Nubian Star: In The Land Of Nubia, #1

By Lp Johnson

Romance, Intrigue, Passion and Plots meet in this tale of a strong and proud people, ruled by a royal family like none other. 
And yet, they are human, too. Fears, failures, secret desires, and reasons to rebel also motivate their hearts and challenge their thoughts.
Is Love enough to see Tyelah and Devaleh into a Unity that will propel Nubia's Destined future? 

Find out, Here In The Land Of Nubia

 

*Meet The Royal House, download the Kingdom Guide too!

• Language: English
• Publisher: LpJ Publishing Enterprises
• Release date: Feb 5, 2017
• ISBN: 9781386046271

Lp Johnson

Wordsmith Lp Johnson is a native Illinoisan, born in Chicago in the late 60’s to parents who both migrated from the southern US to the South-side of the City during their own youthful years. Adventurous by nature and a self-proclaimed ‘nomadic spirit’, since arriving at young-adulthood Ms. Johnson has explored life in several states, including her current residence in Oklahoma. She has a healthy interest in the Sciences, the Arts, Photography, Music, and is ever seeking out new information in her research.  Although best known for her Historical Romance series 'Here In The Land Of Nubia', much of her career focus has been in Early Childhood Education. An Instructor for more twenty years, Ms. Johnson has always been dedicated to advancing the excellence of students through various venues, including Tutoring as a volunteer, Teaching in classrooms, and in Faith-based instruction in the youth ministries. Above and throughout it all, writing has remained her driving force. From her very first poem to the latest of her undertakings, Ms. Johnson brings an especially artistic flair to the words which call forth vivid images in the scenes portrayed in her fiction novels, and displays a passionate desire to encourage others in her poetry and inspirational writings. Now, as CEO of LPJ Enterprises and NightWriters Publishing Consultants, she focuses her on her work as a professional writing consultant; a return to her goal of offering support for the community of fellow writers, as they discover the wonders of having a work with their own name on it available to a waiting public -whether on the bookshelves of a downtown store, or a mere click away in a browser.

Book preview

Here In The Land Of Nubia

IN THIS SERIES

Here In The Land Of Nubia – Series Guide

Nubian Star

Nubian Sun

Nubian Shadow

Nubian Sword

Nubian Song

Download The Series Guide Online

In The Land Of Nubia

https://landofnubia.wordpress.com

NUBIAN STAR

Revised Edition

Lp Johnson

© 2021

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places,

and incidents either are products of the author’s

imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to

actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely

coincidental. No part of this book may be used, reproduced

or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic

or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by

any information storage or retrieval system, without

the written permission of the publisher, except where

permitted by law, or in the case of brief quotations

embodied in critical articles and reviews.

Cover Arrangement: Lp Johnson

© 1994 NightWriters Publishing

All rights reserved

Here In The Land Of Nubia

The Royal House of Hummingbird Palace

Queen Tyelah Olesk

Ovani Laset

Lord Prince Devaleh Knaye

THE HIGH COUNCIL

Kusta Obe

Ezek Matmah

Verinay Tarhser

Sumurah Kif

Inaze Ceenek

Shunan  Nereh

Yanzee Xan

THE ROYAL GUARD

Anomi Keasa

Jama`re Hedash

Kalee Hedash

DEDICATION

You know who you are... each one of you. But You especially, Chickie. You have always been my Port. And you...all Eight of you – my Motivation...we made it! For my Royal One of Olde...and my Angel. Thank you.

GUIDE

Welcome To The Land Of Nubia

The Stranger

The Meeting

Inside The Palace

Red Is For Royalty

An Offer Of Peace

Unguarded

Part Two

Deserter!

Secrets

Not Eye To Eye

Arrow-Shot!

Capture & Conspiracy

About The Map

Back From The Brink

To Catch A Killer

Meet The Author

Welcome, to The Land Of Nubia

Here, we invite you into the Royal House of Hummingbird Palace, where you will Meet The Royal House, and come to learn of their relationships, interactions, and intricacies. The Queen, her chosen mate, her Guards, and her kingdom all come together to spirit you away upon an unforgettable Journey of Growth, Love, Passion, and Plots.

Tyelah and Devaleh have been reunited. Kusta and Anomi discover that their years of bickering have actually been masking something more. The Minister who has harbored the Queen ill will is at last exposed – though, were one to ask her Majesty, she would be clear in her choice not to know; if it would spare the manner in which his treachery is discovered. And the twins, Jama`re and Kalee, discover that they have a bit of growing up to do.

THE JOURNEY BEGINS...

THE STRANGER

HE had haunted her dreams, troubled her sleep, and filled her thoughts with wonder at his identity since she had become Aware of his presence. Of course, the Rovers had reported to her the morning after he entered her forest, yet this to her was proof only that they were remaining alert.

Four eves prior, she had stood—as was her wont—on the veranda outside of her sitting room. Here, after the Palace settled in for the evening, she would listen to the sounds of the small beings as they wakened for their nightly excursions. On that night however, another presence had made itself known. A traveler camped in the southernmost portion of the forest, alone; unmistakably male. This did not disturb her greatly, for naturally many a traveler stopped in the Nubian forest on their way to other lands, or here to visit the city, Sheridan. No, the problem did not occur until it was announced by the Rovers that this traveler was different. He was Ronian.

IN THE IMPERIAL COURT—ALSO known as the Royal Throne Chamber—Tyelah sat, chin in hand.

Quite aware of the potentially volatile nature of his news, Jama`re was more than a bit nervous as he began to relate what he had learned so far about the stranger's identity. My Queen...the stranger travels the forest by day, fashioning a makeshift camp as dusk settles. He does not appear to be on a scouting mission, nor seem to be equipped for hunting...although he catches meat for his meals. He is, we have determined, apparently headed here to Nubia. Here he paused again.

Catching his hesitation, Tyelah sat herself upright in her seat, then prompted sternly, Major. This is not a time to try my patience. If there is more to your report, proceed.

With an inward sigh, Jama`re obeyed. Majesty, the traveler wears the colors of the House of Ronia.

Tyelah was silent for nearly a full minute. Only Kusta, her life-long companion, was able to identify the flash of angry pain which coursed through her at the mention of the land which had cost her that which she had valued above all else; her father.

The order went out immediately to apprehend the stranger and deliver him to the Palace to be questioned. However neither they nor she factored into their intents the idea that this stranger had intentions of his own—and these did not include being captured.

Nor did they reason upon his having the skill and wherewithal to avoid such capture. And after a full day of fruitless searching, the contingent was forced to report back that they had failed in their mission. They had been unable to capture a lone traveler in their own forest.

They were understandably surprised when this news did not precipitate the outburst which had been expected from the Queen. Yet her reply was frightening enough in its seeming sincerity. "Perhaps, my mighty Warriors, I should invite the traveler to train each of you in his obviously superior skill of evasion."

Their lowered eyes flew widely open, meeting her own with intense worry, before their heads lowered in shame. Studying each of them in turn, Tyelah fought to maintain her stern expression as her eyes came to rest upon Kusta. He was gazing back at her with skepticism in his own. He above all knew that she would never do anything of the sort.

Controlling the urge to laugh at him, she turned again to Jama`re, continuing, I am disappointed. Yet you need not concern yourselves any longer. On the morrow, everyone shall return to their normal duties. I shall resolve this issue myself.

With this, they were dismissed.

THAT EVENING SHE AGAIN stood on the balcony, as usual allowing her mind to roam out among the inhabitants of the Nubian Forest. Only, on this night it was not their comforting presence she sought.

Almost at once she found the traveler, not yet asleep this time but with his thoughts wandering in the darkness. She sensed no malice in him, yet could not be satisfied with this alone. If indeed this man hailed from the land of Nubia's enemies, it was imperative that his reason for attempting to gain entry into her Kingdom—and evading her guards—be determined.

Thus, she would be forced to do that which she had hoped to avoid; use her Sight. This was not a thing to be undertaken lightly. A mental connection with one who was uninitiated, if done improperly, could result in irreparable damage to his mind. It was also an extreme method by which to obtain the information she sought. Yet, she could see no other way. Calming herself, and bringing her entire focus upon the part of his energy she could sense most clearly, she gently, carefully entered his mind.

Her intent was only to probe deeply enough to find the answer she sought, yet almost immediately she found that her mild exploration was drawing his relaxed state into one of drowsiness. She was forced to ease it a bit: in any event, she needed to go no deeper. There. There lie her answer. Yet it was of such a surprising nature that she nearly lost the tentative hold she had achieved. For, although she indeed sensed no harmful intent, she discovered that this man sought not only Nubia, but her, personally!

And some of the thoughts he was having about her gave her cause to blush—furiously!

To her further surprise, he seemed to possess memories of her as an adolescent. Yet these were not memories which she herself possessed. And for reasons she was hard put to explain, they stirred within her an odd presentiment—in a part of her she until now had not acknowledged.

His identity was still a mystery, yet one thing was certain, and made her decision final. His purpose in eluding her guards was a solid determination to enter Nubia on his own terms. And while that same strange part of her quietly admired his boldness, and the cleverness it required to avoid capture by the best warriors in several lands (a skill not normally equated with Ronians!),

Tyelah was equally of a mind that, unlike them, she would have no trouble finding this Ronian.

THE SEAT OF POWER

Willful, determined, clever, and able to adjust most situations to her own liking. These were terms frequently applied to the Nubian princess as she entered young womanhood. And though it was suggested to Olesk that he employ more discipline where Tyelah was concerned, he was wont to allow her headway on most matters, trusting her, and trusting her Keeper to assure her safety. Even when it was not the most important issue with her.

This of course had caused Kusta no end of trouble. Being very much her father's child, she was always allowing her curiosity to overwhelm her better sense. All over the castle, she was expected to turn up underfoot. Word—via silent signal between the guards—was always sent ahead whenever she left her rooms.

Still, despite her penchant for mischief, the young princess was very well loved throughout the Palace household by all. And, there was one who, besides her father, did not consider her a terror at all; the Chief of House Affairs. Verinay. She had become for Tyelah the only mother she had ever known. And the only person to ever, ever, administer a switching to her seat!

TYELAH HAD GONE TO the kitchen seeking a treat or two from one of the cooks, as she frequently did whenever there was to be one of her father's grand feasts. This had always been fine with Verinay, as long as she absolutely stayed out of the way of the busy workers, and usually, she managed to accomplish this goal, and generally kept from underfoot. On this particular day however, she once again allowed her innate impulsiveness to get the better of her good sense, and the warnings to be careful in the kitchen.

It had resulted, predictably, in disaster.

Although she was nearly fourteen, Tyelah was yet small in stature, and thus not yet tall enough to reach the bowl situated upon the high counter which had aroused her curiosity. Standing on tiptoe, she stretched to grab it, wishing to see if perhaps it contained some delicious batter that she might cajole Verinay into allowing her to 'clean up'.

When one of the maids saw the Princess in what she believed to be grave danger of scalding herself with the hot contents of the bowl, matters took an unfortunate turn.

Dropping the mop she was using, the girl reached for Tyelah. Unfortunately, the handle fell against another bowl with steaming water in it, sending it crashing to the floor and causing everyone to halt what they were doing to get out of the way. When everyone and everything had finally come to a halt, a mortified Tyelah found herself standing at the center of attention.

Verinay, who had of course known of Tyelah's presence but had moved on to another part of the kitchen, now raced to where everyone stood, nervously still. Her eyes quickly taking in the mess on the floor, she next turned to fix them upon Tyelah; who immediately drew the Elder's attention to the maid.

Eema, I only meant to look into the bowl! she indicated the mixing bowl still atop the counter, then pointed to the maid, ...and suddenly this foolish maid grabs me without cause! She should be dismissed from serving my father!

Far too well trained by Verinay to dare a contradiction, even if it meant accepting wrongly placed blame, the maid stood silently, awaiting the dismissal she was certain would be forthcoming. Verinay was quite well-known for having little patience with those foolish enough to make mistakes in her kitchen!

The Chief however had not taken her own gaze from Tyelah, who was beginning to squirm beneath her knowing stare. After only a minute or so, and without as much as a glance about, she barked at the cooks and maids to tidy the area and return to work, with haste.

Then, reaching out suddenly, she grasped hold of Tyelah's wrist and marched her out of the kitchen. Once in the corridor, Verinay informed her that she was being taken to her father, whom she intended to inform of his daughter's inability to be obedient, and of her penchant for casting upon others blame which she rightly owned.

Tyelah was struck speechless. Yet quickly finding her voice, it was here that she made her first mistake with the formidable Chief. Planting her feet firmly on the floor, she refused to go a step further.

Release me! she snapped haughtily. I am not a page to be ordered about as you wish!

And I, young lady, shall not be spoken to in such a manner, Verinay rebuked. Mind yourself and come along.

Tyelah however shook her head. Putting on her most regal air, she made the statement which sealed her fate. I shall not go! She pulled her hand away forcefully, threatening, "I am your Princess! My father will only punish you for your treatment of me..."

Verinay's eyes narrowed dangerously, and her voice lowered a pitch, Oh? You believe this to be so, do you? Then, let us see if we can not provide him with something to truly punish me for!

Too quickly for Tyelah to withdraw from her reach, Verinay's hand snaked out to grip an arm. This time her hold was certain. And now, rather than head toward the conference chamber, where the King was entertaining several friends, Verinay turned instead towards the staircase, tugging Tyelah along none-to-gently.

Having heard her whimpers, Kusta came hurrying around another ell, wondering what the matter was. Immensely relieved to see him, Tyelah immediately began to implore his aid.

Before he could ask, however, Verinay replied herself, Do not interfere. She halted on the landing. "I believe it is time that our young Princess learn that there are consequences in all actions. And I intend that this lesson of obedience and...Respect...come from me! You may, if you wish, inform her father."

She gave Tyelah a look which in that moment gave the girl a clear meaning of her intent. We shall be in her suite for a time. Turning away, she resumed her trek up the staircase without another word, not halting again until they had entered the Royal Wing, Here she paused in the corridor to remove a section of vine from one of the hanging plants.

Eyes wide with disbelieving terror, Tyelah now realized the full extent of her situation, and sputtered the query; Eema, s-surely you do not m-mean to th-thrash m-me? I-I have never been th-thrashed in m-my life!

Perhaps then that is the trouble! Verinay replied harshly, returning to her purposeful stride. Without pausing, she continued past the guard stationed at the door of the Royal Suite, and into the sitting room, before at last turning to face a now watery-eyed Tyelah.

Seeing the child's distress, however, she softened a bit. "Little Ya-ya...Eema loves you a great deal, and has no desire to see you hurt. Yet, you must always take responsibility for your actions. You must think before you act. And never, EVER, speak to those whom you should respect as you spoke to me earlier."

By now the Princess was nodding vigorously, hoping that by showing she understood she could avert the lashing which seemed imminent. Alas, it was to no avail. At the end of the next five agonizing minutes, she had indeed learned a very valuable lesson; Above all else, Verinay was not to be trifled with!

She did not tell her father however, and assumed that Kusta had not done so either, for it was never mentioned again.

AS SHE THOUGHT ABOUT it now, she supposed that she had taken another step toward maturing on that fateful day. And as Queen, she sometimes found herself thinking of those lessons of her youth—wishing of course that she could have all of the people she loved with her once more. Although she had never known her mother, the ache in her heart for the loss of her had never diminished. Neither had the soul wrenching despair of being without her beloved father truly gone away.

These thoughts invariably led to the admission that at times she also found herself wishing that some of the things she had learned would prove unnecessary. Such as the truth that Nubian Law dictated the sitting Ruler be wed by the ripe old age of thirty—in order to assure the continuing Royal lineage. And that, at twenty-eight and some, she was growing steadily closer to a time when she would be obligated to choose a mate.

If she failed to select one on her own, it would become the duty of the Royal High Council to select a husband for her. This Law was irrevocable. And to her, grossly unfair.

Firstly, she had no desire to wed. Anyone. Leave alone one whom she did not love. And, suppose she did not wish to bear children? This was another thorn in her side. Yes, she could have any suitor that she would choose. many presented themselves to the Court each month to request her consideration. Yet she always found them lacking in the one quality which she felt most important; something to make her to fall in love with them.

These thoughts commonly stirred within her a mild depression. Hence why she sought the calming effect of the terrace, and the forest life below it. Standing here, she would attempt to clear her mind and seek answers to the troubling, tumbling thoughts which raged within her.

Usually this was the one place, the one time during the day, when she was completely at ease. Only here was she able to retreat entirely into her own Center, her own inner sanctuary.

And yet, as always, she came to the sighing conclusion that it was out of her hands. She would wed, be it her choice or the Council's.

Despite her inner turmoil, Tyelah considered herself quite happy with her lot in life. Each day, as the woman in her mirror gazed back at her, she thanked the Goddess for her many blessings thus far. She was Sovereign Ruler of the mightiest, most beautiful land to be found near or far. And she had subjects who both loved and respected her greatly. The person reflected in her mirror also proved that, along with the inner beauty her subjects so admired, there was an outer beauty as well. This she accepted it as an occurrence of her birth, and did not dwell on it, much.

Yes, she was beautiful. Exceptionally so—according to everyone who met her. Her softly heart-shaped face ended with a slightly pointed chin, and was gently framed by her reddish-brown locs, which when allowed to hang freely fell to a point just above her waist. A flat, firm mid-section rose to warmly full breasts, lowered to softly flared hips and a nicely rounded bottom that swayed with an allure no garment could hide. And legs; beautiful, golden legs that were strong enough to fell a fully grown man with one kick, or out-run the swiftest of pages, yet were downy soft clear to the toes—which were often-as-not bare. Her body was strong, supple, young, and beautiful. And as yet untouched by a man.

THE MEETING

She now paused beside a large fallen tree, taking a breath to still her racing heartbeat so that she might focus better. Not with her ears—for he was very quiet when he moved—but with her Sight.

She was unconcerned about being heard, for her own steps were silent on the soft floor of the forest. She knew precisely where and when he had stopped to rest; in the clearing which was just beyond this next stand of trees. Listening, she could hear him packing something into his knapsack, and then rising to his feet.

Ever more quietly now, she crept another few feet forward. A light sheen covered her tawny skin; it had little to do with exertion, for she was barely aware of the effort tracking him required. Instead, it was the unnerving sense of dé·jà vu which had excited her awareness. Of a sudden, the traveler seemed less of a stranger—and she could not for the life of her begin to explain that!

Expelling a breath she had not realized she was holding, she stepped out to where she could receive her first glimpse of this man who had sought her so diligently, watching as he made ready to depart. His back was to her, thus she was afforded an unobstructed view of his sturdily built frame.

She had no fear of him despite his obvious advantage in size; her own skills as a warrior were more than a match for any man. And she could sense that he meant her no harm.

The time had come. Her answers lie just ahead.

NS

HE was unable to explain it. He had not heard a sound, yet he no longer felt alone. And although he had sensed none of the danger which had preceded the arrival of the Queen's warriors, he had survived thus far by taking no chances, and he would not start now. He had learned to trust his instincts.

Casually lifting his pack, he strolled off into the deeper brush. Several yards into the forest, he then suddenly decided to double back to determine if his intuition had been correct.

NS

His follower paused in the clearing he had left scant moments before. She had intended to wait until he moved, then follow, circle around, and confront him as he entered the next clearing. Instead, she been halted by the strong impression of him she was now receiving. Standing still, she allowed it to course through her as she wondered at the odd familiarity. If only she could determine why...

NS

'She is as beautiful as ever.' He thought to himself as he now watched her in the clearing. She wore what he remembered was one of her customary garments—a short 'Maraci'. It left one shoulder and most of her midriff bare, covering only what was absolutely required. (and the bottom portion doing barely this!) Her only concession to her status was the golden band, embossed with the seal of Nubia, which held her long tresses back from her face. She had never been one for the more traditional Royal garments, he remembered that too, with a smile.

Even without it however, Tyelah could never in his eyes be mistaken for anything other than the Queen she was. Awed, he contemplated how best to make his presence known to her without frightening her.

Then it occurred to him that she had come because her troops had been unable to find him. This thought amused him, causing him to unwittingly chuckle lightly.

NS

Hearing even this small sound, Tyelah remained perfectly still. So, he had come behind her. She was not by any means concerned—although she understood now how he had eluded her guards. Did he laugh at her expense?

The idea of this produced a flash of annoyance. It was time that this game came to an end.

Without turning, she entered his thoughts and asked the question, 'Why do you seek me?'

He heard the query, yet as on that day long ago when she had first made him aware of her gift, he was startled by the fact these words had come to his inner hearing—rather than his outer ear.

The larger surprise however, was that although she seemed to know of his presence, she appeared not to know of his identity. He wondered to himself; if she knew that he had come to the Kingdom of Nubia seeking her in particular, why did she not know that he sought to make good on the vow made so many years ago?

Of its own volition, her name leapt to his lips, Tyelah.

Turning about, she studied the face she had been unable to see before. And though she could not explain it, in the instant that her eyes locked with his the entire forest seemed to stand still, and she knew a tilting of reality which rendered her temporarily speechless.

She had come to the conclusion of her search. Yet why, she asked herself, did it feel as though she had come to the beginning of a different sort of journey?

None of this showed in the stare that she gave him however, she hoped.

You have not answered my query, bold one. she at last spoke aloud; a reference to him offering no gesture of respect, despite the obvious recognition in his gaze. Again... why have you sought me?

He understood the statement concerning his nearness, and lack of a proper greeting. Yet he could not help but to ask himself yet again why she questioned. If she truly did not recognize him, then why was she seeking him, out here in the forest—and alone?

Yet she was awaiting a response. Without taking his eyes from her own, he proceeded to bow to one knee before her, and spoke now with a touch of wryness which let on nothing of his confusion,

Your Majesty. I seem to have forgotten my manners. I pray however that you will find favor enough in your humble servant that I might be forgiven.

Secretly amused, Tyelah managed nonetheless to carry a certain haughtiness in her tone as she responded, I shall reserve such pardon for now, as you seem after all to be aware of my identity. I shall instead provide you with the opportunity to answer my query, before I am able to lose patience with you. And explain, while you are about it, your identity and your reasons for being here.

It was true then. She had no recognition of their acquaintance.

Ever the more baffled, yet secretly resolving in his heart to rectify this lapse in memory as quickly as possible, he replied softly, I am Devaleh Knaye, Lord of Ronia...at your Service, Milady. I come seeking an audience before your esteemed throne.

Tyelah's reply was skeptical. "You skulk about in my forest. You elude my warriors. Only to now inform me that you request an audience?"

Her tone was stern, yet a small smile played about the corners of her mouth. Suddenly deciding that she rather liked this ruffian in dignified dress – and unable for the life of her to determine why she should desire to! – she decided upon a bit of boldness of her own.

Tilting her head, she went on to ask, Very well then. Pray tell me, Devaleh Knaye...Lord of Ronia...what cause have we to seem acquainted? Such is not possible, no?

Here was his awaited-for opening. Choosing his words carefully, though he could not help his own answering smile, he told her, There is good cause, Milady. I am Nubian by birth. As a young man I served in your father's army until the great war. At this mention he noted the flash of something painful in her eyes, and recalled that he currently was wearing the colors of the kingdom responsible for it.

Yet he went on, before she could change her mind about wanting to hear his tale. I was taken prisoner by the Ronians and enslaved by their king. Before that war however, you and I were friends. We met whenever possible, speaking of whatever came to mind. He gave her a look. We had much to discuss, then. Do you not remember, Tyelah?

The sound of her name on his lips was doing odd things to her, and she required a moment to consider this. She decided to answer him honestly. Even in Ronia, you would have heard of my father's demise from the injury he received during that war.

She saw his regretful nod, drew a calming breath, and went on quietly, I was in such a state over this loss that I quite became ill myself. Were it not for... she began to say Kusta, then amended to, To cope with my trauma, it is believed that I forced all memory of the event and the time leading up to it from my mind. Yet, here her stare became penetrating, I have been given an accounting of that interval, and no mention was made of you. She waited, not at all expecting his response.

"Of course no mention was made of me ! he grated harshly. Why should any mention me? I was only a lowly solider! A step above the servants!"

Seeing her look and immediately contrite, he turned away from her briefly, struggling to control himself and the frustration for the expectations which had forced them to keep their love for one another a secret.

Turning back to her now, he softened his voice, Forgive me, Tyelah. I am being impolite. It is only that...we were so close...

Here, he raised his gaze to meet her own, and again she felt that shifting of her equilibrium, for she could sense such a depth of feeling from him.

He continued, It pains me to think of that time being expunged...when it has sustained my sanity for this past decade.

Tyelah knew that the pain of that loss was reflected in her own eyes, yet parried calmly, You spin a quite unlikely yarn, Ronian. With what cause would I hold placing even one iota of faith in such a tale?

That suddenly he knew what he must do. What they must do, if there was to be any hope of the future he wished for them. Stepping closer to her, he lowered his voice to a near whisper, It would seem there is only this recourse, Milady.

She adamantly refused to consider the this-time-certain sensation of dé·jà vu which coursed through her. Instead she maintained her intent focus upon him, as he went on softly,

I am aware of your Ability. The memories you have buried, are here, he touched her forehead, ...and the proof of them, is here. he touched his own. Allow me to assist you in removing the barrier. Use it...find the truth for yourself...see for yourself, and know the power of what we shared.

Tyelah stared at him for a long moment. He was right, she admitted to herself. If he possessed the knowledge, it would be a simple matter for her to retrieve it.

Yet of a sudden experiencing for the first time in her life a fear of the unknown, she questioned the sagacity of unleashing those memories. Did she truly desire to know? If his tale turned out to be genuine, would it free her Soul from the prison of sadness which she had suffered all these years? Or plunge her once more into its depths? The thought of returning to that bleakness gave her pause.

But she had to know.

Determined of a sudden, she nodded, once. And now took a still hesitant step towards him, searching his gaze silently. Finally closing her eyes without speaking again, she allowed her breathing to slow, to deepen.

She easily settled within herself, and now opened her mind to latch upon his own again resolutely, allowing the Energy to overtake them both as hers drifted into his. His breathing slowed as well, as the connection was completed.

With him, she drifted back...back to the day when, at seventeen, she had secreted out of the castle; curious to catch a glimpse of the newly inducted warriors as they were put through their paces.

She saw herself standing somewhere in front of him, and experienced again the rush of secret delight which had flowed through her upon recognizing his presence. She viewed herself turning to face him, recalling then being inwardly amused at the obvious appreciation upon his face. In his eyes.

YOU ARE EVEN MORE BEAUTIFUL than I imagined! Devaleh gasped.

She stood a few feet in front of him, regal in her bearing, budding into young womanhood, brash in defiance of the very protocol which could get him executed for merely being here, in her presence, alone or otherwise. Her hazel eyes regarded him solemnly, with no fear.

The awe in his voice had been unmistakable. She could sense that he meant her no harm. And in truth, she was thinking that he had much to appreciate as well. Already of considerable height—although she could tell that he was younger than he seemed—his lean, richly dark body rippled with the finely honed muscles he had earned upon the training field. His hands were strong-looking...and, he had the nicest smile.

Although he would not know this, she had been aware of his scrutiny on that day he had been awarded Internship. Her curiosity concerning him had been stirred then, yet she had not given this much further thought—until she recognized his continued interest, in moments when he had dared cast a glance at her.

Reminded again of his comment, she crossed her arms over her budding bosom, and took a step towards him. When he instinctively backed away, she took another, meeting his eyes directly and saying softly,

"You are quite bold, Sir. I am future Queen, and yet you stand in my presence?"

Devaleh experienced a moment of panic. As he raised his eyes to hers with the intended apology however, he quickly saw the light of merriment there. She was having a jest at his expense!

Emboldened by her good humor, he now took the forward step, saying impulsively, Does being a Princess mean that I am not to notice you are beautiful? This earned him a full smile, in his opinion more radiant than the Nubian Sun, which warmed his heart and considerably brightened his day.

Enjoying this little game, Tyelah now playfully assumed her most Royal manner. You are not only bold, but impertinent as well!

Her tone seemed light, yet Devaleh sobered immediately. Going to one knee before her, he spoke humbly, Your forgiveness, Highness...I wish to seem neither impertinent nor insolent. Thinking this a good moment to retreat, he went on haltingly, If it please, Milady, I should return to my regiment.

This time when he raised his eyes, she stood directly before him, bringing the distance between them to mere inches...

Close.

And, she intoned with a different quality in her voice, ...if it should not please me?

She realized that she had caused him a bit of discomfort, and tried to make amends for her seeming severity. You need not go. Truly. I was having a bit of amusement, yet I am enjoying speaking with you. I find you, interesting. Besides... here the playful light returned to her eyes, ...I wish to hear why you have been seeking my appearances about the Palace grounds. She smiled a bit, seeing that her awareness of this baffled him slightly.

He was indeed surprised by her knowledge of his interest, and pondered briefly how to reply. Then, deciding that there would never be an opportunity such as this again, decided to toss caution to the wind.

He smiled handsomely, and told her with meaning, Because, I have wondered...I mean...I was hoping...

Looking into his eyes, Tyelah did not need the power of her Sight to infer the completion of this sentence. Yet she asked anyway, What were you, ah...hoping? A shiver ran through her at the look that he gave her.

He stepped forward to close the remaining distance between them.  The desire to taste her mouth was clear in his eyes. And though she had no true idea of what being kissed would feel like, she was most aware of the fact that he fully intended to do so. And, that she wished it to be so.

When finally, his lips touched hers, very lightly, the thought flashed through her mind that her father would kill her if he knew. This caused her to giggle.

Devaleh, raising his head slightly to gaze down at her, asked with a confused smile, Does my kiss amuse Milady, then?

She began to shake her head, to assure him that this certainly was not what she had been experiencing—the kiss had actually been quite nice. Yet, before she could she detected a blur of movement off to his side. Her eyes went wide, and she cried out, NO!

Knowing that this obviously was not in response to his query, and noting that her gaze was far over his shoulder—behind him—Devaleh was immediately alarmed. And even realizing with dismay that it was already too late, he nonetheless spun about hurriedly.

He had, he chided himself harshly, known the dangers of being alone with the Princess. And most surely had known far better than to take such a liberty as to touch her, in any manner! Now, idiot that he was, he would pay for his folly with his life! Kusta would kill him for his rashness, and spare him no mercy for his youth!

The enraged giant, his eyes burning with murderous intent, gripped him about the neck without a word, lifting him fully off of the ground. His struggles were to no avail, and in the next instant he was flung across the yard, crashing heavily upon the ground. Here he lay, all training forgotten, awaiting the slice of the sword which Kusta was drawing from his side even in that moment.

When to his surprise the expected piercing did not come, he risked raising his head slightly. His gaze fell upon Tyelah, who had quickly placed herself between him and her Keeper.

Outraged, she stood with hands on her softly rounded hips, glaring up at Kusta as she snapped, What are you doing?

My Duty, Highness, was the guard's calm reply.

She continued to eye him angrily. You intend to kill him!

As would be fitting, Princess. He was undaunted in the face of her ire, instead his eyes raked over Devaleh with disgust. You know nothing of this boy. HE is a nothing! He paused thoughtfully; chiding her, You deliberately misled me, so that you might sneak away. She had told him that she was going to nap for a while. Now I find you here, in the embrace of this...mongrel!! Surely, you did not arrange this??

Stung by the accusation of impropriety, she gasped out, How dare you?!

I dare, Little One, he retorted softly, standing spear straight before her. It is my Duty.

To Devaleh—who had not risen from his place on the ground—he was every bit the warrior, every bit the protector, and every bit the ready executioner! Despite his terror however, he found himself quite impressed with Tyelah, who seemed to have no intention of backing down either.

She straightened her back, regained her Royal bearing and, with a toss of her head, lowered her own voice to match his tone, "Do not forget to whom you speak, Guard. I am no longer a child. And I would remind you, that your 'Duty' is to protect me, not tell me what I am to do. As you could clearly see, I was in no danger. Thus you may return to your other 'Duties'!"

She did not seem surprised when he made no motion to leave, and instead, with a certain regality of his own, replied, Aye, Princess, as you say, I was not trained to be your parent. Yet that does not excuse what I witnessed here. This commoner was kissing you, for the sake of the Fates! The King would hardly be pleased, were he to learn of such.

Even Devaleh, from where he lay across the yard, could see that the guard had made a terrible mistake with this ploy. Fire flashed briefly into her eyes; and suddenly was gone.

She sighed with bored decisiveness, Very well, Kusta. I shall return to my suite. Her gaze shifted. Yet allow me to be perfectly clear...Devaleh (who was this time surprised by her knowledge of his name) ...is to be regarded as my friend. You are never to harm him again, in any manner. Furthermore... here her tone took on a hard edge, while we are about the subject of your 'Duty', Lieutenant-Major Obe, you would do well to remember that it is supposed to be to Me. I shall be Queen someday...and my memory is quite sound."

When he did not reply, she spun on her heel and strode away. Coming to a halt before Devaleh, she held out her hand, waiting for him to accept it before helping him to his feet.

You are not injured? When he shook his head, she took his arm, leading him several feet further away from where Kusta stood. No further harm shall befall you.

Although he greatly appreciated her rescue, and defense, he recognized the madness of what he had done. Thus he quickly spoke up, loudly enough for Kusta to hear; Princess, I am most grateful for your tolerance. Yet I must apologize for my forwardness. I have nothing to offer one so esteemed as you. You are the future Queen of Nubia.

She tilted her head in that manner again, then replied for his ears only, Perhaps. Yet does this prevent my knowing whom I choose to befriend?

The look she gave him melted his heart. Already in love with her, he realized that he was setting his sights on heartbreak. He could never have her. He knew as well that Kusta would merrily break his neck. And that, should her father find out, he would order his neck separated!

None of it mattered. If her friendship was all she offered, he would gladly accept. After a quick glance at Kusta—who glared back at him murderously—he turned back to her with a soft smile, replying, Surely not, Princess. I am, indeed, bound by whatever your desire...and certainly honored to be deemed friend.

Excellent! She exclaimed, her good spirits restored. She then made a face, slanting her eyes in Kusta's direction, as she finished with a conspirator's smile, I had best go now. And you had best return to your regiment... her voice dropped playfully, ...before you get into trouble.