Tobin nodded. “I’m not sure how much of it is respect.”
“Some, I’m sure. But respect will come with time. What I’m talking about is that look of uncertainty in their eyes. I can see it, so I know you can too. Even after all the years together with your men, they only cared enough about you to know what Kaz told them. Now, they are second-guessing that. They wonder who you really are, and they’re going to compare you to Kaz even more until they realize you are his better.”
Tobin spat and balled his hands into fists. “The hunger he had for death and destruction I do not share. I did things…but only when I had to.”
“In time, you’ll be able to right some of those wrongs and you’ll have my help in doing so. But you can’t expect to do it all at once.” He paused. “I also heard from Walor about what happened with Mawkuk’s daughter.
Tobin nodded. “On our first night out of Cypronya, I had to stop a warrior who thought to force himself on her.” And I had to refrain myself from killing the man because she reminds me so much of Lucia.
“Walor said the others backed you up there. Isn’t that a start in the right direction?”
Tobin shrugged. “They heard me give my word to Mawkuk. That and Odala's station make her case different than raping some peasant. I doubt they would have seen my point if we were raiding a village like Munai.”
“Eventually, I think they will. Use the time on our trip back to improve your relationship with those here. Once these are on your side, you’ll have help in swaying the others at home.”
Tobin grinned. “Since you seem to have all the answers, how am I to do that?”
Nachun shrugged. “Fight. Train. Joke. I don’t know. I did not grow up with these men. You did. Even if they don’t know the real you, it seems like you know the real them.”
I do know the real them and that’s the problem. I probably like them less than they like me.
* * *
The first thing Tobin noticed as the ship pulled into Juanoq’s docks was the progress made in the shipyard. Workers swarmed around Nachun’s creations. Those massive vessels, some capable of holding hundreds of warriors, according to the shaman, dwarfed the smaller ship Tobin was on.
At such a pace, Nachun will far exceed his timeline of completion. Tobin wondered how quickly captains could be trained to pilot such vessels, and how soon they could be put to use. For Father, probably not soon enough.
“The shaman surprises us once again, Warleader. I wonder how someone can know so much,” said Ufer walking up beside him. He matched Tobin’s gaze on the nearest ship with three masts looming high overhead. Workers dangled from various pieces of rigging and swung precariously in the cool breeze coming off the water. “It seems unusual.”
“He is an intelligent man. One who’s learned a lot from the old ways.”
“So he says. Yet, I find it odd that he’s so much better at understanding the old ways than anyone else. He has not been the only intelligent man in Hesh since crossing The Great Divide. Others have attempted to study those texts for centuries.”
Tobin turned, not liking the accusatory tone in Ufer’s voice. “He is our ally,” careful not to call Nachun friend. “What has he done to show us otherwise?”
“Perhaps there isn’t one specific instance, but his behavior does not seem right to me. Even in Munai, how he came upon us, and then was later accepted so quickly by El Olam. Kaz felt unease about him too. He wanted Nachun dead.”
“Yes, he did, and without ever knowing him. And if we had listened to my brother we wouldn’t have had the weapons and armor we now wear, would we?” he said gesturing to the sword at Ufer’s hip. “Or these ships?” he added with a wave of his hand. “Or many other things, including the Kifzo lives he saved by using his sorcery in battle. I think it is safe to say that Kaz was wrong about Nachun.”
Ufer shrugged. “As you say.” And after a moment he added. “I’ll grab the boy and girl. You will want them for your meeting with El Olam, I assume?”
“Yes.” After Ufer turned his back and headed toward the hull, Tobin took a deep breath. He had found himself holding much of it in as his anger rose due to Ufer’s voiced concerns. The influence of my brother runs so deep. Still, he felt that he had maintained his composure on the matter and for that he was pleased. The fact that Ufer came to him in such a way was a step in the right direction, and something that would not have happened even a week ago.
As Nachun said, it will take time.
* * *
Marching shoulder to shoulder, shield arms cleared a path along the busy dock as a half dozen of Bazraki’s personal guards greeted Tobin as he stepped off the ship. Tobin noticed each of them was adorned in a deep blue breast plate. Gauntlets and shin guards were of a lighter hue.
I see everyone is making the most of our new armory.
Like all of his father’s personal guards, they held an air of superiority, even toward Tobin, who officially outranked them. Rather than acknowledging him as Warleader with a bow, their captain emphasized the need for haste in reporting back to El Olam. Tobin knew he should have used the opportunity to make a point to the captain that he was the guard’s superior, but out of habit he let the moment pass and realized his error too late. He cursed to himself for the mistake.
They must learn to show me the same respect as they showed Kaz.
The group set off through the crowded streets of Juanoq surrounded by guards.
Tobin’s eyes shifted to the boy and girl whose wrists had been chained together. The captain of the guard hurried them along at a steady pace.
Despite the small ship, he had spent little time talking to Mawkuk’s children on the journey home. Each seemed far too young to be the children of someone as old as the shriveled Gray Clan leader. Soyjid was sixteen but looked younger as he was cursed with the same small, thin frame as his father. His attitude had surprised Tobin during the little time he had spent with him. He had never once been intimidated by the situation or his captors. Even now, his head swiveled around with wide eyes that took in the sights.
In contrast to her brother, Odala, walked with her head down and shoulders hunched forward. She seemed more cognizant of her situation. Tobin ventured that she must have resembled her mother as her soft face and shapely figure contrasted the appearance of her father. Though she lacked the strength and confidence at seventeen that Tobin had admired in Lucia, he was amazed at how much Odala favored his brother’s wife. The guilt he felt at the thoughts that raced through his mind was the main reason he had avoided the two captives.
Bazraki waited for them in the upstairs dining hall where he sat alone at the head of the table eating from plates of baked fish, roasted fowl, and steamed vegetables. His father stayed seated as the group entered. The guards announced their arrival and then quickly left.
An uncomfortable silence hung in the air as Bazraki’s stare bore holes into Tobin. “I do not recall instructing you to take prisoners,” he said in a hard voice.
“I have my reasons for doing so,” said Tobin, trying to appear confident.
“Tell me.”
Standing firm in place, with shoulders back, Tobin told him all that had occurred during the entire trip. By the time Tobin finished, Bazraki had completed his meal and stood before him.
“I see,” said Bazraki, breaking his silence. “Your brother would have killed Mawkuk for such conduct. That would have been a wiser decision.”
“I thought this would be a more effective method, Father.”
A hand lashed out, slapping Tobin across the face. “El Olam,” his father said. “Acting as Warleader does not give you a pass on showing me respect. I will not remind you again.” He continued. “So you think that you are wiser than I am.”
“Of course not, El Olam,” said Tobin in a low tone, trying to disguise the bitter anger rising in the back of his throat.
Bazraki grunted. “Maybe I should take part of the blame here for assuming too much from you. I am too used to thinking of Kaz
as an extension of myself. You however, need more guidance.”
Kaz again. Tobin felt his anger growing, the muscles in his arms tensing. A light touch on his arm calmed him though. Nachun stepped forward between father and son. “El Olam, let us not forget that an alliance was made between the clans and by lesser terms than you intended,” said the shaman.
“And to do so, we showed weakness by allowing Mawkuk to live.” He paused and looked to Tobin. “Are you certain that we can trust him?”
Tobin gestured with his hand. “I promise you he will do nothing while we hold his children.”
“Is this true?” asked Bazraki, his eyes piercing Odala.
Nachun nudged her with an elbow to get her to answer.
She jumped and croaked, “He cares for us deeply. He will not do anything that may cause us harm.”
“Very well,” his father said turning to Tobin. “We should learn soon enough if Mawkuk intends to uphold his end of the deal. Until then, they are your responsibility. We will talk again on the morrow after I’ve had time to think on what was said.” He paused. “Kaz never took such liberties with my instructions. Going forward, I expect you to act as he would.” And with a wave of his hand, Bazraki dismissed the group.
Chapter 19
Elyse knelt in the pew praying, her eyes fixed on the likeness of the One Above. The statue radiated the love and tenderness she longed for. Her neck, knotted up from the council’s morning meeting, slowly relaxed, and the calmness she prayed for spread throughout her limbs like a warm bath over her skin.
Messengers confirmed several days ago that Jonrell had indeed landed at Floroson and traveled toward Lyrosene. The reports were initially questioned when it was discovered that he commanded a well known group of cutthroats that killed for money. Elyse shivered at the frightening thought. She could never imagine the brother she once knew doing such a thing, and she was reluctant to believe such reports. But Lady Jaendora had sent a personal message, sealed in wax, and baring her signet that confirmed many of the early details.
What are his motives in returning now?
She was surprised to realize that what she had always thought would provide her comfort now scared her. What will he do when he arrives? Will he cast me aside and take the throne? Despite all her hard work to be a good queen, the thought of relinquishing such responsibility appealed to her. I think the first thing I would do is sleep for a week. Her next thought took her off guard. What if his rule is filled with blood, death, and oppression?
Footsteps echoed across the great cathedral. She turned as Hadan and Willum approached, their giant shadows stretching across the polished floor. “My Queen, I’m sorry to interrupt your prayers,” said Hadan.
Elyse stood. “I was just finishing up. What is it?”
“A messenger, your Highness. Your brother was spotted down the road. It’s expected that he will be here on the morrow.”
A flutter of nervousness caught her in the stomach and she took a deep breath. “Does anyone else know about this?”
“Not yet, Your Highness.”
An idea struck her. I need to speak with him in private before anyone else does. She started walking up the center aisle toward the large double doors, her long green gown twisting around her.
“My Queen, shall we send out a formal party to greet your brother?” asked Willum in his higher voice.
“No. Send a messenger to Gauge right away. Tell him he must meet me in my private study, but tell him nothing more. Send another messenger to General Grayer and have him do the same. But first, have him prepare his fastest and most trusted horseman for travel outside of the city. Do not tell him why. ”
“Yes, Your Highness,” said Willum, armor clanking as he ran off. Hadan remained at her side as they exited the cathedral, making for her private study.
* * *
Gauge sat in the corner reading a book that discussed the legendary events surrounding the fall of Quoron while sipping on a small glass of brandy. Considering its lack of relevance to Elyse’s current situation, the book had moved to the bottom of her reading list. Gauge selected the ancient tome several hours ago and had been engrossed ever since. He stopped only once to comment on a passage relating to the discovery of Sacrynon’s Scepter during Aurnon the First’s conquering of Thurum and settling of Cadonia.
Elyse dug her nails into her palm as Gauge had read aloud about the weapon’s power, remarking on how such a force would quickly solidify her reign. Elyse felt sick remembering that day in the castle and the horrors caused by the scepter. Gauge had read the text like it was a new piece of information, once lost and newly discovered. It was as if he had forgotten what such a thing meant to Elyse. With an obvious lack of malicious intent, she could not bring herself to be angry at Gauge so she quickly changed the subject to something lighter.
Scribbling at the table in the center of the room, General Grayer busied himself preparing messages, counting supplies, and balancing the military’s funds. Elyse had sent someone to retrieve his things once she realized that without doing so, her meeting would put the general far behind in his daily duties. After watching him work so diligently, she couldn’t help but admire the man more.
He works so hard for a queen so incompetent.
Elyse marveled at each of the two men, jealous of their calm demeanors as she paced the room. Her feet began to throb after spending so much time pacing, but the constant movement eased her mind.
When Gauge and Grayer had first arrived after her summons, she informed them of her intentions and both aided her in crafting the invitation Grayer’s messenger sent to Jonrell.
Hours later, while waiting for a response, Elyse’s guilt began to gnaw at her for keeping the two men away from their duties. But she was too anxious, too nervous, to be alone.
I may need their knowledge before the night is through.
A sudden knock at the door caused her to spin around quickly, taking in a deep breath as her eyes went to the door. She glanced at Gauge who marked his place in the book and looked up. Grayer set his quill on the table and waited for Elyse’s response as well. “Hadan?” she called out in the direction of the door.
“Yes, Your Highness. May I enter? I have a certain guest to see you,” he answered back, the door muffling his voice.
She nervously straightened her dress, not sure what else to do in an effort to compose herself. “Please come in,” she said, her voice quavering.
Willum stepped aside as Hadan came through the door, trailing a tall man in a large black cloak, hood pulled up over his head. The man reached up with both hands and pulled back the hood. His appearance took Elyse off guard.
Is this my brother?
His head was covered in the same auburn hair that she remembered from her childhood, though it had grown long. He wore a well-kept beard now, touched by the faintest patches of white, despite his age. She marveled at the weathered look on his face and studied the lines that led her to the man’s gray eyes. She knew for certain it was indeed her brother.
His eyes used to comfort her as a girl, but now she only felt trepidation.
Elyse stood there staring and realized everyone was waiting for her to respond. Yet, she didn’t know what to do. Do I embrace the brother I once knew? Do I ask for homage from the tattered soldier before me?
Almost as if Jonrell could read her thoughts, he bowed his head and took a knee. “My Queen.”
She was stunned by the gesture, but also found herself angry as well. Gauge cleared his throat which caused Elyse to respond. “Everyone, please leave us for a moment. You can wait in the adjoining room.”
“Your Highness?” said Hadan with a confused look on his face.
“You and Willum as well. I would speak to my brother in private first. I will call for you when I’m ready.”
Hesitant, he exited the room last and shut the door behind them.
When Elyse turned back to her brother she saw him still on his knee, head staring at the floor. “What are you doin
g? Stand up,” she said in an agitated tone.
“Yes, Your Highness,” said Jonrell, rising.
“Stop that. There is no one else here for you to put up a visage for. Treat me like your sister,” she said, starting to pace once again.
“I’m sorry.”
She stopped. “Sorry?” She turned to face him. “What exactly are you sorry for?” she said in a bitter tone.
He gave her a wounded smile. “For everything. I made a mistake leaving you. I want to make up for that now.”
“A mistake? Is that what you call it? I’ve lived in constant misery since you left! All alone with no one to talk to and a father who wouldn’t let anyone near me. I could only watch him as he fell further into insanity.” Tears started pouring out, smearing much of her make-up. Yet, she didn’t care. “And just when I thought things couldn’t get any worse, Nareash came along.”
“I’ve heard how he manipulated Father and then killed half the palace staff.”
“Don’t act like you know what happened. He kept me trapped in my own body and didn’t allow me to so much as bathe myself for months. It’s a wonder I haven’t lost my mind as well. I maintained my sanity by focusing my thoughts on a better time, a better place. Do you know when that was?”
“No. I don’t.”
“It was when I was with you!” she yelled. “I thought about how much you made me laugh and how much you loved me when I needed it. And I thought over and over about your promise. That you would return when I needed you most. I needed you most then, Jonrell,” she paused, lowering her voice. “I’ve needed you in the months since then as I did everything I could think of to ensure Cadonia didn’t go to war.”
“Is that why you took the necklace off?” asked Jonrell in a hurt tone.
Elyse reached up to touch her neck and nodded. “After Father’s funeral, I knew I was on my own and I figured it was time to stop acting like a little girl counting on a promise that would never be kept.” She chuckled. “But now here you are,” tears streamed down her face, “only it’s too late. Tomalt has taken Namaris and we must go to war. I have failed. I guess I am just a little girl, after all, and not the ruler I’ve been pretending to be.”
Rise and Fall (Book 1) Page 35
