Chapter 7
**********
Alberich, flanked by his Companion, was limping closer towards them and he could see that she was frowning at his leg.
"You don't look so good." Gesten stated. Then he gave a brief look at his charge and nodded. Alberich wondered at the subtle signal between the two.
: Whatever they tell you to do, just do it and don't argue. She is a Healer enough. : Kantor told him bluntly.
: Thanks. : He replied dryly.
: Night, Silv! : Storm's thought called out.
: Night dear. :
Kantor then joined Storm and sedately trotted off. Alberich continued to move forward and she purposely lagged behind to study him. From his neck down, he moved rather stiffly so perhaps that he was beaten black and blue. However, his right leg, seemed to be just more than bruises. She extended a little of her senses and bit an oath. Alberich swung around, and he winced at his own movement. She choked off her curse and then gasped in pain as if she's the one injured. What in the name of Vkandis had he gotten himself into?
"Just keep walking to the pools Alberich and don't make any sudden movements all right?" she commanded him. They reached inside the miniature Vale and found that Gesten was already there beside the hot pool, equipped with her medicine bag, several cloths, and a big pot of water containing several sprigs of merth.
"Take a sit on the bench." She said firmly.
"What bench?" He asked her perplexed. There were no benches here as most people were delighted to bring their own cushions or sit on the lush grasses.
She had no idea why she became somewhat bad-tempered. She deliberately created a very large stone right in front of him that the stone actually looked as if it belonged there in the first place. Alberich was ultimately shocked and it looked as if his thick eyebrows were going to stay up forever. Then she gave him a penetrating look and that look of hers bode ill for him if he decided not to comply. As soon as he sat himself on the stone, carefully not jerking his wounded leg, she knelt in front of him and absently created a mage-light. The light was very helpful that she could see the gash more clearly but certainly did not help her when she looked up and met his eyes. There was apprehension mixed with longing and she felt it was wise not to dwell on it. She then stared carefully at his leather pants while carefully removing his boots.
"It will be a shame if I were to cut his pants. Well Alberich, I hope you had worn something underneath them." Without pause, she gathered her power in her mind and Pulled at his pants. Within a blink of an eye, his pants reappeared in her outstretched hand. It was impossible to see if he was blushing but his eyes told her a dozen things. She hid a smile and studied his long legs while folding his pants.
"You have very nice legs Alberich." She approved. Alberich frowned harder and she smiled very, very wickedly.
Gesten had gone back to the ekele to get a wide woodboard and placed the pot nearer to her on the ground. Phoenix Called up a pair of Salamanders and they began to heat the pot of water. When the temperature was high enough that the herb had begun to let loose its chemicals, she sent the Salamanders back and carefully washed her hands with the solution, taking some of the sprigs and lathered her hands with them. Wiping her hands on a towel, she turned her attention back to Alberich's leg. She focused some of her powers to keep the water boiling and carefully dipped a piece of cloth into it. Aside from using alcohol as a sterile measure, she was happy enough using the herb. Alcohol is flammable and she did not care to think any kinds of accidents that could occur when it's kept in the ekele for storage. With the now-sterile cloth, she carefully cleaned the gash on his thigh. A part of her shuddered at how long and deep the gash was. Thankfully, the wound was not deep enough that it showed the bone. Up until now, she still could not stomach the more serious injuries that people will have during battles or wars.
"Give me a little warning before you scream. I'm a little too young to suffer from heart failure."
"All right, lass. I'm going to now." He said through clenched teeth. He saw her eyes narrowed dangerously as he called her a lass and he was satisfied that he had distracted her a little. He's already having a hard time controlling his desire. It's not every day that he would have a volunteer patching him up. And that thought disturbed him.
She felt that she had cleaned the wound enough and now concentrated on the wound itself. With her Healing, she directed small particles, glass, and sand, out of his flesh. Wordlessly, Gesten had came around her, with a sterile, damp cloth and carefully wiped at the wound. Then she began to construct a weave of Healing around the wound, speeding up cell division and inducing the secretions of the human's immune system. The gash receded into a faint angry red line and gradually it Healed to a thin scar. When she was done she lifted the pot and tipped the remaining contents down into the hot pool.
"Go ahead and soak. We'll deal with the bruises later." Gesten retrieved the pot from her and all other things and slowly walked up to the ekele. Meanwhile she created a mage-light that followed her to the ample stretch of ground that she had grown her herbs along with several that An'desha had planted. She plucked off several more sprigs of merth, plucked of a handful of mint, and chamomile. Alberich had carefully folded his shirt and underpants and was soaking in the hot pool when she returned. He looked askance at her odd bundle of twigs and leaves cupped in her hand. Then she methodically crushed the leaves and strews the mix into the water. She rinsed her hand and began to strip herself of her clothing efficiently. She did not bother to fold her clothing as Gesten had quickly snatched her garments to be dumped in her laundry basket when he came down again from the ekele. She had absolutely forbidden the hertasi to do that chore alone so laundry day was Sunday when she do not have any duties in the morning.
She slid her way down to the pool and sighed blissfully, letting the scents of the herbs infuse her brain. She swam languidly to any other points of the pool but not to Alberich. She floated on her back and stretched. After doing some relaxation, she gathered that Alberich was pliant enough to be given a body massage. Gesten had somehow quietly placed her favorite massaging oil behind Alberich.
She had observed enough human behaviors that she does not need to read his thoughts to know what he's thinking. His expression had a "What now?" clearly written in every muscle. She paused long enough to appreciate his face, broad shoulders, and the scars. Somehow, his eyes had always ignited a certain kind of warmth in her heart. Alberich followed her every move, his eyes watching her warily.
She had reached him and abruptly said, "Move a little forward. Your
body needs a massage." Without warning she had positioned herself
directly behind him, with both of her legs trapping his ankles. She turned,
poured a little of oil into her palms, and rubbed her palms together.
Then she applied some of the oil to Alberich's shoulders. To her horror,
she found that he had inexorably tensed his muscles. With an exasperating
sigh, "Herald, how the hell do you expect me to give you an enjoyable,
relaxing massage if you're tensing?" she complained.
"Don't get excited." He mumbled.
Alberich had to admit that she is an excellent masseuse. Her hands were very gentle but beneath those palms, firmness was abundant. He had some suspicious thoughts that she was also using her Healing abilities.
"Nothing to worry now," she added continuing to knead his back.
He gave a little shiver when she had moved on to his waist. He wondered if that she had any idea how uncomfortable he was feeling. Not uncomfortable precisely, but his reactions to her touch were purely masculine and he had no idea how to hide it. He gasped when she hit a spot in his lumbar that had been bothering him. She soothed the muscles and he relaxed even more. Eventually his desire lessened and he was merely enjoying the rubdown. A little rap on his shoulder brought him out from his dreams.
"I'm done! Both of us can wash now." Then she began methodically scrubbing herself.
**********
Chapter 8
**********
Nothing else happened and they both finished their baths and went in to the ekele where Gesten was hanging Alberich's clothes that had already been washed and upon their return, he went into Phoenix's cupboard to get something suitable for Alberich and a nightgown for his charge. Gesten came back carrying a pair of baggy black pants and a gray shirt and simple footwear for Alberich. Alberich had left his boots at the shoe rack at the entrance of the ekele. Gesten handed the clothes to Alberich. For her, Gesten had simply taken out a nightgown. It was not as lavishing as the ones she had seen other women have but hers was certainly much more comfortable and was after all, terribly expensive for it was a gift from Silverfox. Alberich had discreetly went into her study room to change. She certainly did not bother. She slipped on her underwear and briskly pulled the nightgown over her head. Gesten was already prepared to call it a night so he wished goodnight and gave her a sly wink leaving her nonplussed. While Alberich was still changing, she went on to the kitchen, fixed a pot of hot chava, and fished out several cookies from a bottle. Then she started making some sandwiches for both of them. She was halfway through the second last sandwich when Alberich came out of the room and sauntered to the kitchen. He poured himself a cup and sipped it while leaning against the kitchen counter.
: Doesn't this make him look like a husband waiting for you to serve him his supper? : Storm asked her blandly. She had no idea what Storm was talking about but as soon as she turned to look, she found the Herald gazing at her. The way he stared at her and sipping at his cup of chava made her go weak in the knees and she blushed furiously. She gave a stinging swat at her Companion that made him yelp with indignation. She pointedly ignored Alberich and finished her preparation of sandwiches.
******
Alberich had gone into her study room to change and he was surprised to see an amazing collection of books there. He changed into the borrowed clothing while he examined her collection. He saw a fair number of history books and geography, herbs and plants, and some songbooks. Then she had other books about the major and obscure religions and there were about a dozen of books that are clearly novels. His eyes scanned her desk and saw several drawings of a plant with scribbled labels and he assumed that it was for the lessons she was teaching. Then, his eyes fell onto a stack of papers and he wondered what the notes were. Picking up a sheet, he found that it was a poem or maybe a song.
With the rising Sun we ran
Wind hugging our back
With freedom that knows no Man.
Riding onwards we were
To a path long forgotten
A song without words resound in the air
Calling…
Singing…
Weeping…
Screaming…
Still we ran
"Turn!"
The wind screamed
"Turn!"
Still we ran
"Forward!" She screamed
Desperation made her free
She burned, screaming with pain
"It is so…You are free…"
With denial, she plunged
Spreading her wings wide
Fire flared, intensified
Resigned, she drew the light of the Sun
Brighter and brighter she burned
Higher and higher she climbed
She plunged…
The World went Dark.
: Goodness! I wonder if it means what I think she means. : Kantor gasped in his mind, appalled. Well if Alberich interpreted the words well enough, she evidently had turned herself into a Phoenix, and destroyed her own World. He carefully put that thought somewhere in his mind. He had to wait until the right time to broach the subject. Now, he was more or less in the mood to make her feel discomfited in turn. He carefully placed the sheet back on the pile of papers and headed out of the room. Looking around quickly, he found that she had gone to the kitchen, no doubt, preparing some snacks. He walked towards the steaming pot of chava and casually poured himself a cup. He ignored the cookies for a moment and stood back, leaning against the counter to study her carefully. She was preparing several sandwiches at a quick pace. It looks like she had prepared enough sandwiches in her life that she could do it in her sleep. She had brushed her hair and tied it into a ponytail and her eyebrows creased in concentration. She turned to look at him and to his immense pleasure and surprise; she blushed, making her face glow. His heart seemed to stop beating and time halted. She quickly turned back to complete her task. Alberich made himself breathe and time flowed again and popped a cookie into his mouth.
"Would you want to have supper here or would you rather have it in the living room?" she asked tentatively, her blushes cooling slowly. He answered her by promptly taking one of the sandwiches and eating it right there on the spot. She took two stools hidden in the corner and lithely sat down on one after pouring herself a cup of chava and refilling his cup. After a moment, he followed suit but only after he helped himself to a second sandwich. He had not realized that he was famished until the mouth-watering aroma awakened his appetite. They munched down on their snacks in silence. He helped her clear up the kitchen when they were done and found themselves in an awkward situation. He was torn in getting himself out of the ekele to seek his own bed or staying up and talk, or spending the night here.
Her face gave away nothing but her eyes told him, she was as indecisive on what she should do.
: Seduce him and get him to bed. : Storm suggested wickedly.
: Dearheart, do you really like the little swat I gave you just a while ago? You want to help yourself with a second one? : Her Mind-voice deceptively sweet.
: Spoilsport. It's bound to happen eventually, you know. : Storm wisely kept his mind shut then. She gave up, and asked the Herald bluntly.
"Would you care to stay the night here?" she asked, a little uncertain.
Alberich had no idea if it was the wisest choice but he wanted to spend a little time in her presence. His brain told him to stay away from her but his heart finds the situation terribly tempting. At Kantor's silent encouragement, he smiled at her despite trying to keep his face somber. It would not be the first time he asked why she always makes him smile. Then again, I can't seem to forget the way she felt in my arm, those years ago back in the Temple of Vkandis.
"If you do not mind." He replied. He saw her taking a tremulous breath as both of them stood facing each other
**********
Chapter 9
**********
Phoenix was clearly in a fix. Where can he sleep? She was reprimanding herself for getting in this situation. She made herself a promise to think things over before she invites someone her hospitality.
"Alberich, I do not know where you might want to sleep.You could make yourself comfortable in the living room but Gesten keeps himself very odd hours. And well, considering I am very much a loner, I didn't give it much thought that I will need a guest room." she sighed, a little ruefully.
Alberich carefully considered the situation. He had been in her study room and there wasn't enough space to lay down a mattress.
"Take me to your bedroom." He ordered abruptly. That clearly made her fluster. My bedroom. Oh dear God, he's going to kill me when he sees the picture. Haltingly, she made her way to her own room but paused at the entrance. At his nod, she went in and activated the mage-light that was always in her room. Her room held not much furniture, just one bed, a chair, a small table, and a cupboard. Her room was quite spacious, and was simply decorated with an attractive colorful Shin'a'in rug. On the wall, were several frames and upon a closer look, they were in fact sketches. Most of them were sketches of the gryphons and her friends. Alberich made his way across the room slowly and took his time examining the sketches. I wonder what else she's capable of.
"Is this your handiwork?" he asked, now looking at a sketch of her languidly sprawled along her gryphon friend, Keenath, Gesten, Talia and Dirk and a Shin'a'in that he do not recognize. She came up closer to look at what he is looking.
"No, Silk had sketched this one for me. I don't want them to ask me tons of questions on how I could be omnipresent. Anyway, it will be a waste of energy. The rest however were by my own hands and imagination. I can never get Keenath's crest right. I don't think I'm good enough to be considered an amateur."
Alberich had paused to look at a picture that was directly facing her bed. He was shocked to see that it was himself with Kantor.
: Exquisite! : Alberich felt a moment of disorientation as his Companion shouldered him aside in his mind to examine the sketch.
: Quite an artist. I believe this was the time when we both were walking along the river during Harvest festival. : Kantor informed him.
: That was almost a half a year ago. : He mused, still looking at the sketch and marveling at her ability. He was torn between embarrassment and flattered.
"I hope you won't get mad at me." She said quietly.
He did not answer her; instead he lifted up the frame and looked at the sketch closer. Feeling a little amused, he had seen that she had managed to capture him when he was smiling at his Companion.
"I would not question as to how you've managed to catch me while everyone else was so busy. I just hoped that no one except you and Gesten had ever came across this. A lot of damage will be done to my reputation if ever others came upon it." He said, giving her a sidelong glance that really made her feel like a primary school girl, and he carefully placed the sketch back on its hook.
"Gesten and I know how to keep our mouths shut but how about them?" She asked, her eyes narrowing a little. Alberich perfectly understood what or rather whom she was referring to.
: Well? : He demanded.
: I didn't say anything. : Kantor replied.
: Good. And keep it that way. : He ordered firmly.
She took the opportunity to lay out extra bedding on the floor and was taking out several extra pillows and a blanket that was kept in the cupboard.
: As you wish. : Kantor murmured, very amused at his Chosen's behaviour. Alberich however was not paying attention to him. He had begun advancing on Phoenix, who was much occupied at making his bed that she was unaware that he had knelt beside her. The moment she had finished and straightened her back, he touched her shoulder cautiously. That light touch made her jerked and she yelped in surprise.
"I'm sorry, I did not mean to scare you." he told her. The close proximity of him to her made her very nervous. What was he about? She thought a little desperately. His eyes caught hers and his grasp upon her tightened. He leaned closer, his eyes deterring hers from looking away. He gently reached a probe to her mind, waited until she answered by loosening her shields a little and let him in. Alberich contemplated what he met. She was thrilled, nervous, frightened, and happy all at the same time. Hiding a smile, he gave her a brief, gentle kiss, muffling her cry of protest. He retreated away for a moment to observe her reaction. Her eyes were wide and out of focus but when her wits came back to her, she looked up at him and her eyes were filled with amazement. He reached out again to probe her mind gently and found out that she was actually shocked at his bold move. He kept the link between their minds and soon both of them were receiving various information. I'm going crazy. I must be crazy enough that she had received my kiss.
To her relief, she was not the only one who was feeling tense. Alberich was trying to hide the fact that he was trembling very badly by holding her tightly. Fortunately for him, Phoenix did not mind and although she carefully hid that observation from him, she stored this information to remind him when opportunity comes. Both of them carefully sift through the feelings that came from their minds and acknowledged that they should take one step at a time for they were both a bit too shy to start building a more intense and intimate relationship immediately. Instinctively, they both reached out and hugged. There was no doubt in Alberich's mind that both of them belonged together and she was overjoyed by his admission. Sensations of joy and relief flowed from her to him and he knew that everything would work out fine. Then he felt uneasiness coming from her, and he looked questioningly at her. Her head that is, since she was feeling so comfortable at snuggling at the moment.
: What is the matter? : He asked tenderly, his hand coming up to stroke at her soft curls and back. He was amazed at how it felt so right holding her that it seemed impossible to be alarmed at his own reaction.
: Well, nothing that important to me. However, I shudder to think about the reactions people will be having once they know that we will be a couple. : She answered him in the same way. She did not imply that it might be his reaction that will be bothering her. This bloodthirsty, solemn-faced Herald and her? Probably when they hear of it, they will start wagering whether the relationship will last. Alberich was wise enough to know what she was not saying.
: Are going to be a couple, : He corrected, then continued, : I guess we would not need this makeshift bed. Yours is quite big enough to accommodate both of us, I think. First, I believe you ought to do something about the open window before going to bed. : He insisted, now retreating from her and glanced wistfully at her bed. His heart lifted as he looked at her again and he was filled with ecstasy as she looked back at him, face positively glowing and giving him a mischievous smile.
: Don't worry about the window! : She laughed. : I've cast a little spell on it so objects won't come flying into the room. It is springtime so don't worry about waking up freezing. However, that will not be so much a problem as I had managed to persuade Firesong to show me how the Vales themselves retain an ambient temperature. : She informed him, and got up and settled herself on her bed.
Taking that as a hint, he got up and untied the knot of the curtain at the entrance of the room, ensuring their privacy. Meanwhile, she had turned off the mage-light and drew up the covers, waiting. Alberich took a little time adjusting his sight to the dimness of the room, and stood back for a moment to admire the moonlight playing on her face before approaching the bed.
: Where would you like me to sleep? On your right or on your left? : He asked her diffidently. It was her private space after all.
: On my right, I guess. I must confess that I turn a little uneasy if I'm far away from the window when I'm sleeping. The reason why my room is so big is that I tend to get claustrophobia every now and then. : She told him, feeling a little embarrassed.
She carefully shifted herself as Alberich began taking off his footwear and folded his shirt before lying down beside her. As he made himself comfortable on her bed, stretching from head to his toes, he was rather glad that her bed was not over-soft. Finding his current position a little inappropriate for the company beside him, he carefully lifted her head and at once, as if they had practiced the move until perfection, she snuggled closer to him. The feeling of holding her in his arms became intensified as he thought back. Her head seemed to fit his shoulder very nicely and laid her left hand tentatively on his abdomen.
He did not give her any objections; he was too caught up in contentment as he breathed in the wafts of mint coming from her hair, and enjoying her warm body against his side. He was determined not to blatantly show her his desire but it was amazingly hard as she began tracing incomprehensible designs on his chest and abdomen. She suddenly leaned on her elbow and gave him a quick passionate kiss on his lips.
: I doubt that anyone is going to find out how comfortable we are together unless the spy has a talented ability to scale the ekele or the ability to fly. : She mentioned, then her thoughts stilled as something occurred to her.
: What is it? : He asked a little concerned at her dismay.
: Oh dear. :
***********
Chapter 10
***********
: Oh dear. : The sigh that came from her was of dismay and resignation. Alberich waited for her to continue, suddenly filled with dread.
: It is impossible to get any scrying done, as I had taken precautions when I came here to live in the ekele. The only one that can and care to spy on me right now, is someone that can fly. : She explained hastily.
: Does that mean your gryphonic friend is…? : He asked, filled with alarmed as he finally realized her meaning.
: Listen. : She urged him. Both of them then stilled themselves and very faintly, they could hear the flapping of wings.
: And that, : she continued, pitching her Mindvoice, so that the hovering gryphon and both their Companions could hear her, : is my so-called friend, Keenath. : She sighed mournfully. : I had conveniently forgotten that those gryphons from Iftel are somewhat more peculiar than the normal k'Leysha gryphons. :
Alberich considered that information that she gave him, and she continued, "Unlike the k'Leysha gryphons, that particular one have an acute night-vision that is not normal for their kind." She stated, a little sourly.
Keenath whom had been discovered snooping on them descended down gracefully to land near the window. After much thought, he decided it would be best if they were to converse through Mindspeech, rather than shouting themselves silly.
: Apologies, my friend and to you Herald Alberich. Do not fear however. I won't be telling anyone what you don't want them to know. Where were you? All of us were worried sick. Why didn't you turn up yesterday at the Compass Rose? : He demanded.
: I told Silk I would not be coming! : She protested. Evidently, her friend had forgotten to inform them of her absence.
: I think Silk had forgotten to tell you that. I was out of the Palace yesterday to visit the market. : She told him.
: Very well. Next time, do give us a call or something. We do not want anyone to think that your own friends have deserted you, wouldn't we? : He admonished her.
: All right. Stop nagging at me. Sometimes Keenath, you are as bad as Leitha. Where is she anyway? I thought she would be here by now. : She asked the gryphon about his mate in an attempt to fend off any more lectures.
: She had made a side trip to visit her brother in Hardorn. Anyway, she will be here, soon enough. Since I see you are in good company, and nowhere near that molting peahen, I will leave you to your devices. :
The gryphon then launched himself from the ground, which took a bit of effort and then flew his way back to the Palace. She glanced at Alberich, apprehension on his face.
"Don't worry, he gave us his word. No one will ever know unless you want them to know. I am not going to tell any of my friends that I have found someone that I love until you do. Therefore, it is entirely up to you." She said to him quietly, assuming her previous position before Keenath had come winging in.
"If it makes you happy, very well." He told her gently, borrowing her words and kissed her.
"Being with you makes me happy, Alberich, in case you had not been watching." Her fingers had resumed tracing designs.
: Don't worry about that Phoenix. Alberich here had been noticing you ever since he had escorted you and your lot when you Gated near Horn back to Haven. : Kantor pointed out mildly.
"Since my brother had kindly pointed out, I thought that Gating was impossible after the Cataclysm." He questioned, turning so that he's leaning at his side.
"I think it lies largely on the fact that it had been several years after the Final Storm. The Earth had been recuperating and also because the Gate is actually me. It is a little complicated."
Taking her silence as a hint, Alberich dropped the subject. He began nuzzling her and met her lips to give her a complete passionate kiss.
*********
: That worked out quite well didn't it? : Kantor cheered.
: Kantor, your behaviour is getting quite embarrassing. Stop gloating. I thought you more or less confirmed that you do not possess even a drop of humor and now you gave me this. : Storm informed him.
: Just take it as a character defect. I'd more or less noticed that he seemed rather fixated with her since the day he picked her up with a dozen others and took care of her. : Kantor replied, immensely cheered by their union.
: So, they are lifebonded aren't they? : Kantor asked him.
Storm was about to answer him but Rolan had beaten him to it. The Queen's Own Companion galloped towards them where they had been congratulating themselves.
: Yes, they are. I am rather glad that both of them had found each other. Solaris will be pleased by this news. Of course, this had to wait for several more months before both of them announced their relationship to the public. : He observed.
: I hope that I am able to count on the both of you to keep them together. I had often more than once asked my Chosen to take some precautionary measures on Lady Dian and Herald Rayden. Nevertheless, she insists that Silv is more than capable of handling the situation. I hope that my Chosen's faith in her is well founded or else there will be much suffering. :
Both stallions nodded and followed Rolan out to the Field. Out there, the Trees are singing their benediction to the newly found loves.
: I love you Alberich. :
: And I love you. :
Holding each other close, they drifted away together in dreams.
*********
Gesten woke up a little earlier than usual and feeling triply ecstatic. He had dreamt very good things about his charge and Herald Alberich and he hoped with teeth and nails that his dreams will come true. He whisked away the fabric that covered the mage-light, set about making up his pallet, and stored away his feather pillows. Then he sauntered out of his room and was on his way to the kitchen when he found himself walking back to Phoenix's room. He hesitantly parted the curtain just a little to see the sleeping forms of Herald Alberich cuddling his charge. Gesten controlled himself and made it all the way to the kitchen before he exploded with laughter, dancing madly around the kitchen. He found it hard to control his joy but after several moments of taking deep breaths, he set about taking down Alberich's clothes and mended the rip in his pants and then made some breakfast.
**********
Alberich woke up to the singing of a couple of skylarks greeting the dawn. He stretched a little, amazed that his arm, which had been supporting Phoenix's head, had not gone to sleep. He wonderingly examined her sleeping face, her expression serene. Then she began to stir; her fingers idly stroked his chest as she shook off her remnants of sleep.
: One wonders if those skylarks constitute an alarm bell for you every morning. : His Mindvoice gentle, with a touch of amusement.
: Don't tell anyone my secret all right. I use a little of Animal Mindspeech, to attract them here. It wasn't that hard, as they seem to take a liking to the ekele's roof almost immediately when I invited them every morning. They more or less understand what I wanted from them and they get seeds in return for their service. Could you pass me that pouch on the table? :
Alberich fetched the pouch and she carefully opened it a little and poured some of the contents into her palm. Alberich retrieved the pouch for her, pulled back its drawstrings, and placed it back on the table. Phoenix sat up and negligently threw the seeds on the ground.
: That's their daily salary. : She told him and gave him a smile.
: Shall we rise and get some breakfast dear? : He had no idea how the 'dear' came so easily from him but he suspected that it was how they were going to address each other from now.
She looked at him with some surprise and smiled as she discovered a link that bound them together that was not there the night before. Giving it some thought, she did a little experimentation. Alberich looked at her with incredulity as he felt the resonance of love and happiness along the link.
: Do you regret this, dear? The very fact that we've lifebonded? : She asked him carefully.
: Why must I regret this? : He asked her.
: I don't think just because we're bonded doesn't mean it will be peaceful. : She cautioned him.
: If we don't, there is no point being together then. Couples fight, eventually. : He told her.
"Well dear, we have to get out of bed now and have some breakfast before my little friend from the kitchen barge in. He can be a little pest sometimes but I love him all the same." She said, pulling him out of bed and handed him his shirt that he had left on the floor.
"Isn't that a little unhealthy?" he asked, pointing to her bare feet as she began to walk out of her room.
"I'm more or less used to it, except when it's winter or when it is really cold." She replied.
Life is going to get very interesting, he thought as he watched her pull the curtains and tied them to one side.
: It is a good thing you stayed in the bed until she woke up. I don't think she'll be pleased if you had let her wake up with no one beside her. : Kantor observed.
: I agree. However, Phoenix has a remarkable good sense that neither you nor her can promise that. All in all, we approve of your liaison. Although it is very impossible for us to separate you even if we do object. Oh, incidentally, I think that Talia and Devan are already aware of your bond. The formation of the bond echoed through the wee hours. Many people are very reluctant to get up from bed. All they want to do right now is to spend a little time with their loved ones in bed. : Storm added.
: That is because they are very special people, and their bond is a little different than the conventional lifebond. No don't ask me anything. : Kantor warned his Chosen. Even Kantor seemed to unbend a little after he admitted that he loved Phoenix.
: Do not dawdle, Alberich, they are waiting. : Storm advised.
He went out of the room, into the kitchen to wash up a little. She gave him a smile as he entered the kitchen.
"We're having breakfast in the living room." She mentioned, and walked past him carrying a tray of sandwiches and an assortment of cookies.
They were waiting for him as he came out of the kitchen. Gesten was grinning widely at him as he approached. The smell of hot chava filled the room, and it was certainly a pleasant aroma. After they had their breakfast, Gesten suggested that they ought to go and swim in the hot pool for a while before they go on about their daily tasks. The couple trooped out of the ekele and Phoenix began to strip herself off her nightgown. He winced a little as he saw the scars that marred her back, but when she faced him, he found himself blushing. She clearly possessed a nice chest and he had trouble suppressing his masculine urge. Falling into temptation so early in the morning.
: I hope you don't intend to do that to other people. : He mentioned, trying hard not to be overcome a surge of jealousy.
: What? The way I casually stripped myself? That was before I had a partner, so if you don't really like me doing it, I think I can create some clothing to hide most of my attributes before I go swimming off with others. : She suggested.
: How about this then. Let me get used to the idea that some people who use the pools aren't terribly body shy. : He compromised.
Nodding her agreement, he carefully stripped himself, ignoring her overt examination. Then he joined her in the pool where both of them began scrubbing with the bars of soap that were made available. Gesten had came down to gather their clothes and trotted back up to the ekele. They climbed out of the pool when they are done, where Gesten was waiting for them holding out towels for them and they made their way back up to the ekele. Gesten handed him his clothes that had been washed by the hertasi the previous night and Alberich was surprised when he found out that his pants had already been mended and thanked the hertasi profusely.
"Just doing my job Herald. You don't want anyone to know that you got yourself mussed up yesterday right? If anyone had seen the bloodstains and the rip, they will start asking you questions and someone will ask how on earth you patched yourself back, since you haven't been seen at all near the Palace yesterday. Knowing your reputation not to trouble the Healers might work against your plan this time, don't you know?" the little hertasi pointed out. After much thought, Alberich nodded.
"Thanks again."
He quickly changed and reached for his boots. Phoenix was wearing standard Trainee pants and a shirt when she came out of her room; her hand holding a pair of shoes that was designed very differently.
: What are those? : He asked curiously, stamping his feet to get his boots in place. Talking to her with Mindspeech seemed natural to her, and if she is uneasy about it, she hid it well from him.
: Running shoes. The people here are a little primitive about certain things, so I cheated a little by creating myself this. : She explained.
: I see you have been exploring the wonders of running. : He teased.
: Well, one has to exercise regularly. : She said, coming up to him and reaching out her arm to hold him at his waist. He bent down to give a tender kiss, reached out to take her hand, and kissed it. She answered, by pulling his hand to kiss it and placed it against her beating heart. He turned and headed out of the ekele to where Kantor was waiting for him for their morning ride.
***********
Chapter 11
***********
Phoenix felt Silk's tentative greeting when she had finished teaching her biology class.
: What's up? : She asked.
: We're having a little get-together for lunch, will you be joining us? : Her best friend asked hopefully.
: Yeah. I've just finished teaching and I would really like to refill my stomach. : Phoenix told her.
: You're in a peculiar humor today. : Silk noted, her puzzlement reaching Phoenix.
: The pleasures of teaching. Are we having lunch in the common room? : She asked, making her way down to the place.
"Yeah, we are!" Silk answered, popping out from her right. Phoenix gave a startled yelp and pinched her friend for startling her.
"Don't do that! You almost frightened me out of my skin!" She complained, still pinching her friend, who was trying very hard to evade from her nimble fingers.
"All right! Stop that!" Both of them burst into laughter. Her friend embraced her tightly, and Phoenix felt a little guilty that she had been neglecting her friends. Then both of them continued their way down to the common room, laughing gaily.
"Who's joining us?" she asked.
"The usual, Ruby, Gisa, Talia, hopefully Dirk too, Carn, Rayden and Lerend." Silk told her, counting off her fingers.
"Phoenix!" She did not even manage to get a response to Silk as she was carried off and given several kisses on the face and a huge bear hug.
"Carn! You're breaking my ribs!" She protested a little weakly. Then Carn released her and spirited her away to the buffet that they are having.
"Silk mentioned a Lerend. Who is he?" she asked him, gasping a little, rubbing at her ribs.
"Oh yes, I don't believe you know him. Come, I'll introduce you." He led her to a good-looking handsome blonde-haired person, standing up shyly as both of them approached.
"Phoenix, this is my year-mate Lerend, and Lerend, this is my Phoenix. He had been stuck up in somewhere in Valdemar and just returned to give his friends a little visit." He introduced both of them, grinning.
"Well yes. Actually, I just came here to give my lover a surprise." Lerend said, eyeing Carn a little seductively.
Phoenix wasn't shocked about their open homosexuality but rather that Carn had forgotten to mention that he has a lover. "Carn, I am insulted that you didn't tell me that you have a boyfriend. However, I must applaud that you have a remarkable good taste in choosing a partner." She pouted, but gave Lerend a welcoming smile.
"All right, then sit on down the three of you. In case you hadn't noticed, the rest of us are hungry and you are delaying us from munching down good food." Dirk complained.
They seated her in between Lerend, whom was giving Carn several naughty glances, and Rayden. Phoenix wasn't really surprised when he chose Mindspeech to apologize.
: Stop that. Don't apologize to me anymore. I don't know if you will like me asking this, but why had Dian seemed terribly possessive of you? I could understand if it had been two months after we came here, but six years seems a little excessive don't you think? : She asked him, dividing her attention between the others, him and her food.
: That is a problem really. Why did you have to turn out all-powerful and prettier than she is? : He asked Phoenix.
: My dear Ray, I've always been like this you know. But I chose to hide the prettiness inside then. That was meant only for Gabriel. So, is it that that has been bothering her? : She asked him, her tone rueful.
: I think so. Sometimes I wonder why I love her. That is the truth though. I really love her, but she seems to think that you are going out of your way to grab me. I wonder where she got that peculiar idea. : He grumbled.
: Rayden, I have to warn you this. If Dian goes out of her way to make trouble for me, I'm going to verbally flay her. I'm getting sick of her childishness. We are not that young anymore. Oh Sunlord! We're you know, at our primes already! : She contemplated, planning some ideas if they did have a confrontation.
: I won't promise you if I will like the way you conduct it, but as long it gives the results I want, which is remaining her boyfriend, and still be your friend. : He told her. Both of them then, paid more attention to their food and the conversation around them.
*****
"I think I ate too much." Dirk groaned.
"Why don't we take a walk, later?" Silk suggested. Since some of them were probably thinking of the same thing, they agreed.
However, Talia and Dirk did not accompany them, all of them know that since they have a certain amount of free time, they are going to spend those moments privately. They were on their way to the gardens when Talia called out to Phoenix and winked. Bloody hell!
: Storm, how many people noticed the covert looks I have been directing at Alberich? : She asked her Companion, her Mindvoice almost whining.
: Don't worry, only Talia, Rolan, and Devan. : He told her comfortingly.
: You forgot someone. Talia can't really hide anything from Dirk. : She pointed out, as she turned to join her friends.
: Well true enough. Although they will respect your decisions to keep it a secret until Alberich gave them the signal. :
: I'm really glad it happened. Actually, it is rather impossible for Talia not to know about the lifebond. I know I haven't been exactly keeping a tight lid on my happiness this morning. I think, I have to step around Silk carefully. It is terribly easy to look upon Silk as a nobody. Her depth of perception is uncanny. : She told him.
: Well, you were her partner after all. : He remarked.
: You know something? I believe you are right. : She replied flippantly.
: Oh dear. : He sighed, grumbling to himself.
: Was it something I said? : She asked him innocently. Storm withdrew his mind away from her, inventing new swear words. That had made her lost control of herself and laughed. She managed to draw that attention to some of the younger trainees, who were passing through, startling them and Silk asked her worriedly.
"Oh, it's nothing. I was just playing with Storm." She assured her best friend. They had reached the entrance of the garden but were brought up short when Rayden halted them.
: I think we should have our walk someplace else. : Rayden quietly concluded, nodding towards where his lover was holding court.
: I believe it is too late. She has spotted us. : Carn warned us.
: How very unfortunate. : Silk commented placidly.
: There is no point in backing out now is there? : Rayden asked mournfully.
: Well, let us get the confrontation done and over with. I'm getting tired of the jealousy that's radiating out of her. : Phoenix told them tiredly.
: We will just make it look as if we want to get to the other side. If she ignores us then it is good. However, if she starts sprouting nonsense, take care of it Silv. Start planning. : Silk suggested grimly.
: All right people, let's go. : Phoenix said with determination she did not feel, but wisely kept her expression quiescent.
"Rayden, why are you with her?" She asked Ray, her voice full with venom, and her eyes filled with malice.
"Di, I had loved you ever since I've laid my eyes on you. But your behaviour right now is starting to irritate me. Phoenix will stay as my friend and that's that." He warned her. This was the first time that he had ever issued an ultimatum to her and she did not take it very well. That caused the girl's temper to flare and she insulted Rayden at some length.
: Steady on. : Rain, Ray's Companion, cautioned all of us. Silk barely reined in her temper. Rayden had wisely chose to remain implacable and did not speak even after she finished. Then she began again, this time insulting Phoenix and her friends.
"That's enough." Phoenix had spoken in her normal volume, but word had reached that even the Queen had heard her, interrupting the spluttering girl.
"I think it's time for you to start growing up Dian. I believe it is a monumental mistake that I had made to bring you along, as a favor to Rayden. I placed you in the nobility with the hopes that the life will culture you and hoping you are up to the task." She said quietly. Her voice was rimmed with steel and she was doing her very best to be intimidating. That was actually for the benefit of the other ladies whom had surrounded Dian as an act of encouragement. However, when Phoenix stared at them, they backed away from her, suddenly afraid. She had been so invisible and her control of her temper was superb that they forgot that even she could lose control.
"This is a warning to you Dian. If you're still keen on this jealousy of yours and wasting time in the Palace, I will remove your rank and throw you back into the OtherWorld where I've placed your family. This will probably break Ray's heart, but he will remain here and continue life as a Herald." Phoenix told her flatly.
"You can't do that!" One of the ladies protested. Phoenix gave her a chilly smile.
"Oh yes I could. Whom do you think gave her a title? Queen Selenay? No ladies, that title she's holding belonged to me in fact for several centuries since the Baron Valdemar had established his fortress here. I am the Countess Maxwell, but I gave it up, as I am a Herald. However I still command the power of the Maxwell House. You don't want me to pull rank on you, don't you Dian?" Phoenix asked her, tone deceptively mild.
"You're threatening me?" She asked me incredulously.
"No Dian. It is a promise." Phoenix told her, letting a little of her anger seep into her voice. Even Dian was not immune to her rage.
"I'm glad you understand the situation." She stated, her anger still showing. However, Rayden had some other things in mind. He fully intended to put Dian back in her place and to ensure that his friendship with Phoenix will not be ever questioned again.
"I'm not so sure she's being sincere with her surrender, Phoenix. Maybe you should send her off. I certainly don't want tongues to wag around saying that I have a bad taste in choosing my lady." He said in off-handed fashion.
: Are you out of your mind? : Phoenix definitely screamed at him.
: I'm just playing with her. I want to show her that Heralds can be powerful too. I think she's being too much of a peacock. I certainly am not going to marry a shrew but I do love her. : He reassured her.
Dian did not expect this from her beloved, and she stood rigidly her mouth open with shock.
"Oh incidentally, Dian. Don't wait for news from those few gentlemen that you had ordered to follow me around two days ago. They are having a splendid vacation somewhere in Wyrfen Wood." She informed the affronted girl.
"What did you do to them?" She asked Phoenix in a quavering voice, not listening to the gasps of outrage that the people made. Some had conveniently stopped by to watch the spectacle.
"I believe they are enjoying the scenery below them." She told the girl bluntly. It took several moments of hard thinking as the truth descended on the indignant girl.
"Are they going to stay up there?" Rayden asked in a hushed voice.
"Oh, I'm certain that they will come down. Eventually." Then she pointedly ignored the spluttering girl and her friends continued with their walk. Except for Rayden, who was planning several things for his lover.
: That girl was an absolute harridan! : Lerend voiced his opinion to Carn.
: Now, do you understand why I wanted you here with me? : Carn asked his lover.
"Hey, I'm going off to the ekele to cool off a bit." Phoenix told them, feeling extremely angry.
"All right, but don't do anything stupid." Silk cautioned her. Phoenix left them rather abruptly and they chose to stay out her way.
"I don't think it is a good idea to mention this to Keenath right?" Carn asked them worriedly. To his relief, all of them shook their head.
"Let's go down to the Collegium. I'm sure there is something for us to do." Lerend suggested and they turned back, playing the confrontation repeatedly in their heads.
: Phoenix is a hothead, isn't she? : Ruby asked them, still trying to get over the shock of Phoenix's temper. All nodded their heads, and she continued. : I believe it's the first time I've ever seen her really angry. : She confessed.
: I agree, but we should have expected it. She is a loner and she tends to keep things to herself. I hope you guys took notes back there. She can be pretty imposing when she puts her mind to it. I was taken aback when she implied that Dian had employed some roughs. Looks can be deceiving don't you agree? : Silk mentioned, still shaking with anger and trying to reestablish her calm. By the time they reached the Collegium, they were more or less able to do things rationally, although Silk suggested they should get themselves drunk.
***********
Chapter 12
***********
Alberich was in a conference with the Queen and the Queen's Own. He was halfway through his report when his eyes unfocused and he was overwhelmed with subtle anger. After a moment, he recognized that the anger belonged to Phoenix.
"Alberich, is there something wrong?" Selenay asked him, expressing her concern. Talia, however, was filled with suspicion that whatever Alberich was experiencing had something to do with Phoenix. When they heard Phoenix's voice echoing "That's enough" eerily, they knew what was happening. The moment Alberich brought himself out from his trance-like state, Talia told Selenay, "I think Lady Dian's in for the barbecue pit." She confirmed grimly.
"Yes, but it seems that even Rayden had gotten tired of the lady's behaviour." Alberich added.
Both Talia and Rolan were caught by surprise. The lifebond between Alberich and Phoenix was surprisingly strong in a rather short time. Thankfully, Selenay had no idea of the actuality behind Alberich's statement. Alberich took a deep breath and finished his report to the Queen. After Alberich's dismissal, he took the nearest shortcut that would take him to the Field where Kantor was already waiting for him and needed no additional instruction. As soon as Alberich managed to get himself seated on Kantor, they galloped off to the ekele. Alberich had tried reaching Phoenix using the lifebond but it seemed that she had neatly blocked off every link. Then they met Storm near the outskirts of the ekele. Her Companion confessed that even he can't get a response from his Chosen. Alberich had gotten off Kantor's back and sprinted towards the ekele. When he bounded up into the ekele, he paused at the threshold for a moment. It all seemed silent until he heard the muffled sobs. Gesten, however, was aware of his presence as he popped out from Phoenix's room.
: She refuses to be consoled. : The hertasi stated, clearly out of his depths. The hertasi retreated to his room, shoulders slumping in defeat.
Alberich moved towards her room and silently pulled the curtain aside with his left hand, carefully surveying the room. She was sitting on her bed, with knees tucked in and head bowed. He went straight to her, sitting down on her bed and enfolded her while her shoulders shook tremulously as she cried tears of pain.
: Why is she in pain? : He demanded, his heart wrenching in his chest as he watched his beloved.
Storm answered diffidently, : She's mourning, I think. After the situation with Dian, some unforeseen barrier inside her crumbled. I should have been more observant. I believe she had not properly mourned for the deaths of her loved ones and the deaths that were caused by her ultimate Judgment. : Storm sighed mournfully, his Mindvoice tinged with a dull gray.
: What Judgment? : Both Alberich and Kantor asked him.
: The answer should come from her, and not me. Now is not a good time to ask her that. Broach the subject when she is not so stressed. : Storm advised them, feeling a little helpless.
Alberich continued to hold her until she was simply too exhausted to cry anymore. Gesten quietly came into the room with a damp towel which Alberich gratefully took and wiped Phoenix's tear-stained face gently. Then he guided her as he lay down on her bed and held her until she fell asleep, surrounded by the comforting presence of Alberich and their Companions at the back of her mind. Alberich carefully extracted himself, being careful not to wake her and was appalled when he saw Talia standing silently in the doorway, watching him with a little smile.
"I should have known," Alberich grumbled, taking hold of Phoenix's hand.
"There is nothing to be sullen about, Alberich. You should be glad that it is me who noticed and not Selenay." She pointed out, handing the damp towel back to Gesten and he wisely backed away from the room. She seated herself at the foot of the bed, looking at the sleeping girl fondly.
"Poor lass, she'd been holding back those tears for years. I think it might be good if she takes a vacation," She said, not looking at Alberich but gazed vacantly at the scenery outside the window. "Alberich, do you really think that spending time with her only once a week is a wise choice?" She asked him, somewhat doubtfully. Then the sketches on the wall caught her attention and she stood to examine them. Phoenix had added several new sketches and she looked carefully and spotted the new ones.
"I'm not sure of anything right now. We'll just have to find out if we can deal with it or not." He answered her, wincing as Talia caught sight of the sketch of him and Kantor.
"Oh my goodness!" she exclaimed and she hurriedly took the sketch off the wall and looked at it intently. "I thought that you had gone out of your mind when you displayed affection for her, but it seems that she had been setting her cap out for you!" she laughed softly, placing the sketch back on the wall.
"By the way, do invite me to your wedding all
right?" she requested, taking herself out of the room, with Alberich scowling
at her back.
