The Uzan Crystal

by Lisa S. Buchholz

  "If you'll excuse me, I'll have these wrapped for you." Hubert hurried off to a room concealed by curtains to package the items for the Princess.

  It wasn't long before he returned with a bundle tied with cord. Angelina paid Hubert and she and her companions left the tent. It was getting to be late afternoon and most of the people were heading back to their tents to relax before the evening feast or to check on the progress of the meal itself.

  The spits with the meat were slowly cooking and had been most of the day. The meat consisted mainly of pork and a few lopits. Lopits were a hardy type of cow that thrived in this arid region. The meat of the lopit was lean and slightly tough, but very tasty. Bread had been made earlier in the day and was on the cooling racks.

  The trio made their way back through the maze of tents. Sir Taz excused himself when they came to the princess's tent and he headed over to see Phillip, who was talking to Lord Akbar.

  Angelina and Elise entered their tent and Elise poured a glass of nectris for both of them. Elise handed one to Angelina after she carefully set the bundle on one of the trunks. After the ladies finished their drinks they both decided to take a quick nap before it would be time for them to start getting ready for the evening feast.

  Angelina awoke from a light shake from Elise telling Angelina that it was time to get ready for the feast. It seemed to her that she had just closed her eyes, but from the darkness of her tent she realized that it was getting toward evening. She stretched and laid there for a few minutes to fully awaken before she got up from the bed and made her way over to the pitcher of warm water that Elise had just given her. She then stripped down and quickly washed herself. When she was finished she put on a pale green gown that had short sleeves and was made of zef and hung straight down from her waist. She then slipped her feet into the same colored slippers and began to brush her auburn hair.

  "Angelina, are you almost ready?" inquired Elise from across the tent. "From the sound of activity outside I would say that the rest of your family is ready."

  "I just have to pull my hair up with a few combs and I'll be right there," she replied as she held her short hair back and put an ivory comb with small pearls in it. She then repeated this on the other side and placed one in the back so that all of her hair was pulled up away from her neck and the combs were so close together they looked like one piece.

  Angelina hurriedly set her brush down and quickly joined Elise who was standing by the tent flap waiting. Elise had on a pale rose gown styled exactly like the one Angelina wore. Most of the women would be in these light weight gowns. Elise's hair was pulled back and tied with rose colored ribbon. She also had slippers to match. Elise glanced at Angelina and they shared a smile before leaving the tent and joining the King and Queen.

  Angelina admired her mother. Queen Gwendolyn looked regal in a cream gown trimmed in gold lace and pearls. Her dress was short sleeved but it was fuller from the waist down. She wore her hair pulled up with long curls cascading down the back and it was offset by the delicate gold crown that she wore. As always, her mother wore the necklace that her father had given her when he asked her to marry him. It was a small silver dragon clutching a ruby with its claws and tail. This was set on a thin silver chain. She had never seen her mother without it. Angelina noticed that her mother looked wonderful this evening and she had a bit of color in her face, not the usual pale complexion.

  Her father looked even more regal with his dark blue leggings, boots and tunic with a gold sash tied at the waist with the Talenvar insignia embroidered in blue. His raven hair was pulled back with a dark leather tie and he also wore his crown.

  Phillip mirrored his father except for the crown and Amberlynn was dressed in a pale peach gown with peach slippers.

  Sir Taz was dressed in his usual leather leggings, boots and tunic and had his topknot tied with leather. He also had his sword strapped to his side.

  The royal party joined the mill of people heading for the feasting tables. There was much talk and laughter and everyone was in a festive mood. Angelina couldn't wait to begin the feasting for the aroma of cooking meat and fresh bread permeated the air. She noticed as she took in the sights that she wasn't the only one breathing in the wonderful smells. They sky had cleared during the afternoon and it looked to be a beautiful evening.

  "Everyone looks lovely this evening," stated Elise as she glanced around. "So many different styles and colors of clothes and the smell of the food, I can't wait until we eat. I didn't realize how hungry I was until now."

  "You're not the only one," replied Angelina as she became more aware of the emptiness in her stomach.

  It was only a few more minutes before they came to the clearing where there were tables and chairs set up and people drinking, talking and laughing everywhere you looked. A section in the middle of the tables had been kept clear for the servers to bring food and drinks and for the entertainment that would be provided after everyone was done eating. A large tent stretched over the entire area so if it rained, the water would not dampen the festivities.

  The royal family made their way through the crowd toward the head table. The feasting would not begin until the King gave his blessing so most of the people said their hellos, bowed or curtsied and stepped out of the way so that the King and his family could proceed. When the royal party reached the head table everyone began to find their place among the tables and sit down. Lord Ripley and Lady Corine and their family also sat at the head table as was the tradition that the folk holding the celebration would also be honored to join the royal family's table during the festival. King Kalen waited until everyone had taken their seat leaving only himself and his wife standing.

  King Kalen and Queen Gwendolyn lifted their filled goblets from the table and King Kalen cleared his throat. "My loyal and beloved people, we are here to celebrate yet another ending of snow and the beginning of life. I am honored that you were able to attend this year, to bring your families and loved ones here and also to give thanks for getting us through and allowing us to survive the harsh winter months to be here to celebrate tonight. As the beginning of life season begins, we celebrate and give thanks for the two wonderful weeks we will have here." He turned and motioned for Phillip to stand. "I also have a special announcement tonight. As you know my son and heir has gotten the attention of a number of lovely young ladies." He looked around to see some of the younger ladies seated nearby blush at his remark. "Well, one has finally captured his heart and today he asked her to be his bride." He now noticed the disappointed looks coming from the same young ladies. "Lady Julia, would you please join us at the head table."

  All eyes turned to Lady Julia as she stood and gracefully walked over to where Phillip was waiting. She was dressed in a pale gold gown and had her hair pulled up in the front and the rest trailed down her back in curls. She was nervous to be the attention of so many onlookers.

  "Lady Julia accepted Phillip's proposal and they will marry at the next celebration held at Talenvar." The applause and cheers were thunderous. When the noise died down, Kalen continued, "Let us thank the folks for giving us this delicious meal and without further delay, let's begin the feasting." He ended his speech as he and his wife took a drink from their goblets to the cheers and cries of "Hear! Hear!" and "Let's eat!" being shouted throughout the crowd as the other participants took a drink from their goblets as well. They royal family took their seats, Lady Julia took a seat next to Phillip and the feasting began.

  Hot steaming platters of meat were being served with fresh bread and fruits and vegetables. Ale, wine and nectris were being poured into goblets and everyone was having a wonderful time. The crowd did not quiet until everyone had eaten their fill and the entertainment began. It was dark by now but there were hundreds of torches burning around the gathering.

  The music began and ten dark skinned women in brightly colored red, green, orange and yellow silk leggings and matching short tight tops ran into the open area and began dancing. They did not wear shoes and had
tiny bells around their ankles that jingled with every step. It was a slow graceful dance when it began and then when the music began to get faster so did the dancers. It was a whirlwind of colors as they seemed to fly around the area, their leggings billowing out as they twirled. Then the music stopped and so did the dancers for a breathtaking second and then the music began again but at the slower pace and the dancers continued with their graceful movements until the end. It was something new to everyone and something that everyone enjoyed. There was much applause and laughter as the dancers left. The entertainment continued with men tossing burning torches and catching them or throwing the torches to someone else until it was dark enough for the sky painter to put on her small display. She would create a much larger display for the last evening of the celebration.

  As the sky painter was getting her candle devices set up outside the city, everyone just conversed with each other.

  Kalen was talking with his wife when he noticed that she wasn't looking well. "Gwen, are you feeling all right? Would you like to retire to the tents or your father's estate?" he asked with concern.

  "I'm fine, just a little exhausted. I would like to lie down," Gwen answered. As she stood to leave; however, she was weaker than she thought and collapsed into Kalen's arms.

  Everyone near the King and Queen noticed her sudden collapse and from the cries of dismay which were heard it wasn't long before the entire gathering was absolutely silent, all eyes on the royal couple.

  King Kalen scooped the Queen into his arms as Phillip, Angelina and Amberlynn rushed to his side. Lord Ripley quickly assessed the situation and announced to the crowd that the Queen had too much excitement for the evening and fainted. Everything would be all right and for everyone to continue the celebration.

  A few worried looks were given but before the King had reached the doors of the estate, the celebration was continuing, a little subdued from before but nonetheless continuing.

  Sir Taz and Tolmac along with Lord Ripley and his family followed the King and Queen inside.

  Kalen took Gwendolyn directly into the sitting room and laid her on the nearest couch. He was extremely worried because she was very pale and had not regained consciousness. He moved aside only slightly when Tolmac insisted that he take a look at the Queen.

  Tolmac pulled out one of his pouches from under his robe and sprinkle a powdery substance into the palm of his hand which he proceeded to wave under the Queen's nose. The Queen's eyes fluttered open and she tried to sit up but was firmly held down by the King.

  "Lie still," he commanded in a gentle but harsh tone as he restrained his wife. "Just lie here and rest, I'll be right back," he continued in a softer tone as he noticed the motion Tolmac had given him indicating that he wished to see the King privately.

  "Sire, I'm afraid that um...," began Tolmac as he trailed off not wanted to say what he was going to have to. He was also having trouble looking at the King directly because he did not wish to see the pain and anguish that was sure to emerge when he finished what he had to say.

  "What," demanded Kalen as he grabbed Tolmac by the arms and shook him. "Spit it out man, what is it!?" he hissed.

  "The Queen is dying, my lord," finished Tolmac daring a glance at the King. "What I mean sire, is that she only has a few weeks if even that. There is nothing I nor anyone can do to stop it. I can only make her more comfortable," he explained with a sinking heart. The Queen was dear to many people and her passing would be felt by all.

  Kalen released him upon hearing this news and took a step back as if physically struck. "I have known for a long time that Gwen was dying," he whispered in defeat. "I thought that I would have more time." He looked at his wife as she lay on the couch with her family gathered around her. "Tolmac, I must get her back to Talenvar," he said as he briefly glanced at the magician then left to return to his wife's side.

  Tolmac knew that Queen Gwendolyn would never survive the trip home and that he must send her and the King back to Talenvar using magical means. "Lord Ripley," began Tolmac as he motioned him closer. "I will need the assistance of your wizard and any other, shall we say gifted individuals, to gather in the main hall as soon as possible. It will require a large amount of power to send the Queen and King safely home."

  "What exactly do you mean send them home and why can't they make the journey by horseback," questioned Lord Ripley even as the realization of the request began to sink in and he felt the coldness gather in him. "You aren't suggesting that Gwen wouldn't make it home are you?" he reluctantly inquired even as he saw the answer reflected in Tolmac's eyes. "I will gather everyone," he finished in a tight matter-of-fact tone as he turned to the nearest servant and begin giving instructions.

  Phillip had been watching the exchange between Lord Ripley and Tolmac and joined Tolmac as Lord Ripley left. "Tolmac," he began, "I must explain the situation with our subjects and then make preparations for our departure. I don't want to be on the way home when father needs us," his voice trembled but he quickly recovered and steeled himself for what lay ahead.

  "Of course Phillip. I will take care of their journey and will follow as soon as I am able. It will put a strain on everyone involved and I will need a day or two to recover. Don't worry, I will catch up to you before the end of the week, if I can," reassured Tolmac as he knew that Phillip relied on his council and friendship.

  "Thank you," replied Phillip as he clasped arms with Tolmac. "I must inform father and the family of my plans."

  Tolmac left then to find Roxer, the Mage of Eldorfess. Phillip rejoined his family and briefly explained to everyone that he would inform the guests of the situation and make haste to gather what necessities were needed to begin the journey home. He quickly kissed his mother on the cheek and gave a reassuring squeeze to his father's shoulder before striding out of the room. His quick glance back before leaving the room showed his father on his knees leaning over this mother with her hand gripped tightly in his. If Phillip was not who he was and expected to act like a Prince, he would have broke down weeping at the sight; however, he could not show his feelings to his subjects at this time. He took a deep breath to steady himself then gave instructions to the nearest young servant boy to inform his caravan that only what was necessary be gathered along with the swiftest horses and a handful of guards. This group was to gather outside the estate at first light and that the rest of the caravan and items be sent at leisure. Phillip then sent the young lad scurrying out of the estate and toward the King's tents.

  Phillip strode out of the estate and up to the head table and took his father's place. Phillip stood there until he had everyone's attention, which wasn't very long for when he exited the estate all eyes turned to him and when he took his father's place at the head of the table a hush fell over the crowd.

  "Queen Gwendolyn has fallen ill. She and my father will be sent home within the hour by Tolmac, Roxer and any gifted individuals that will be so gracious as to help with this sending. Amberlynn, Angelina and I will follow on horseback at first light." He stopped and bowed his head and gathered a few deep breaths before continuing. "I regret to inform you," he began but he again had to stop because he was fighting back the tears that threatened to spill down his face. He again bowed his head and took a few shaky breaths before finishing, "that this will be the last rebirth of the land that Queen Gwendolyn will see."

  Cries of anguish and shock rang out and some of the women began to cry. "Our prayers are with you," someone shouted. "God speed on your journey," shouted another.

  Phillip gathered himself and continued, "The Queen and King have asked that you stay to celebrate the rest of the time here at Eldorfess and to enjoy yourself for we would not want you to forego our most important celebration." Phillip then turned away from the table and hurriedly strode toward the estate. He felt a hand on his arm and slowed his pace as he glanced to see Julia hurrying along beside him.

  "I'm so sorry, Phillip," said Julia with tears in her eyes as she tightened her grip on Phillip's arm.
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  Phillip gave her a smile as he placed his hand over hers and returned the squeeze. They both entered the estate together.

  Fifty or so people left the celebration and followed Phillip into the main hall. Tolmac, Roxer and Lord Ripley's family were already there waiting. In the center of the main hall was Queen Gwendolyn and the couch from the sitting room. Instead of moving her, they had brought the couch and the Queen out into the main hall.

  The main hall also functioned as an entry way. As soon as you entered the estate you were in the main hall. It was four times the size of any of the other rooms and was bare of furniture except for the occasional chair or table resting against the wall. There were mirrors and tapestries hanging all over the shining dark wood walls, the mirrors creating an illusion of an even bigger hall. The floor was smooth gray slate as was all of the first floors of the estate.

  King Jasper was kneeling on the floor beside his wife and looking up at Tolmac who was standing beside him. They were in conversation about the sending that was about to take place. The sending would deposit the King and Queen directly into their bed chambers. Tolmac turned to everyone and instructed them to form a large circle around the King and Queen and to join hands, close their eyes and bow their heads. There were more volunteers than were needed so Tolmac and Roxer touched each one to determine who was more gifted and those people made up the circle. The others stepped back to watch and be of assistance when the sending was complete. Tolmac took his place directly in front of the King and Queen. Roxer took his place directly behind the King and Queen so that he, the King and Queen and Tolmac were in a direct line so that the power from both of the wizards would engulf the King and Queen from the front and back.