part0020

Pentanimir was the last to enter the meeting hall, looking disheveled and fatigued. After motioning for the council to sit, he massaged his temples, taking his seat at the table. The past few weeks had been trying, and that showed plainly on his face. Even his usually well-groomed hair was hastily bound, hanging loosely about his waist.

“Brother, are you feeling well enough for the meeting?” Temian’s voice rang with concern.

“I am,” Pentanimir said, peering up with darkened, puffy eyes as he reached for a cup of nectar. “We have no time to delay.”

Nzuri nodded, observing Pentanimir continuously rubbing his temples. “Mayhaps an herbal broth would help soothe you. I have some Kuzbarah oil here if you have a need.”

“Indeed, Nzuri, my head’s reeling. Kuzbarah would suit me well.”

“Why didn’t you tell me?” Nzuri asked, pulling a phial from his pocket. “We’re all here to assist you. There’s no need for you to be in pain. I think I’ll have Gerhma fetch some dream wine at our meeting’s end. You look as if you need to rest.”

Pentanimir’s eyes closed, enjoying the gentle massage as he rubbed the oil across his forehead. “I know,” he sighed, momentarily soothed. “But there are some matters that only I can attend to. The others, I’ll gladly share with the council. I’ll be more at ease when Symeon returns.”

“He comes,” Ahvixx said. “There are many traveling with the First Chosen and Drah’kuu Kuhani.”

“Have you seen this, Ahvixx?” Thalassa asked.

“I have. The citadel and Nazil will be secured with the arrival of the Jasiri. Do not worry, Zaxson, there are other matters we need to discuss.”

“I agree. Nigel has been more forthcoming than I believed he would be. He’s even given us the location of this benefactor of his.”

“When are we to leave?” Temian asked.

“Soon. I’ll post some of the new guards near his position until we’re ready. If there’s any unusual activity, they’ll alert us at once.”

“Did he mention anything about Molag?” Thalassa asked.

“He did. Nigel helped him escape from Yarah. Apparently, he and Molag left Yarah the night before the attack on Brahanu’s caravan. When this benefactor learned about Molag’s plan, he sent Nigel ahead of its execution.”

“What?” Danimore asked, confused. “How were they able to travel from Yarah to Nazil without being detected? I know that some of the guards are loyal to his cause, but most of them are not. Someone should’ve seen them and notified us.”

“No,” Pentanimir said, finishing his drink. “I’ve learned that they didn’t travel over land.”

The siblings exchanged confused glances.

“There’s only land between Yarah and Nazil,” Temian said. “How do you mean?”

“What the Zaxson means is: they didn’t only travel by land,” Nzuri said. “Once they neared Nazil, there are passageways much like the one leading from the temple to the citadel.” He produced a tattered map, laying it out on the table.

“You see here?” Nzuri pointed. “These markings indicate a vast network of tunnels beneath the city.”

“Where did you find this, Brother?” Danimore asked. “These tunnels span the entire city.”

“Nigel received it from his benefactor. He, in turn, told me where to find it. In the past, there were several of these maps, but the others are believed destroyed. Nzuri is creating some duplicates so we can explore the tunnels once the cold ends.”

“Surely you’d want to secure the entry points,” Thalassa said. “If Molag was able to travel unnoticed, others might do the same. They must not be allowed to catch us unawares.”

“I plan to station Kaleon guards in those areas.”

“Will they be well protected, Zaxson?” Nzuri asked, scrutinizing the map.

“It’s my plan to have it so. What causes your concern?”

“According to the map, there’re points of entry in these six locations. Three of them are out of sight of the watchtowers, and one is in the wood near where Nigel was discovered. Guards at those posts would have only themselves for protection. No one could come to their aid if the need arose.”

Pentanimir nodded. “I’m having new towers constructed bordering the city. No guard on the ground should be left to themselves, and each tower will have the means of communication with the others. The builders Draizeyn sent to the Dessalonian Wood retrieved a vast supply of trees that are piled outside the gates. We’ll make use of them soon.”

“Do we have men enough to man the towers?” Danimore asked.

“I’m hoping that Symeon will provide those we need. If we can reassign some of the citadel guards throughout the city, the K’ohshulians can fill their positions.”

“Brother,” Temian cocked his head. “Where did Nigel’s benefactor come by such a rare and valuable map? These passageways offer a great strategic advantage and a means of escape during times of war.”

“I inquired about the same. This map is no small find and the fact that Nigel willingly relinquished it speaks much. If I doubted his motives before, I do so no longer. He could’ve received our aid without revealing this to us. However, he provided this map and information about the resistance and his benefactor.”

“What other information did he reveal?” Danimore asked.

“His benefactor.”

“Did he name the man?”

“The Cha of Nazil?” Temian asked.

“From what he said, yes.”

“I thought that all the Cha were killed during the battle, Pentanimir.”

“As did I, Dani. Apparently, we were in error.”

Thalassa shook her head. “I don’t understand this. Nigel prayed at the temple, why wouldn’t he know the Cha with whom he conspires?”

“The Cha is disfigured,” Pentanimir said. “During the battle, one of Wosen’s arrows grazed his cheek. Enough of the beast’s nectar found its way into his blood that he won’t recover. Not only is he one of the Cha, he’s a servant of Mah’saahc.”

With that, Ahvixx gasped, his eyes emitting a soft glow.

“Ahvixx, what is it? What’s happened?” Thalassa asked.

“I need parchment,” was all he said.

After Nzuri handed him the vellum, Ahvixx wrote feverishly. Once he’d finished, his mouth went slack, staring up, wide-eyed.

“That’s it, Zaxson. That’s what I saw yet didn’t comprehend.”

“What, Ahvixx? Tell us what you’ve discovered.”

“When I first came to assist with the scrolls, do you recall me finding something and then losing it again?”

“Yes, Ahvixx, I remember,” Nzuri said. “You couldn’t fully focus after meeting Sahma in the gardens.”

“Yes,” he said. “But it’s here, right here and all of us missed the obviousness of the name.”

“Speak plainly, Ahvixx,” Pentanimir said, rising and approaching him.

“Here.” Ahvixx pointed. “Do you not see? The Cha Asham of Nazil. When the humans were released from the abyss, the darkness was contained within Oisin, was it not?”

“The eidolon or zon’tul had attached herself to Oisin Vereux: her essence suffused within him. Angelaris said that it was through Oisin that the false Nazilian gods were created.”

“The Zaxson relayed the same after speaking with the AsZar,” Nzuri said. “Is there something that we don’t know?”

“Much and more. The connection between the eidolon and Oisin is right here and might be of importance.”

Temian shook his head. “I don’t see it.”

“By the gods,” Pentanimir breathed. “Mah’saahc.”

“Yes. The Cha Asham in reverse is the name of the eidolon: Mah’saahc. Oisin created the false gods after coalescing with Mah’saahc. The two were as one until the Guardians cast Mah’saahc back into the abyss and erected the seal.

“By that time, the Nazil we knew was created, and the false gods were worshiped throughout the white city.”

“I don’t know what it means, Ahvixx, but it must hold some significance. What are we now to do?” Pentanimir asked.

“I must commune. This information was imparted to me for a reason. It’s through the Cha that the sycophant of Sanctium has been able to maintain some influence in Faélondul. They’ve nourished the creature through the ages: supplying her with both their blood and seed.”

“Not only them,” Temian said. “Allister was used numerous times, and he still hasn’t completely healed.”

“Allister wasn’t merely used, that bonding was a means for Lilinth to merge herself with him,” Ahvixx said. “Nikolina was not as fortunate. Her bond was with Mah’saahc herself through the blood that she consumed. When the eidolon fled Nikolina’s body, she syphoned her essence, too. But there is more.”

“More?” Pentanimir said.

“Yes, Allister joined with the mage through bond. As such, she attached some of herself, her essence within him. The control wasn’t absolute, but she inflicted pain or threatened Nikolina when he fought against her. Now, that connection once shared with both Allister and Nikolina has been severed.”

“What does that mean?” Danimore asked.

“It means that she mightn’t be able to inhabit more than one being at any time. Molag visited Sanctium, and that very night, Nikolina and Allister both lay dying. Allister’s manhood was malformed: bloodied and swollen, though he hadn’t lain with a woman for years before being used by Lilinth. And he hadn’t been with the mage in some time.”

Pentanimir upraised a hand, shaking his head. “Are you to say that this…this eidolon, Mah’saahc is now inhabiting Molag?”

“That’s my belief, but I won’t be certain until I commune. Didn’t Nigel mention Molag’s increased strength, shifting eyes, and his face seeming to change?”

“He did,” Pentanimir said. “I thought he might be delusional from his wounds.”

Ahvixx stood, bowing. “Nigel Branston is many things, Zaxson, but delusional, he is not. Your Chosen guard is terrified and with good cause. He saw the evils of the cursed isle and nearly paid for this with his life. I don’t believe his fealty is wholly yours, but I doubt he’d move against you. Fear consumes him, and Nigel would prefer a lifetime in the cells rather than face Molag or what lies on Sanctium again.”

Angelaris caressed the crystal resting on her breasts, remembering when the Guardians had bestowed it upon her. Though it had been centuries, it felt as if it were yesterday.

The Faélondulians knew peace, and their culture thrived because of it. Howbeit, the subsequent years were quite disparate. In many ways, the forthcoming trials were reminiscent of the cataclysmic events that manifested after Oisin Vereux proclaimed himself Zaxson, expanding both his influence, and his power.

The peace the Nazilians avowed after their imprisonment was rescinded in the most abysmal manner. The truth of their transgressions and atonement was destroyed, and new histories and ideologies were inserted in their place.

Just as now, the Guardians couldn’t sense Mah’saahc’s essence until Oisin’s corruption had permeated the new Nazilian society, shifting both the peace and balance in Faélondul.

The Guardians’ energies were waning, and their return to the spirit realm was imminent. The encasements they inhabited in Faélondul limited their abilities, but with the aid of the Affereans, the Guardians were able to endure.

As Angelaris caressed the crystal again, she thought of her own waning energies. She hadn’t fully recovered from her leave of Afferea. In truth, her energies wouldn’t replenish, not wholly. Her life was tethered to the Animus Woods, and her journey to Nazil had weakened her more than she realized. Angelaris was the conduit and connection to this realm. But she, too, was weary, and her time was near its end.

“We have much to accomplish before such matters should be considered. There is time, AsZar.”

Angelaris stood, hearing Yemala’s euphonious voice.

“Guardian,” she said, bowing.

“Be seated, dear one. I sense what’s troubling your spirit, but don’t allow such thoughts to add turbidity to your mind or heart.” Yemala laid a comforting hand on hers, sitting beside her.

“Forgive me,” Angelaris said. “My concerns extend past Afferea. I’m troubled about the developments in Faélondul, and apprehensive about the abilities of those in which we’ve placed our trust.”

“Allay your fears. The children of Manifir will not falter. Their hearts are pure, just as their father’s was. Now that the thresholds are unfettered, they have the ability to reach those beyond the confines of Faélondul. If the assistance is sought, it will be provided.

“Yes, but it isn’t their heart that I question. It is their resolve. Difficult choices lie ahead for each of them, just as it was with their father. They mustn’t only contend with Mah’saahc, but also with the malignancy prevalent in the lands.

“Manifir was faithful until Oxilon compromised his future. When faced with that choice, Manifir betrayed those who he’d sworn to protect.”

“We forgave him those transgressions, and for Crissu’s death,” Yemala said. “Had he not taken his son’s life, the Nazilians would’ve tortured and executed them both. Although we mourned Crissu’s death, we understood why Manifir thought it was necessary.”

“I’m speaking more of Hyorin. That betrayal is what led to Crissu’s death, and Hushar’s capture. Thousands of lives were lost because of Manifir’s betrayal, and thousands more were inexorably changed. The same darkness that manifested through Manifir’s choices still encompass his children. Manifir made a vow to us, and was granted what no other Nazilian had been entrusted with.” Angelaris took a deep breath, shaking her head. “Like their father, the children of Manifir are human. Their hearts are true, but they could succumb to this darkness. We can’t ask more of them than they can bear.”

“Are you not also human?” When Angelaris moved to speak, Yemala gently cupped her chin. “They will endure. It is for them to do so.”

“But there are more dangers now than ever before. With Mah’saahc’s manipulations, there’s been an awakening. There are others, Guardian, and they’ll attempt to breach the thresholds into the mortal world. I can sense the shift, and feel a growing imbalance.”

“As do we, AsZar. The Ohor has sensed it as well, and will soon cross the threshold into Faélondul.” Yemala upraised a hand, silencing any coming retort.

“The Ohor are infinitesimal in comparison to our present concerns. Sanctium is our focus. We must seal the fracture. Once the Uzon arrives in Nazil, the preparations will truly begin. We cannot stray from that which must be.”

“Yes, Guardian.” Yemala was right, but she discounted their diminishing connection. The Guardians could merely correct the shift; they couldn’t prevent it. It would be for Ayrmeis to pierce the darkness, and for Symeon and the Drah’kuus to prepare him. Her heart ached at that truth, and what might lay ahead for each of them.

“Your daughter awaits you,” Yemala said, wrenching her from her thoughts.

“Is it Natelegé?”

“Of all your children, is she not the one who knows her mother best?” Yemala smiled. “She feels your despondency and trepidation, AsZar. Do not turn from your children now. They have need of you, just as you have need of them.”

“I didn’t wish to burden them with matters of which they have no influence nor control. It is time for Natelegé to accept Déshì’s interest, and begin to live her life. If the Shifter emerges, she, too will be called upon. My fears extend to my children as well. My time is nearly at an end, and I’d like to see them content before my passage beyond the falls.”

“Don’t have fear, Angelaris. Have faith. There’s more for you to do before your journey beyond the falls. The Benoists are unaware of the true evils they’ll be facing, nor the sacrifices stemming from them. All Afferea, including your children, will be needed to add to our strength.”

“I know.” Angelaris lamented. “The warriors should arrive in Nazil soon. With Shintao’s and the Brothers Xaahn’s assistance, the Benoists will be well-protected.”

“This threat extends past Nazil’s borders, AsZar. This darkness could consume Faélondul. Sanctium is but the beginning. You know what the Shifter attempts to awaken. We mustn’t limit our sight to the present, we must envision the future, whilst recalling the past. The mortals are linear, and we mustn’t forget this. The variables are many, but the choices are limited.”

Angelaris nodded. “My husband and I can feel it, but we are too few.”

“No, we are many. Our children have returned to us, and the thresholds are currently unfettered. We are the mortals only defense from those of the darker realms. We cannot fail.”

Hushar held onto Allister’s hand, walking down the corridor. Although he’d finally accepted Nikolina’s death, he hadn’t truly been himself. She understood his dolor, still feeling much of her own. When they were in the catacombs, Hushar had been forced to confront her own ghosts, instead of burying them with the past.

Since that time, Allister and Hushar had grown closer. He’d relinquished the shard to Pentanimir, but refused to remain in the citadel. He’d admitted his feelings of guilt regarding Nikolina, and his responsibility in assisting her to set these cataclysmic events into motion. He loved his daughter, mayhaps too much. Allister had wished he’d listened to his mind, and not to her pleas, so that he wouldn’t ever have lost her.

With that recollection, Hushar held his hand tighter. How he needed her now, just as she had needed him in the past. Their developing relationship was possibly the only heartening aspect of Allister’s life, save being with his grandson.

“Are you certain that you’re well enough?” Hushar asked.

“No. However, that doesn’t really matter. This, I need to do. It’s been far too long, and I need to set things right.”

She nodded, pushing up on her toes and quickly kissing his cheek. When she attempted to move away, he grasped her hand again.

“Aren’t you going to accompany me?”

“Your business with the Zaxson and Nakshij is private, and I wouldn’t want to intrude.”

“Don’t you care about my feelings on the matter?”

“Your feelings?”

“I’d like you with me, Hushar. No one in that room has known me longer than you. With you there, I’ll have the strength to complete that which I’ve promised to myself. I don’t want to be alone. Not anymore.”

“I don’t want to leave if you need me, but I’m supposed to tend the Zaxson’s children, and I haven’t made other arrangements.”

He lowered his head, bringing her hand up to his lips. “This isn’t your burden. It belongs only to me, and I should carry it alone. Because of me, many have suffered, and I have to do whatever I can to help as I should’ve long ago. If you have obligations, you should see to them.”

Her heart ached. She’d promised to be there when he needed her, and she would hold true to that promise.

“Give me a moment,” she said, motioning to the divan. As she left to speak with a guard, Allister sat, lowering his face to his hands. He tried to focus on what he needed to say, and push everything else from his mind. This, he had to do.

“Come, Allister,” she said, extending a hand to him. “We’ll meet them together.”

“Are—are you certain?”

“I am. Whenever you have need of me, I’ll be here.”

“Thank you, Hushar. Thank you.”

When they entered the solar, Pentanimir looked bemused. “Hushar?”

“Pardons, Zaxson,” Allister said. “Lady Saussai was gracious enough to accompany me.”

“What about the children?”

“I’ve asked for Hibret to tend to them for me. I’ll relieve her at the meeting’s end.”

He offered a conceding nod, taking his seat. As the attendants delivered the refreshments, Pentanimir’s gaze rested on Allister. He appeared to have aged ten years in a single season. Allister had always been a handsome older man. Now, his hair was thinned and his face sunken and aged.

As Ahvixx entered the room, Allister turned, gasping.

“It’s all right, Sir d’Garrion,” Ahvixx said. “I’m the same as you knew me.”

“Your—your eyes,” Allister said, pointing a shaky hand. “Your eyes.”

“We’ll explain that to you in time,” Pentanimir said, massaging his temples. “For now, let’s speak of other things.”

“Yes, I—I have much to tell,” Allister said.

“You mentioned your acquaintance with my father. How did you know him?” Ahvixx asked.

“I knew not only your father, but your mother, too. Both visited my home often, though it wasn’t widely known. To many in Nazil, they were low born, and unfortunately, were treated as such.”

“I know that my father was bastard-born. My mother was a citadel attendant, and my father tended the horses. Knowing that changes nothing. My parents loved us very much.”

“Yes,” Allister agreed. “Your parents took great pride in you and your sister.”

“Then what have you to tell?” Ahvixx asked.

“Ahvixx,” he started, taking a deep breath. “Neither of your parents committed any wrong. When they were accused and sentenced, it was a travesty. I wanted to speak out against it, but my wife feared that I’d be taken, too.”

“So, you allowed them to die?”

“I allowed nothing. Their fates were decided long before the guards took them. The Zaontras herself accused your father. No one speaks against the Zaxson’s wife.”

“My father was no rapist or thief,” Ahvixx asserted.

“No. Your father was an honorable and hardworking man. You don’t remember, but you visited my children and me often. At that time, my wife didn’t agree with you being guests in our home. Her sentiments didn’t move me, but when she began being cruel, I visited you instead.”

“There was cause, Ahvixx. I’ve never judged or disregarded anyone according to how they were born into these lands. Station doesn’t reflect integrity or morality. Many of those in the highest positions are lacking both.”

“How did you know my father?”

“Your father, Haden, helped care for my horses.”

“So, he was a servant to you as well.”

“No. He was much and more. Did you ever meet your grandmother?”

“I knew but one,” Ahvixx said. “She died when I was quite young.”

“She did. Your father’s mother worked as a server in the inn. At that time, Nazil was home to two pleasure houses.”

“Are you saying that my grandmother was a whore?”

“Those are your words, Ahvixx, not mine. Your grandmother served in the common room and did what was necessary to care for her family. I find no fault in that. Always she was kind and loved your father. When I look at you now, I see him so clearly. You look just as he did.”

“Nohek Asmaa has mentioned the same. He and my father were friends.”

“I know,” Allister said, shifting in his seat. “Did Haden ever mention your grandfather?”

“If he knew, he never told Droxahn or me.”

Allister nodded. “Your father did know, and we spoke about it often. It’s because of his father that Haden and I were close. I hope that it can be the same with Droxahn and you.”

“You knew my grandfather, too?”

“We both knew, Ahvixx.”

“Who was he? Was he from Nazil also?”

“Your grandfather’s name was Clinton. Know that he did everything he could for your father, but he was married and couldn’t commit fully.”

“Yes.” Allister glanced at the men in the room. When he felt Hushar caress his hand, he took a deep breath, meeting Ahvixx’s eyes.

Molag’s spies watched the warriors’ approach. They kept a careful distance, observing the Jasiri marching past their position. The wagons traversed the path, with warriors flanking on either side. Their approach was slow and deliberate, observing the faint scorch marks, denoting where Brahanu’s caravan had been ambushed.

While the spies observed the warriors, so did the Jasiri scouts watch them. They moved silently from tree to tree, using hand gestures for covert communication.

“We must warn Molag,” Adaryn whispered.

“No. He’d be wantin’ their numbers,” Dorran said. “We’re needin’ to learn more ‘afore we tell him.”

Adaryn nodded, turning back to the road. “I ain’t never seen no men like these. Do ya think them witches in the wood sent them demons here?”

“Molag might know. He ain’t been the same since he come back. He’s knowin’ lots of things.”

“There’s more’n I can count,” Adaryn said, raising his head to make the attempt.

“I counted ‘bout four score,” Cedric said, coming alongside.

“What ‘bout them carts?” Adaryn asked. “Did ya see anythin’ inside?”

“If’n there is, that’s ‘bout double. Ya see any weapons?” Cedric asked.

“It looks like they gots some swords and spears of some kind. Could be more wit’ in them carts though.”

Adaryn regarded the two men and then looked back at the road. “There ain’t but two at the end. They’s far ‘nough off that we could get ‘em and take ‘em to Molag.”

“We ain’t s’pose to do nothin’, Adaryn. Molag said to watch.”

“He’s wantin’ a report too, Cedric. I ain’t never seen the likes of ‘em, and it’s too many comin’ for nothin’. We’re needin’ to find out why. Hells, we ain’t gots ‘nough men to fight ‘em.”

Cedric led the scouting party, but Adaryn was right. Molag would want to know everything about the men moving toward Nazil. Since leaving Spero, they’d trekked straight toward the white city. If they were more reinforcements for Nazil, he wondered from whence they came. Nazil was littered with savages, taking positions previously reserved for loyal Nazilians.

With that thought, Cedric considered Adaryn’s suggestion. But if they failed in the attempt, they’d give away their position.

He shook his head, staring at the redoubtable men. Cedric wasn’t willing to risk his life in such a dangerous pursuit.

He nearly fell from his perch as the crowned eagle screeched, circling their position. The men sank lower beneath the branches in an effort to become invisible. They’d never seen such a massive bird, and as it glided closer to their hiding place, they noticed the obsidian head and talon coverings.

“That ain’t no natural bird,” Cedric said, cowering lower.

The eagle squawked again, descending toward where they hid. Their hearts raced, waving their hands in a futile attempt to send the bird fleeing. Instead, it landed gracefully atop the tree, releasing a deafening screech.

The men held their breath, noticing the caravan halt. For many long moments, they watched the warriors move and point, praying that they weren’t discovered. Adaryn gripped the hilt of his sword, wiping the beading sweat from his brow. He nearly toppled when the eagle squawked again, taking to the skies.

“We ain’t doin’ nothin’,” Cedric whispered as loud as he dared. “Did ya see the armor on the bird? Them witches sent it fer sure. We gots to get back to Yarah.”

The other two didn’t argue. They waited until the caravan passed before daring to leave their hidden position. Each man dropped from their perch, crouching in the grass.

When Cedric signaled to flee, he gasped, stumbling back a step.

A slender pole stood in their path, the red feathers attached to its end blowing in the breeze.

“They was here,” Cedric breathed, pulling the pole from the ground. “They could’a kilt us right here and we never knew they was there.”

With that realization, he dropped the pole, sprinting back to his mount.

“Pentanimir and Danimore have always been honorable men and friends to me. I thought to you as well. Why now would I think them otherwise?”

“Why?” Ladir asked, checking the corridor. “Were you not here when those demons and their beasts destroyed our city and murdered our Zaxson?”

“No. Draizeyn began this war, not Pentanimir. He’s done nothing to our detriment. Nazil thrives now, and my own purse has increased.”

Ladir scoffed. “You think the Benoists are your friends? What about Nikolina? She died by their hands, and the babe that savage holds to her breast is the child of your former pledged. What honor was there in that?”

Velnic’s eyes narrowed. Allister had spoken to him not long ago regarding their pledge. Even with her pregnancy, Velnic had still planned to marry her, despite the protests from his family. Some of Ladir’s words rang true, and that truth stung.

“You know little and less, Ladir.”

“I know that Danimore offered a pledge to Nikolina, and then dishonored her first by marrying that savage whore, and again by taking her maidenhead when he learned of your interest. He raped Nikolina and forced her to carry his bastard.”

“Lies.” The word came out as a hiss. “Danimore didn’t rape Nikolina. Those vile acts were reserved for the Vereuxs,” Velnic paused, meeting Ladir’s eyes. “And those who did their bidding. Or have you forgotten Beilzen’s fate?”

“Watch your tongue, guard of Nazil,” Ladir said, threateningly.

“It’s you who should watch your own. By order or no, you were the rapist, not Danimore. Beilzen’s wounds plague him still, and all the guard has heard about the pleasure you took in such depravity. Tell me: is it true that Daracus desired the same from you?”

With that, Ladir grabbed him by the collar, slamming him against the wall. When he attempted to lift Velnic off the ground, Ladir winced at the pressure on his weakened wrist. “I’m not one to trifle with. Speak more your words and find my sword at your throat.”

Velnic looked him up and down, shaking his head. After pushing off from his grasp, he straightened his collar, backing away.

“Unlike you, I’ve spoken with Allister d’Garrion. Taking in the babe was a kindness, and Allister has told me the same. He was unable to care for him, and the Nakshij offered to assist. That further shows the Benoists integrity.

“It’s pitiful that you’d attempt to despoil Danimore’s name in this manner. I thought you were of better character, Ladir. Is it not enough that I’ve lost Nikolina? Would you have me thrown in the cells, too?”

Ladir sneered, glancing around. “If my words ring false, mayhaps there’s another you’d believe. He knows the truths of the Benoists and the pythonesses they serve.”

“What’s that to mean?”

“Do you not see the changes around you? Pentanimir might’ve promoted you, but he allows only the savages near his family. Most Nazilians aren’t even permitted on the levels of their chambers. Ask Elodie and find the truth in my words. They elevate the humans while assigning Nazilians the role of servants.”

“Nakaris Middleton is Second Chosen and trains the guard. He also led the retinue charged with protecting the Zaontras’ caravan. If Pentanimir didn’t trust Nazilians, why would he charge them with the care of his wife and children? Besides, you were granted a public challenge and an opportunity to join the Chosen.”

“Only after they unleashed the savage upon me! Had I not feared for my family’s safety, I would’ve killed the slave.”

“Symeon Yego?” Velnic chuckled. “You think your prowess is a match for the First Chosen?”

“It’s more than a match for you.”

“And you question why most Nazilian guards aren’t charged with the Benoists’ protection. Was it not these same guards that made an attempt on the Zaontras and her son? Tell me, Ladir, had the same been true with your wife and child, would you so readily trust those who committed such an egregious offense?”

“You’d turn your back on Nazil?” he retorted, ignoring the question.

“No. Never would I do so, but perpetrating acts of treason won’t benefit our city or the welfare of Nazilians as a whole. I care little whether the Zaxson has a human wife or no. What I do care about are these lands and my place in them,” he said, stepping forward. “If you’d allow your eyes to see, Nazil stands better now than it has in years. Too much has already been lost. Why can’t you release this hatred and enjoy the blessings of the Four?”

“You’re a fool. Your love of the Benoists has blinded you from the truth.”

“No, Ladir, but your hatred of them has caused you to create your own.” He shook his head. “I won’t tell anyone about our conversation, and pray you again find your mind. But I’ll hear no more from you or those with a like heart. The lands are changing, Ladir, and I welcome that change,” he finished, walking away.

Ladir’s eyes narrowed, lunging forward and grabbing him from behind.

“Have you lost your mind? Release me!”

“No. Never will you tell,” Ladir whispered, unsheathing his dagger. When Velnic felt the cold steel against his throat, his eyes widened as his hand shot up.

The tip of the blade dug into his neck, slicing the hand wedged between it. Ladir tightened his grasp, forcing the dagger in deeper.

Velnic called out, feeling the bite of the blade and the blood pouring from the fresh wound. He thrust his head back into Ladir’s face, hoping he’d loosen his hold. It had little effect as they continued to struggle for the dagger.

Velnic shouted out again, stumbling against the wall. He grabbed Ladir’s weak wrist, twisting while wrenching it back. When Ladir loosened his grasp, Velnic gripped his wrist with both hands, slamming it into the wall. As the dagger fell away, he pushed off, putting some distance between them.

Velnic’s vision blurred, careening into the wall, and thudding to the floor. When he heard the boots and shouts of the approaching guards, Velnic called out weakly, clutching his throat as the world faded into darkness.

Ahvixx released a slow and even breath, allowing his eyes to open. He immediately inhaled again, taking the rising steam and fragrance into his lungs. Uncrossing his long legs, he stood, lifting the thurible from its stand. After emptying the incense, he extinguished the seven candles, and then moved to the basin.

Ahvixx rubbed his dry eyes, taking a long drink from his cup. He was always parched after communing, but this day, it was even more so. He splashed water on his face, organizing the myriad thoughts and images in his mind.

“Naomi,” he whispered.

He smiled, reaching for the door’s handle, and exiting his prayer chamber. As soon as he stepped into the corridor, the aromas from the kitchen quickened his pace.

“What is it that you prepare?” he asked, cinching the ties of his cassock.

Sahma flinched, giggling as she turned. “I didn’t know you’d finished your meditation. I would’ve brought your tea.”

“I’ve only just finished. The smell of noon meal and the sound of your sweet voice brought me to the kitchen. My appetite is large, and not just for your meal,” he said, leaning to kiss her. When Sahma leaned away, his smile faded.

“What’s wrong?”

“Ahvixx, I’m preparing the evening meal now. I didn’t want to disturb you.”

“Yes. You didn’t know? The sun has left the skies.”

“No. I—I didn’t know. It seemed but a short while to me.”

She led him to a chair, taking a place on his lap. Her fingertips traced the crest on his brow, causing his eyes to glimmer.

“They’re beautiful,” she said, kissing each of his lids. “All the Guardians’ blessings are.”

“I didn’t mean to be away from you so long. We seem to have time for everyone except ourselves. This isn’t how I want it to be, Sahma.”

“You’re here with me, always. There isn’t one night that we don’t sleep in each other’s arms. I treasure that, Ahvixx, just as I treasure you.”

“It isn’t enough. I need more time with you, with us together. I—I’ll hire some attendants. The Zaxson is generous with my earnings, and you deserve much more than I’ve provided. Two attendants should lessen your chores considerably. You won’t need to be here tending our home. We can be together, wherever I might go.”

“I can’t always be with you. Your importance is greater than mine, Ahvixx. I’m very proud of you and understand how much you’re needed.”

“You are needed, Sahma. Not only do I need you, I desire you. Always. Of late, it feels as if I only have you in passing.”

She smiled, flittering her fingers through his hair. “Well, it’s certain that you haven’t had time for me to tend your hair. I do miss it, Ahvixx. Now that it’s grown again, only my fingers can tame it.”

He was finally able to smile.

“What has your mind?” she asked, continuing the caress.

“I’m thinking about when you first came to me. You were barefoot, you know?” He chuckled. “I remember being afraid when you entered my room, afraid of making a connection, of…of feeling anything. But you wouldn’t allow me to hide: not from you, or from myself. Soon after, I yearned to have you with me. When we were apart, Sahma, I didn’t feel whole. I was afraid of that, too. Not only of how I felt about you, but fearing that you could never feel the same.

“Now, I understand. Because without you, I could not be. We are a part of each other, and my meditation has reiterated that truth, providing a clarity that I’ve never experienced before. The day that you befriended me was truly the beginning of my life. Do you know how special you are, how important you are not only to me, but to all of Faélondul?”

“It is you who are important, Ahvixx. I remember our days together in Noraa. I loved the gardens, the lake, all of it. But the time I came to your room, the first night that we made love…that was when you truly became a part of me.”

“That memory will forever remain in the forefront of my mind.” His gaze lowered. “I felt ashamed for dishonoring—”

“The only dishonor would’ve been your rejection. I was in love with you even then. If I couldn’t have been with you, I wouldn’t have wanted anyone else.”

When Ahvixx attempted to respond, she silenced him with a kiss. “No, not even Jarin Swayne.”

“The—there’s more, Sahma. Something was imparted to me during my meditation.”

“I told you about seeing our children when I merged with the Guardians. Do you remember?”

“I do, Ahvixx, never could I forget.”

“Again, I have been shown much. It was the transference.”

“With the AsZar. When we connected with Angelaris and her energies were shared with you.”

“I remember. It took several suns to recover.”

“I know,” he said, caressing her cheek. “But it was necessary. Nothing that’s done by the Guardians or the AsZar is ever void of purpose.”