cleaned between my studies. That’s when I overheard something that I shouldn’t have.”

  “What is it that you heard?” Pentanimir asked, leaning forward.

  “You already know part of it,” he said, meeting his eyes. “You were there when your brother was slain.”

  Pentanimir sprang up, running his fingers through his long hair. “Danimore is my brother.”

  “Aye. Danimore is your younger brother. Nevertheless, Sir Manifir sired several sons.”

  “Several? How are you so certain? My father was the First Chosen of Nazil. One of his position—”

  “Is yet a man,” Temian interrupted. “Aren’t you also Nazil’s First Chosen?”

  His head snapped up, narrowing his eyes. “What’s that to mean?”

  “It means simply that you, too, are a man. Your visits to Cazaal haven’t gone unnoticed.” Temian paused, standing and taking a drink from his cup. “Nor have your affections for the Caretaker’s daughter.”

  He opened his mouth to protest, but Temian silenced him with an upraised hand. “Worry not. I’ve no intention of revealing your secret. Had I wanted to expose you, Wosen Neufmarche wouldn’t be the only one hanging in the dark chamber. Your uncle would torture you just as he does the son of Hosdaq,” Temian said, taking a step away. “Surely, you realize that you’re not the first one of Nazil to fall in love with a human. Draizeyn wouldn’t have the boy Wosen if others before you hadn’t done the same.”