Tempest Rise (Treborel)

by Alaina Stanford

  "Prince Mikel died very quickly.” The Advisor intervened, "There was no chance for the healers to save him. If one had reached him merely seconds before his death, I assure you, he would be here with us today." Hanlin turned quickly to Lysette for assistance and asked, "Lady Nolan, I understand that you are a Physician. I am assuming that as such you might care to learn something about our Empathic Healers."

  Angry at Roth for badgering Katar, Lysette expressed an interest where she truly had none, hoping to exclude Roth from the conversation and avoid further indignities on his part. "My grandmother spoke of these healers. They supposedly could re-attach limbs and cure diseases simply by touch."

  "Yes, those gifted with the 'strength' to heal the body from within are called Empathic Healers. Even the most complicated psychological illness, can be healed at their touch. Unfortunately, they have kept to themselves. Empaths have confined their practice to Treborel. Only a handful of Empaths have ever even considered venturing past the mountains. Those who do, use a great deal of discretion. Healers dislike attention or sensationalism. They have deep religious beliefs and if necessary will even give their lives to save the dying."

  That comment drew Lysette's attention. "Risk their lives? In what way?"

  "If an injured or ill patient is near death or dies during the healing, the Empath's life force can be allowed to leave them and replace the one the patient has lost, healing them instantly and giving them back their life."

  "Have you ever seen an Empath truly heal someone?” Lysette asked her skepticism present.

  "Yes, of course, many times. I’ve seen the wounds heal before my eyes. I’ve seen a fever vanish in an instant, a protruding bone pull back inside a limb and be healed. Empathic Healers are a way of life in our country. I don't think you could find an adult that hasn't been healed by an Empath." Hanlin answered, still unable to distract Katar from his deadly glare at Roth.

  "What exactly is a 'life force' Lord Wills?" Lady Airee's soft voice asked, from the far end of the table. Katar's concentration was drawn away from Roth, as he sought out the source of the new voice. She found an elegant older woman with long, curling, scarlet hair and large, blue eyes listening to Hanlin's elucidation.

  "All living creatures contain a life force. It enters our mass of developing cells at conception and departs at death. It is incredibly strong in the Empaths. That is where they draw the healing 'strength ' from."

  "So every time an Empath touches a critically ill or injured patient, they are risking their lives.” Lysette clarified; astonished at the courage it would take to become a healer, if they truly did exist.

  "Healers are cautious; they know the risks that await them before they begin a healing. It is an unusual occurrence for one to sacrifice their life, but it is possible. They consider it to be the true fulfillment of their chosen destiny; to sacrifice their life to save another. It is considered a gift the Holy One has given the survivor to carry out a specific task before they can move on to the afterlife." Katar said, smiling softly at her.

  Sean Nolan sat on the other side of Lysette and had grown uncomfortable with the Empathic legends and decided to take the conversation elsewhere. He said, "Prince Katar, I have never been on a sraeb hunt. Are the compound bows really effective against such huge animals? I would expect a cross bow to have more power and distance."

  "It is the customary weapon; although we do not use the long bows often they do have excellent distance and penetration. The automatic reload with the crossbow allows for a rapid fire also with as much distance and penetration as the long bow. But the longbow is difficult to use from horseback due to its size. The crossbow as well is front heavy and difficult to use on horseback or if you want to take your time for the perfect shot. The compound bow is easy to carry, shoots well from horseback, has good penetration and the draw strength can be high without exhausting your strength. But it does not have quite as much distance as the long bow." Turning back to Lysette, he flashed a dazzling smile and said, "The laser rifles and pistols are too dangerous to use in the woods during the summer months. Spring and summer are high travel seasons. The chance of injuring someone is much higher because the blast will continue on to impact or until the energy blast is completely spent. Also the pain of a displaced bolt is much less for the beasts than accidently blowing the creature's leg off with the high intensity discharge of the rifle."

  "So you must also be an expert with the crossbow?" Ambassador Hannah Airee interjected.

  "The crossbow is easy to learn and use. My choice is the compound bow. I usually hit my mark.” He answered, smiling at the Ambassador seated next to Lord Nolan. “Although I have been known to miss." Relaxing back into his chair, Katar turned his attention back to Roth. "Prince Roth, have you ever been on a hunt? My friend Lord Taylor tells me you have a slight problem with wolves in the Lon Tesse foothills. My men are preparing to head out in the morning and give your soldiers a hand in locating them." Katar smiled, remembering Cap's enthusiasm at the chance to avoid the boring Summit lectures.

  "I hunt occasionally, when there is a difficulty with a pack of wolves or the like. Since the sraebs have not crossed the mountains into Lon Tesse, we have no need for a constant summer slaughter program.” Roth answered, casually, "I feel no need to go after a giant beast that turns and attacks at the least provocation. Especially not in the middle of the wilderness armed like an ancient savage."

  "I'd like to join you on a wolf hunt." Katar began, leaning forward, "When the summit is concluded.”

  Studying him in silence for a moment, Roth answered dryly, "Certainly, I'll arrange one for us, immediately.”

  "Excellent, then perhaps you will allow me to return the favor in the near future, in Treborel. I promise we will only hunt the younger sraebs, close to the palace." Katar laughed as Roth forced a smile.

  Alarmed by the continuing negative rapport between the two future sovereigns, Hanlin turned again to Lysette saying, "Lady Nolan, were you aware that I was a close associate of your grandmother, Lady Moore before she met your grandfather?”

  "I had no idea. I was very young when she died. You must tell me of her." Lysette answered, elated to have found someone who could tell her about her grandmother's childhood.

  "I would be delighted. Perhaps I could escort you to the luncheon tomorrow, if you would allow me the liberty to dine with you again.” Hanlin answered, entranced by her smile.

  "Perhaps we could trade memories this evening, in the garden?"

  "I apologize but I'm afraid I must decline. The journey through the mountains has left me weary and I still have duties to attend to before I retire." He answered, his thoughts moving to the unanswered calls to King William.

  "Of course, forgive my thoughtlessness." Lysette smiled, disappointed. "I'd forgotten you've only just arrived."

  The Regent rose at the far end of the table and announced, "Now that our scrumptious feast has ended, I would like to introduce you to my collection of fountains." She motioned toward the glass doors at the end of the hall that led directly to the gardens outside.

  Hanlin rose from his chair and offered, "However, I'd be delighted to escort you to the gardens before taking my leave."

  The colorful blossoms cascaded down the hillside surrounding the fountains and sculptured pools. The garden glistened, the trees held soft, white lights, in their branches. Hidden in the bushes, the same delicate luminaries sparkled. Concealed under the water of the fountains, pastel shadows sent ripples of color through the night air. The sky had darkened; clouds obscured the last of the brilliant moonlight. The gardens seemed like a nether world cascading down into the depths of the earth.

  Kissing Lysette's hand in farewell Hanlin bid her goodnight. "You have your grandmothers enchanting eyes. I shall enjoy sharing my memories with you.”

  "Rest well, Lord Wills.” Lysette answered, as he disappeared through the Dining Hall doorway.

  The Regent Dana appeared through the door, laughing brightly as she took Prince Kata
r's arm and led him toward Lysette. The tall, thin Ambassador Robert Long of Nayr appeared with Lord Nolan and Ambassador Airee of Ragal. Following behind them was Ambassador Kreal of Bantor; he was a large, stocky man who eyes had dark circles, his face pale. He walked slowly as he moved along behind the group.

  Beginning her narrative of the inspiration behind her seven-level garden, Regent Dana explained why she had it built along the sloping hillside. Descending to the next level as she continued, they paused only a moment as a small helijet appeared suddenly above them.

  Its oblong shape and silent approach indicated it was a military vehicle. Moving off to their left, it landed quietly on the lawn at the top of the far hill. Prince Roth glanced at the Regent and quickly disappeared up the steps.

  Pausing for a moment, the Regent pointed out several different species of orchid, growing on a series of special logs suspended in the air. These were a gift from the Nayrian Prime Minister Ondale. A servant arrived informing Ambassador Airee of an urgent communication from Ragal. The elegant Ambassador excused herself and hurried off.

  Roth appeared a few moments later and whispered to his mother. Turning to Ambassador Long, Roth announced, "Ambassador your presence is required in the Communications Center.”

  Without hesitation the Ambassador briskly headed back into the palace. Lysette could feel the tension in Roth's voice. Something was terribly wrong.

  "Ambassador Kreal, would you attend me.” The Regent added, turning to Sean Nolan she continued. "Lord Nolan, I am in need of your services." Then turning to Lysette she continued, "I’m afraid I’ve been called into a conference. Lady Nolan would you do me the great honor of finishing Prince Katar's tour of my garden?" The Regent's smile hid an impatient frown.

  "Of course, Your Grace." Lysette answered quickly.

  "Is there anything I can do?" Katar stepped forward, concerned.

  "Not at the moment, thank you. I will send for you if there is a need." The Regent replied, "For the moment, please relax and enjoy."

  Glancing quickly at Lysette, Sean reassured himself she was no longer intimidated by the Mountain Prince. Following after the disappearing Regent and Ambassador Kreal, he hurried quickly inside.

  Katar grinned and offered her his arm saying, “It appears we've been left to ourselves."

  Feeling the warmth nervous fear in the pit of her stomach again she smiled sweetly, hiding her nervousness and took his arm and said, “It appears something serious has happened.” She indicated the next flight of stone steps leading deeper into the garden.

  "It's possible; the Regent has assumed the role of peace keeper for all five nations. It could be a simple matter of an arrested citizen begging for assistance, or another trade dispute with Bantor." He answered, stopping near a large glowing three-tiered fountain, noting the pale green light accented the turquoise color of Lysette’s eyes. "If it's anything remotely serious, Lord Wills would have appeared instantly." He smiled, assuredly, taking her hand in his, “Hanlin spoke of your grandmother, do you remember her?"

  "Yes, I was six years old when my mother died. That’s when my grandmother came to live with my father and me."

  "Did she ever mention Treborel?" He asked, leading her down another flight of steps.

  "Yes, I remember one night shortly after my mother died. I woke up frightened, I was alone at the ranch with my mother when it happened and didn't sleep well for several months afterward. During those long nights, my grandmother would come into my bedroom and sit on the edge of the bed telling me wonderful stories. Most were about a sparkling silver Palace nestled between the mountains on a high bluff f and forests full of waterfalls and exotic flowers. She spoke of horrible beasts that the men and women had to fight against to keep their castle safe. There were mystical beings that hid from the humans for a long time. Their touch could heal the sick. They were descendants of the magical beings who had created the mountains, trying to escape from the violence and destructive ways of the world." Lysette’s face glowed as the memories came back to her.

  "That is a very accurate description of Treborel and the Palace in Borel. The dark silver sheen comes from the Solar Gems. They completely cover the exterior of the city. The history she provided was nearly correct. There was a group of scientists, who sought a pure environment for research to and raise their children. Treborel was and still is an untamed wilderness surrounded by rumors of Mystical creatures that roamed its forests, keeping all the undeserving away from their beautiful land. It was more than five hundred years ago, when the scientists came and colonized the mountains. They instigated laws forbidding any roads or tunnels to be built through the mountains, except the Chasm and the Harbor passage. They also disallowed any industry from building large factories and destroying the forests. So Treborel remains inaccessible, except to the most daring who travel through the Chasm. And there are those who would argue that the tales of magic have substance. I like the idea of mystical heritage. It separates us from the rest of the world."

  "Does the Royal Family have an Empathic Heritage?" Lysette asked, as they walked in the glowing, pastel light.

  "Somewhat, neither I nor my parents have the 'Strength'. Treborelan royalty claims a distant link to the Empathic Community, marriage has weakened it." Katar explained. "Although my father brought the heritage back into the family, his mother was an Empath."

  Moving onto a small pool, he turned and gazed down at her speaking softly, "How is it that your eyes manage to sparkle in such dim light? I've heard of people with stars in their eyes.

  I’ve always thought that phrase meant they were dreamers, searching for the unattainable, until now." Moving closer to her, he brushed her cheek lightly with his fingertips. The tightness in her stomach returned. It was then that she realized it was not him she feared. It's how he made her feel that scared her. She allowed him to pull her close.

  "What is Prince Roth to you Lysette?" He whispered, his arms surrounding her. "A friend? A lover?"

  "We have never been more than friends. Right now, I'm not even sure we are that anymore." She answered, breathlessly, looking into his deep blue eyes.

  Katar's lips touched hers gently, taking her breath away. His heart began to pound as the kiss deepened. Suddenly, Katar released her, he wanted the kiss to last longer, yet didn't want to frighten her. Or was it himself who was afraid. This beautiful, intelligent Physician had no place in his world and he could never live in hers. Allowing her to move away from him, they descended the next flight of steps.

  "The fountains are fed by an underground river.” She blurted out, trying to break the silence. "The river supplies enough pressure, enhanced by the terrace structure to operate the fountains and keep the small stone ponds from becoming stagnant." Lysette turned to find him standing directly behind her in the cool darkness.

  Silently taking her hand he led her down the last flight of steps to the base of the gardens, fighting the urge to hold her again. He followed a narrow stone walkway to a small man-made waterfall. They sat on a stone bench and watched the churning water in silence. The wind moved quickly through the trees as the pastel shades gave chase to the waterfalls shadows. Turning slowly, Katar watched the waters reflection caress Lysette’s delicate features.

  "Did you have a chance to speak to Lord Wills about your grandmother?" Katar asked, quietly, turning back to gaze into the bubbling water.

  "No, but we're having lunch together tomorrow.” Lysette’s disappointment showed through her hopeful manner as she turned to face him.

  Katar smiled at her and said, "He told me an interesting story about Lady Moore, just this afternoon. I think he was trying to make me feel worse about the incident in the bath house." Katar chuckled, looking into her eyes. "It seems he was very much in love with her. Seeing you must have sparked that old brain of his. He never spoke of her before, this afternoon, he couldn't stop."

  "In love?” She asked, dismayed.

  "We had just begun to court her, when your grandfather appeared and swept
her away to Lon Tesse." Rising as something caught his eye, Katar moved to a large bush covered in huge white blossoms and picked one. Returning, he offered her the flower, "This flower is abundant high in the mountains around the base of waterfalls in Treborel. It is called 'My Beloved’ named so because of the crimson center, hidden inside the blossom. The center is called 'The Hunter's Heart'." Reaching down, he opened the center of the large petals to reveal a velvety crimson bud. "The white petals represent pure unselfish love. In Treborel, not too long ago, a man would send his love six single blossoms, separately. One each day, then on the seventh day he would appear at her door with another six, wrapped in white lace and tied with a crimson ribbon. If she accepted the bouquet, he'd won heart and they were married soon after." Sitting back down beside her he reached up to brush a stray lock of hair gently back from her forehead. "Now your grandfather, being from Lon Tesse, knew nothing about this custom. One day he overheard a casual remark about the growing number of flowers on your grandmother's end table. He began to inquire about the tradition. Upon his enlightenment, he rushed out and bought a full dozen. He arrived on her doorstep only a moment before Lord Wills. Hanlin stood, across the street bouquet in hand, as he watched your grandmother give her heart to another man. Ever the gentleman he turned and left, without a word. "

  "How sad for him.” Lysette whispered, gazing back into the sparkling water.

  "He was lucky enough to love a beautiful woman, very deeply. It could have been worse. He might never have known her at all." Katar answered. Startled by his own reply, he decided they should return to the palace. "We've been gone too long. I'd better get you back before your Uncle sends the guards after us.” He rose, taking her hand, reminding himself Treborel offered nothing to a Physician. Turning to leave, Katar noticed Hanlin standing at the base of the steps.