Masters of the Golden Wisdom

By Elle Maurene

The influential Temple of Nieubi has dominated the land for many decades, resulting in the spiritual stagnation of its inhabitants. Xenia, a beautiful young temple scribe, is sent to a neighboring province to tutor the son of Vondran, a powerful landowner, who not only tries to seduce her but also wants her to reveal secret temple information. Further, a strange old man reveals to her a secret word that can bring spiritual freedom to those who chant it hidden from the masses for many years by the temple elders. Her life will be in danger if she reveals it, but doing so could ultimately end temple domination.>

Xenia must decide whether to reveal this information, succumb to the advances of the exciting Vondran, or marry the kind-hearted Zander. But mysterious Masters appear, telling her to teach the secret word to all. Can she trust their guidance? These are the choices open to Xenia and spiritual freedom for future generations hinges on her ultimate decision.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Dec 31, 2007
• ISBN: 9781462804122

Elle Maurene

Elle Maurene 1450 E. Bethany Home, #27 Phoenix, AZ 85014 602-287-0187 p/f 602-309-3312 c [e-mail] Author Profile for Masters of the Golden Wisdom Elle Maurene is a marketing/sales professional who has written a column entitled “The Spiritual Viewpoint” for The Omega Directory in Phoenix, published/edited Spirituality Digest, published an article in Holistic Life Magazine, and edited The Golden Age Newsletter. She is also currently a member of the clergy of a spiritual religion and has given many talks and workshops. She currently lives in Phoenix.

Book preview

Chapter 1

As she listened to the rasping sound of the carriage wheels grind against the hard rutted road, Xenia felt excitement rising in her breast. She was a young temple scribe on her way to Kenmuth to tutor the son of a wealthy landowner. Only the very rich could afford to pay the price for this type of private teaching, and Vondran of Kenmuth was known to be one of the wealthiest, most powerful men in the land.

I’m so happy to be leaving the people at the temple for a while, she said to no one in particular. Especially that mean old crone, Orles.

Her friend Phoebe was jarred awake by a rut in the road. Xenia was glad that Phoebe was allowed to accompany her on this journey. It took some persuading to convince the temple elders to also send Phoebe as an assistant tutor. Xenia, however, had beyond-her-years persuasive abilities, and because Vondran had paid a handsome fee for her services, the elders finally agreed.

Her best friend and confidant was a rather plain but voluptuous girl of nineteen—the same age as Xenia. Phoebe had dark hair and eyes and a body that men stared at. They had been friends for ten years. One of their main topics of discussion was always which of the male temple scribes would make them suitable husbands.

The temple gossips said that Xenia and Darius, a master scribe, were partial to each other, but no one really knew for sure. Temple gossip was a way to pass the time.

One of the recent topics for discussion was the selection of Xenia as the tutor for Vondran’s son. He was known by reputation as a powerful, charismatic man and this caused much speculation among the temple folk.

Why would the elders select one as young and inexperienced as Xenia, was the general question, especially since she is also beautiful?

As the carriage arrived at its destination, the doors to the house opened, and a large man walked out and stood silently on the porch. He looked like a sentinel guarding his kingdom, and Xenia knew that this must be Vondran.

His home was as imposing as he was. It was massive and solid. Large and many-faceted with a few red turrets haphazardly thrown in; it was a man’s home with dark wood and heavy furnishings. It was designed to impress with largesse, but not much light.

Xenia sensed a strong-willed determination about this person as he slowly walked down to greet the party from Nieubi. He moved very deliberately and appeared to be quite controlled in his actions. As he approached her, she felt a strong pull, as if some force was emanating from him.

He reached out his hand to her, and as she took it, she felt his power. She tried not to register surprise, but she knew that he sensed it.

Xenia, welcome to Kenmuth. I want you to feel that my home is yours during your time here. Anything that you desire, please do not hesitate to ask.

Xenia noticed that he appeared to be eyeing Phoebe’s figure as he spoke.

And that goes for your friend also. Please come into my home and refresh yourselves. My servant, Bakra, will attend to your needs and draw your baths. The evening meal is at eight o’clock, and you can meet my son, Illius.

With that he turned and walked into the courtyard, and they appeared to be dismissed.

The girls were led into exquisite quarters at the rear of the home. Xenia’s room was particularly lovely. It certainly was a woman’s room with colors of yellow, violet, and touches of green.

He’s probably entertained a lot of ladies, Xenia told Phoebe who readily concurred.

After her bath, Xenia lay down for a nap before the evening meal. She fell into a vision-like dream state and immediately found herself in another world with Vondran. It was a world of heightened colors and sounds. They were walking along a path through a meadow, and a wonderful feeling was emanating from him. Then they seemed to melt into one another, and the feeling was exquisite beyond description.

Xenia looked slightly confused when the household assembled in the dining hall at the appointed hour for dinner. Bakra had laid out a lovely violet dress with accompanying flowers for her hair. The dress was longer than she was used to and was of an almost transparent material which molded itself to her every curve. A golden sash encircled her waist. This was a departure from the customary white worn by the young temple scribes.

To a casual observer, she appeared to be enjoying the womanly effect that she was having on Vondran. Her comfort and discomfort were not lost on him.

You look very lovely tonight, Xenia. Come and meet Illius. Xenia blushed but appeared to keep her composure as she introduced herself to the boy, a fair-haired child of about eight.

All throughout dinner, Vondran spoke of his properties and recounted humorous stories about his workers and servants. He presented himself to be a man of fairness and even magnanimity.

After dinner, he showed her his gardens. The warm, fragrant night air was awash with the scent of lilac and jasmine as they strolled down the paths. Vondran told her more stories of his estate folk, and she talked about her life at the Nieubi Temple. She had never spent time with an older man before, other than the elders, and didn’t really know what to say. She was delighted when he did most of the talking.

The evening ended with a light goodnight kiss on the cheek from Vondran, which sent a thrill through her body. She went to her room feeling slightly dazed.

He certainly can be charming, she told Phoebe as she recapped the events of the evening. I’ve never known anyone like him, she said as she noticed a rather envious look on Phoebe’s face.

The next morning found the household astir with activity. Vondran had left by the time the girls appeared at breakfast.

Afterwards as she sat in the garden, Bakra joined her. After some preliminary conversation, the servant appeared to be most eager to talk about the master of the house.

"Vondran was an orphan found wandering in the woods on this very property by Tora, the wife of the owner. He was a dazed and confused boy of about four who didn’t even know his name. Tora brought him home and begged her husband to let him stay and raise him as their own, as they had not been blessed with children. Matas did not like the boy from the beginning, but bowed to his wife’s wishes.

"Vondran was a rather slow-moving and covert boy. He was strong willed and purposeful about his intentions and actions. He grew to be large in size with light brown hair and green eyes. He always exhibited a certain personal power that came from within. It caused others to both fear and respect him.

As a young boy, he possessed a terrible temper which caused his mother great concern. If provoked beyond his limits, he seemed to blank out and strike forth in blind fury at his antagonist, having little remembrance of the incident after it was over. As he grew to manhood, these incidents seemed to lessen. I think that he’s afraid it may happen again.

Bakra was only too eager to tell Xenia about the women in Vondran’s life. Apparently, there had been many. His wife had died shortly after the birth of Illius. Bakra thought that the marriage had been more of an afterthought following a previous tragedy in his life, and she did not elaborate further.

The servant said that he had a certain sweetness when he spoke, though, that played on women’s emotions and drew them in. Xenia thought that she detected a little anger on Bakra’s part towards Vondran as she related his story.

Vondran returned home later in the day with his male servant. He appeared to be agitated and did not reappear until the evening meal.

Phoebe was restless and spoke of returning to the temple. Vondran requested that she remain in Kenmuth a little longer and told the girls that he would accompany them to the village the next day.

After dinner that evening, Xenia was invited into his study to learn the extent of her tutoring duties. He seemed to be rather preoccupied with something and was quite matter of fact about her responsibilities.

The next day found the trio riding to the Village of Kenmuth. People looked and moved back with respect when Vondran walked through the crowd.

He must really be something, whispered Phoebe.

While standing near a food stall, a tall thin man strolled up to them. Xenia thought he had the most piercing blue eyes that she had ever seen.

Vondran, aren’t you going to introduce me to these lovely ladies?

Certainly, why wouldn’t I? he bristled. Zander, this is Xenia and Phoebe from the Nieubi Temple. Xenia has been sent here to tutor my son, Illius. Zander is a neighbor of mine.

Pleased to meet two such lovely ladies, he said.

Likewise, exclaimed both girls, almost in unison.

Zander looked directly at Xenia when he said, Will you be staying long in Kenmuth?

Xenia was rather excited as she said, I believe it is permanent at least for the time being. That is up to Vondran.

Well then, Zander said with obvious pleasure, I’m going to have a gathering to welcome you both to Kenmuth and introduce you to our local society, such as it is. Can I count on you to attend? This was said as he looked directly at Vondran.

Don’t ask me. It’s entirely up to the ladies.

Zander now looked directly at Xenia and said, Well?

With apparent pleasure, she replied, We’d love to attend. And then she added, I’ve actually never been to a gathering before.

Well then, said Zander, I’m honored to be the first person to invite you. Then he hastily added, And Vondran, of course, you’re invited also.

I won’t be attending, but the ladies will be accompanied by Bakra, he replied. Just send your messenger with the time and date and I’ll make sure that they arrive on time. Good day to you, Zander.

Good day to all of you. Until we meet again ladies, he said with his eyes on Xenia. Until we meet again—soon.

This chance meeting appeared to cast a pall on the mood of the morning. Xenia noticed that Vondran became rather taciturn and quiet after that.

On the way home, Vondran showed them his favorite part of the property called Berrien Springs. It was a magical-looking place where they stopped to refresh themselves. Berrien was a section of land that was heavily wooded, contained a few meadows, and even had a creek running through the lowlands. It’s called Lemon Creek, he said.

One particularly beautiful area of the woods was a meadow that had a little bridge crossing Lemon Creek. Cattle grazed sporadically in the meadow and the interplay of light and shadows from the oak leaves caused an almost mystical, pastoral scene.

I love Berrien Springs, he said passionately and walked with Xenia and Phoebe towards the bridge. I spent much time here as a boy as I didn’t have too many friends.

Xenia had to admit that it was a fascinating place. She felt a warmth towards him as he seemed quite vulnerable. Phoebe also appeared to be moved by his words.

Xenia, you don’t have to keep him all to yourself, you know, she whispered to her friend. I think he finds me attractive also.

Phoebe, keep quiet, or he’ll hear you. You’re embarrassing me.

Xenia, just because you were chosen for this assignment doesn’t give you the right to lord it over me, she said and flounced off towards the bridge.

Vondran noticed the tone of the little outburst with amusement.

Later that evening, Xenia talked about the upcoming event at Zander’s house with Phoebe, who had by this time calmed down.

I wonder what his house will look like. Will it be larger and grander than Vondran’s home? This is so exciting, she gushed.

Well, he certainly appeared to be taken with you, Xenia. I think you should pursue him and leave Vondran for me.

Oh, don’t be silly, said Xenia. These are both worldly mature men. What would either of them want with us?

Xenia, you are so naïve! We’re both attractive girls, and any man would want us. I hope that I can stay here and that Vondran falls in love with me. I wouldn’t have told you about my plan, but I know that you’re interested in Zander, so what do you care. You’re not mad at me, are you?

Of course not, Phoebe, but we really don’t know either of these men yet. Perhaps we should just wait and see what happens, said Xenia.

She said this, however, to counteract the aggressiveness of her friend as she didn’t really want the two of them to overstep their bounds and be sent back to the temple. She actually was feeling restless and eager for life’s new adventures. After all, she had been brought to the temple as a child of six, and that was the only life she had known. Xenia sensed that her destiny could now lie in Kenmuth.

Chapter 2

Darius sometimes thought that he had lived at the temple for all of his life, and this was, indeed, close to the truth. He had been found by the priest—abandoned as a boy in the marketplace. The usual procedure in those days was that all abandoned and orphaned children were brought to the temple to be trained in capacities as their talents warranted.

The temple organization provided for two classes of service—teachers and priests. Upon entering into temple life, one was given the classification of novice. After a certain period of observation, classification, training, and testing, the individual either was raised to the position of scribe or student priest or forever classified as a temple worker.

The line of temple teachers consisted of master scribes and scribes. The scribes did all of the transcription work under the supervision of the master scribes, who also taught certain aspects of the knowledge to those who could afford to travel and study at the temple. They also went out into the community to teach as private tutors to the rich and privileged.

The line of temple priests consisted of both the priests and student priests. The priests officiated at all ceremonies, rituals, and services with the student priests assisting at different levels of responsibility as their talents and experience indicated. They also acted as servants and assistants for the priests in a variety of situations.

The highest position one could attain at the temple was that of elder. Both the master scribes and priests could become elders by proving themselves through service, wisdom, or by attaining political power within the temple hierarchy.

There was always a total of nine elders who made all of the critical decisions not only about the temple business but also the control, disposition, and dispersal of the ancient knowledge.

Darius was placed within the teaching line at an early age. He seemed to have an aptitude for instructing others. He was very mental and adhered to the letter of instructions given to him and insisted that his students did also. He also had a strong desire to please his teachers and an inordinate fear of their disapproval—twin characteristics that made him a perfect candidate for eventual eldership in those days. At fourteen, he was made a scribe, and he had arisen through dedication and tireless service to the position of master scribe. The life of the temple was all that he knew.

Xenia had brought pleasure to his life in a way that had left him both frustrated and fulfilled. The other girls were more predictable, he mused, thinking of other young novices and scribes. They could be controlled by his position, if not his presence. There was something about Xenia, though, that frustrated him to distraction. He thought her very beautiful with copper hair coiled around her head, hanging in a single strand down her back. Her eyes, though, were what fascinated him the most, for they were truly riveting—sea green with little golden flecks peeking out.

No one would ever see too far into those eyes, he thought. Xenia always seemed to be secretly pleased at this, as if she were aware of their mysterious quality and their ability to keep him guessing.

Just when it appeared that she was under his influence, she’d slip out. The girl had an inner independence that would not be contained even though her presence was rather gentle. This intrigued him to no end, and Darius was determined to both possess and control her.

I must speak with Orles about this. And by the thought of her, she was immediately in his consciousness.

Orles was the resident crone of the temple. She had remained celibate throughout her years as a master scribe and so had formed intense mental relationships with some of the others—but none so intense as with Darius.

He carried her everywhere in his consciousness. In fact, he could not rid himself of her now. She had become almost an entity inside of him, and he was possessed at times with her beingness. It was, of course, a love-hate relationship producing alternate anger and then remorse, guilt, and finally overconcern.

Darius was always torn between his lifelong desire to become a temple elder, and his desire for a woman with whom to share his passion. Although scribes and even elders were allowed to marry, he felt that Xenia would never quite fit into that mold. So although he really knew that their relationship may never end in marriage, this did not allay his passion for her. In fact, it really fueled it! And now