Tiva Boon: Royal Guardian

by Jenn Nixon

  “I’m afraid I did not yet choose, though you know the town better than I, you can decide, and I will treat us.”

  “Come, let us make haste.” He took her hand, led her back though the field and to the town. She said nothing at first, unsure of what exactly to ask or say, but as they drew closer to the pub Solun broke the silence. “I assume you have questions as well?”

  “I do, but I must admit, I am confused as to why you invited me. You know I am only visiting Hentor…”

  “Ah, yes, but you will understand,” he opened the door and found a quiet corner for them to sit in. After ordering their food and drink, he pulled out a small parchment and placed it on the table. “I do not know where your heart lies with politics and the like, but after Himloc and those under him were used to oppose the king, Pethor wanted to ensure that all people of Hentor could protect themselves from such deceivers. Men, woman, and children alike.”

  Tiva nodded and continued to listen.

  “Training of one’s mind is easier than that of the sword. Pethor and his Vicars preach to the people of Hentor to think for themselves and not to allow false hopes and easy profits to ensnare them. Their words have reached all the ministry houses of the province, but people are not easily convinced. Many believe that to fight for their beliefs they must be prepared for all types of encounters.

  “Legionnaires and Guardians are the most highly skilled and trained protectors of Abennelp though, you probably know that. You have seen the large number of legionnaires in Hentor - that is not by chance. Pethor requested more protectors to help train his guardsmen. The province guardsmen study with legionnaires and in turn, the guardsmen are training apprentices. I am one. I assume I did well, for they offered me the means to recruit and train the young people. That is what my business is here in town.”

  “Is that why you approached me?” Tiva said.

  “Not entirely. I was drawn to you for other reasons,” Solun said with a smirk. “However, you could do well with us.”

  “But as I said before, I am only visiting.”

  “Eventually Province Keeper Pethor wishes to expand his program across Abennelp. Only recently, we have begun to find others in neighboring lands worthy and willing, to join our cause. My instincts about you have not wavered. I could train you to be an amazing instructor. With your skills you would make a fine leader, and together we can ensure that all the people of Abennelp can protect and defend themselves from those who wish to see us fail.”

  “Who wants to see you fail, Solun?”

  “Many. A threat lingers in Pethor’s heart. He is close to uncovering the one who deceived Himloc, his army…and my father. Pethor has requested my help. Bumo and Unil are taking control of the Buali group, and I should like to know you are safe before I go. Will you take what I have shared with you and talk to the youth of Whettland?”

  “I do not know, Solun. I was not made to be a leader,” she said, and deep inside wondered how much of what she said was true. “I can learn, I can fight, and I can protect, but I doubt I can get many to listen to me.”

  “I disagree; you have a noble aura about you, lovely Tiva. I sense from you strength and leadership, I think you have friends or relations that look up to you already.”

  “Possible, but I am unaware,” she lied.

  Solun slid the parchment across the table. “Take this and read at your leisure. Do not set your answer in stone, if you need further convincing I may be able to arrange a meeting with Pethor.”

  “You have that much faith in me?”

  “Yes, I do.”

  “To you I am but a step beyond stranger…”

  Solun took her hand in his and kissed the inside of her wrist, “Tiva, I was drawn to your beauty, yet you are more than your outward appearance. You have the spirit of a fighter and a survivor. I have seen that much in you already. Take this opportunity to broaden your abilities and become a part of something honorable and worthy.”

  She smiled and forced her markings to blush. Inside she was confused, but letting that show would only cause trouble. Placing the parchment in her tunic, she leaned back and looked him straight in the eyes.

  “I can only promise you I will consider your words and your cause. I admit I have longed to be a part of a worthy group, but my path is still before me, my choices unnumbered. You have passion, Solun, and it is contagious.”

  “I am leaving Buali after the suns set to meet with my trainer, but I shall return after midday tomorrow. I know your time in Hentor is limited, but I hope you will have an answer by then, for if you say yes, we will have much work to do.”

  “It is enough time, and I look forward to seeing you again.” Tiva rose from her seat and smoothed her clothing.

  She compensated the server for their meal as promised, and Solun did not argue. Feeling the need to stretch her legs, Tiva asked him to accompany her to the gates once more. As they walked, Tiva noticed the field was full of children. They were all dressed in similar clothing, standing in well-formed lines, and mimicking the maneuvers of Bumo and Unil as they performed blocking moves with long sticks of wood. Unable to hide her curiosity, she raised a brow and stopped to watch.

  “Intriguing, is it not?” he said.

  “Yes, quite.”

  “You could learn faster than any on that field, including my captains.”

  “Perhaps.”

  “Come, let me walk you to the gate, it is still light, the thieves will not bother you this early.”

  He escorted her to the town gates the same as the day before, and once again gently kissed her wrist. “I know not what the future holds for us, lovely Tiva, but I hope friendship binds us in this cause.” He reached up and touched her cheek gently. “May the spirits guide you, Tiva Vren, and keep you safe.”

  She felt her markings blush. “And to you, Solun Turi, keep well.”

  *

  The sounds of the town of Buali faded in the distance as Tiva journeyed back to the mission house. Her suspicions, now confirmed, did not settle comfortably in her mind. More questions had arisen from Solun’s speech and adamant beliefs.

  Solun’s interest in her had many levels, yet his sincerity when he spoke of protecting Hentor was apparent. He believed what he said with all his heart, and now, as she turned down the alley leading to the house, she felt as if she were betraying a friend. Tiva was torn, a dreaded feeling. The report she prepared held every detail and word of significance Solun had said. Yet, deep inside, she feared for him and the others. Would the king order the legionnaires and Guardians to detain the group? Would they suffer the same fate as Himloc and his followers: exiled to the Lost Island?

  She didn’t sense treachery from Solun. He mentioned nothing of defying the king or the laws of the land. He simply wanted everyone to protect themselves from propaganda and physical harm. Perhaps Pethor knew something the king did not. It was possible Pethor was on the side of the just, but maybe not. The weight on her mind and heart lingered as she entered the house and retired to her room. It was not her place to decide whether Pethor and his followers were right or wrong. The evidence gathered against him probed the investigation in the first place, yet, many questions required answers. Her mission felt less important; the safety of these people concerned her now. What or who had put the veil over these people’s eyes? She couldn’t answer, and what worried her was that Solun and Pethor might not be able to answer the question either.

  A Calming would do her good. She knew, however, there was no pond or lake close by for her to swim, and she did not trust the cover of the patched forest. In her room, she sat on the sleep couch and read Solun’s pamphlet. It held nothing of importance, only training schedules and programs, and a small written plea for more people to help keep Hentor safe.

  The house stayed quiet. She could use the time to meditate, but she knew there would be no comfort for her here without the familiarity of her own home. Changing into a jumpsuit, she gathered her sword and decided to practice in the field behind the ho
use.

  Her muscles, somewhat stiff from not sparring or practicing for days, required warming, so she stretched then sprinted back and forth in the field several times before she was comfortable.

  The sword felt good in her hand.

  She kept a firm, but maneuverable grip on the hilt as she swung the blade about her body. Closing her eyes, she allowed the motion of the weapon to lead her. Slashing, stabbing, and striking the cool air in long fluid movements relaxed her. Expertly, she moved forward as the sword sung in her ears. Parrying and thrusting, she became lost in the movements. Her eyes now open, stared out at the patched forest. A sudden thought struck her, and she flipped the sword over in her hand, gripped it tight, and ran into the trees.

  Using the thick trunks as faux enemies, she weaved in and out, struck at them, but never hit them. She flipped, rolled, jumped, and dodged between the trees.

  With the edge of the forest upon her, she glanced up at a thick branch. She secured her sword in its sheath then pushed off, leapt into the air, and grabbed a branch to pull herself up. Once steady on the limb, she drew the weapon, and slashed diagonal from shoulder to foot before flipping off the tree. Mid-air, she kicked out her legs, sliced from foot to shoulder, and landed firmly on the ground, the sword elevated slightly above her head.

  “Well done.”

  She turned to see Defor leaning against a tree. Embarrassed, she secured the blade, blushed, and nodded.

  “I was just trying to relax.”

  “Not many people use a sword to relax, do you not Calm?”

  “I do, but mostly in water. I enjoy the privacy.”

  “That would be hard here, the nearest large pond or lake is on the other side of Buali.”

  “This will suffice for now…”

  “If you have time, we can spar.”

  “Do you have practice weapons here?”

  Defor chuckled. “No, but do not despair, Guardian Boon, I promise I can take care of myself.”

  “If you ask me not to hold back, I cannot guarantee your safety.”

  He raised a brow. “I see, then this should prove most interesting.” Defor unsheathed his weapon, bowed slightly, and walked to the field.

  Tiva grinned and followed.

  The legionnaire and guardian circled each other for a spell, attempting to gauge one another. Defor struck first, an upward attack at her side, easily blocked with her blade. Tiva spun around and aimed for his arm with a straight sweep. He snickered and jumped back as the weapon breezed past. His next strike was stronger and targeted. Tiva danced around him, her sword almost moving of its own accord, each hit against him more powerful than the last. However, Defor was the first to draw blood. He nicked her hand, she countered sloppily with a slice at his thigh.

  Tiva felt enjoyment from him as they continued to spar. He was very skilled and well taught, she knew by the fluid motions and concentration he possessed. Defor would have made an excellent guardian in her eyes.

  She relished the challenge; very few kept up with her in recent cycles. They fought blow for blow until the muscles in her arms and legs began to burn.

  Knowing their time was ending soon, Tiva pushed herself even further, striking and slashing at him with brute force. Defor, however, would not yield. He leaped off a nearby tree trunk, and flipped over her head. When he landed, his blade was already rounding his body, aimed at her hip. Unable to jump or duck, Tiva moved her sword to her side and felt his weapon cut her leg. She twisted her wrist up, forcing him back and kicked him in the stomach. He staggered back, and she ran toward him, sword raised, and struck down at his neck. Defor blocked her again, as she hoped, and with blade on blade, she spun around and clipped his other shoulder.

  He chuckled, and she smiled. They bowed to each other and headed back toward the house.

  Chapter Ten

  Tiva noticed the others had gathered to watch. Both she and Defor were covered in bruises and cuts, none deep or threatening, but painful nonetheless. He was a good match, but inwardly she knew he would not have won. She held back despite his pleas not to do so. It was only a matter of training in her eyes, he was far stronger, but Tiva had the better quality of teachers through the Guardians.

  The group of spectators congratulated them both, and said it was a good spar. Kevler only winked at Tiva, she sensed he knew her thoughts. She returned to her room once again to clean up and ready for evening meal, but before heading to the kitchen, she stopped in her father’s room.

  “You’ll have more scars than me before your next Remembrance, dearest one, if you keep sparing like that.” Kevler smiled as she entered.

  “I asked if he had practice swords, Father.”

  “I am jesting, do not fret, I could sense you were holding back. It was noble of you.”

  “I did not wish to hurt him.”

  He laughed, “I know, Tiva, I know. Once we return home, I might spar with you and see how you fare.”

  “Really?” She beamed with delight.

  “If you wish it.”

  “I do, but you will have to hold back on me. Perhaps we should use practice swords.”

  “I think that is a very good idea,” he said and pulled her close. “You make me very proud, Tiva. Come now, let us eat.”

  Tiva enjoyed evening meal with her new friends. Razzil and Terno were in rare form, joking, and rambling on with stories of their legionnaire adventures. She enjoyed their tales, and company; still, she longed for home.

  After the group helped to clean the kitchen, she announced her desire to give her report.

  “There is much to tell, and many things that confuse me, is there time this evening?”

  “Without question,” Dal said. “Let us retreat to the control center.”

  The group filed out of the house and settled in the room. Tiva once again took the head of the room and began her report. She told of her early hike to the town, and gaining access to the meeting. Speaking Solun’s words, she sensed many in the room were surprised by her quick admittance to the meeting. She pulled out the parchment given to her.

  “He gave me this to review. It holds little detail about their agenda, but tells of their trainings and gathering dates.” She passed it to her father and continued. “Solun mentioned he could secure a meeting with Pethor if I required further convincing to join his cause, and I now find myself torn.”

  “Torn?” Defor said.

  “Yes, Solun has put his trust in me, and though I know we are here for reason, I am not sure if Solun fully knows what Pethor’s agenda is, or if both of them are being deceived like Himloc and Solun’s father were.”

  Kevler rose and moved toward her. “Unfortunately, that is not for us to decide. We are simply gathering information. We’re not here to take action against them; the data we have collected, like yours, is unclear. They have not been hostile save the burning of homes for reasons beyond us, therefore King Delos requires more proof before he can act.”

  “Aside from meeting Pethor myself, there is little else I can acquire. Solun is leaving Buali to meet with his trainer, and he knows I am just visiting so he is unlikely to tell me more.”

  “This is enough to bring the king now. He will need to council the Parliament. Solun is expecting an answer from you, correct?”

  “Yes, he is.”

  Kevler nodded and paced.

  Tiva wondered if the situation was better or worse due to her news. She held her tongue, patiently waited. Her father ran his hand through his hair, a sign he was thinking. Her gaze surveyed the room; everyone else save Defor also seemed deep in thought. She had done her heavy thinking earlier. Having the least information out of all of them, she felt somewhat left out, but tried not to dwell on it.

  Finally, her father spoke. “I will contact the king shortly and report to you all in the morning. Rest well. I am not sure the news we will receive, but do not let it trouble you.”

  Everyone nodded, except for her. She watched as the others dispersed, her father stayed behind as well
. He glanced at her sideways and sighed.

  “Father?”

  “You did a fine job dearest one, I am not concerned about your performance, it is just…”

  “I am not worried for me...it is what lingers here that has my thoughts. I don’t know much of this threat, but there are more questions uncovered and the pieces do not fit well.”

  “You are very observant, Tiva, that is why the king wished for you to come on this mission, but there is something you have not told me…”

  “I am concerned. I wonder if perhaps Solun knows I am a guardian. Is it possible word reached Pethor, and together they are setting a trap?”

  “I admit, I did not think of that aspect, though it is possible. You were quickly approached; he offered you a meeting with Pethor…” His eyes narrowed, “It is curious, I must speak with Harer, he will need this information as well. I’ll come to you soon, take some rest, your part in this mission is almost over, Tiva.”

  She nodded, kept her composure, and waited for her father to leave before sinking into a chair and sighing. Somewhat glad he did not take her radical thoughts of entrapment lightly, she realized how tangled the situation was. If Pethor did know she was a guardian, he most likely knew the legionnaire group undercover here. The more she delved into her thoughts the more twisted and fragmented she felt.

  “Do as Father says,” she berated herself. She breathed in with the weight of the world, and made her way to her room. Once changed, she sat at the window taking in the cool night. The moon cast its soulful silver rays on the patched forest. She was glad the moon fought away the clouds this night, it brought her a solace she desperately needed. If only she could see the rest of her family and climb Te, would she feel any better.