by Nikki Landis
“The dwarf lords will swear their allegiance. We will protect the secrets we have always believed in. We are not afraid to fight if needed.”
He was staring across the table from the gnomes. They stood angrily, obviously taking affront to Fidget’s remarks.
“We gnomes are peaceful and have always been so. We do not crave the blood lust of war. There are those who are quick to jump into hasty decisions.” The leader who had spoken looked pointedly at Fidget.
Fidget pounded his fist on the table in anger. “You gnomes seem to conveniently disappear or have no opinion whenever danger presents itself. There is a word for that, its cowardice.”
The gnomes looked outraged. They opened their mouths to speak but were interrupted by Kedehern.
“We approach this table as friends and equals. All opinions are free to be shared without condemnation. Please, sit. Let us not bicker about things that are unimportant right now. We must get back to the matter at hand.”
Both the dwarves and the gnomes nodded and took their seats. Others joined in on their comments, swearing their allegiance in turn. The meeting was progressing well. The topic moved to the plan of action against the enemy.
Padraic again led the discussion. “We must increase our patrols. The gateway must be more heavily guarded from dawn until dusk. We also need to protect our cities.”
Kedehern nodded his agreement. He looked around the table. When he spoke his words were strong.
“The guard will be dispatched in shifts to watch over the gateway. We will be locking and heavily guarding the perimeter of the wall, especially during the night hours from dusk until dawn. Any who would like are welcome to come within the safety of our walls, especially here in Karmelo, Alexandria, and Cornell. We must look to the outlying cities of Tarin, Hayden, and Lysis. They are heavily populated.”
They continued to discuss their plan and I looked around me, taking in the atmosphere. I hadn’t noticed the uniqueness of the table they sat at. It was made of stone. Long and rectangular, it stretched a great distance across the grassy plain. Etched into the stone in intricate patterns all around the perimeter was the same ivy and leaf design that was inlaid on Kellen’s armor. Engraved fleur de Lis also were etched into the table, adding a noble element to the design.
The top of the table had long grooves cut into it, marking the seat for each representative species, race, and ethnic group. At each seat there was more intricate carving. I realized it was writing. It must have been the specific language for each one here. Some were glyphs while others were pictographs. I was fascinated by the distinctive look of each alphabet. The same message was at every seat: We Gather as Equals and as Brothers We Unite.
Torches were being lit around the table as twilight descended upon the forest glen. There was a long table laden down with refreshments that included a roasted boar, venison, and other meats, fruits and vegetables, and many varieties of breads and pastries. In addition, there were casks of ale and other beverages to satisfy any thirst. Many ventured from the table and back again, enjoying the libations and provisions.
I continued my observation and noticed the sky. It was getting dark. The light faded from blue to navy to black and still the gathering continued in front of me. I noticed the first bright, twinkling stars appear in the sky, one by one until they seemed to fill it entirely. Each individual star seemed so close, like you could reach out and touch one and pull it right into your lap.
The moon was magnificent. It made its appearance suddenly bursting through a wisp of cloud and climbing high into the newly darkened sky. It was very bright and cast an unearthly glow upon the table and its occupants. It reminded me of fire and ice, the warm and vibrant flames of the torches in red and orange mixing with the cool white and violet blue iridescent light of the moon.
“Kellen?” I whispered.
“Yes?”
“What do the people here think of the enemy? Are they scared? Do you think they will fight if needed?”
“Yes, remember when I told you about the generals? Our people have been dealing with the enemy for many years. They have lost fathers, sons, and brothers to war and torture. Our women have been raped and murdered. Children have been left without parents to raise them. Our people are heavily invested, seeking to end this tyrannical reign of terror that brings death and destruction to our land. They will fight, to the death if necessary, to rid the world of the enemy forever,” he explained, his voice thick with emotion.
“I understand. I feel badly for them. I hope war doesn’t come. It would mean more bloodshed.”
“Yes, it would, but I feel it may be inevitable. My father will know what to do when the time comes Rhiannon. Here, listen to the centaurs. They are great warriors.”
“Kellen?” I asked again.
He raised an eyebrow at me. “Hmmm?”
“What if the enemy isn’t planning to give up? What if their true intention is annihilation?”
Kellen looked surprised for a moment. “What have you seen Rhiannon? What makes you think that is their intention?”
“I don’t know. It’s just a feeling. Peculiar. I can’t place it. Something is not right. This goes deeper than it appears.”
“I’m going to mention it to my father. I don’t think this is the right place or moment, at least not until we have evidence. I don’t want anyone to panic. I believe he has already considered this possibility and is doing everything he can to avoid it.”
“I don’t mean to be rude, but I have a question. Why does it matter what happens in my world? I mean, it doesn’t seem to have any effect on this world or its occupants.”
“Actually, it has a great impact here. Many have crossed over and lived in your world or have family members there. Most choose to stay here but not all. If the enemy causes trouble in your world, it causes ripples that effect the people here, like a stone thrown into a lake. The enemy becomes emboldened, striking harder, causing more destruction and feeling invincible. We have seen it before.”
“If something happens, I want to know right away. Please? Will you promise to tell me?” I pleaded.
“Yes, Rhiannon. I promise. Does that make you feel better?”
“Yes, it does. Thank you.”
“There is another reason you should know. Remember when I told you long ago about the Guardians? We have always protected the portal and its secrets. We watch the human world with interest. It is our heritage, one of our most important duties.”
I had forgotten about that. “Yes, I remember now.”
He smiled, looking deeply into my eyes.
“I love you Rhiannon, darling. Don’t worry, ok?” He asked me softly.
I nodded. “Yes, my Guardian.” It did not come out with the humor I intended.
Kellen’s eyes were crinkled slightly in the corners. I knew he was amused with me again. I smiled widely in return as he squeezed my hand. Lurking in the depths was deeply rooted worry, one that neither of us could ignore. He hid it behind his grin but it was there.
The discussion continued with promises to watch over territories or cities. Each group was deciding on how many troops to give to the cause. Occasionally, a temper would flare or a sharp word would be spoken. Differences were quickly put aside with the importance and enormity of the reality of war.
I started to feel tired and leaned against Kellen. Yawning, I put my hand over my mouth and tried to hide it. I didn’t want anyone to think I was bored. Kellen noticed and he put his arm around my shoulders, squeezing gently.
“I’m sorry, these things take time,” he told me quietly, “It’s probably going to be late before we are finished.”
I nodded to him and leaned my head against his shoulder. My eyelids were starting to sag.
“Go ahead and sleep. I’ll take you home when we are finished.”
I didn’t say anything. I was already dreaming. The planning continued, lasting long into the night.
Chapter Nine
The next morning I awoke alone
in my room. I got up immediately and realized I had a nightgown on instead of the navy blue dress. I looked around impatiently tapping my foot. I couldn’t go down like this. And I didn’t want to wait. I walked around the room for a few minutes, looking at the furniture and walls. This was his room. I had forgotten.
Hearing the sound of voices laughing outside, I walked over and opened the window. Kellen was outside with his family. Their laughter and teasing floated up to me. I wanted very much to be with them. Kellen noticed the open window and looked up at me.
“Good morning, Rhiannon,” he called.
His smile was brilliant in the morning light. I waved back at him.
“Good morning,” I called to everyone.
Kayleigh looked up at me too. “Kellen wants us to go on a picnic with you today. What do you think?”
“Oh, yes. That would be so much fun. Would you come help me Kayleigh?”
She didn’t answer. She just ran into the house and up the stairs in about five seconds flat. I grinned at her. I felt so close to her already. She gave me a hug and set about helping me dress for the day.
Today we both wore green dresses. Hers was a light spring green that contrasted sharply with her dark her. I thought she looked wonderful. My dress was a dark green satin with the same cream and gold lace as the dress I had worn the first day here. Our hair had baby’s breath and very tiny little wildflowers in it. Mine was twisted into a crown, pinned on top. Ringlets of dark curls cascaded down my back.
We linked arms and walked downstairs ready for our picnic. Tristan and Kellen met us at the door, each of them taking our hands and leading us to a group of horses. My eyes widened in pleasure and surprise when I saw them. I had taken horseback riding lessons growing up. I always wanted my own horse. These were beautiful.
Kellen led us over to a pair of chestnut brown stallions with long flowing manes that blew in the gentle breeze. I let go of his hand and walked up to them, running my hand along the muzzle and neck of the first one. He whinnied softly. I whispered to him quietly and told him how beautiful he was. He tossed his head up and shook his mane. I turned and looked at Kellen with a wide smile on my face and noticed his eyes were watching me tenderly.
“You look so beautiful right now. I want to remember this moment forever.”
He walked over and nuzzled my face into his hands, kissing me softly.
“Do you ride?” He asked me after a few minutes.
“Yes, I took lessons as a girl. I always wanted to have a horse but we couldn’t afford it. I had to give up the lessons eventually.”
“I told you so. She’s a nature girl, just like me,” Kayleigh told him smugly.
I had forgotten that we were not alone. I looked over at her. She was already on her horse. Tristan was as well. Had they been waiting and watching us? I blushed and Kellen helped me up into the saddle. It was a side-sitting style. I thanked Gran silently that she had insisted I learn to ride both ways. Kellen handed me the reigns and I took them, holding them tight. He jumped up on his horse and I spurred mine on to follow his lead.
We rode on the same path I had been on before, passed the glorious waterfall that splashed next to us, and passed the meadow full of wildflowers. We continued for a while in silence and I took in the stunning countryside. It was picturesque. Like a painting in someone’s house.
I felt like I had stepped back in time, during the Renaissance or some distant emerald isle. The vibrant shades of green, blue, and brown mixed with wildflowers painted the landscape exquisitely like a Renoir masterpiece. I was wishing for my camera desperately at that moment, just to capture a second of the beauty surrounding me. It was a charming place, this Karmelo.
Eventually we came to a scenic spot with flat level ground around us. It overlooked another waterfall. Rocks and cliffs spread out around us. There were many trees nearby, rows of elms and spruce and oak, all mixed together in perfect harmony. We chose a spot that was shaded by a huge elm. The sun was raising high into the sky and it was getting warm. Midday. A steady breeze blew across the leaves and tall wavy grass.
We stopped the horses and Kellen grabbed hold of my waist, helping me down from the mare. He held me there, suspended against his chest for a moment, gazing into my eyes before finally letting go. Taking my hand, he led me over to the big elm tree. Tristan helped him tie the horses off so they could graze and spread out the picnic. Kayleigh and I watched them together, each of us lost in thought.
It was the most amazing afternoon of my life. We lounged on a big blanket and ate food packed by Mairwen and their cook. Talking and laughing together, we told stories about each other and growing up. I told Kayleigh about how Kellen and I met, and watched his eyes become soft with the memory. She told me about her betrothal and Tristan’s courtship. Kellen had a funny look on his face but never said a word. I wondered what he was thinking.
Kellen lie down after a while next to me and settled his head in my lap. I played with his hair absently, smiling at his contented expression. He looked up at me, so lovingly, so adoring, I held my breath for a moment. The look on his face said everything. In that moment I knew he truly loved me. It’s not that I doubted it, but his expression was so full of love right then that my heart swelled with the knowledge. I put my hand against his cheek.
“I love you,” I told him softly.
He sat up and pulled me into his arms, kissing me fiercely. “I love you too Rhiannon.”
His fingers brushed my cheek. I loved it when he did that. It made me tingle all over.
“I want you to know.” He cleared his throat, a little nervous. “When I am able, I plan on courting you, formally.”
I nodded.
He shook his head. “You need to understand.” His voice caught. “It means a formal engagement…of our marriage.”
I leaned forward and kissed his cheek. “I understand perfectly Kellen.”
“All right then.” He cleared his throat again.
“That is what you want, right?” I asked, gazing into his eyes.
“Oh yes,” he pulled me closer, “more than anything.”
He pressed his lips to mine softly, a promise, a pact, and understanding of our mutual agreement. We would become engaged as soon as we were able. My heart was overjoyed. I loved Kellen, with everything inside me, more than I would have ever thought possible. It was almost scary.
He sprawled out on the blanket again, tugging my arm so I could join him. We lay there looking up at the sky with our fingers entwined in each other’s hand. Silently we watched the birds flying overhead and listened to the sound of rushing water nearby. The clouds shifted slowly, like someone up in heaven was pulling them apart as if they were cotton balls, and tossing them into the electric blue above.
After several minutes I realized we were alone.
“Where did Kayleigh and Tristan go?” I asked him.
He laughed softly. “Did you only just now notice? They left when I kissed you. They get so little time to themselves. I’m sure they’ll be back when they are ready.”
I rolled over to look at him and propped myself up on his chest.
“These last few days have been wonderful. The best of my life. Thank you,” I told him wistfully.
“I’m thankful that I could bring you here. My family loves you. I wish we never had to leave.”
He drew me close to his chest and kissed me again until my head was spinning and my breathing was shallow. I lay my head down on his shoulder and sighed contentedly. I wished we could stay forever too. Somewhere, in the back of my mind, a nagging voice told me to cherish these simple moments we had together and store them up in my heart. Keep them close, because the future was uncertain.
“Um, don’t laugh, ok? But, why does everybody have really…unique…kind of weird names?”
He laughed anyway. “Rhiannon, our heritage is Celtic and Gaelic. These are very traditional names. They don’t feel that way to us here.”
I thought that through. It made sense. A cultural
thing. History. I wanted to know more.
“Kellen, why do your parents still look so young? It seems that they don’t age like my grandparents. Why is that?”
“I have often observed this myself. I can only tell you that our world is very different. The magic that exists here, it affects us differently. People age much slower here. It is also in the genetics. With your grandparents, I think it is living in your world that has aged them more quickly. They spent twenty years without returning across the portal. There are many toxins on your side and the air quality is much poorer. Have you noticed?” He asked curiously.
Agony flitted across my chest briefly. A confirmation that my Gramps was dead because of me. I shut it down fast enough that Kellen did not see it but it lingered and hovered over my heart for long minutes.
“Yes, I think I told you before. The air is so fresh and clean here. Everything is so pure and unblemished. Now I understand what you mean. Thank you for explaining it to me.”
“Sure sweetheart, anything else you are curious about?” I saw his lips twitch. He must be amused at my questions again.
“What does the chosen one mean?”
“Ah, I thought you would ask soon. You have a destiny. You are basically a princess. You know that right?”
I raised an eyebrow. “So that is all the milady stuff?”
“Yes,” he laughed, “get used to it. The formality here is important. It’s strictly adhered to.”
Well, all right then. I traced lazy circles on his chest, happy and content.
“Will you tell me more about your childhood?” I asked him, wanting to hear his voice, no matter what he said.
“You know I grew up here. My best friends are Tristan and Seasnan. I went to school on your side as a boy. Mother insisted I have the best education. I joined the guard once I was old enough, about your age. It’s been my life ever since.”
His voice had been calm until he said Seasnan’s name. It had strained a little and then relaxed. I noticed. It made me curious.
