Ordained to Die: They are fated by the gods to bring judgement to all

By V. Smith

They are coming! Run!

The governors now rule the territories, finalizing and strategizing as they have been preparing for eons against an immortal enemy. Panacia seeks to strengthen its power and makes deals. Janacia seeks peace and prepares in fear of what is to come. Yet, as hostility steadily grows between the powerful continents, the secret to saving it all might lie in the hands of one desert tribe-woman kidnapped from her home by the king in the mountains. Will she make it out alive?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Austin Macauley Publishers
• Release date: Feb 2, 2024
• ISBN: 9781645368618

Book preview

About the Author

V. Smith is a mythical, fantasy, and historical author; who writes exhilarating and gripping adult multi-cultural novels; that are both abundant and rewarding for audiences across the globe. Dive into the fantasy and live the reality as the characters are put through impossible trials to overcome while standing at death’s door.

Dedication

I dedicate this book to my friends, family, and those who have supported me.

Copyright Information ©

V. Smith 2024

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other non-commercial uses permitted by copyright law. For permission requests, write to the publisher.

Any person who commits any unauthorized 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.

Ordering Information

Quantity sales: Special discounts are available on quantity purchases by corporations, associations, and others. For details, contact the publisher at the address below.

Publisher’s Cataloging-in-Publication data

Smith, V.

Ordained to Die

ISBN 9781645362470 (Paperback)

ISBN 9781645362487 (Hardback)

ISBN 9781645368618 (ePub e-book)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2022905307

www.austinmacauley.com/us

First Published 2024

Austin Macauley Publishers LLC

40 Wall Street, 33rd Floor, Suite 3302

New York, NY 10005

USA

[e-mail]

[phone]

Acknowledgment

I want to acknowledge Austin Macauley Publishers, for taking the time to read my book and help me through the publication process.

It Begins

The blistering sun beamed on the outside tribunal court. Many people formed around the field. Bright lights made shadows around the ring. Men and women, both seated and standing, gripped their weapons, around the base aiming their guns at the woman. The Janaciens shouted at her as she began moving down the trail toward the governor’s platform. Her body was covered in a brown colored garment blending with her skin, making her appear as if she were naked. She, with no emotion, kept turning back to her little boy who was being held back by his father and two other men. She finally reached the center of the platform, clutching her arms to herself. Multiple people were present and one of the elder governors read from a scroll.

You are sentenced to death; do you agree to those terms?

I do, she said assertively.

She heard her son’s wailing and then turned to him with a smile, silently wording ‘I am sorry.’ His fixated gaze told her he knew what was about to happen next.

The Janaciens aimed and fired.

Chapter One

Narcha’s brown eyes watched her mother in pure vision as her father described her, as if she sat in this very room. She imagined the redness of her mother’s gown sweeping in the night’s air while she spun in a circular motion. Those dark eyes, covered up by small shoulder-length curls, sent a sensational feeling running through Narcha’s body. She envisioned her mother’s smile and her chestnut skin as she thought it would be. It crowded her mind with perplexity because it told a dreamlike story about her mother. One that Narcha would never get to see. However, the images still raided her thoughts as if her perception of her mother were real.

She loved to dance, her father continued. Especially when you two were born.

The two young women, Narcha and Kendra, giggled as their father’s hands tickled the back of their ears.

She would take you two in her arms and walk the night’s sand crooning. Sometimes she stayed out so long, I worried if she would ever come back.

Tell us again what happened to her father. Kendra sat anxiously.

Your mother… their father frowned, she never came back. The villagers say the sand and winds took her.

The room fell silent as a gust of wind infiltrated their tent. It rummaged through their carpets, candles, covers, sheets, and clothing as though responding to the father’s words. They all glanced around in silence, assuming their mother’s presence was in the room.

Well, girls, off to bed, the father said with alarm.

Kendra, confused, mumbled eagerly to hear the rest.

Wait, no! What do you mean she was taken by the wind?

Kendra…

No, Narcha, I want to hear this. He always gets to this part and cuts it off. Did she die?

Narcha became aware that Father had a hard time finishing the story, always cutting off the part to where their mother had been taken. The question is by whom?

Still Kendra argued each time and their father remained mute.

Narcha watched as their father’s eyes gazed at the open atmosphere of their living room. She even surveyed the same area, yet nothing seemed to be there.

Father? Narcha said.

The muscles on Kendra’s face became tense. The smile on her face turned, now blearing at him in anger.

Fine, she said. Please don’t tell this story to me anymore if you don’t continue.

Kendra left the room. Narcha fell at her father’s feet. She grasped her father’s hand. Holding him, she noticed he jumped at her touch.

Father, what is wrong?

His hazel eyes watered while staring into space.

Please, he said without looking at her. If I am not there, please watch her. She does not understand yet.

But neither do I, Narcha countered. Why don’t you ever tell us about her? What were you looking at in the center of the room just now?

He did not respond. Narcha continued to hold his hands feeling a slight stiffness in the way he moved. Suddenly, she felt winds blowing with intensity. The air picked up from the entrance outside. When it completely fell silent, her father rose, pushing his daughter’s hands away.

Go to bed, he demanded.

Narcha glanced in on her sister Kendra with a blank expression. Kendra angrily gripped her pillow, staring off into thought. Narcha could understand her sister’s frustration considering how their father never revealed the truth about their mother. They always wanted to know more about her, always. And somehow their father would never say.

Kendra’s expression was close to tears as she stared across the room at her sister’s bed. Narcha walked in, gently sliding into her own bed, the bed next to the tent’s porthole. The room remained silent until they both picked up a faint whisper in the air. Kendra, being closest to the entrance of their bedroom, heard it more.

See! she said. Who is he talking to?

Narcha tried to listen in on it, but she could not make out what he was saying.

It is best not to disturb him.

Why not? I do not understand him. This happens every time he tells us that story!

When Narcha put her head into the pillow to reflect, she heard Kendra getting up, making haste for the living room.

Wait! Narcha demanded. Leave him alone…please.

Do you know something I don’t?

No, he doesn’t tell me anything either, but it is best not to mess with him.

Why?

Kendra’s eyes were bursting with tears. She pressed her toes into the soft carpet, making her way back to her bed. Her long ponytail braids went up and so did her satin gown. A long flame stand erupted in spirals by her, illuminating the bronze skin on her legs and also her teary eyes. She covered herself quickly, pulling the blankets up to her neck. Her eyes moved to the floor.

Narcha turned her mind to the open archway outside. She observed the sky as the winds blew the sands from where she laid. She could see the many garnet tents flourishing in dozens down the roads, some with windows and others without. Her umber eyes surveyed the moon and stars, covering the earth in light and shadow.

The silhouette of her mother’s figure moved again in Narcha’s eyes. She became entranced with a smile while viewing. In the sky’s light, she saw her mother dancing and singing. The stars twisted around her mother’s body; forming a surge of brightness. As she wondered, Narcha then turned in her sister’s view forgetting for a moment her sister’s worry. She knew Kendra thought differently about it all and sensed mother might’ve not been the way father told those stories. She knew Kendra felt a deep contempt for life and all she wanted was the reality of their mother’s whereabouts.

Kendra? Narcha called.

You’re thinking the same way as me, mother might just be dead. And father refuses to tell us about it.

Kendra’s face never moved from her spot. Her eyes continued to gaze down into thought. Tears rapidly fell, running down her neck and onto her gown.

A part of me feels this way, yes. But I also think that father is doing all of this for a reason. Maybe he believes it is not the right time to tell us anything yet.

All you ever care about are her stories, Narcha, Kendra said gazing up at her. Don’t you ever care about what happened to her?

Narcha frown a bit before responding, We may not have Mother here with us but we still have a father who cares. We still have our friends. Isn’t that enough?

Kendra still didn’t respond.

If there was something she had done, isn’t it better to remember mother this way rather than in a bad way?

Kendra remained, her eyes focusing on the floor. Narcha turned over, once more staring out the open hole in their immensely sized tent. Giving in to sleep, she thought that her sister would never see it. If their father did not want to tell them what happened, maybe it was to protect them from something unknown. The starlight glittered in Narcha’s eyes. It caused a shadow over her auburn skin. She watched again as the image of her mother came toward her, slowly walking through the wind from the moon. And in an instant, Narcha’s eyes closed before turning to see if Kendra ever changed her facial expression.

The morning breeze fell on Narcha’s back length braids. Her eyes opened to see the bed across from her empty. She heard the babbling of another voice mixed in with her father’s and Kendra’s somewhere in the tent. Things were being tossed about as Narcha got out of bed to see the commotion. Her eyes went up as she spotted a tall man like no other. He bended his head just to get into her tent. All the villagers were peeking inside her tent but refused to come in. This man dressed differently from most here, especially since he had fur sheltering his entire body. The fur had a mixture of brown and white wolf skin. All the villagers here wore the color red as it was the usual to their traditions. However, this man’s skin was also in comparison pale, matching no skin complexion to anyone here. She heard of people like this only in their villager’s stories. He wore a fur rag for a headscarf, which made his straight long brown hair fall over his ears and shoulders. The man’s face sweltered due to the heat. He didn’t bother to take off anything he wore either.

When Narcha appeared before them, the man paused and so did Kendra and her father. The man saw her and began to leer.

Here she is. Yes, he wants this woman.

Who are you? Narcha said while turning to her father. With a quick grab of arm, the father forced Narcha out of the room.

She is not yours to take! the father yelled. Please, not any of my daughters.

The tall man tilted his head just before coming further in, his gaze coldly looking at the father. The man stood over him like oblivion. His shadow engulfed the old man in darkness.

This is a request from the governors. The man beamed with authority. You can no longer sit out and wait the end of your days here. It is time you honor your agreement.

The old man fell to his knees.

But she has not lived long enough. Please! I beg you; do not do this. Take me if you must!

Narcha rushed into the room grasping hold of her father.

Who is this man?

The man turned his gaze on her again, the smile reappearing.

My name is of no importance, the tall man paused. But Kalmias is.

Narcha looked into the cold man’s dark eyes. His smile gleamed effortlessly while staring down at them.

And if I refuse? she said daringly.

The tall man chuckled. The father looked up at her with hopelessness. Kendra faced the floor, the anger from the day before diminished. Narcha frowned hearing her heart beat pound in her ears.

Father? she said. What is he talking about?

The man immediately lunged at their father, picking him up by the throat. Both Kendra and Narcha bawled, thrashing at him. The father tried fighting the man’s hostile grip, yet his hands were not strong enough. The man pushed harder into his neck causing their father to grow limp.

Please stop! Narcha cried. I will do whatever you want!

With that, the man dropped him. The father awoke breathing heavily and gasping for air, gagging. The tall man then turned toward Narcha.

Now you know that I am serious, he said calmly. Come.

Narcha moved forward and swift, quickly grabbing everything she could carry. Kendra moved behind her in tears.

You can’t go!

Narcha turned toward her sack cloths, picking out whichever clothing she could.

I must, she said, the tears sweltering within her. For father.

Kendra grabbed Narcha’s arm with strength.

You know something! All this time! I do not understand what is happening. Please help me to understand what is happening!

Narcha took hold of her sister’s hand calmly. Kendra cried as Narcha did her best to quiet her. They inhaled and exhaled, quickly touching their heads together. Then she hugged her sister. Kendra remained calm but her moans came as she held on.

Kendra. I promise I will come back for you and Father.

Kendra left and Narcha waited until she was out of earshot to weep. She held her hands to her mouth and whimpered; letting the tears flow only for a moment. She did not know if she would come back, she prayed she would.

Hurry up! the tall man said as he seethed right behind her.

Narcha looked around her room feeling as if she was forgetting something or someone. She felt the soft sheep rug underneath her feet. She saw the large floor candlestick and the indoor hearth for cold nights. The flames from the fire swayed every night in this room. She would miss it. She noticed the open warm air hole perched just a little above her bed. Then she looked over at the floor space between her and Kendra’s bed and saw their mother. Or rather she saw someone sitting there. For a moment, she never really knew what her mother looked like. Then she saw this woman playing with two baby girls. Afterwards, the three of their images disappeared as she heard laughter and singing. While closing her eyes, tears fell and she left the room.

She could see Kendra on her knees clutching the tall man’s fur cloth legs.

If you must take anyone, take me! she said.

The tall man pushed her away. Narcha came into the room lugging a big pouch on her back, wearing a maroon shirt and a sarong displaying her belly. She turned toward her father who said nothing as she went for the front tent door.

Wait! Kendra cried. Narcha, you promised, please come back to us. Don’t ever forget!

Narcha turned and stared at her with no words. She gazed upon a face she probably would never see again. She looked into her father’s weak eyes, as he stared back emotionless. Narcha felt a strong tug as two big strong arms picked her up from behind. While Narcha screamed and flailed, the tall man held his grip moving outside. Narcha saw the villagers lined up, staring in awe, as he took her from her tent. There were many faces amongst the crowd, but the one face she saw was Damaris. He spent a lot of time with both her and Kendra. They were the dearest of friends. He stared at her in astonishment. Narcha called for him but he could not move. She could see his hand slowly rising, but only to be forced down by another foreigner. She saw three of them completely dressed the same. They watched her approach the carriage. Kendra and father stood at their tent house weeping from a distance. She couldn’t bear to look at them, she’d weep too. The tall man held his grip as he approached a large coach. Throwing her inside, he got in and close the door right behind him. The other two followed in. The large carriage had mixture of red and gold, beaming brightly on the cushioned seats. The golden rails protected her from falling off, as it did the tall man who held onto her making sure she couldn’t run. The normal size valet led the white horses forward as Narcha moved slowly away from her home. Her tears flowed more quickly. She glared at him furiously.

Who are you? Where are we going?

The tall man’s face grimaced as he looked ahead.

The man never answered.

Why? What point is it to take me? What possibly can the sovereign get out of my arrival? I am barely an adult.

Still, he didn’t reply.

Can you tell me about the deal between you and my father? What does he owe?

The tall man took off the wolf fur rag upon his head. The brown hair flowed down his shoulders, covering his shiny face.

Answer me!

The man gazed at Narcha and smiled. She could smell the coldness of the distant air around him as he came closer.

I am not obligated to tell you anything. Now if I were you, I would sit there and be quiet. You’ll get your answers soon enough.

The tall man brought his warm rough hands to Narcha’s cheek.

Your skin, he said, it seems all the villagers where you come from share it.

I do not understand, she said while pushing his hands away.

The tall man laughed and so did the other two. They had no remorse, no respect for her life. As Narcha turned forward to look out the window, she could see only sand, desert, and the hot air of the sun. She tried to imagine her mother as she had always done when sad, but today, nothing. The changes of the air and environment left Narcha at a disadvantage. She cried to herself in thought. She never knew how diverse the world was until now.

Chapter Two

The governors entered the legislative chamber in a single filed line. The room gleamed with a large throne and men lined the seats on both sides. One man’s murky brown hair shot out from underneath his black scarf. His attire was all dark except for the open part exposing his pale chest. Another governor had sapphires and gold covering his shoulders on the cape falling down his back. Several dressed in all silver and khaki robes with their capitals’ they ruled branded into their belts. Various bore long hair while others short, some curly or straight, different hair colors, different skin tones, features, and eyes.

Apart, they were only governors, but when they entered the legislative chamber, together they added up to one king. They set the laws as the tribunals of people’s homes, properties, and lands. They all went on vote and the largest votes made the decisions. Occasionally, the lesser votes had the advantage depending on if all the governors could come to an arrangement.

Every governor remained silent now, his eyes staring forward at the lighter toned speaker. His son stood next to him wearing an exceptional gold and yellow tunic. His black wavy hair spiraled down half his backside, bringing radiance to his yellowish-brown eyes. The dark skin on his face was smooth to the touch. He observed his father. The man presented a huge diagram upon the wall for all the governors to see. He used an ink brush to mark specific areas while showing them all the cities in their sector. Each governor dominated a province, divided into different territories. Overall, they managed the whole of Panacia and would meet once a month for events or if affairs became unruly.

This is what I wanted to present you with. Riots breaking out east of our border. We need to suppress the rather large crowd of miscreants. Some are even fighting in our marketplaces.

And why? one older man grumbled. What is it any concern of ours to partake in your troubles? I do not find this a general problem seeing as this is happening in your province. I heard you acquired some new wealth. Share it with all of us and we shall accommodate you.

Several mutters shot across the room.

It does not matter… the younger man said while standing next to his father. You took an oath that we rule as one king. Why does my father need to pay you for your help?

We are the kings, boy! an older man of the same clan spat out. You shouldn’t open your mouth about the things you don’t understand. Be gone or be silent!

The young man stormed forward, but his father put a hand in front of him.

I apologize for my son’s rude behavior. He shouldn’t have said anything, his father said, gazing at him with intense eyes.

Seeing this, the young man took a step back and angrily gazed at the man who had dared speak against his father. Wispy white hair burst through the cloth of the man’s turban as he sneered, an unpleasant shimmer in his eye.

You should save that angry face for the tyrant standing beside you. Look at him, boy.

Lucah refused.

I will take care of it. How about you rest for today?

No. He sighed.

Lucah, please. I will handle them. I need you to retire.

As Lucah took his gaze away from the governors, he regarded their looks of inability. They thought nothing of him. He would only remain his father’s son, nothing more. While heading for the door, his father proceeded to talk on with issues discussing the citizens’ riot. However, he could hear them no more as he traveled to his room. His mind went to more disruptive matters. He needed to study the rules of government. It was crucial if he planned on taking his father’s place. How would he react to important issues? How could he get 28 governors to listen to him? It was always like this; each governor thought only of their own province. They only reacted when the problem meant they would be compensated.

However, the recent riots in the marketplaces seemed strange. No other governors were reporting riots at all. The reasons behind it baffled him since he could not acquire permission to go into the legislative chambers without his father. And Father never told him anything about it.

He opened the door to his room, quickly noticing a weird outfit on his bed. He was not familiar with the clothes until he came closer. He noticed that it contained five large letters attached to a piece of parchment on the attire. He knew it. A single name bore handwriting he recognized well.

ESTAL.

Estal appeared standing behind him, firm and quiet. Lucah did not notice him until he felt a poke on his right shoulder. He turned around speechless and with delight.

How did you—

Shhh. Estal placed a hand upon Lucah’s lips. I need to talk to you…somewhere no one can hear us.

It had been more than a year since he’d seen Estal. The reason for his arrival alarmed Lucah. He followed behind him to their more secretive location, to the rooftops. They often sat there when they were young, always playing. They passed a variety of gorgeously decorated rooms as they made their way. The furniture came in different velvet layouts. Sofas were embellished with knitted blue flowers and so were the carpets. They were akin to the wall tapestries which shaped entire rooms. Most furniture matched the room design’s colors. The floor’s same cerulean blue carpet reached every door entry in the palace. Lucah marveled that Estal still remembered.

Reaching the outside, they quietly slipped pass every servant. The night sky was fresh of wind and a moon’s light showered the environment. Snow flowed in the darkness bringing chills to the frosty atmosphere. They made it to the rooftops of the massive citadel. They could see the blue towers soaring up from their meeting place across the land. Snow and ice covered the glistening waters in ponds and solid lakes connecting to the Panacien Sea.

Lucah stared at Estal. Whether it was night or broad daylight, the features upon Estal’s face were identifiable out here in the middle of the evening. His sea blue eyes were incandescent, for they emitted a strange glow. Lucah could see the ocean in them. His dark blondish hair was loosely curled and fell upon his shoulders. Estal wore chromatic battle colors like the clothing he left on Lucah’s bed. Yet something was indeed different about him. He seemed anxious as if something consumed him. Estal pressed his hand on the sword at his side.

Did something happen? Lucah said eagerly. Estal turned toward him with a serious gesture.

If I tell you, you have to promise to listen.

Lucah’s mind came to a stop. He grumbled a bit before responding.

I promise.

I want you to come home to Janacia with me, he said.

Lucah’s expression instantly changed.

Come home? You know my place has always been here.

Hear me first, Estal said. Something is going on you aren’t aware of in the legislative chamber. The tribunals are no longer participating in the conferences with Janacia. They are not responding to any of our requests nor are they sending trades.

Lucah could not believe what he was hearing.

So, your gift…is that what this is for?

Lu—

You are asking me to leave my home? he interrupted.

I know I’m asking a lot but consider the problem. My father and I left the council as well. Why do you think I do not visit! I cannot bear to be here anymore and neither should you. Something is going to happen that will make us responsible for things out of our control. Your father has burned many cities’ outer regions to the ground. He feels that those are not his kingdoms and responsibilities. He has taken the matter so far as to even steal and kill the villagers.

I understand, Lucah said pondering. But why must I leave with you? How will this help anything if I escape? This means I must reason with him, talk with him.

No, you must come now, Estal said. I will explain everything, but you are not safe here anymore. The men from the mountains are coming.

Lucah gaped at him in confusion and with a smirk.

I do not understand. What men from the mountains?

I cannot explain it to you here. Estal said putting both hands upon Lucah’s shoulders. Just know your father isn’t the man you think he is. Do you understand where he is getting the boldness to do this? Never has any governor went so far for power.

Who told you this? Lucah said. My father couldn’t possibly—

Lucah thought back to the governors in the legislative chambers. His father had established trust among the people but before, no one cared about anything he said. Maybe something reformed with the council and the members converted. Previously, Kai was a ruler of the court. When Kai suddenly resigned and left his homeland, Kalmias came next. Afterward, things started changing. The people felt more trust with Kalmias. Although Lucah pondered what he heard today in the chamber. A man had called his father a tyrant.

Lucah?

Lucah moved away from his friend, gently sliding from the roofs until he reached the windows. Estal followed him from behind. When they were both in the room again, Lucah closed his door.

What are you doing? Estal wondered.

I have known you a long time, Estal. Therefore, I cannot overlook what you said. But I cannot leave my father here. I want to question him.

And do you think he’s going to tell you the truth?

Lucah paced his room swiftly. He felt every muscle in his body tense up.

I have risked my own life coming here! Estal’s voice rose. I even left my wife for the time being. Please tell me as a brother that you will not reject what I have told you?

Lucah wandered back and forth. His mind swirled with thoughts of confusion and anger.

No, he said to Estal. No, I do not. Give me time to think.

Estal nodded his head slowly in agreement. However, it seemed like he expected a different answer. Lucah could not read his face. Those eyes wandered to a place further from here.

So, Estal said peering up at him, what is it that you want to do?

Lucah faced the tranquility of his rooms. This was the first time that he was without answer. His father had always loved him and never hurt him. To see him as Estal saw him would be betrayal.

Am I to choose between my father and my best friend?

Estal put a hand on Lucah’s arm.

We are family as well; I am your brother. I cannot force you to choose but you need to come with me. When Kai left, all the peace was destroyed. The governors rebelled against my father when his opinions started to sound like Kai. They did not agree with my father, Lavel. Of course, some of Kai’s men agreed with Kalmias’s new regulations. I believe it is his new founded wealth.

What proof do you have? Lucah questioned.

Estal seized him by the arm and made him stare out of the open window in his bedroom. Lucah gazed down and saw a woman wearing a strange garment walking in the street, one never seen before in Panacia. Even though she had a ragged fur coat, the dress underneath was appealing.

I do not understand, what is one dress? Our seamstresses here can make that.

Those clothes are from a tribe further to the desert, Estal pointed out. Have you noticed them; they are popular in your region. The desert tribes consider them more precious than life itself. Whether it is rumored or true, she is wearing it! It is not the dress that concerns me, it’s where they got the dress.

The reality became undeniable. The woman was wearing an unknown garment. Kalmias was stealing from foreign territory. Lucah turned from the window and frowned.

Maybe she traded… he trailed off watching Estal’s flat facial expression.

Lucah, please come with me. I will tell you everything.

Lucah could barely speak; the words were stuck in his throat. Estal glared at him expecting an answer. However, how could he? What Estal wanted him to do was turn his back on his father. The tribunal were the overseers of all the capitals in Panacia. Turning his back would not only lead to speculation, but he would be branded a traitor like Kai.

Lucah turned toward the woman’s clothes again and thought Estal’s words were honest. The woman did wear an unfamiliar dress strange to Panacien lands. The silky carmine color was found nowhere in their region nor Janacia.

Give me time to talk with him, Lucah said with finality.

Let me be present, Estal encouraged. If I am there, he will tell the truth.

It wouldn’t matter, Lucah said. My father will not change so quickly. I may have liked you when we were young, but my father did not.

I am well aware.

They spoke on several topics since last seeing each other. Estal told him of his home and his sick mother who constantly stays in bed. He talked of his wife and her troubles with bearing children. However, when the color completely drained from the night sky, Lucah and Estal were sound asleep as easily as they did when they were younger. Lucah slept in the bed while Estal rested on the soft chaise.

In the early morning, one of the servants came to Lucah requesting that his father wanted him to join for breakfast. Yet she noticed the presence of the other man. She watched Estal with cautious eyes, as he laid soundlessly asleep to her right. However, Lucah assured the old servant that he would be downstairs in a second.

Don’t worry about him, he is my friend. Let no one know he is here.

The servant nodded and then left the room. Lucah took a dried piece of fruit from his candy dish and threw it at his sleeping friend. Estal sprung from the chair quickly. Estal’s surprised eyes were enough to make Lucah laugh. Then they both smiled at one another, forgetting for a moment the task at hand.

My father wants me to meet him downstairs, Lucah said. I must go.

Estal’s face straightened.

I know what this means, Lucah said catching Estal’s reaction. I will confront him and make him tell me what is going on.

I know your father, Estal said confidently. And I know that he will lie even to you. I cannot stay long. I must get back home. Therefore, I will give you a little bit more time to make a choice. Otherwise, I will have to do it for you.

Estal went to the cabinets and grabbed the letter.

Please read it. He gave it to Lucah. It not only contains directions, but also my signet to enter Janacia. My guards will give you no trouble while going through.

As Estal went for the door, Lucah stopped him.

What do you mean that you will make the choice for me?

What do you think? Estal whispered. I am going to the tunnels deep below. I will wait for you there. Have everything packed and be ready to leave. Remember, I cannot wait that long.

Before Lucah could speak, Estal was out the door and going around the corner. With a sigh, he placed the letter on the bed. He wondered in disbelief how his friend even made it inside. Why couldn’t he request an audience? Those tunnels, however, have not been used in a long time. According to his father, Kai closed them before he left.

When he reached downstairs, his father was alone at the table filled with enough food for a whole court, the rate of his heart beat faster. In fact, that was the only thing he could hear.

You requested me, Father?

His father wore the usual outfit a governor was supposed to wear; the silver and black tunic with buttons, even the crown. His short curly hair sprouted out just a little.

Yes, he said through a full mouth. Please enjoy yourself.

Lucah looked around at the many dishes spread among them. He watched, stunned by the whole spectacle. They had roasted chicken, honey turkey, and lemon fish for meat. There was also a whole bushel of apples spread out on the table along with bananas. A big wheel of cheese assorted in different varieties lined up behind the first. For drinks, there was milk, wine, and water. One side of the table was full of desserts: small cakes, chocolates, and fruit pastries. As Lucah grabbed a chair, he glanced at his father who continued to down the bread and milk. He himself could not splurge in the enjoyment of all this food.

What is the matter? his father questioned. Eat something, I know you are hungry.

I cannot. There is something that I must talk to you about.

And what would that be?

The servants continued to place more food upon the table. Lucah turned toward one of the servants, gesturing them to go away. The nervous servant bowed and then left back to the kitchens.

Well, I am waiting, his father protested.

What is going on with the riots northeast of our border?

Kalmias’s attention on food became shattered. Suddenly, he didn’t have the need to fill an insatiable appetite.

I thought I told you that I would handle it.

I know, Lucah pressed more. But I want to know. I am twenty-two. I am at the age where I should know these things.

What would bring up such a matter? The counsel has always kept matters like this confidential. I would be betraying their trust.

I am your son, Lucah said angrily. I have already watched in the legislative chambers and I have always gone off your word.

And what have you learned?

Lucah saw the serious expression on his father’s face. Those dark eyes were more focused on him now rather than the food.

Are these riots the consequence of your actions?

His father stood up from the table wiping his mouth with a cloth. Lucah continued, You have been stealing from the outsiders.

With a sudden move, his father quickly slapped him. He felt the full force as his eyes went spiraling in different directions. A male servant watching from the door stood stunned. Lucah turned his gaze with displeasure. He could feel the rage building up within him.

It must be true! he whispered in disbelief.

You have no right! You have no say nor do you bear the consequence of such worries. These matters are not yours to discuss because you are not a governor, you are only to observe for now. Are we clear?

Lucah had his answer. Everything Estal told held merit. Who was the man sitting in front of him? Why would he hide this? The riots were simply caused over the new products.

Will the people be sold into slavery? Lucah demanded while looking at him. We took up council years ago to abide by all peace laws! Father what will become of them—father?

To the winner goes the spoils.

Kalmias raised from the table and left without another word. On the way out, he slammed the doors. Lucah stared at the spot where his father was before he could get the strength to get up. A servant came in trying to clean the table up but he forced her away. All of the things told to him by the counsel were true. If his father was stealing and killing, then there would be a price to pay. Suddenly, he felt the need to get to Estal. Going to his room, he opened the letter. The letter contained a map to Janacia. He put the new clothes on with ease. The garments were a similar battle armor to Estal’s in the Janacia lands, only it wasn’t blue but bronze. The fiery red scabbard and handle on the sword matched perfectly.

Traveling down the foot of the royal stairs, he sprinted for the hall. Two guards saw him and tried stopping him, but he pushed them out of the way.

Lucah? a dark-skinned guard said.

As he moved on, he wondered why the servants blocked him. He thought it impossible his father knew Estal was here. This made him move even faster. He could not risk Estal being caught by the guards. The way his father changed, there was no telling what he was capable of doing. His feet tapped upon the stoned pavement with agility. Climbing down to the tunnels made most sense. Even though Estal told him to pack, he didn’t have time. It did not matter because nothing he owned belonged to him, it belonged to his father. The tunnels smelled of the cold air further down. He called Estal. After what seemed like a few minutes, he heard footsteps coming overhead! He could hear the chainmail, which made him find the nearest tunnel and blend in with the darkness. The soil upon his feet made it look like there was no one in the darkest part of the corners.

Lucah? a soldier called.

Yet Lucah was determined to stand at his spot. Somehow, he felt that he was now a target of his father. One of the soldiers looked around before approaching the same tunnel Lucah hid.

Lucah!

When one guard realized he would get no response, he told the soldiers to check every tunnel.

I saw him go this way. Do not let any part go unnoticed.

I do not understand, a guard said. Why would Lucah leave days before his father’s wedding?

Lucah froze as he pressed his back up against the cold soiled wall. One because the soldiers had already known about the secret tunnels, and two because his father was getting married. To whom Lucah wondered, he had no clue. As a soldier approached him with a burning torch, Lucah sprinted quietly down the tunnel. He could still hear the soldier in pursuit.

Someone is here! someone called behind him.

As Lucah ran deeper into the holes, he wondered where Estal hid. The tunnels were dark so he could barely see. One glimmer from the torchlight and it would all be over. Suddenly, everything got quiet. He could no longer hear the footsteps of the man right behind him. This was not a good thing because his breathing was the only thing making a sound.

Do you hear that? I think we are close, the soldier said. Of course, Lucah didn’t respond. His head swam with numerous possibilities. He knew not who to trust. His faith at getting away came crashing down when he approached a dead end. Turning around, he pulled his fiery sword from his scabbard in distress. The soldier’s torch was nearly upon him. As more faces came into view, they were upset as they recognized Kalmias’s son in Janacien battle armor. Lucah closed his eyes. Things appeared futile.

Chapter Three

Narcha could sense the shift in the dark atmosphere. It had been at least three days since she left home. Listening to the hooves from the horses made her understand the tragedy of her circumstance, that she may never see home again. The environment transformed from fields of everlasting sands and hot sun into a wide surrounding wilderness with tall grass and trees. She did not know how long they trekked through the dirt but hearing the screeching of birds in the darkness made her feel uneasy. She paused her sobbing when she smelled a damped aroma of water and animal dung. Creatures she only saw in her story books crept up alongside the carriage. Big brown bears not nearly as close as they could be, hid behind the murky green trees, their shadows rising when light scarcely came through from the dusk sky. Narcha with fear slowly closed the curtains. Luckily, the carriage moved at great lengths.

Then she recalled something…the face her father made when she was taken. If he had told them, he owed a debt, then perhaps one of the desert clans could have paid it and she would not have been taken as a hostage. Why keep it a secret? This question made her mind swirl with perplexity. She could not understand the connection between these men and her father. All her life, she and her sister endured half-truths from him, but this secret went too far. A hatred for him formed within her. He did not defend her honor; she had defended him! He owed both of them the truth. Tears abruptly fell again from her eyes whilst she tried to fight off sleep. She did not want to spark the awareness of her captors. Even though Narcha’s hands were frozen to the point she could barely feel them, she refused the sympathy of the tall man who relentlessly tried putting fur on her. He persisted for the second time with annoyance.

Do you want to freeze? he growled.

Why can’t you just leave me alone? Aren’t I your prisoner? she spoke.

We are going into a very cold climate. If you do not put this on, you’ll die.

Narcha wanted so desperately to refuse, however the thought of being with her family and friends again gave her hope. But the idea of death appeared easier than fighting the cold. This time she allowed the tall man to put the cover over her freezing body.

You are not a prisoner; you are a guest to Kalmias.

Narcha gazed at him angrily.

Did I come willingly? she said.

The tall man scowled. He did not indulge her.

I am your prisoner.

The tall man Velde’mon position his body in the opposite direction. Narcha sat comfortably while wrapping a blanket they handed her around her body. It thawed her frozen hands