by Susi Wright
‘I assume the law is not yet changed,’ said Luminor.
‘No, it still requires the endorsement of one other council member, and of course… my final approval. You probably guess one more vote will mean a majority for the change! Unless you can convince them otherwise!’ The governor was obviously trying to pass the responsibility for the outcome to Luminor.
‘But your final seal is also needed!’ Luminor pointed out.
‘You realise I am in a very delicate position, no matter my personal opinion… it is so difficult to keep everyone happy!’ Rand was trying for sympathy.
‘It matters, what is just! Fair reward for our service!’ Luminor spoke in a quiet tone, which belied the flare of anger in his eyes. ‘You do remember, we demanded no coin for that?’
Rand fidgeted, Luminor’s relentless gaze making him feel unduly hot and bothered, stammering, ‘Yes. Yes. You d-do deserve better. You are an intelligent and eloquent leader… I s-suggest you use your powers of p-persuasion… and any other knowledge you may have… to convince the opposition.’
In that, Luminor observed Rand squirming neatly out of having to make a stand against the assembly. He also noted the veiled permission to use any powers at his disposal, to achieve his purpose.
‘Then, that is indeed my intention!’ stated Luminor, watching Rand visibly relax, then adding ominously, ‘Make no mistake! I will do whatever it takes!’ Nodding once, his eyes never leaving Rand’s, he turned on his heel and left, leaving the governor suitably warned. And Rand’s anxiety returned tenfold, in a hot rush; he regretted he had just shrugged off his responsibility, and had actually handed the advantage to Lord Luminor. He had absolutely no idea what to expect now!
Chapter Forty-nine
Altor had sent a man out under cover of darkness to the secret camp in the forest, with orders to bring Fralii and Rihann by wagon into the city the following morning, joining the large numbers of others that would be doing the same. Traders and travellers from far and wide arrived daily, now swelled by those returning from the north, so the small group would pass unnoticed. Neither would it arouse suspicion if Luminor later visited the house of his warriors.
Fralii’s well-being attended to, Luminor readied himself for the challenging morning ahead, bathing and dressing in fresh clothing. The traditional light-green tunic woven from native flax grass and silk-spider’s web, glistened subtly; soft rumar-hide leggings were tucked into long tan boots of the same. Standing tall and proud, his majestic black cloak around his shoulders, he left his chamber, joining Altor in the hallway, and the two strode purposefully to face the human assembly. Things were far from as they should be, and about to become very interesting!
Formally announced by the usher, Luminor entered the meeting room, acknowledging the other members with a nod and seating himself on the panel. Altor found a seat to one side of the chamber with the other officials. The mood in the room was tense.
On his way in, Luminor had carefully assessed each of the councillors, for intention. There were eight of them, including Commander Stavis. He picked up a mixture of emotions, a great deal of apprehension, since they quite obviously had been briefed by the governor not to underestimate Gaian abilities. A few were nervous, possibly wondering if this Gaian could read their every thought. Luminor smiled to himself. Good! Two seemed to be very interested to observe what he might say, or do, this morning. One was definitely sympathetic. Another, and the governor, had mixed feelings, their opinions thrown into disarray by Luminor’s unexpected return. Commander Stavis was alone, conceited and ruthless enough to remain constant in his treachery. This had grown in Luminor’s absence, and now emanated from Stavis, clear as day. Luminor noted he was obsessively ambitious and dangerous, but in that, he was surprisingly predictable.
The meeting was officially opened and proceedings began by allowing Stavis to reiterate his petition, so Luminor could hear it first-hand. As he finished his presentation with his main argument, the urgent threat of invasion on the southern border, he boldly looked at Luminor and smirked as he sat down. Even from the first time they had met, he not once tried to hide his disdain for the Gaian lord. His ambition had made him reckless.
Luminor stood, choosing his words carefully, more confident now in his increasing grasp of the language. ‘I… have served you well…’ He fixed every member of the assembly with a sharp look punctuating each statement. ‘My people… have served you well…’ He held Rand’s eyes a moment longer. ‘We… will continue to serve you well… under the original agreement.’ He walked the length of the meeting table. ‘But… there is a serious matter… an attempt on my brother’s life!’ There were gasps of shock from the assembly.
Luminor paced the length of the meeting table as he spoke. ‘The Alliance will not survive mistrust… dishonesty… lies… murder!’ finishing in front of Stavis, looking down directly at him, his stare searing in its intensity. ‘I will not allow it!’ The accusation was unmistakable.
Stavis leapt out of his seat as if he had been physically slapped, angry and defensive, surprising everyone else in the room except Luminor. He looked as if he wanted to throttle Luminor, his hands raised, flexing menacingly, his face reddening with the heat of anger. He appeared to have lost his mind to its own evil.
Governor Rand seemed shocked and embarrassed at Stavis’ open show of hostility. The others stared, first at Stavis, then Luminor, then back again, completely bewildered at this turn of events. Luminor having created this overreaction in Stavis, using only a nudge of heat and a sprinkling of confusion, now also detected guilt and anxiety somewhere else in the audience, wondering if there was an accomplice among them. Bringing his full attention back to the commander, he found himself struggling to contain his anger towards Stavis and the smug duplicity he had radiated from the start. The treachery sickened him, in the face of all he was trying to achieve. Keeping his eyes on Stavis, he took a calming breath, innately confident that truth would prevail. ‘This man,’ he indicated the furiously poised and reddening Stavis, ‘is a liar!’ A few more shocked gasps came from the audience.
‘How dare you, foreigner! You cannot prove a thing!’ Stavis spat acidly; his hand went defensively to the hilt of his dagger. ‘Who would believe you? No one knows you! You do not belong on this government, filthy nomad!’
Luminor pressed on, ignoring the name-calling. ‘Firstly, the invasion on the southern border does not exist! It is a lie!’ He beckoned to Altor and Thomass to come forward. ‘I have evidence!’
The two approached the assembly, both corroborating the falsehood, reporting that two of Thomass’ spies had been sent south, flying with a number of Altor’s warriors, only to discover that no forces were amassing there. In fact, the people over the border could not have been friendlier. The contingent had patrolled the entire border by air from the coast, far inland and found no threat. With that, Stavis’ treachery was confirmed. He had been effectively discredited. Envoy Thomass was a highly regarded assistant to the council, his integrity unquestionable.
Unexpectedly, a woman that had been seated in the audience seemed to make a sudden decision, jumping up, tears rolling down her face, ‘Please, sirs! I have to say something! I know of more treachery! I take blame! I cannot bear it!’ She swiped at her eyes, looking frantically from the governor to Stavis, in fear of her life. ‘Stavis has my son captive! Please help me! He forced me to put poison in Captain Altor’s food. I just want my son back safe! I think Stavis wants to overthrow the government and means to kill us both anyway… please help me!’ She was sobbing in fear, as Stavis turned a threatening look her way.
Loud chatter followed, Rand trying to call order. Stavis, by this time, had rounded the table, drawing his broadsword, lunging for Luminor in a murderous rage. Ready for it, Altor and one of his men leapt forward to protect Luminor; all three Gaians had blades drawn in an instant. Panicking, Rand signalled the guards to surround Stavis, before he could cause a political disaster. Luminor held his defensive stance, knowing
the lunatic’s rage would be his own undoing. Suddenly, Stavis slashed wildly, out of his mind, killing one of his own men, and lunged forward forcefully through the gap towards Luminor. Straight onto Altor’s drawn sword, which pierced him right through the heart, killing him instantly. Unruffled by this fateful accident, unquestioning in his duty to Luminor, Altor’s steadfast blue eyes reflected an unusually grave cool glint, as he withdrew his blade, and Stavis’ lifeless form slumped to the cold marble floor.
As Altor turned, his eyes met Luminor’s in an acknowledgement of success, imperceptible to all except the sentient group. The chain of events, witnessed by all present, left no doubt as to Stavis’ treasonous intent, his own actions causing a seemly outcome. Unanimously upholding the existing agreement, the council were satisfied to move forward, with one problem. Suddenly left without military leadership, Governor Rand proposed to reward Altor’s loyalty to the government by appointing him interim commander until a suitable replacement could be found and after that, a contract as personnel officer to Baram’s army, in addition to his duties as captain to the Gaian contingent. This would assure the fair treatment of all military personnel, and ensure that Gaian skills were not exploited on the battlefield. All Gaian warriors had the choice of continuing to serve in a military capacity, or freely choose other employment.
Before they adjourned, Luminor offered two of his warriors for the simple matter of tracking the distraught woman’s son, assigning her no blame, as she had obviously been cruelly coerced by Stavis. The meeting concluded with handshakes, congratulations, and a well-deserved respect for Baram’s newest citizens.
With the first challenge of the Alliance met and overcome, Luminor’s heart soared, a weight lifting from his consciousness as he flew swiftly to the nearby mansion. The prospect of seeing Fralii again, as always, set his pulse to racing, his mind only on her, completely oblivious to the ordinary citizens below, still observing him in complete awe.
Alighting on the steps of the grand villa, Luminor felt carefree for the first time in weeks, even though he was aware that his new position on the council would not be without further tests, and he had yet to deal with his wayward young warriors. At the moment that seemed as nothing; he took the granite steps two at a time. His thoughts were reeling with hopes and plans for a life with Fralii, how he would cherish and care for her, how exciting the future of their union.
The imposing ironwood door flew open, a smiling Revo there to welcome him. Of course, as the drama had unfolded in City Hall, all the elder warriors had sensed the danger, and had been poised to fly to Luminor’s side, but as quickly as it resolved, the buoyant mood also swept through their ranks, giving them leave to stand down and await their lord’s return.
Revo bowed in obeisance. ‘Lord Luminor, welcome! I will show you to Mistress Fralii’s quarters. Lady Rihann awaits also!’ He led Luminor down the magnificently mosaicked hallway to the basement, where Rihann was already at the doorway, a brilliant smile and a ready embrace for Luminor. She released him quickly, noticing fondly how his gaze sought Fralii over her shoulder, and tactfully left them to their reunion.
Luminor closed the few paces between them in an instant, taking Fralii into his arms. She returned the embrace wholeheartedly, clinging to him for several moments. She had not been sure how much danger he was in this morning. Rihann had only minutes ago assured her when it was over. Luminor drew away slightly to look into her trusting violet eyes. She was so delicately beautiful, he thought, surely like the angels in the legends. She radiated happiness, he felt it reflected in his own, and free now of all hindrance, the spark jumped between them as the spiritual Link flickered, offering them the wonders of astral flight.
Luminor quelled that temptation for now, wanting to communicate with Fralii in simple words and actions, taking her face in his hands, kissing her forehead, cheeks, and tenderly on the lips. She returned his kiss artlessly but enthusiastically, stoking their mutual passion. Luminor wanted to lose himself in her; his heart hammering painfully in his chest was not the only physical discomfort manifesting its presence in his body, like a demon. He would welcome such possession!
Reluctantly honourable, Luminor broke the kiss, took her by the hand, and seated them close together on a cushioned chaise to tell her his thoughts, eagerly meeting her gaze once more. ‘Fralii, I love you so…’ he began, confident that it was mutual. ‘Will you be my bride… and may that be soon?’
Her eyes told him her answer, glittering moistly, before she spoke the words ‘Nothing would make me happier!’ Clasping her hands, Luminor smiled elatedly, gazing into her eyes as his spirit soared, marvelling again how their Link, human–Gaian as it was, transcended all limitation, promising to surpass any other connection he had ever experienced, even with his own family or clan. He innately knew that Fralii’s human perceptions would also improve beyond the norm, nourished by the Link the more time they spent in each other’s company sharing their love.
Luminor wanted to make plans immediately, happier than he had ever been in verbal pursuits. ‘When shall it be? After your father’s permission? In Splendo?’
‘Yes, Lumi. May Rihann help with it? I really like her!’
‘For certain… she could not be stopped!’ he smiled indulgently, thinking of his sister’s earlier excitement at the prospect of a wedding. ‘We can leave tomorrow! Are you well enough for another journey so soon?’
‘Can we not leave this very minute?’ Fralii asked impatiently, all fatigue flying out the window, chased by her excitement.
As eager as she was to get on with things, he advised sensibly, ‘You have been quite ill… Just sleep, rest one more night, love, the wedding will take much energy…’ then grinning suggestively, ‘And the honeymoon . . .’
Fralii dropped her gaze, blushing shyly at his meaning, but nonetheless snuggled closer. Her brow furrowed as she looked back up at him. ‘Do you think Father will agree? He was so angry when we saw him last!’
‘Chadren will agree!’ said Luminor confidently. ‘He has changed.’ He kissed her again. ‘Can you accept two ceremonies, human and traditional Gaian? It could be lengthy…’ he forewarned her.
‘Of course! And I would love to wear a Gaian wedding gown! Is that allowed?’ she asked.
‘It would honour me… and my people… our people. You know you will also be my lady. My equal. The clan will welcome you, as I do!’ And they continued chatting companionably, between ardent kisses and tender embraces, for quite some time.
Luminor revelled as he watched her while she spoke, about many things, feelings, hopes, ideas, even fears, listening intently, marvelling again how words intensified the meaning. He could not resist feeling anticipation at how beautiful she would look in a Gaian wedding gown, and how proud and lucky a being he was, in all of Existence!
Chapter Fifty
As the wintry sun, which had made a tired appearance in the afternoon, laboured even more tiredly towards the horizon, earlier now each day than the day before, Luminor had much to do before the evening meal. For one thing, he had to see the governor to inform him of the upcoming marriage, the first of its kind between human and Gaian, and having great significance to the Alliance. Inviting Rand to attend would be diplomatically proper, would serve to repair personal misgivings and further strengthen the political ties. Luminor would introduce Fralii the following morning just before they departed, no longer needing to keep her hidden. He also needed to request an extended leave of absence, reinstating Altor in his place, a show of continuing confidence in his younger brother’s ability and safely now with Stavis’ sinister influence gone. After that, he had to organise the release of his young errant warriors and give them a taste of Gaian justice to round off their suitable confinement in irons. Then, with great pleasure, he would organise a wagon to transport Fralii home, at long last.
During the afternoon, Luminor had instructed Altor to appropriate the release of his young warriors and bring them to him for an immediate audience. An hour later
, the five disgraced young men arrived at the city barracks, weighed down with trepidation as they marched under Altor’s silent, stern escort, completely unsure if their punishment would now be taken up and continued by their Gaian lord. None of them had so far done well at their compulsory lessons in Perception, so they found it a somewhat hopeless task to try to discern mood or predict outcomes. Frustratingly, this was probably what had gotten them into trouble in the first place, as being able to sense impending danger or a negative result was a handy guide when embarking on a foray into unfamiliar territory, or experiences. Perception was always an elusive art, only achieved by those with advanced capabilities, and for an alarming number of individuals, only attained at a low level, or not at all. The outlook on that score, for some of them, might be grim, leaving them to rely on their varying levels of control over the material elements and their superb speed and skills in their combat exercises. This in itself was by no means cause for shame. All five of these friends had proudly taken part in the quest to destroy the flame adder, provided assistance to Lord Luminor, and suffered the grievous loss of dear friends and relatives. On their return to the city, still reeling from the sting of bereavement and a confusing heady glow from the fame and adulation, the group had embarked on a spree of drunken fun and excess, resulting in a brawl where several human participants, with their far inferior fighting skills, had been severely beaten. That had landed the Gaians behind bars, and the humans in bandages. For all five of these friends, once sober again, the ensuing embarrassment and remorse had been a burning presence within them, combined with confinement, almost sufficient punishment.
