Amour from Zaltana

By Kimberly Vogel

Four years ago Jyotis took over the position as Head Matchmaker of Zaltana. While the city has been calm enough, the capitol of Sierra has been abuzz in anticipation of the eldest prince's engagement. Or rather, who might be the queen. While Prince Ronadel might not be able to marry someone from within the country due to political reasons, there's also his two year younger brother Baylis in the running... (Sierra Matchmaker Series Book 3)

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu.com
• Release date: Dec 11, 2011
• ISBN: 9781105345166

Book preview

Amour from Zaltana

Amour from Zaltana

Copyright

Copyright © 2011 by Kimberly Vogel.

ISBN eBook 978-1-105-34516-6

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

For additional copies refer to:

http://www.lulu.com/shakkathi

Acknowledgements

I want to thank my family and friends for supporting me.

Without you, I don’t know where I would be.

Chapter 1

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With a sigh, a short brunette cast her green eyes around the room. Though she’d attempted to make the study her own, it didn’t feel right to change her teacher’s place. It had been four years since she’d taken over as the head matchmaker in Zaltana. What the previous woman had done meant the city’s next generation had a chance of being created. On the other side of the duplex, the midwife made sure that they were born.

Another sigh left Jyotis Chermona’s lips. The month was March, so the matchmaking season would begin as soon as she put the appointment list on her door. From then it would last for around nine months. In November the weather would become too dangerous to travel through the streets. Zaltana was in a place where there was wilderness to the northwest and mountains around the rest of the city. The weather could be quite troublesome.

A third sigh left the woman’s lips. She shook her head then stood with a parchment in hand. If I don’t get moving all of his work is going to wear me out before I’ve begun. The young woman was thirty-four now, so she was the same age that her teacher had been when she had taken an apprentice. She needed to wait another five years before she could take on an apprentice of her own. With a quick step she went out of the study, down the stairs, and around the hallway to the common lounge in the back of the duplex.

Jyotis? Are you going out?

No, I just thought I’d put the list up before finding something else to do.

With a chuckle, the blonde woman on the couch said, I understand. It’s so much harder doing it alone. Just two years older than the matchmaker, Rusalka Gayan had taken over the head midwife position at the same time. She too had pale skin, but her eyes were brown.

Yes, said Jyotis. She sighed. Then she blinked and shook her head. I think I have to get out. I’m going to sigh myself to death.

With a chuckle, Rusalka stood up. I’ll help you put that up. She went from the back of the duplex to the hallway for the matchmaker’s entry door. Maybe you should get some fresh air.

It does seem a little stuffy in here.

So go out and have a drink. Rusalka waved and opened the door. As she stepped outside, she continued to speak. "You could use it. Besides, I’m sure Sasha will be at the Heavy Grape Tavern."

Jyotis smiled at the thought of seeing her teacher again. Yes, I’m sure you’re right.

Go on then.

With a slight nod, Jyotis put the list against the door. Though she could do it by herself, it felt nice to have someone with her again. She hung the parchments on the door’s surface. I’ll do it. What about you?

I’m going to bed. Rusalka gave a small smile while she watched the matchmaker. I’m exhausted. Once the papers were up, she brushed her hands down along the finely-embroidered white apron. Though it would have been better to have a short dress under it, this midwife preferred a long red gown. With the chill in the air it was probably a better choice.

Go then. I know you need it. Jyotis shook her head. At least as matchmaker she didn’t get calls in the middle of the night as a semi-regular occurrence. She grabbed a pale blue cape from the hanger by the door. Once she had it around her shoulders it blended in with her matching vest and outer skirt. Under the last was a pale golden fabric, like that of her headband. Under her vest was a white shirt with a crystal pendant below her throat.

I’ll see you tomorrow then. Goodnight, Jyotis.

With a nod the matchmaker waved at the midwife. Jyotis watched her return into the hallway and closed her door. On the outside the duplex appeared to be two separate homes that shared the same wall. Except for the sitting room at the back, that was true. Jyotis looked up at the second level then turned her attention to the street.

Each of the buildings was mainly created out of stone. Wood was rather rare, but places such as public offices and businesses splurged for the atmosphere it brought. One of those was the tavern far down the streets. It was a charming place.

Jyotis smiled happily as she entered. Age had slowed the owner, Zurishadai Shoval, but he was as warm and friendly as he’d ever been. The head matchmaker cast her gaze around the space. This time of night was the busiest, so the five foot four inch woman had to dart around the others to make her way back to the bar.

Laughing, the fifty-eight year old owner chatted with some of his guests. As he noticed Jyotis, though, he directed his attention to her. With a wave, the six inch taller man limped around from behind the bar counter. Welcome back!

Jyotis, nice to see you! called out a black-haired woman. She had green eyes like Jyotis, but the two pale women were related only through their jobs. Sasha Melisent was the previous matchmaker. She stood two inches shorter than the bar’s owner. Her outfit was similar in tone to Jyotis’s with a blue jacket over a gold dress. A small wrapping hat matched her jacket.

Sasha, it’s good to see you. Jyotis smiled brightly while she headed over to her table. It was a small one close to the bar counter. Since the two older people had met it was a permanent thing. She turned her attention to the bar’s owner. And Zurishadai, it’s a pleasure as always.

Why thank you, said the tanned man. Zurishadai pushed his brown hair back from his green eyes. Much like Sasha’s outfit he wore a short jacket over his main long-sleeved tunic and slacks. It was black over brown with a curious gold detail along the collar and around the belt. May I get you anything to drink?

Just some hot chocolate would be nice.

I’ll get it. With a nod, Zurishadai went as quickly as he could from the table to the bar counter.

Thank you, said Jyotis. She wandered over to Sasha’s table. May I sit with you?

Of course, replied Sasha.

With a smile, Jyotis pulled out the second chair then sat down. How’ve things been?

Just fine, replied Sasha. She leaned her arms against the tabletop. I’m enjoying my retirement. How are you enjoying being head matchmaker? Has the wonder worn off yet?

Yes, replied Jyotis. She chuckled while she shook her head. It’s so much trouble keeping track of it all on my own. How did you do it?

Those ledgers are your best friend. Sasha smiled and wrapped her hands around a mug of warm cider in front of her. That and keeping in contact with other people...

I see, murmured Jyotis.

Here you are, said Zurishadai as he returned. He placed the mug of hot chocolate down on the table. Then he pulled over a third chair. Mind if I sit down?

Go ahead. Jyotis smiled at him as she asked, How have things been here? She picked up the mug then sipped the liquid. How’s your health?

So many questions! Zurishadai laughed and sat down. I’m doing well, though. He smiled while he bobbed his head. I’ve given more power over to the others on the staff to lighten the load, but I still want to work... I like being here.

I’m glad you’re here. How else would I see you?

Zurishadai turned his gaze to Sasha. With a smile on his lips, he replied, I like seeing you too. I’m sure we could find a way to be together. His eyes turned to Jyotis. What say you, matchmaker?

Jyotis laughed lightly while she shook her head. If you two want to date then I have no objections to it. You don’t need my blessing. She smiled while she glanced from one to the other of them. You have it, though.

Zurishadai blinked at her. Whatever he expected to hear, it didn’t seem to be that. With a slight laugh, he ducked his head and rubbed his hand on the back of his head.

Likewise, Sasha stared at her former apprentice. Then she ducked her head and blushed. She did like the widower quite a bit, but she didn’t think that she could actually do such a thing.

Zurishadai coughed. Well... He lifted his head with a slight smile on his lips. I’ll keep that in mind.

Jyotis fought back a grin. She kept the smile while she lifted the mug to her lips. She took a few deep drinks. Once the heat was inside her, she put the mug down. Good, she said and nodded. Now I should get back... You two have fun.

With a faint laugh, Sasha waved her hand. Don’t be acting like you’re me now.

I could never be you, teacher, replied Jyotis. She stood with a chuckle. Goodnight Sasha, ’night Zurishadai. Thanks for the drink.

You’re welcome, Jyotis. Come back anytime. Zurishadai waved as he watched her go.

The former head matchmaker for Zaltana shook her head. Well that was interesting...

I suppose, said Zurishadai. The bar owner turned his attention to her. So, about what she said...

Sasha blushed again. She curled both hands around her cup. What about it?

Zurishadai coughed lightly. Do you think...such a thing would be possible?

Sasha coughed and lowered her head. Well...it depends.

On what?

Sasha’s eyes turned around the inside of the tavern. The bar part was on the left-hand side. On the direct opposite side were the stairs for the next level which held the bedrooms. Between the two stations were booths and tables. The matchmaker smiled as she noticed it hadn’t changed at all over the decades. There was mostly brown and green décor, though a few splashes of purple broke up the higher points. All of the cushions were green. Slowly, Sasha lifted her gaze to the tavern’s owner and replied, I know you can’t forget about your late wife, but if we are going to date you’ll have to put her aside for me.

An uncomfortable expression overtook Zurishadai’s features. He winced while he shifted in his seat. It still hurts. I can’t deny that. He took a deep breath while he eased his face. If I wasn’t ready to take a chance with you, though, I wouldn’t bring it up.

With a slight nod, Sasha watched the tavern owner closely. They had been friends for decades, but the thought of being with him in a romantic capacity wasn’t something she had dared allow herself to believe could happen. Now, perhaps it could be so. The pink rose on her pale cheeks as Sasha said, Take a chance with me? You know I don’t go halfway on anything.

Neither do I, replied Zurishadai. He straightened his spine while he watched her closely. Sasha, I feel like I’ve gotten to know you over the years. Moving into marriage might be too much of a step forward, but I would like to date you. May I have the honor of pursuing you?

Sasha’s blush deepened while she leaned closer. She placed his hand on top of his. Yes, Zurishadai you may. I’m honored to have you interested in me that way.

I’m more honored that you’ve accepted.

No, I’m more honored because I’ve liked you for a while, Sasha admitted. The redness on her cheeks connected over the bridge of her nose.

Zurishadai blinked several times. Then he smiled and leaned in closer to her. I thought so, but I didn’t want you to give up your work for me. I know that’s what matchmakers have to do...

You’re sweet, said Sasha. She cuddled against him. It was a little awkward as they leaned around the side of the table, but it was cute at the same time.

Zurishadai lifted his hand. He placed it on her shoulder. With his smile gaining warmth, he sat quietly with the one he had grown to love. Together, he and she were on their way to a new life.

Out on the street, Jyotis walked back to the duplex. Despite the chill of the early spring evening, many who were still awake were walking along the sidewalks in search of something to do for relaxation. Zaltana was a mountain town, so much of the wealth came from the stone and minerals found within it. A good portion of the work inside the city came from the transport of the stuff from the mountains to shops which turned it into other things. Those could be sold inside the city as well as exported northeast across the barren stretch into the forest border of the neighboring country of Everly. Life in the city wasn’t as harsh as out on the mountainsides, but it was by no means easy.

As she walked, Jyotis chatted with various other people. As the head matchmaker for this city she was the center of attention wherever she went. It delayed her trips back and forth, especially whenever it was after the traditional hours for work. Jyotis tried her best to be civil to everyone as she made her way back before it was completely dark.

Shaking her head, Jyotis opened her door. As expected, behind it was a pile of letters with requests to gain audience. The rulers’ needs came first, so no matter what the matchmaker planned it could change for them. Jyotis already knew that in a few days she would travel to the capital city of Ogilvie for an audience with the Queen about her eldest son. Jyotis sighed as she collected the letters from the floor. She would look at them the following day. That night she had to sleep to renew her mind for the upcoming interviews. That in mind, the matchmaker retired.

Chapter 2

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After the flurry of activity at the very beginning of the season, Jyotis packed up for her trip to the capital city. Of the three mountain ranges that went southwest through the region, Ogilvie rested at the base of the one west of dead center on the middle range. There were eight peaks on that range, the same number as the range north and one more than the range to the south.

Of all countries in the world, Sierra was the smallest on the main continent. Even after the reduction of their land, Tsubasa had more land. Part of their country had become Sierra when Everly cut Tsubasa in half. The remaining land southeast of the mountains was the only meadowland that Sierra had. It was in a crescent shape due to the river that went southeast along the continent. Except for a stretch at the northwest, the river cut the continent in half. 

As Jyotis rode in the carriage, she thought about the state the country was in. With more than just a single female heir, it was imperative that they bring in a princess or other royalty from one of the countries they were friendly with. Although they were neighbors, Sierra had broken away from Everly fairly early in their history. The bad blood of the feuding ancestors had continued through many generations, though it wasn’t entirely on purpose.

It was a few days’ journey from Zaltana to Ogilvie due to the altitude of the mountains. The capital city went all around the base of the mountain. As it grew it drew closer to the royal palace which stretched around the peak. There were two completed levels. The first floor was at the top and then it stretched down along the mountain’s face. Each ruler added a wing to the palace. Queen Hantaywee made her wing as the first on the third level. Since it was the first, it was more of an entryway. It was there that the carriage pulled up to.

Once she arrived, Jyotis stepped out of the carriage then into the front doors. Ah, it looks complete now.

A servant hurried over. With a chuckle she replied, Yes, it was finished just last autumn. May I take your bags, Matchmaker Jyotis?

Thank you, said Jyotis. She smiled up at the younger woman. Have the other matchmakers arrived as well?

Yes, ma’am, replied the servant. She gestured for others to help. Then she took the lightest bag under her arm. As they walked through the various wings she continued to speak, All five in the different cities have arrived, counting you.

I don’t suppose Gerdie ever left.

No, and her teacher Fanya is still around.

Jyotis chuckled at the thought. I figured as much.

With a nod, the servant led the way into the wing where the representative from Zaltana would spend her week. The structure of it was split so a lofted section up along the mountainside contained the sleeping rooms. The lower area was the entrance along with other seating areas including a study.

This is a nice one, Jyotis said as she glanced around.

I’m glad you like it, replied the servant. She led the procession up the side stairs to the balcony. You came just in time for dinner. Will you join the others?

Sadly I think I should get a good night’s rest instead. Jyotis shook her head. She went down the second hallway to the door of the first bedroom. As she opened the door then entered she continued to speak, I’m sure they’ll understand.

Yes, I’ll tell them of your regrets at not being able to attend the dinner.

Thank you.

The line of servants went into the bedroom. Once Jyotis was unpacked she went to bed. In the morning a servant brought dinner to a table on the main floor. Soon it would be time to join the queen and other matchmakers for the meeting they all came to attend.

In the first level wing that held the ruling family’s residence, the queen was sitting at a long table made for such gatherings. A slight gap in the middle was just wide enough that a thin servant could squeeze in if they needed to. At the end without the gap, Queen Hantaywee Amitz waited for the others to arrive. Her husband Delatondo Irirangi wouldn’t be there since he had decided to keep the kids out of the way.

Majesty, said Jyotis as she entered the room.

Jyotis! Welcome back, replied Queen Hantaywee. She smiled broadly while she held both hands out.

It’s wonderful to see you again, said Jyotis as she walked over to the ruler. She leaned over then hugged her. How have things been?

It will be better once we figure out this mess, but other than that it’s fine, replied Queen Hantaywee with a laugh.

That’s what we’re here for, said another matchmaker as she entered. This one was easy to recognize due to her gray hair. Coming from the other side, she leaned in and embraced the queen as well.

Welcome, Choko, replied