But what could she offer this man? Phaezut. The leader of the Feh Noq now admitting to her the delicate state of his country. Metal could be acquired for trade. There was no question on that. Lumber would be more difficult to offer. As a Vor’shai, they disliked to disrupt nature in any way. To destroy the life that produced the energy their people so effectively utilized and revered. Trees which had fallen of natural causes could be provided, but to promise anything beyond that would go against her beliefs.
“I cannot guarantee lumber,” she stated firmly. It was best to make her position known up front. She had seen her parents do the same on many occasions. Laying the groundwork to avoid possible misunderstandings later in negotiations. “Our people are very fond of nature, and all that has been granted to us. However, the other goods you mention would not be difficult to arrange a trade. Metal we can acquire, and crops are plentiful in our land. Grains are simple enough, as well as many other foods which might benefit your people. That being said, this is a business deal. While I enjoy the thought of doing something to help out of the goodness of my heart, I would be a poor representative of my people if I did not ask for anything in return which might benefit them. So tell me. What is it you offer in exchange for our assistance?”
“Ah, now comes the bargaining,” Phaezut chuckled. “We have many fine goods which are produced here in Palinon by my people. The glasses you drink from now, for example, are only a taste of what we are capable of. If material goods are not your preference, then perhaps there are other avenues which might be of more use to you.” He leaned forward, contemplative, thinking over his words carefully. “The Feh Noq boast some of the most effective weapons for combat. I am aware of your past with the race known as Ven’shal. Would it be safe to assume that your people may require such items? Or assistance in another way to protect against these miscreants? I am not particularly fond of their kind myself.”
“The Ven’shal have not posed a threat to our country in nearly fifty years,” Callum added, his voice catching Aiva off guard. He had been so quiet throughout the conversation. She was surprised to hear him seek to involve himself now, though with the mention of weapons and combat, it was only reasonable to allow him the opportunity to speak. As if reading her thoughts, he glanced over to Aiva with an apologetic smile. “However, it is up to the Princess to decide on the terms.”
Turning back to Aiva expectantly, Phaezut raised his wine glass to her, finishing the final swallows. “What say you then, Princess? What is it you desire most from my people?”
Nothing came to mind. There was no physical item which could be granted by Phaezut that would accomplish the one thing her people needed at that moment. They needed to rescue Shaelyn and the Feh Noq currently stood in their way by keeping them in the city. But etiquette required her to remain. To keep relations friendly. If they upset Phaezut, he would likely make passage to the coast impossible for them. Unless… “You mention the weapons your men can construct. What of your warriors? Do you consider your army strong?”
“One of the strongest, My Lady,” Phaezut smirked. “There is a reason we hold the reputation we do. My soldiers hit hard, and they hit where it hurts most. They know the desert as if it was their own backyard. Within the borders of our country, they are unstoppable.”
“And what of your stance on forming military alliances with other countries? Is this something you have considered in the past?”
“We have had little need to discuss alliances of that nature with anyone before. Our only threat comes from the west where we border the damnable Syet, but we maintain control over the situation, and no one has approached us regarding their squabbles before. What is it you suggest?”
Aiva smiled charmingly, her expression softened. “There is only one thing which my people require at the moment, and it is something only you can offer, Phaezut.” She watched him carefully, afraid of how he might react to her direct use of the name she had heard so many others call him. It felt more formal. More direct. Satisfied that he was not offended, or had shown no indication of such, she pressed onward with her proposition. “We are here because the pirates have something which belongs to us. The terrain of Palinon has set us back and we are at terrible risk of losing our enemy. What I suggest is a military alliance. An offer of assistance between your people and mine. While it is preferred that such an alliance would have no need to surface again, I believe my people would be pleased to know that we have a friend in you and your men in the event of further strife. In exchange, we would provide the food your people require to survive, and our extended offer of assistance if you should ever find need. The Tanispan military is very skilled. Well-trained. Some of the best tacticians in all of Myatheira. An alliance between our countries could be beneficial for us both.”
Stroking his chin thoughtfully, Phaezut appeared to consider her offer. Aiva wasn’t sure how to progress if he denied her. It seemed a perfect arrangement for the Feh Noq. She asked nothing of them other than their current support. They would be under no obligation to provide anything, and in exchange Phaezut would have the food to help his people. He would be a fool to turn down an arrangement so tilted in his favor.
At her side she could feel Callum’s eyes on her. Watching her. She didn’t dare look at him to see what expression might be on his face. A military agreement was stepping into the grounds of his duties. If Phaezut conceded, the negotiation would be turned over to Callum for further discussion. She could only hope that Callum would be capable of holding Phaezut’s interest. Finishing the last of her wine, she sat the glass on the table in front of her, grateful for the steadiness of her hands. The other people had begun to disperse, lost in their own conversations, oblivious to the business conducted there. All she had to do was convince Phaezut that she was confident in her decisions and there would be no question of her leadership. She needed him to respect her. If he considered her weak, he would have no use for her, and could end all negotiation.
“Tacticians, hmm?” Phaezut let his gaze settle on Callum once again. “Do you consider yourself a skilled tactician, Prince?”
“I would not be Captain of the Royal Army if I was not, Sir,” Callum nodded. “Such a position is not presented to a soldier so easily. Prior to my holding the title, it was once bestowed upon our current Queen, Leyna Levadis, during the war against the Ven’shal. Before that, it was held by my own father, now the General. If there is no one considered worthy of the role, then the position remains empty. I am the first to hold the honor in almost fifty years.”
“And how is it determined whether a soldier is worthy of such a prestigious title?”
“They must prove themselves in the line of duty, Sir.”
“You say your Queen held the position?”
Callum chuckled, revealing a lack of intimidation at Phaezut’s persistent questions. “It is a long and complicated story, but prior to her marriage to King Thade, she was one of the finest warriors to ever grace the Tanispan army. She was trained in the art of combat by my father. As was the Princess,” he gestured to Aiva, “Queen Leyna took three poisoned arrows, fired from the bows of the Sanarik warriors, which had been aimed to kill both of the previous Queen’s sons while at war in Siscal against Namorea.”
“An admirable act,” Phaezut nodded. “On the other hand, you appear far too young to have seen much in the way of war. Tell me of your qualifications.”
“I was Commander on one of the defending ships in Siscal which took down an enemy vessel threatening the shores. The pirates have been pressing on the Siscalian people, kidnapping their citizens, and selling them into slavery upon reaching Luquarr. Making a profit off the misfortune of their victims and their families. Much the same as they are attempting to do with Princess Aiva’s sister.”
“And you are charged with her rescue?”
“I am. Unfortunately, their trade agreement with you allowed them to traverse the desert with far more ease and efficiency than we have managed to this point.”
“Come.” Phaezut ro
se suddenly, motioning for Aiva and Callum to follow. “We will discuss this in more detail, Prince. It is time for me to test you now. It seems your Princess is just as persuasive as you implied. Let us see if you are as intelligent as she claims.”
Hesitantly, Aiva moved closer to Callum’s side, wrapping her arm around his to avoid separation. She hated the anxiety building inside at Phaezut’s failure to give a direct answer to her offer. If he was going to help them, they needed to know now if they were to have any hope at reaching Luquarr before Ireni had a chance to arrange sale of Shaelyn to one of their slave owners. Aiva shuddered at the thought. No. They would find Ireni. And she would be killed for the insult she bestowed upon the Levadis family.
Phaezut led them around the courtyard path, motioning toward a small table situated amongst one of the well-tended flowerbeds, tiny petals of varying shades of red and pink adding a splash of color to the scenery. As they drew nearer, Aiva recognized the table to be decorated on top by square markings similar to that of a human chess board, though the pieces resembled a game more familiar to the Vor’shai. A variant of the human version, created to suit the Tanispan culture. “Have a seat,” Phaezut waved Callum toward one of two tiny stools arranged on either side. “I acquired this game during a trade with the pirates years ago, here in the city of Lemahic. They told me it was a game of strategy played by the Vor’shai. If you will indulge me, Prince.”
Posture erect, confident, Callum settled on the small seat, knees bent awkwardly to keep from bumping the underside of the table. He stared down at the board, a faint smile playing at the corners of his mouth. Curious, he reached toward one of the pieces, lifting a tiny white figurine shaped like an archer. “I was unaware such a game was played outside the Tanispan borders,” Callum mused, setting the figurine in place atop the board. “Did the pirates tell you anything more of the game?”
“I am aware of the rules, if that is your inquiry,” Phaezut smirked. “Losuvas, they called it.”
Satisfied by the answer Callum nodded, eyeing the board carefully. “Named after the first General of the Vor’shai army. One of the most revered tacticians in Tanispan history.”
“So it is true? It is a war game of your people?”
“A war game?” Callum chuckled. “I suppose one could call it such. It requires much thought to protect the queen from your opponent’s advancing army.”
“I insist you demonstrate your skill, then.” Phaezut positioned himself on his stool with greater ease, lifting his spidery arms to rest casually against the edge of the table. The padded tip of his index finger tapped at the head of the piece designated as his queen, his eyes holding Callum’s gaze steady.
Nervous for Callum’s success, Aiva tried to avoid pacing, hands clasped daintily to her front, watching the men with a curious gaze. Losuvas had always been one of her family’s favorite pastimes though Aiva rarely had an opportunity to play. In the back of her mind she was grateful the challenge had been made to Callum instead of her.
While the men began their game, Aiva smiled pleasantly at the servant who approached, providing them each with a new glass of wine. She knew it was a bad idea to consume so much of the drink, but it helped to soothe her frayed nerves. Relax the tension in her muscles. Just having something in her hands helped to prevent notice of her fidgeting.
Several more glasses of wine had come to pass while the men played before Phaezut chose to speak again. “You are quite skilled,” he stated respectfully, sliding one of his miniature soldiers into an empty square. “At this rate, I am becoming concerned.”
“It has been some time since I played last, though I used to consider myself a decent opponent. Lucky for me, the game never really leaves you. Even after years, you can come right back to it.” Callum made another move, his hand lifting to reach for his half-empty glass off to one side. “I daresay, your queen is in danger.”
Aiva straightened her back, stepping in closer to stand behind Callum at the announcement. He was winning? Her heart pounded at the possibility. Excited, she watched Phaezut’s gaze scan the board, searching for a means of securing his victory once again. “You are a clever boy for your age. I may have underestimated you.”
Callum’s eyes seemed to sparkle in the flickering torchlight as he followed Phaezut’s hand, keeping a close watch on where he chose to move. Content with the outcome, Callum slid his king across the board, his smile widening. “My army has prevailed,” he declared. “I believe it would only be fair to give my Princess an answer to her offer, if you are satisfied.”
“Yes. I suppose that would be fair,” Phaezut nodded absently, looking over the pieces in search of some possibility of error in Callum’s victory. Finding nothing, he rose to his feet, offering his hand to Callum. “Well played, Prince. I cannot recall the last time I was bested at this game. I am impressed.” Following Phaezut’s lead, Callum stood, nearly knocking the remaining pieces from the board with his long legs. Phaezut laughed, giving Callum’s hand a firm shake. “Maybe I should have challenged you to a drinking contest instead. I may be small, but the wine lacks the effect on me it appears to have taken on you.”
“Ah, but it did nothing to hinder my success at the game,” Callum smiled, tapping the side of his head with his index finger. “Or was that your plan? To dull my tactical prowess through wine?”
Clapping his hand proudly over Callum’s shoulder, Phaezut invited Aiva to come closer. “I like you, boy,” he grinned. “And because of that, I think we have a deal. Come, Princess. Persuade me with your charming smile. Tell me what it is you require of my men to return your sister to safety.”
Aiva nibbled her lower lip. A nervous habit she had been unable to overcome. She doubted her ability to articulate her request through the fogginess of her mind. The wine had been a great help in getting through the tediousness of the game, though now it felt more like a hindrance. Preventing her from piecing together the words she wanted to say. “We have a great deal of lost time to make up for,” she started slowly, taking care to make sure every syllable came out as intended. “You said your men know the desert. If you are willing to spare a soldier or two who could guide us to the coast, it would certainly expedite our travel. We would be in your debt.”
“Nonsense,” Phaezut smiled. “This is business. There is no debt accrued. If I assist you, the favor is returned through trade. And you are very reasonable in your request.” His words were somewhat less clear than they had been at dinner, no doubt affected by the alcohol, despite his claims of suffering no side-effects. Reaching out his hand, Phaezut pressed his rough, padded fingertips against Aiva’s chin, looking her over appraisingly. “You are a sweet girl,” he stated through slurred speech. “I am honored to consider your people an ally of the Feh Noq. Give me until the wine wears off to gather some men, and I will see you reach the coast without further delay.”
Her eyes lit up at the news. He would help? They had done it! She could barely contain herself from taking Callum in her arms for a celebratory hug. Now wasn’t the time to lose focus. They needed to maintain their respectable demeanor until Phaezut retired for the morning. “That is wonderful news,” she beamed thankfully. With his help, there was still a glimmer of hope for them. They might catch the pirates yet. “We will await word from you on our departure. Once my sister is returned safely north, I will make sure your people are well-fed. You have my word on that.”
“It is settled then! I have enjoyed doing business with you both,” Phaezut gave a partial bow, waving his hand toward the courtyard. “I must take my leave of you for now. I insist you make yourselves at home during the remainder of your stay. Feel free to enjoy whatever comforts suit you, as my sincerest apologies for your first impression of my city. I will send for you tomorrow when you awaken.”
Unsteady, Phaezut lowered his arms to the ground to hold himself on all four limbs. With a decisive nod he moved away, leaving them alone amidst the fragrant air of the morning. Aiva waited until he was out of sight before turnin
g to face Callum, gazing at him excitedly. “You were amazing!” she breathed, pulling him to her in a warm embrace.
“Me?” he laughed. “You did all the work. I merely played a game.”
“But you were amazing at that game,” Aiva grinned. Her happiness was overflowing. They were going to get Shaelyn back. It would only be a matter of time. “I know we should be getting to sleep if we’re going to be ready for our journey tomorrow, but I don’t think I could close my eyes if I wanted. Everything is going so well and the night is absolutely beautiful.”
“If we’re not retiring for the night, then what do you suggest we do?”
“I don’t know,” she sighed. Deep in thought, she pursed her lips, thinking over their options. There was little to occupy their time in the palace. As children they would have found plenty to entertain themselves; as adults it was far more difficult. At times she wished they could simply return to the carefree days of their childhood. “You know,” she started, knowing it was foolish to suggest the thought in her mind, unable to stop the words that fell from her lips. “There are plenty of hiding places in this courtyard. Do you think you would be able to find me?”
Throwing his head back Callum laughed. “Aiva, I am forty years old. I think I have outgrown hide-and-seek, and certainly not while in the courtyard of a foreign dignitary.”
“Oh, come on, Callum,” she urged, grabbing his hand to lead him further down the garden path. “There is no one around and your men never have to know. We could do it for old time’s sake.”
Reluctantly he let her pull him along, glancing hesitantly over his shoulder toward the palace doors. “I don’t think you realize the power you have over people,” he shook his head, staring at Aiva in mild amusement. “I’m convinced you could talk a man into cutting off his own arm if you got it in your mind to ask it of him.”
“I am not asking you to cut off anything. I’m telling you to come find me,” she winked playfully, disappearing around one of the bushes. It was a ridiculous notion. They were far too old to be playing games, but something about the night felt invigorating. Perhaps the wine, or something else. The relief of knowing that they had secured the Feh Noq’s assistance in reaching the sea. In a few days they would be to the coast and Edric would be waiting for them, ready to head to Luquarr and fight the pirates. With the additional troops, they were bound to succeed. She felt a single moment of silliness was permissible. They deserved it after the torment of the past few weeks.
The Myatheira Chronicles: Volume Two: Beyond the Veil Page 34
