BDS: Chapter Eleven

The next morning, Malik entered the healing quarters of the Vorclán, where Kesól, now clean and nourished, slept soundly in a healing chamber.

"He likely will not wake for several days, Sir," an Order healing assistant stated.

"He is Kystalian, so he heals at twice the rate of an Elsarian," Malik informed him.

"We will attend to him either way if you must take leave."

Malik nodded. "Thank you."

He exited the compartment and entered the ship's control center. "My council with King Garsaun cannot be delayed any longer, so I will take the Xita-8 to see him now," he informed Sade. "Kesól is still resting. I need you to remain here to stand watch over him. King Garsaun is not to know of Kesól's presence or he may attempt to imprison him, which I cannot allow no matter the risk it yields for the Alliance. They most likely assume he is dead, and thus should not be looking for him. Although the shadow hunters were employed by the king in the past to capture the darkest criminals, King Garsaun does not keep track of what happens to the prisoners after their capture. The hunters do not reveal their methods either, which is another advantage we have." He paused, and a flash of weariness crossed his features.

"Sir?"

He sighed. "I have placed a concealment spell over the healing chamber that Kesól is resting in because Krystalian energy is highly powerful. However, if he wakes before I have returned, give him this amulet to carry." He held out his hand and dropped an engraved stone into Sade's open palm. "It will conceal his energy from any Alpherian officers completing a routine inspection on the ship."

Sade nodded.

A short time later, Malik settled the Xita-8 down at the edge of King Garsaun's palace. As he emerged from the ship's ramp, he was greeted by two Alpherian guards carrying long green staffs. Their blue and white hair fell over their shoulders as they placed a bent arm across their chest and gave Malik a simple bow.

"Sir Malik, you honor us with your presence," one guard stated in a crisp accented tone.

Their pink eyes surveyed Malik as Malik returned the bow.

"We will lead you to the king." The guard moved aside to allow Malik to pass.

Malik gazed up at the palace before him as he walked with the two guards. The castle was made of three main towers that came to a point at their highest peak. Its deep violet, chrome metal walls shimmered with a mirage of color as daylight spread across the castle. Opposite wings of the castle opened into a V-shape. Although large, the castle appeared warm rather than domineering, as if its wings served as open arms welcoming visitors to share its space. Children ran freely across the grounds, laughing and shouting as they played.

The guards led Malik to the back of the palace grounds where the king stood amid a group of horses. Garsaun was staring up at a lady dressed in a white gown trimmed in silver and gold sitting sideways on one of the horses.

"Really, Tikana, you must find riding gear other than your royal garments for our games."

Tikana laughed and adjusted the blue-jeweled, silver browband resting on her long, wavy white and blue hair. "Uncle, by the time I change, the day games will be over."

"King Uncle, may I ride?" A small boy of three years gazed up at the king, his peach-tinted eyes shining with excitement.

The child tugged repeatedly at the king's violet, gold-trimmed coat. The coat hung over the king's gold trousers down to his knees, almost reaching the tip of his black and gold boots, making him appear even shorter than he was.

Garsaun scratched his spiked white and blue hair, which stood wildly on end, and looked down his nose at the child with a twinkle in his blushed gaze. "Do you believe yourself to be brave enough to ride a horse that can fly, Drostar?"

"Of course, my lord." The child stated as he stood up taller. He gazed up at the king thoughtfully. "Can he really fly, uncle?"

"Perhaps. Magic always lurks in the corners of the unknown."

Garsaun laughed and lunged playfully for his nephew. His hair shook as he wrestled to keep hold of the child. Drostar squealed as he attempted to escape the king's grasp.

Garsaun straightened as he saw Malik approach with the two guards. Malik and the guards bowed together as Tikana squinted at Malik thoughtfully.

Malik looked up at Tikana. "Lady Tikana, I remember you only in your youth. It is good to see you well."

"Sir Malik is a star wizard from Elsaria, Tikana. You may not remember him as he has not visited Tridaun in a very long time—too long I might add."

Malik smiled. "Indeed, my lord. It has been too many years."

Tikana gave Malik a courteous nod but remained silent.

Garsaun put a hand on Malik's arm. "It is good to see you are still alive and spry, Sir Malik."

Malik smiled as he put an opposite hand on the king's shoulder. "As it is you, your highness." His gaze moved to the top of Garsaun's head. "Did you lose your crown, sire?"

Garsaun shook his head, making his hair bounce around wildly. "No, those things make my head itch."

"I have told my uncle several times that he should have the crowns remade to be more comfortable," Tikana stated. "It is important that the Alpherian citizens know who he is."

Garsaun waved a hand dismissively. "They know. Besides, I'd rather be undercover. I learn more about what's going on in the kingdom that way."

Malik laughed as he took in the king's attire. "My king, I do not believe that you possess enough of a covert appearance to ever be undercover. Your shine simply banishes all attempts at secrecy."

The king laughed. "You're still adept at flattery I see, Mysteis. You are probably right, however. I love color way too much to keep it at bay." He looked up at his niece. "If you will excuse us, Tikana, I must usher Sir Malik into the council chambers. Our star wizard friend is short on time."

"My lady," Malik said as he bowed.

Tikana inclined her head in return and rode off in the opposite direction.

The two made their way to the castle as Garsaun spoke. "Master Cahira is waiting for us with Lord Aeolus. She has already updated me on the Order's plan. Although she is resting, he is sure to be pacing the council chambers deep in thought, for he is much too boring to enjoy the fresh air."

"Lord Aeolus is here?" Malik asked in surprise.

Garsaun grinned. "Yes. I sent for him after your request for Council. He declined my earlier request as he did your own, claiming to have important matters to attend to. However, whatever he needed to do was handled earlier than expected, and after repeatedly checking to make sure his security measures were in top shape, he finally showed."

The two shared a laugh. "A good guard is always needed," Malik stated.

"Indeed," Garsaun said, still grinning. "It's Aeolus's favorite part of ruling—to see how skilled his soldiers can become."

Malik's expression turned more serious. "We may have to employ his skills for the sake of Elsaria."

"Is the threat to the planet that dire, Sir Malik? This…Zye Mordán that Master Cahira speaks of?"

"It is on the turn of becoming so," he replied gravely.

"Then you can certainly count on our alliance," Garsaun said reassuringly. "We have kept war at bay for far too long to allow darkness to weasel its way back into rule."

Malik nodded. "You have changed things," he said with an amused smile as they entered the castle. The two continued down a long hallway, followed closely by guards. Glass panes of every color tinted the light flowing into the castle, casting a rainbow gleam that reflected off the marble hallway. Blue, violet, and yellow lanterns of varying sizes floated freely around as if the two had entered a museum of color rather than the home of one of the most powerful men in Tridaun.

"Isn't it great?" Garsaun stated with pride. "Every room in the castle has a different theme." He touched the edge of a gold statue that decorated the hallway. "You can't be an artist and live with the same decorations for too long. It becomes boring."

Malik smiled. "Indeed."

Laughter rang through the hall as several children sprinted past the two.

"Lord Aeolus must have a challenging time visiting here."

Garsaun chuckled. "He practically ran to the council hall—the only hall decorated rather plainly in my taste. And, with his lips pursed into a frown, he has remarked several times on the apparent lack of security around the castle."

"I don't believe any system of guard, except his own, would satisfy Aeolus," Malik replied as they approached the council hall.

Two large, shimmering navy doors opened inward to reveal a large room of formal furnishings. A silver, navy, and brown trimmed spiral appeared at varying locations on each wall of the room. In the middle of the room sat a silver-edged, rectangular rustic-brown table surrounded by high-back, navy-cushioned chairs.

In a smaller adjacent room, active holographic projections of the kingdom's activity flashed in front of a group of Garsaun's security guards. Aeolus stood at the doorway of the room, studying the equipment. His pointed ears twitched as Malik and Garsaun approached. He gave a short bow to the guards in the room, and the door slid shut behind him as he entered the main room.

Aeolus stood straight as a board, his fit and tall frame creating an intimidating air. He wore a long, white coat with gold trim and matching buttons. A gold browband came to a point in the middle of his forehead with three silver jewels resting across the front of the band. The band cradled his long, straight blonde hair, which ended in tips of shining gold as if the ends of his hair had been dipped in a bucket of metallic paint.

The three exchanged bows in greeting.

"I should have known I'd find you in there, Lord Aeolus," said Garsaun, giving Aeolus an amused look.

Aeolus studied Garsaun closely for several moments with his cat-like green eyes. "King Garsaun, I have some ideas for improvement to your system of guard should you have time to hear," he said in a smooth and clear accent.

The corners of Garsaun's mouth twitched. "Of course, Lord Aeolus. I will take note of your requests."

Aeolus turned to Malik. "Sir Malik, there is no need to go into detail about what has transpired on your planet. Elder Master Zenobia has informed me. The Mandopa of Suál remain true to the Alliance and will thus support the Order in its quest to defend the citizens of Elsaria."

"As do the Alpherians," Garsaun added. "We will prepare and standby for your request."

"I have already placed my troops on alert," Aeolus stated.

The council hall doors opened again as Cahira entered with a hurried air. She quickly exchanged bows with the three. "Elder Master Zenobia has reported a strange ship approaching the outer ports of Suál. Normally, there would be no need for inquiry, but its path of travel is unusual and given the recent events, your commander wished to hear your thoughts, Lord Aeolus."

Aeolus moved forward; his eyes narrowed. "Is there no identifiable trade marking?"

"Yes. It was that of the Sentians in the eastern province. Although all paperwork was validated and the ship was allowed to pass, it was not a Sentian that piloted the ship, and rather than taking the usual path to the east, it ventured south."

Aeolus gave Cahira a quick bow and turned to reenter Garsaun's security control room.

"There is no need, Lord Aeolus," Garsaun stated. He waved a hand over one corner of the table. The corner lit up and scanned Garsaun's palm. Panels in the wall opened to reveal a large, monitor displaying a detailed map of each planet in the Vejar star system. The table opened and projected views of Tridaun from different vantage points emerged in front of the group.

Aeolus raised his eyebrows, clearly impressed.

Garsaun smiled and pressed several buttons at the controls near the edge of the table. The displayed map on the monitor disappeared. He gestured to Aeolus. "You can speak with your commander from here."

Malik watched the monitor, his expression thoughtful, as Aeolus's commander appeared on the screen.

"The ship entered the atmosphere near Volundrene, where it docked," the commander explained. "When we apprehended it, there were few freights and no one else on board. A Sentian arrived a short time later, claiming that he had an order to return the ship to the trading grounds. We followed the ship at a distance until it took the Pass of Altine and turned east."

Aeolus frowned. "It may have been a decoy. Search the outer atmosphere and the region near the Drykvar Mountains for any unusual activity and report back to me."

"Yes, sir," the commander said. The screen went dark as the commander signed off.

Garsaun raised his eyebrows curiously as Aeolus's brow furrowed. "What business would be obtained near the Drykvar Mountains?" Garsaun questioned.

"There are not many who would venture through the Dark Pass in the mountains," Aeolus explained. "However, if any were looking for illegal weapons or intellect to create such, they would seek out the Avehkal. Given this update, it is wise that I do not delay my return to Suál. There are only a few of my spies that I would clear to travel through the Drykvar Mountains. They will need my guidance." He bowed to the others, and then gave Malik a nod. "Sir Malik, we will await your summon."

The doors opened automatically as Aeolus rushed through them.

"If you no longer need my assistance, I will request an Alpherian pilot to take me to the Vorclán, Sir Malik," Cahira stated.

"That won't be necessary, Master Cahira," replied Malik. "It is to our advantage that this journey has gone so smoothly. I will meet you in the Xita-8 shortly."

Cahira nodded and bowed before exiting the room.

"Based on events in Elsaria, is it possible that Mordán would travel to Suál?" Garsaun asked.

"Given Mordán's absence at this time, it is possible. Either way, any activity surrounding the Avehkal is something to be wary of," Malik stated. "Their race—"

He broke off and turned to the doors. Seconds later, they burst open again.

Tikana entered with a rush. "I remember you now!" she exclaimed as she approached Malik, her face flushed. "You tried to defend him—defend what that monster did—!"

Malik raised his eyebrows as Garsaun sighed and stepped forward. "Tikana, this matter is resolved."

"Not for me, it isn't! He—"

"Kesól is no longer alive, Tikana," Garsaun said softly. "He cannot harm you."

"You came here after everything and tried to sway my uncle's opinion!" Tikana turned her accusing stare to her uncle. "How could you offer our loyalty to one who defended my captor?"

Garsaun scratched his head, clearly at a loss for what to say. He sighed again. "Aye, aye, Tikana—it isn't what you think. The warlock was a dear friend to Malik."

"So, you have not told her the whole story?" Malik questioned calmly.

Garsaun shook his head.

"Tell me what?" Tikana demanded.

"King Garsaun, if I may…I will tell her." Malik pulled out a chair and gestured with his head for Tikana to sit.

"All of it?" Garsaun asked as his eyebrows rose.

"All of it. I believe it is time, don't you?"

Tikana's skeptical gaze danced from Garsaun to Malik. She approached the table slowly but sat as directed and crossed her arms.

"My lady, as your uncle stated, Kesól was an old friend of mine that I met long before you were born. He was born a warlock of nobility in the Krystalian tribe. The tribe once resided in the area you know as the Forgotten Woodlands."

Tikana's brow furrowed. "At the northern region of the Glowing Isles? All that is left there are ruins."

"It was once an exotically beautiful place, as were the Krystalian people. They were a kind race that sought peace and used their power to help others but were less inclined to use it to protect themselves."

Tikana scowled but remained silent as Malik continued.

"Tragically, Kesól's family was killed when he was a young boy by bandits that yearned for the wealth that lay in the hills of the woodlands. Not long after that, the high priestesses approached Kesól and revealed that he was the Shanlo meant to protect a princess. The princess was to inherit a kingdom at the dawning of a new age. They convinced Kesól to leave the Isles so he could fulfill his assignment."

Tikana looked thoughtful, her previous defense somewhat deflated. "A Shanlo?"

"A Shanlo is a protector—a guard, in a sense. They are assigned a person of a particular significance to watch over so this person is ensured to fulfill a destiny that was agreed upon before their incarnation."

"The high priestesses grant the title?"

"Yes. They claim it is a voluntary act by the Shanlo. However, once the role of the Shanlo has been unlocked from within, it is very difficult to control. The role of the protector can transform into one of an obsessor. The desire to protect overtakes the Shanlo in increasing cycles until the vessel is strong enough to withstand the extrasensory power and strength that is gained. Then, it steadies somewhat until the Shanlo acclimates to the role.

"If a Shanlo does not learn to balance their energy, they have difficulty controlling the urges that drive them to protect at all cost. Even with training, it is difficult to manage, and Kesól had none. Many have imprisoned their assignment until the prophecy is fulfilled to ensure that no harm will come to the one they are assigned to protect, never understanding why. After the contract is fulfilled, the desire to protect subsides, although the priestesses claim that the power of a Shanlo is a gift that will remain for life."

Tikana stood abruptly. "You are claiming that Kesól is my Shanlo?" She scoffed and slammed her hands on the table. "That's absurd! Of all the ways to grant him excuse for what he did to me—for what he did to Rondúl!"

Garsaun paled at hearing his brother's name but remained silent.

"It is the truth, Tikana," Malik stated quietly. "Although it was wrong of Kesól to imprison you, his behavior is only partially to blame. To balance the heart of a Shanlo takes enormous discipline and practice. Kesól did not intend to kill Rondúl, nor did he understand who Rondúl was at the time your uncle attempted to free you."

Tikana paced alongside the table, dissonance reflected in her gaze. "He locked me up!" She stopped and stared at her uncle. "You surely cannot believe this story!"

Garsaun looked to Malik, who nodded. "Tikana, I was the one the prophecy was revealed to after Rondúl died," he said quietly. "You are the princess meant to inherit this kingdom. The high priestesses did not reveal who Kesól was, but he was standing behind you in the vision. What Sir Malik claims is the truth. It is only for this reason that I did not send the shadow hunters after him."

Malik raised his eyebrows in surprise. "You did not send the hunters?"

Garsaun shook his head. "I simply could not after learning of the prophecy. I thought it too harsh. In fact, I have not employed the hunters for many years." He shuddered. "Although powerful and useful, I do not like their methods."

"But, the rumors say that he died at the hands of the hunters," Tikana said in confusion.

"I do not know how he died for certain," Garsaun replied. "However, I am sure he must be, because he has not appeared near you since."

Malik's brow furrowed in deep thought as he stared into the distance, muttering to himself.

"How could you let me believe that he was a villain out to harm?" Tikana asked in frustration after several moments. "I thought him evil."

"You were very young and needed someone to blame for Rondúl's death," Garsaun replied. "Allowing you to direct your anger at him seemed to give you the determination to move on."

"Do you not think that knowing the truth might have helped rid me of my nightmares—or help me understand why a strange man kidnapped me despite my pleas for release?"

"Would you have believed it?" Malik asked.

"No!... I mean—" she sighed, "not at first…"

Garsaun approached his niece and took her hands in his own. "Tikana, I may not have made the right decision in keeping it from you, but I did what I thought was right at the time. I've loved you as my own daughter from even before my sister died. You know this."

She dropped her gaze. "I do. I tried desperately to understand why he did what he did. Parts of the story bothered me all this time though, as if I was missing a piece to a puzzle." She turned away thoughtfully. "I mean, it wasn't that I disliked Kesól. I was drawn to him for some reason and that—well, it sickened me!" she said forcefully.

"But, now I understand some as to why. His memory has never left me." She stared into the distance. "He did not treat me unkindly and often appeared haunted, as if fighting himself. His manner confused me." She sighed. "Now that I have this knowledge, I wish I could tell him that I know the whole truth."

Malik gave Tikana a small smile. "I am sure your forgiveness will be received by him somehow, milady."

"What a strong soul you are, Tikana," Garsaun said softly in pride. "You will make a fine guide for our people one day. Until then, let us hope our guidance maintains its stability as we help Elsaria find its own balance once more."

Tikana nodded as she lifted her chin in determination. "If our allies are in need of our help, then we should do everything we can to see that they have it."