Fire

By J. M. Marnix

As the daughter of a noble Menuma lives a life of luxury with servants to fulfil every wish. She has every reason to look forward to her 18th birthday. Forced to marry a man she fears, she realises it is a golden cage. The only hope to save her family is to run away from home and leaving everything behind. While on the run and looking for help she meets Pjotr, who is also changing his destiny. After his parents died he discovers he is not who he thought he was. A single coin is the only clue he has to start his journey of discovery. Following the clues he meets Menuma and rescues her from a dangerous situation. Both are looking for help from the Old Woman at the Lake and the magic people she belongs to. They discover not just who they are, they also try to thwart a conspiracy, prevent a war and find a dragon.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Austin Macauley Publishers
• Release date: Feb 28, 2022
• ISBN: 9781528997430

J. M. Marnix

J. M. Marnix has lived and worked as a teacher in many countries. Reading books to children has always been very important to her. On request of her class and her own children she started to create her own stories, set in new worlds. The step to writing the stories down was made with the favourite story of her children. Currently she lives in a small village in the Netherlands, with both her children. She works as a teacher in the Special Needs Education.

Book preview

About the Author

J. M. Marnix has lived and worked as a teacher in many countries. Reading books to children has always been very important to her. On request of her class and her own children she started to create her own stories, set in new worlds. The step to writing the stories down was made with the favourite story of her children.

Currently she lives in a small village in the Netherlands, with both her children. She works as a teacher in the Special Needs Education.

Dedication

To Marcus and Jules, whom both have inspired me to live my own life.

Copyright Information ©

J. M. Marnix 2022

The right of J. M. Marnix to be identified as author of this work has been asserted by the author in accordance with section 77 and 78 of the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior permission of the publishers.

Any person who commits any unauthorised act in relation to this publication may be liable to criminal prosecution and civil claims for damages.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events, locales, and incidents are either the products of the author’s imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.

A CIP catalogue record for this title is available from the British Library.

ISBN 9781528997423 (Paperback)

ISBN 9781528997430 (ePub e-book)

www.austinmacauley.com

First Published 2022

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Prologue

The two countries were separated by only a high mountain ridge. In the North lay Ahan Sjodir, beautiful Ahan, wedged between the mountain ridge and the sea. At the other side of the ridge lay Da Zarda Hista, the kingdom Hista. Where colours, space, and sun coloured Ahan Sjodir, Da Zarda Hista was coloured by the many forests, the widespread grey castles and the simple clothing of the people. The weather was different, as if the high mountains kept the sun in Ahan Sjodir and the rain in Da Zarda Hista.

I could continue describing both countries, even telling you about their history, customs, or buildings. But that is not where this story starts. Where does it start?

Maybe it started when the people from Ahan Sjodir implemented their new system for ruling the country. Every five years the nobles elected a Sjamila, a ruler. And halfway his term, they would elect a council of nobles who would ensure he ruled fair and honest. They were sure it worked better than the system in Da Zarda Hista. There a Zar, a king, ruled the country. Only his eldest son was eligible as heir to the throne. And in the past the kings weren’t always honest and fair. The people of Ahan Sjodir were sure they couldn’t get a corrupt leader.

But maybe it started later, when a war almost broke out between the two countries. Nobody recalled how it happened, but the pass in the mountain ridge was closed and the war was prevented. But trade and communication between the two countries ended that day.

Maybe it started the day Sjamila Habras saw Shebaliza at the gala party he gave for his election as Sjamila of Ahan Sjodir. He saw her standing on the balcony in all her beauty and knew she had to become his wife. Normally Habras wasn’t that good at making decisions. So for him it was unusual to take such an important decision all at once. And one that went against his plans as well! He wanted to marry the daughter of an influential noble in Ahan, and Shebaliza was not from Ahan. But nevertheless, he went to the balcony to talk to her and after just one month asked for her hand in marriage.

Maybe this story starts just then, at the wedding of Habras and Shebaliza. They invited all the nobles of Ahan Sjodir with their families to come and celebrate. It didn’t happen often in Ahan Sjodir that all the nobles were in the capitol Ahan. Many parents took that opportunity to flaunt their sons and daughters, making agreements on further dates during the festive week. And although the beauty of Shebaliza was unsurpassed by any woman, there was one girl whom many would say equalled it: Menuma from ‘The House of Fulchi’. Maybe when Kisju, the right hand of Habras, saw her, she reminded him of Shebaliza. Maybe that is the reason he went to visit Fulchi after the wedding.

And maybe this story started even earlier in time, before Shebaliza even went to Ahan to meet Habras. Maybe so, but I think it is wise to start on the day Menuma’s father called her in his room.

Trapped!

Dust clouds filled the air as Menuma came galloping through the streets of Fulchi. It was nearing the end of the dry, hot summer, many people were hoping for the first autumn rain. Now the dust crept in every little corner of the houses and the dust from the galloping horse made many people angrily close their shutters.

The wind had taken a hold of her long blond hair and the silk shawl barely kept it covered. Seventeen-year-old Menuma slowly let her mare come to a halt in front of the house gates. While waiting for them to open, she was lost in thoughts. Something is wrong. Father looks worried and often his thoughts are miles away. Servants and teachers fired, horses sold. Well, at least I have more time riding Hannah.

Menuma patted her horse, waiting for the groom to arrive. She handed the reins to him as she jumped of her horse. Cleaning and feeding the horse was not her concern, she had to get cleaned and dressed for dinner. The wind had gotten hold of the long, red and gold silk banners decorating the house and the colours intermingled. Every noble house had its own colour-code, proudly shown with banners on the compound tower. A smile crossed Menuma’s lips as she saw the wind throw the banners in an order similar to another noble-house. It always annoyed her father!

The painting of her mother greeted her whenever she entered her sitting room at the second floor. It made her both happy and sad since her mother died eight years ago, when Menuma was only nine. Despite the best doctors her mother had wasted away and died in just six months. Menuma took of her boots and went into her bedroom. She took her favourite dress from the cupboard and laid it out on the bed. Sashi used to do this, but lately Sashi was too busy to help her with tasks like this. A small heap of sand gathered where she took off her clothes and another one where she threw the clothes for cleaning. In the bathroom a porcelain can was standing ready with warm water. Some herbs were laid out on the table to remove the dirt and smell of horse riding. Cleaning herself with herbs and fresh water was the best part of the day, according to Menuma.

Lost in thoughts again? Sashi stood in the doorway, her sturdy body leaning against the frame. Your father wants to talk to you before dinner.

Menuma wrapped a towel around and walked into the bedroom.

Are you going to wear this dress again? Sashi’s brown eyes scrutinised the dress on the bed. At least it’s only you and your father tonight.

I know, but he can still come, Menuma’s face showed her annoyance.

No, he was here this afternoon and left just before you came back from your visit to nanny.

They were talking about Kisju, who had been a guest at the house many times in the past two weeks. Although Kisju, as supreme commander, was the second man of the Sjamila Habras and therefore a powerful man, Menuma didn’t like him very much. He is arrogant and cocky, Menuma recalled. Always telling us how much he has and you know he has a bad reputation with women!

He is an important man and your father must be very proud to have him as a guest. For two weeks already! And he IS good looking.

Menuma stared at Sashi. Come on! She was amazed by Sashi’s remark. Do you fancy him?

No.

They both laughed. Sashi had dressed Menuma in the meantime. The several colours of green brought out the green in her eyes. Her many outrides had coloured her skin soft brown. Sashi tied Menuma’s hair and covered it with the shawl. You’re ready for your father.

Menuma almost ran down the stairs to her father’s room. After a light knock on the door she opened it carefully.

Yes father?

Close the door Menuma, he looked serious, There is an important matter to discuss.

Menuma curled up in her favourite chair, studying her father. He looked through the window at the people on the street. With his head lowered, the fading sunlight showed the grey strands coming through his blond hair. Menuma had teased him when she had seen the first grey hair. But she had to admit that it gave his handsome face a more distinct look.

I have just received an offer of marriage for you. From Kisju.

No! Menuma cried out.

Why not? He has been here many times since the wedding in Ahan. It was to be expected. Would it be so bad to be married to him?

Yes Father, yes! First of all, he is way too old! And I don’t like him, he is arrogant, self-centred, and has something cruel in him! And most of all, he is scary!!

But still, if marrying him would mean saving this house, would you marry him? Menuma sank down in the chair. What do you mean, father? she whispered. What’s wrong?

His fingers drummed on the desk, showing Menuma how stressed he was. Since your mother died, I have not been very attentive to you or this household. As a result, items have been stolen: money, food, valuable objects. I have discovered this only recently. The city also needed extra money. You remember the terrible storm that damaged so many houses last autumn? These had to be repaired. As mayor of Fulchi I must pay for it. Of course, when money is left after taxes, the city pays me back. It doesn’t look like I will get any money back soon, the roads need to be fixed this year and the –

Oh Father, why didn’t you tell me sooner?

On top of everything else, I have gambling debts. Menuma was startled. Yes, I know, I’m always telling everybody not to gamble. It all started in the beginning of last year. I met this woman and she took me to the chicken gamble. I knew then she wasn’t the kind of woman I would like to marry. But she amused me and made me laugh. I needed that very much at the time, as I was missing your mother terribly. I started to gamble as well. Months ago, I stopped seeing her, quit the gambling, and made an agreement with the gamblers that I would pay them back bit by bit. This afternoon Kisju came and asked for my permission to marry you. I told him honestly that I didn’t think you were that fond of him. Her father gave her a wry smile. He then told me how fond he is of this family and wants to be part of it. So much that he has bought all the debt-letters from the gamblers. All of them. Although he didn’t say it, it’s clear that he holds all the cards to ruin me. And you. He can demand me to pay the debts, which I can’t. That will give him ownership of most of our houses, lands, and everything else to settle the debts. I would also lose my job and my position. Menuma didn’t know what to say. She felt torn between pity for her father and disgust of the blackmail. Now please go to your room Menuma and think about Kisju’s offer. If you marry him, he will destroy all the debt papers and pay the arrears. It is a very large sum of money he is prepared to pay. Furthermore, he has a very important position, and as his wife you will have a high status as well.

Menuma was stunned from all the revelations and wanted to shout and scream. She knew it wouldn’t change anything and only further upset her father.

I’ll think about it, Father. It is a very big responsibility you give me and I will not take it lightly.

Slowly she walked back to her rooms and sat down on her bed. She was so lost in thought that she didn’t hear the door open or Sashi come in. Only as Sashi sat down next to her, Menuma noticed her.

What is wrong?

Menuma thought for a moment. ‘Could she share this with Sashi? After all, the financial situation of father is personal. But on the other hand, Sashi is more than a servant, she is a friend. She knows how to keep a secret.’

Menuma told Sashi about Kisju’s marriage offer and the problems her father had. As Sashi listened her eyes were getting bigger. They both sat on the bed, staring at the ground. Sashi was turning her dark brown hair in strands, as she always did when she was thinking hard. Suddenly Sashi jumped up. I think I’ve got it!

What is it?!

No, no, you stay here. I first have to check if I’m right and they almost close. You stay here! Sashi ran out of the room. From her window Menuma saw Sashi run towards the city-hall. Although it looked like hours, the door flung open just half an hour later. Sashi jumped up and down, waving some papers in her hand.

I’m right! I’m right! Her face beamed and her laughter was contagious.

What is it?

Sashi sat down on the bed with Menuma anxiously next to her. I suddenly remembered a court-case from when I was very young. You know my father used to work as a clerk in the court house and I often sat there looking at him. One day a man was on trial. His neighbour demanded money, based on debtor-papers he had. The neighbour had always fancied his wife and offered to trade her for the debt. The accused man had discussed it with his wife and in the end she had agreed. They got a divorce, after which a date was set to trade the now free woman for the debt papers. Only two days before that date, the wife left without a trace. Nobody knew where she was. The court ruled that the accused had kept his part of the bargain and divorced his wife. Therefore, the neighbour must hand over the debt papers, even if the wife is gone. The reason I remembered this so well, was because the verdict annoyed me. The judge said that a man, who bought a horse at the market, couldn’t ask his money back if the horse ran away. The fact that he compared a woman with an animal really made me mad!

You do know that a horse is considered noble?!

Anyway, I went to the city hall and asked the legal man there, if the same applies to an agreement about a daughter. And he said it was correct, as long as the trader, in this case your father, doesn’t have any prior knowledge of the intent to run away.

But Sashi, that means that I must run away from home.

Yes, that is true. And you must stay away for a year and a day. After that you can come home and Kisju has no claim on you!

Menuma thought for a while, weighing all her options. Just a year and a day, and then I am free from the promise and my father’s honour is saved? I will be able to do that.

I’m sure about it. But first you must ensure that the agreement is put on paper. And don’t let your father know what you are up to!

Menuma smiled. No way!

A Shimmer of Hope

Menuma decided to take action immediately. Her father sat behind his desk, his back to the door. Father? He turned around. I have decided to accept Kisju’s offer.

I cannot allow you to do that. You are still so young and to think that my foolishness is sentencing you to a life with a man you don’t… A tear formed in his eye and Menuma rushed to her father.

Don’t cry Father, it will be alright. Honest! She desperately wanted to tell her father of the plan Sashi and she had hatched, but she knew she couldn’t. Her father turned his head away from her, embarrassed to have shown her his tears.

You can tell Kisju that I accept his proposal and we must set a date.

"He will be here tomorrow after lunch. Maybe it’s best if you tell him you accept."

She sensed he would like to be alone and left. While eating in her chambers, Menuma had time to make some decisions. The best defence is a good attack, she decided. The best time to tackle the agreement was at breakfast.

After an early wake-up the next morning she was the first to arrive in the dining-room. Her father arrived together with the cook, who brought the breakfast plates. Menuma put some milk and sugar in her coffee. While she stirred it, she was thinking about the best way to start the conversation.

Father? I have been thinking last night. What if I’m married to Kisju and he still demands the gambling debts to be paid? What if he doesn’t keep his word?

Her father looked stunned. I haven’t thought about that. I think we must just pray he is the gentleman a noble is supposed to be.

But that doesn’t seem right. Isn’t it possible to set up a form of a contract, an agreement?

Her father put his fork and knife down. He looked very serious, But do you want to start your marriage with mistrust? Don’t you think that considering the circumstances, you should take as little chance as possible?

Well, Kisju is obviously a businessman. After all, he has bought those debts as a security for our marriage. Wouldn’t he appreciate me more when I take the same business attitude?

You do have a point. I’ll ask at the city hall if such an agreement would even be legal.

Menuma was frantic this shouldn’t happen. What if they would connect the two inquiries at the city-hall?! Her plan could fail then! Since it will be my marriage, why don’t you let me arrange this, she put her hand on her father’s hand and looked at him with the biggest smile she could produce under the current stress.

Why not? her father replied. It might give Kisju even more respect for you. He smiled back at her.

Menuma managed to continue breakfast talking about small things. As soon as they were finished, she went to a lawyer and arranged the marriage agreement. It seemed to be a fairly common agreement and the normal marriage arrangements were included as well. She even arranged all the legal formalities for a marriage she knew she would not enter!

Back home she went straight to her father’s study, where he worked every morning. Father? Can I tell you what happened?

Do come in. I am pleased to see you handle your marriage serious and responsible.

I went to the lawyer and he told me an agreement like that is very common and completely legal. It’s a fairly common agreement according to him.

Did he give you a date when it can be signed?

You and Kisju can sign them tomorrow morning. Her father looked at her in surprise. How did you manage to arrange that? It normally takes days to make a special agreement? Did you promise the lawyer to marry him instead?!

Menuma laughed. No, it’s fairly common to trade debts with a marriage and they have common legal clauses for the marriage agreement.

I could have expected that. Tell your teachers their reference is ready. Menuma lifted an eyebrow. When you’re married, they will need another job.

She walked to the general room between the kitchen and the study, the biggest room in the house. It was lined with big, embroided pillows to sit on and small tables stood between the pillows. Menuma explained to her waiting teacher the change in circumstances and his face fell. Menuma knew he was anxious to be able to find another job. My father has your reference ready for collection.

They started the lesson and for the next two hours Menuma was very busy practising dancing, playing harp, and drawing. The next two hours were reserved for old language. These lessons she didn’t like, they were difficult. Besides that, only the nobles in Ahan Sjodir learned the old language, it wasn’t spoken by anyone else. And since she was a girl, there was no chance she would ever be on the council of nobles. Still, her father had insisted she learned the language, since so many old books and important documents were written in old language. It did not look in any way like the language they normally spoke and Menuma struggled with her study. Since a few weeks she started to understand the language, which made it easier to speak old language comfortably with her teacher. She also explained to him that the lessons would end.

After lunch she sat with her father in the general room and waited for Kisju to arrive. A servant entered and announced his arrival. As usual his arrogance showed in the way he walked into the room. His posture showed his awareness of his polished good looks, the dark hair, olive skin, and dark clothes were perfectly matched. His body was muscular and lean, the daily army training leaving no chance for fat to settle.

And as usual he’s wearing the black clothes with the brown coat. Would he prefer these because the army uniform is so colourful? Or because he knows he looks good in them? His dark hair was covering his green eyes. And he is tall, many men look tiny next to me. Yet the idea of marrying him frightens me. And I don’t know why, but he scares me.

Kisju looked surprised to find Menuma with her father. Well, he gave her a broad smile, I didn’t expect you here.

I wanted to give you my answer myself, since it concerns me more than my father. Or were you planning to marry him instead of me? she laughed coyly. Kisju’s smile broadened and he ran his hands through his hair.

Does this mean what I hope it means?

He looks very attractive if he smiles like that. If you’re into wolves that is! Menuma thought. Well, if you’re hoping for a yes…

Kisju stroke her cheek with his finger. If only you knew how happy you make me now, he whispered. Menuma felt a shiver go through her. Kisju felt it too. Wait till we’re married, I can make you shiver even more.

Menuma forced a bigger smile. Just wait and see if THAT ever happens, she thought. Instead of the answer on the tip of her tong, which would certainly have given her away, she turned and sat next to her father. I have heard about my father’s little problem and how you have used that to secure an answer from me. Menuma looked at Kisju and saw him turn red.

Good, she approved, I’m glad you feel a bit ashamed about that. Didn’t you trust your good looks or your charm? That surprises me, since even we, far out in the country, know of your reputation.

Kisju sat down on the pillows next to her. You had given me no reason to hope for an immediate yes, he said and took her hand. He slowly kissed her fingertips. Had I known, I would not have bothered.

Menuma slowly took her hand. I’m a noble woman. How could I have let you know anything without compromising my house and honour?

Kisju knew a noble woman had a code of conduct to consider. But so far, she had been the only noble woman to follow it with him.

But since you have tried to turn our marriage into a business proposal, I decided to show you I’m worthy. Menuma smiled sweetly at Kisju. She hoped he would consider the agreement as a childish gesture from her side, like her father had. I have been to the lawyer this morning and he will draw up an agreement.

Kisju looked at her with questions in his eyes.

In the agreement it will state, that from this moment on, the debts of father are considered paid.

How do you mean, this moment? her father asked.

I have given my consent to marriage, which was what Kisju asked for in return for the debts. Wasn’t it? Kisju slowly nodded. So, if there are no objections to the agreement, we can plan a date for the marriage. Did you already have something in mind? Menuma turned to Kisju and smiled.

I have been away from Ahan too long already, he said, and I would like to return as soon as possible. But not without you. This wasn’t part of the plan! Menuma got a fright and was not able to hide it. Scared? Kisju asked surprised.

Of course! A noble wedding usually requires weeks to prepare! Think about the dress and the guests!

Kisju and her father laughed. I hadn’t realised you were so grown up already, her father laughed. You’re already a woman.

But I am right, aren’t I?

If we want to have an official noble wedding, you are right. Kisju thought for a while and his face brightened. I have the solution! he exclaimed. We will have a small wedding here in Fulchi! And after a few weeks in Ahan, we will have a noble wedding there! He took her hands in his. And everybody will be there, with you as the most beautiful of them all! Then his face saddened a little, as if something bothered him. He shrugged it away. We’ll have a royal wedding! Menuma nodded, afraid to say a word, too afraid to scream if she opened her mouth.

Escape

Can you imagine Sashi?! I will be married within a week! My father only added to my misery by suggesting I use mom’s wedding dress to save time! Menuma paced up and down her room. Sashi laughed and gave her a punch on the shoulder.

Come on, a lot can be arranged in a week!

Menuma gave her a dark look. Only a week left!

The horse is settled, I take Hannah, the mare, of course. The food will be done by cookie, instead of us sneaking of to the market. You’ll pack my clothes?

Sure, and I will make sure that some of your jewellery is sold. You will have enough money for the first months if you’re careful.

Travelling yes, but where to?! They both fell silent. Good question. With Kisju being responsible for the army, he can search anywhere in Ahan Sjodir. There isn’t a place I can hide. Maybe it is all a bad plan. Maybe… Menuma’s voice trailed away. Maybe there is no way out and I must marry him, she thought desperately. They had not given any thought to this part of the plan before, as wrapped as they were in preparing all the other things!

Maybe it will work out, Sashi tried to comfort her.

You wouldn’t marry him.

No, I’m in love with someone else, blond and friendly. But noble weddings often are arranged, even your parents were happy together. Maybe you can ask nanny for advice. She is a wise, old woman. She might know what to do.

Menuma stared blankly into space, her mind was racing and things began to click into place. That’s it! she suddenly yelled. A wise, old woman! Sashi, you are a genius!

Which wise old woman?

I read in one of the old books about a wise, old woman that lives at the big lake in the high mountains. If I cannot stay with her for a year and a day, then at least she can tell me where to go to.

You’re sure?

Oh, come on Sashi! Menuma responded in despair, You have a better plan?

The next days were spent preparing for the wedding. Menuma first made sure that the agreement between her father and Kisju was signed, sealed, and delivered at the lawyer’s office. According to custom any unmarried noble girl between 14 and 20 years of age was invited to the morning wedding preparations lasting five days. Kisju often came to these mornings and all the girls gushed over him. He liked to embrace Menuma in their presence and she pretended to shy away.