Next Morning:
Sunrise offered a scenic view to anyone willing to bypass an hour of sleep. Its vibrancy and gorgeous colors painted the sky, temperatures varying dependent on the season. Many early risers appreciated the serene dawn, and today was no exception.
On the outskirts of civilization, a man focused his gaze on the plains stretched outside his modest home. Some conveyed him as a misunderstood individual, silent even amongst a boisterous crowd. He cared little for others' opinions on his personality or lack thereof but did grasp the concept of respect.
It's earned, not given.
Youthful features concealed his actual age - a number inconceivable to other species. Deep ridges embedded his midsection in a six-pack mountain of muscle. Both arms showed visible definition added with a physique Kratos, the God of War himself, would envy. His physical appearance complimented an ebony skin tone. A warrior's aura filled his spirit though you wouldn't know from the robes he adorned. Bright coloration with intricate designs, sleeves pulled over each elbow with an onyx bracelet on the left wrist, and a black sash tied around the waist.
"Early bird finds the worm, Jai."
The young man turned toward the angelic voice coming from the other side of the kitchen. His brown irises viewed the familiar face of his mother, Kiyana.
A respected elder, Kiyana possessed a wisdom that nobility leaders revered. She always answered their call for assistance concerning pressing matters. Her burgundy dress and same colored sandals gave off the impression she had no engagements for today.
Kiyana gave a soft smile and held her arms out, inviting Jai into an embrace. He sighed, relieved to see her up and about for her regular routine. Jai inhaled those familiar jasmine scented oils she used for her natural curls as they came together. The two had remained close from his adolescence into eventual adulthood.
Jai released the hug. "Good morning, mother. Your health is improving."
"Steadily as the days go by, my son," Kiyana affirmed. "I would have prepared your room beforehand if I knew you were coming. I hope it was comfortable through the night?"
He waved a dismissive hand before showing a grateful smile. "My deployment was far worse than what greets me here. You always await with open arms."
"You'll always be welcomed here until you're no longer walking our spirited soil."
"Your sentiments grow larger with each day," a gruff voice interrupted.
Jai and Kiyana turned to see another recognizable face, one the young man wasn't keen on seeing.
Solomon lacked the litany of ailments his wife endured due to daily exercise and mediation. That diligence resulted in keeping a healthy appearance. He dressed in a slim black Dashiki shirt and a nice pair of leather pants. However, the zen-like practice did little to quell his brash personality. He gradually allowed Kiyana to partake in his regime after a scary episode less than a month ago.
Kiyana was tending to her outside garden during a mundane afternoon to ensure it received proper water and sunlight. She had knelt on the ground for over two hours, which significantly altered her spine alignment as two vertebrae were dislodged, rendering her motionless. Her pleas for help prompted a nearby neighbor to call for help. Thankfully, Kiyana's recovery lasted only two weeks, thanks to the palace healers. Yet that didn't stop her son from excusing himself out of duty to check on her wellbeing.
Jai refused to back down as Solomon's critical eye examined him in his own house, which the older gentleman built from the ground up. Neither yielded in a quiet stare down.
"Nice to see you too, father. Hope I'm not invading your private space," Jai snipped.
Kiyana quickly stepped in between them. "Not now, you two."
"You still protect him like he's a newborn, Kiyana," Solomon lightly scolded. "He's a grown man who can take care of himself."
"But he's still our child. A place will always be open for our son here no matter how old he becomes," his wife reiterated. "Need I remind you that he's your superior?"
Solomon halted himself, dissatisfaction written over his expression at the perception of his spouse taking their son's side.
They rarely agreed or acted in good faith whenever in close quarters because Jai decided not to follow his father into the political domain. Instead, he opted for an avenue that blended with his athletic and scholarly background - the Edenian Knights.
Reluctantly, Solomon ceased his actions but maintained an irritated glare. Jai did the same to appease his mother's wishes and stay in her good graces.
"This quarrel must stop as it has gone on for far too long. I grow weary every time you two feel the need to prove a point. Why is it neither of you can be civil?" Kiyana voiced her displeasure.
Silence followed amid the family, no one uttering a word after Kiyana's frustration boiled over. Jai understood he should make a better effort to coexist with Solomon for his mother's sake. Easier said than done with his father unrelenting for any compromise.
"Apologies, mother." Jai broke the deafening muteness, conceding his innate urge to prolong the disagreement. "I should be on my way. The King and Queen are expecting my arrival."
"We're far from finished with this conversation." Solomon maintained his overbearing position. "But we'll cease this bickering for now."
A reprieve sigh mixed with resignation left Kiyana, the best she could hope for until they could reach a plausible resolution. She excused herself to step outside and obtain two fresh apples. "For your trip to the palace. Please send my regards."
Jai and Solomon both nodded in a rare sighting before taking the fruit, each bidding farewell to the family matriarch. An astonishing scene outside the dwelling greeted them.
Their grand home of Edenia.
Considered a borderline paradise, Edenia's infinite pastures contributed to a robust, unmatched ecosystem. Its government consisted of a feudal monarchy based on the holding of all land in fief or fee and the resulting relation of lord to vassal and characterized by homage, legal, and military service of tenants and forfeiture. Many eras have come and gone throughout the millennia, but the basic principles of impartial rule endured through time.
Edenia was a near reflection of Earthrealm and mirrored its sister realm's appearance, environment, and population. Each was known as a jewel of the cosmos, thus deemed power nodes for ambitious tyrants looking to expand their outreach. As a result, Edenia's security lay in its most recognizable deity, Argus. Alongside him was his wife Delia, a sorceress who harnessed the ability to wield fire and envision future events.
Its inhabitants struck a close resemblance to humans as direct descendants of the Gods themselves, resulting in ample benefits. Longer life expectancy where most live over thousands of years, a more gradual aging process, and possessing significant affinities with sorcery. Many envied Edenians for their exquisite features, primarily referring to their women. Though peaceful by nature, the citizens take tremendous pride in defending their land from foreign aggressors.
When Jai first expressed an interest in joining Edenia's elite military, his parents held varying opinions. Kiyana ultimately warmed to the idea after seeing so much of herself in him as she served in her younger days. On the other hand, Solomon vehemently opposed, and it was why he and Jai weren't on favorable speaking terms.
Neither man spoke during the long walk, the stone pathway leading to the famed Kingdom they served faithfully in their specific capacity. What seemed awkward to most was typical for them this dawn. Jai subtly glanced at his father and tried to conjure a conversation - nothing left his mouth.
"Don't think I detest nor think lowly of you, son." Solomon's words caught his offspring by surprise, their pace never breaking stride. "I simply believe you're wasting your ingenuity with the Knights."
'Stubborn as ever.' Jai thought. "You're entitled to your opinion. But with all due respect, I've chosen my path. Being a Knight is what I envision myself doing."
Solomon anticipated that answer and left it alone as the duo reached the main gate. Two guards adorned in battle armor were patrolling the entryway with weapons ready against anyone brazen enough to storm the hallow grounds.
One stepped forward. "State your business."
Jai reached into his parchment and pulled out an official scroll sent to him three days prior. At the paper's bottom portion were the King and Queen's signatures. He handed it to the guardsman, who analyzed every detail to ensure no forgery. No such violation caught his eye.
"Greetings, Lieutenant Jai." The guardsman turned to the boy's father. "A pleasure as always, Adviser Solomon."
"Likewise, gentlemen," Solomon replied with a small smile. "I trust your shift didn't produce any wayward occurrences?"
"None of any significant importance, Sir. Though Ambassador Vincent wasn't in agreement with an accordance proposal from one of our neighbors," the second guard interjected.
The name mentioned brought exasperation over Solomon. Vincent, a man whose ego knew no bounds with a temper to match.
On more than one occasion did the two aristocrats collide over differing perspectives. Solomon wanted to keep Edenia a peaceful nation that only fought when the stakes were highest, a beacon of hope for neighboring realms. Vincent's philosophy represented an entirely adverse viewpoint in believing that everyone should fear Edenia's immense power and influence. Despite this extremist position, the ambassador's wealth of knowledge in diplomacy loomed essential for negotiating treaty conditions.
"Another case of poor judgment, I see," Solomon mused. "I appreciate you being forthcoming with this news."
"Of course," the guard responded before he and his fellow soldier moved aside to open the entrance.
What awaited behind the palace doors laid the foundation Edenia stood on. Delicate silk fabrics lavished the main hall. Curtains draped over every window sill as flowers from the bountiful garden added to the interior. Pearl tiles aligned the floors, creating a sense of perfection within Edenia's central alcazar.
As father and son traversed the structure, Solomon stopped and prompted Jai to do the same. "If you're not busy at mid-day, I would like to sit down for lunch."
Jai raised a curious eyebrow at the invitation. "Something else troubles you?"
"Discussing here isn't ideal. We'll do so in private because only you can know what I intend to reveal," the older man stated. "Understood?"
Noting his father's urgency, Jai gave a slight nod. "Very well. We'll meet during combat intermission."
He hastily made his way towards the throne room to avoid being late for his appointment. Solomon regarded Jai's retreating body momentarily before gathering with the Royal Assembly, his veiled speculation coming to the forefront.
'His reasons for defending the motherland are noble. Deep down, I know my son's real intentions for affiliating with the Knights.'
Arriving at his scheduled meeting, Solomon concluded why Jai shunned the bureaucratic branch. 'That girl...'
Edenia's sovereign essence flowed from its hallowed grounds through the palace halls. All business, negotiations, and celebrations occurred here under the monarchy's discretion. Tapestries draped each room, a sense of pride in each handcrafted fabric most can appreciate. Jai knew all about appreciation; for his family, despite the deteriorating relationship with his father and his limbs' mobility.
His anxiety from the morning's exchange with his father had him distracted, nearly bumping into a particularly ornate vase. Jai had to regain his focus. The pent-up anxiety from this morning had carried over despite a veiled façade. It's not often one was granted a private sit-down with the realm's prestigious family, even as one of their finest officers.
'Paranoia finally caught up to me,' Jai thought. 'They weren't too keen on particulars.'
He had received no explanation for this call, leaving Jai clueless about why the King and Queen beckoned him today. Any lateness wouldn't bode well for future proceedings, so he composed himself before quickening his pace. Two imperial guards stood in front of the entryway, similar to their counterparts at the main gate.
"The majesties await your company, Lieutenant," one guard greeted.
The young prodigy nodded and steeled his nerves as both men pulled the doors open.
Easily the most profound dwelling in the palace, the throne room exemplified sophistication, elegance, and immense divinity. Jai couldn't help but stare in awe as only specific individuals were allowed beyond this point.
"Our invitee has arrived," a booming voice announced.
Perched atop a flight of beige carpeted stairs was Edenia's leader flanked by his wife and daughter. King Jerrod's middle-age appearance had witnessed much in a life spanning twenty-six thousand years. He dressed in a light blue sleeveless robe over a black undershirt - gauntlets attached to each arm and comfortable boots on his feet.
On the King's left sat his spouse in an elegant purple dress. Queen Sindel's commanding presence blended perfectly with her husband's tact. Their reign had withstood tremendous inward and extraneous hardships as each looked forward to continuing Edenia's most prosperous era. No war had been waged since their first centuries of governing. To Jerrod's right was their pride and joy, Kitana. A stunning woman primed to take her parent's mantle as the heir to the throne. Her voluminous brunette hair reaching the small of her back displayed grace in its purest form. She shared her father's tenacity despite the moniker of being his delicate Princess.
Kitana locked gazes with the same boy that captured her parents' interest from afar, her mouth curling into a gentle smile. Jai inhaled an inaudible breath, anxious to make a good impression. He strode forward to the stairway and bent one knee in a bow.
"King Jerrod, Queen Sindel, and Princess Kitana. I have arrived at your request."
The royal family gravitated down the stairs. Effective rapport with subordinates and supervisors throughout the Academy brought nothing but lauding to Jai's name, highly respected even amongst the veteran Knights.
"You may rise, Lieutenant," Sindel's gentle voice instructed.
Jai did as she directed but barely had enough time to stand as Kitana wrapped her arms around the officer's torso. They were the best of friends dating back to adolescence after being introduced by their parents. Neither kept in contact often due to varying obligations besides meeting at an official function. Jai couldn't help but feel disappointed and helpless due to his position.
"It's good to see you again, Jai," Kitana beamed before relinquishing her hold with a slight pout. "You never visit anymore."
"Apologies, Princess. The Academy trains fresh recruits every week, and our numbers are too thin to enjoy any off days," he explained.
"Sounds to me you require some excused absences," replied the Princess before turning to her mother and father. "Don't you think so?"
"Now, Kitana. He does make a valid point," Jerrod interjected. "Leave time might become far and few between due to only a motley of officers at my disposal."
His wife's displeased stare made him freeze. "Our land hasn't seen or detected the slightest notion of conflict in over three millennia. Where's the harm in allowing our top enforcers a more lax schedule?"
"Sindel, our enemies will not hesitate to invade the minute we let our guard down as a nation. You know this," her husband countered. "I'd give all our troops a well deserved amount of leisure, but I cannot jeopardize Edenia's safety for that reason."
An exasperated sigh left Sindel as the conversation ended abruptly, leaving no room for negotiation. Kitana didn't hide her disappointment but had to accept that her father's word was final. Jai decided it was wise to not say anything. It certainly wouldn't benefit him.
"Back to our present obligation." The King honed his attention on their guest. "I'm aware I wasn't forthcoming as to why we called you here. I'll address this matter in our secluded war room."
"Yes, your highness," Jai responded.
For the first time, Jerrod smiled. "Excellent. I'll ensure this meeting will not impede your training."
He proceeded to a bookcase, fingers skimming each dust-covered novel until pulling on a gray book's top half. Nothing happened for a moment before a rustling noise occurred. The entire shelf rotated counterclockwise on its axis to reveal a hidden stairwell. One by one, everyone began descending the steps, Jai trailing Sindel and Kitana with Jerrod at the forefront.
The walk downward was quiet, only the sound of feet hitting the floor resonating.
Just as Jerrod described, the basement underneath was a war room containing a long meeting table stretched to the room's width, candles providing sufficient illumination. Three makeshift royal chairs served as Edenia's throne room replicas where the King, Queen, or Princess could oversee internal affairs. They all sat in their corresponding seats in front of where Jai stood.
"At ease, Lieutenant. We wish to ask a few questions about how you fit into the Edenian Knights, our strongest and most talented fleet of warriors. Don't think of this as an interrogation. I only use this method to know my soldiers better." Jerrod disclosed the details.
"Understandable, my King. I'll answer each question to the best of my ability," Jai acknowledged.
"I have no doubt you will." Jerrod's eyes veered to his ward. "You may begin, Kitana."
The cerulean Princess nodded. "How do you find yourself adjusting to your role in our elite force?"
"The transition these past few years hasn't been smooth by any stretch; curriculum specifically. But that does not grant leeway for excuses," Jai honestly answered.
"I'll respectfully disagree on a portion of your answer. Your grades in the schoolhouse far surpass everyone in your rank class by a wide margin."
Within Kitana's stack of papers laid Jai's training report, his numbers impeccable compared to the school standards.
"Scores like these aren't easy to attain, and you've done so admirably."
Jai nodded. "Thank you, Prin-"
"Please." She smiled. "Kitana will do. No need to be formal towards a friend. What do you enjoy most about being a Knight?"
"Camaraderie. I savor all interactions with subordinates, supervisors, and officials. The bond we share as an organization is beyond measure. I expect that to continue long after my departure."
Kitana jotted down a few notes on a small notepad, her parents fascinated by the Lieutenant's poise. They knew something was unique in his characteristics - soft-spoken, eloquent, attentive, driven, and selfless. The exact traits Jerrod and Sindel sought for their prestigious affiliation.
"Your mention of communication within the campus is intriguing and leads to my final question," Kitana announced.
A small sweat bead rolled down Jai's forehead, not expecting these types of questions and only imagining what the King and Queen would ask.
"How are you and the General faring in close quarters?"
That inquiry took Jai by surprise. Then again, Kitana knew what she was doing as they shared history with the General. She commanded the Knights and the entire Edenian militia - not a modest feat by any circumstance. All three convened as if fate had called them together, their bond steadier than the mountains.
Clearing his throat, Jai prepared to voice his answer. "For reasons I can't fathom, she values my opinion more than any other officer. We've held numerous discussions concerning the Knights' direction. However, I fear we've reached a crossroads with no clue on how to approach the situation."
His statement prompted Kitana to offer a follow-up question. "How long has this complication lingered?"
"For five months."
Jerrod and Sindel stayed quiet, not once interrupting to allow Jai a common courtesy in answering their daughter's questions.
"If I may, I would like for us all to meet over dinner a few days from now. Maybe we'll find a middle ground to these inconsistencies hindering the organization. Would that help in any way?"
"It wouldn't hurt to try. I can inform the General when I return to the grounds today."
"No need. I'll be tagging along as I also have personal matters to converse with Jade. Added to that, my mother and father will be hosting the Knights for a banquet later this evening. Formal attire, of course."
Her last sentence went in and out of Jai's ears.
He did his best to conceal what he termed was a 'silly' infatuation. Just the mention of that name caused butterflies to float in his stomach. A rarity as no one could bring such a reaction out of Jai, not even the Princess herself.
"Any parting thoughts for me?"
Staring at nothing in particular, Jai was brought out of his reverie. "Forgive me, a momentary lapse on my part. I have none."
Kitana merely smirked rather than scold him. She's tried for years to bring her two companions together as their mutual similarities held proof of a hidden attraction. Neither would admit to harboring such innate feelings. However, Kitana was persistent in accomplishing what she desired if it meant bending a few rules, much to her parent's chagrin.
"Very well. Your next session will begin on my mother's accord."
Sindel arranged her stack of papers. "How are you this morning, Lieutenant?"
Her question helped Jai feel more at ease. "Quite well, your highness."
"I'm glad to hear so."
Sindel mutely studied his body language. "It's hard to imagine this is the same young man we've watched grow with our daughter over the years. Time has surely come and gone. How is your mother faring after her injury?"
Jai's mind traced back to Kiyana's ill-timed collapse. A palace informant disturbed the Knights' afternoon combat practice by handing him a handwritten note detailing his mother's condition. Panic gripped him before he rushed over Jade, who noted his sudden urgency. She permitted Jai to leave but not before instructing him to inform her of Kiyana's condition and only return when things stabilize.
"Her progress is trending upward," Jai conveyed to the Queen. "I owe you a debt I could never repay."
"Nonsense. We go back to when you and Kitana were merely infants. I cannot overstate Kiyana's importance as a sacred friend," Sindel expressed her gratitude. "It's evident you've inherited her warrior's spirit and courage."
Jai nodded. "Thank you."
"What do your values consist of?"
Values are the very principles of behavior; one's judgment of what's imperative in life. Long ago, the Knights devised core values to live by and recited them every morning - Integrity first; Service before self; and Excellence in all we do.
"I have five that guide me. Commitment, honesty, perseverance, dependability, and loyalty."
"All fine selections. Give me a brief description of why you chose each."
"I was always taught to be fully committed to a chosen venture as it will assist in future opportunities. If I'm not honest with others or myself, it serves as a disservice that I must never tolerate. One has to persevere against impediments on the chosen path throughout life. Nothing comes easy, and I rather not be handed success on a silver platter. Being dependable in any situation counts as an act of trust. Finally, I must remain loyal to the cause I fight for without hesitation."
The royal family felt captivated by Jai's words with astonished expressions across each face. Kitana failed to hide her elation while Sindel kept hers reserved. It didn't escape Jerrod's notice as he merely nodded his approval.
Sindel wrote down a concise synopsis before giving a kind smile. "Marvelous work, Jai. Your mother and father should be proud of the man they raised."
Though mentally disagreeing with part of her sentiment, Jai decided not to press his luck. "Many thanks, my Queen."
"Of course. Kitana and I will make ourselves scarce as my husband completes the last portion," she informed before eyeing her husband. "Don't be too rough."
"Yes, dear," Jerrod affirmed.
The two ladies excused themselves, their steps echoing throughout the stairwell. All stood quiet between the King and his most prized officer, neither breaking eye contact.
Jerrod shifted in his chair before leaning forward with clasped hands. "I'm undoubtedly impressed. My wife and daughter are as well. As Sindel stated, you have one last session before I dismiss you."
"Yes, Sir."
"Where do you see yourself five years from now?"
"Serving my kingdom in any capacity. I also want to continue giving back to the community."
An ink pen furiously scribbled on paper as Jerrod wrote down that exact answer. "Do you see yourself remaining with the Knights into the foreseeable future?"
"If allowed, but I'll eventually cross that bridge. I'm more of a person who concentrates on the here and now."
"Though I'm inclined to agree, keep an open mind when regarding your future. Things can change when you least expect it."
Jai took the older man's words to heart as Jerrod continued writing, making sure to mark down every minor detail. Another pensive silence transpired except for the pen scratching against paper.
Finally, the sound halted.
Jerrod calmly put down his writing instrument, his stare bearing down on Jai holding firm at parade rest. "Based on what you've divulged, it's safe to presume you are one of our most insightful warriors since I've taken the helm. Your track record speaks for itself. Do you have any idea why you're here today?"
Some speculation came to Jai's mind. It puzzled him why the King summoned him for a lengthy conversation involving his Queen and Princess. The questions he answered were far from the usual and erred more personally.
"I... do not, your highness. No clue whatsoever."
A slight smirk graced Jerrod's mouth as he stood and walked around the table directly in front of his Lieutenant. "My true reason for having you here was to interview all officer candidates for promotion. Congratulations, for you've made the final cut."
Jai's eyes widened at the revelation, unprepared for such news. It all made sense now. Everyone around the campus had remained tight-lipped over the past few months. The General offered no insight as she swore secrecy when questioned by troops.
"As you heard from my daughter, we will celebrate with a promotion banquet this evening," Jerrod revealed as he approached the stairwell. "Our meeting has concluded. You may return to the Academy but not without an excused note. Come."
Both men climbed the flight of stairs back to the throne room when a shout of animosity sounded.
Jerrod quickened his pace, with Jai not too far behind. They arrived to find Sindel separating a furious Kitana from another woman with long ebony hair cascading to the middle of her back.
'Just my luck that she's here,' Jai sighed, knowing this lady all too well.
Tanya.