Tempest Rise (revised edition 10/2013) (Treborel) (6 page)

Hanlin’s attempts at
Communication with King William were unsuccessful.  They repeated insisting William was unavailable due to illness. During this time, Bosen grew stronger; Cap and Kendra grew even closer. Katar became confused over their relationship. Every time he saw them together. They would be deep into an argument. Cap was determined to teach Kendra how to use the bow.  She refused, stating Empaths didn't use weapons. That would send Cap howling about her small dirk. Then they would disappear into the woods in a heated discussion, only to return an hour or two later, laughing and holding hands.

The female
sraeb had recovered, and her cubs had returned. Every afternoon the two would hike back to the clearing and check on the small family's progress.  Each enjoyed the cub’s antics, and the debates they managed to initiate at a moment’s notice. Kendra found she agreed with Cap's point of view on nearly all subjects, except Commander Connor. When a small garrison of Eades' soldiers arrived, Kendra decided to spend her last night with Cap, trying to ease his hatred of the Bantorian.

She asked him to walk back to the clearing
, to check on the Sraeb and her cubs one last time. As the gray sky darkened overhead, they found the sraeb and her cubs settling down for the night. They slept soundly on top of the same herb patch as five nights ago. They walked back toward the lodge as Cap slid his long arm around Kendra's slender shoulders, and pulled her to his side.

"Will you be staying at the Institute?” He asked casually, not wanting her to notice how reluctant he was to continue on to the Summit.

"Yes, for several months, I'm going to be training to teach the young Empathic students winter survival in the mountains. The Elders have decided to establish a new colony, in the Southern Mountains. While they are waiting for approval from Queen Sari, there are many preparations to be made.” She answered with enthusiasm, “I'm hoping they will choose me to be a senior survival trainer for the new colony."

"You're going to teach Survival Training?" Cap stared at her in surprise.

"I'll teach the Empath’s way of Survival to students in their early teens, knowing when to run, and when to stand and fight. A bow and laser rifles are weapons of death. I'll be teaching defensive techniques, how to avoid potentially dangerous situations." Kendra smiled, moving to sit on a fallen tree.

“
What would you call what happened to Bosen? If Katar hadn’t killed the sraeb, they would both be dead.” Cap frowned, still believed her ignorant of the ways of the wilderness.

“If they hadn’t been looking to kill a
sraeb, they wouldn’t have gotten into trouble.” Kendra answered, sternly. “If you know the mountains and the animals, how they react, what they eat, and how they hunt, you can avoid them.”

“What about man? Can you tell from a distance whether a group of hunters is truly, what they
seem? Or if they are looking for something more than meat to satisfy their appetite?” Cap challenged. “Do you simply avoid all you see?”

“No, you trust your judgment. There is always a chance a person or animal will attack unprovoked. Take
Commander Connor for example. I think he became frightened, and fired prematurely. When the sraeb attacked Bosen perhaps the Commander froze, but was too embarrassed to admit it. Even at risk of abandonment, he was too proud to tell the truth.”

“If he were a
regular person, I would think you’re theory would be solid, but he’s not.  There’s something seriously wrong with him. That wasn’t the first time Connor turned his back on a fellow hunter. Also, he’s no coward. I wish he were, but that’s just not how it happened. He sent that sraeb into Bosen, because he wanted him dead, not because he got scared.” Cap felt a surge of anger rush through him, and he rose, turning back toward the lodge.

“Cap, wait,” Kendra jumped up
, moving after him. “I don’t want to argue.  This is the last night we have . . .”

“That’s right, and I don’t want to spend
it talking about Connor.” Cap turned back so sharply; Kendra had to jump aside to avoid crashing into him.

"
Alright, no more talk of the Commander," Kendra answered, softly. Taking his hand, she led him back to sit on the fallen tree. "I want to talk more about not being able to avoid every aggressive situation. I can't promise every Empath would defend himself with a weapon. I can tell you I carry my dirk so I do have some sort of security, but not against animals. I don't want a weapon I could use easily or quickly. I don't want to be able to kill anyone, or anything without using every possible means to avoid it. It's too easy to kill from a distance.  Empaths learn to disarm any man or beast, with calm thoughts, and rational words."

"What i
f that's not enough?" Cap asked, releasing his anger. 

"It always has been.
You forget Empaths can calm any living creature with their touch, and their voice, as well. It is a simple matter of using
the strength
to reinforce your feeling of good will, and forthright intent.” Kendra explained, encouraged by his interest.

"I hope you're right, I'd hate to see you in a situation with a crazed
sraeb. If your soothing doesn't work, it would have you for dinner.” Cap's eyes betrayed the tenderness of his reprimand.

"Human beings have been plagued throughout the ages with situations they were unprepared to handle. We are still thriving; the Empathic
Community is at its largest, since the beginning. Our understanding and insight helped us to survive."

"When was the beginning? Who are your ancestors?" Cap asked, recalling ancient legends about the healers' origins, his anger forgotten.

"Those are difficult questions to answer." Kendra sighed. "To tell you the truth, I'm not sure myself. The Elders have the records of Empathic History hidden. The colony was established over 700 years ago, before that I really couldn't tell you anything. Our past was entrusted to the Elders, hundreds of years ago. There are rumors of a dark secret, kept hidden. Maybe we're descended from thieves, or murderers." Kendra smiled, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "The scrolls probably don't even exist. I think the Elders are just too ashamed to admit they have no records of who we are, or where we truly come from. And if they are real, who's to say they're not just a bunch of stories some grandfather told his grandchildren, on a cold winter night, around an ancient fire."

"Your practical attitude amazes me. I expected some wild yarn about sorcerers
, and magical spells. I should have known you wouldn't have believed in those stories. You're too independent and clear-minded to fall for such nonsense." Cap smiled, taking her hand in his. "I would still like to teach you to use the bow. However, I will just have to get used to the idea of your wandering around the wilderness without any protection."

"Except my
strength
.

"Except your
strength
."

The next morning
, Cap and Kendra said a reluctant good-bye and the two parties headed in separate directions. Kendra and Eades took two of the soldiers and headed back toward Borel, with Bosen. Katar, Cap and the others headed west for the Chasm, and Lon Tesse. Cap's mind was full of Kendra, her slender figure, long flowing hair, and the way she always smelled of fresh herbs. Katar's thoughts went to Bantor, King William, and Hanlin's unanswered communications.

Chapter Three

The archery tournament held on the back lawn of Regent Dana's Mountain Retreat was going well for Lysette. As usual, the slender, blonde surgeon was taking top honors in the longbow division. She enjoyed the sport
, with surprising ease. The only effort she expended was in making sure her mind was clear of everything except the target. Today her concentration was slightly off. Yet, when she used the vision of Prince Roth's face against the target, her aim was true.

At a distance of nearly
one hundred and seventy-five meters, Prince Roth had insisted on setting a target to sway. Hitting the mark dead center, Lysette received a howl of disbelief from the handsome, auburn-haired Prince. "Will you never miss?" His pale, gray eyes sparkled with delight, as he conceded defeat. "Only the Regent's best archers can rival you. Why do I try?"

Sidestepping his
embrace, Lysette casually moved out of reach. Following her, Roth smiled, and said, "If you didn't have hair the color of the sun, and eyes as turquoise as the deepest sea, I would not put up with your constant rejections. “A sober smile crossed his face as he offered her his hand. "May I congratulate the winner?"

Turning back to him, Lysette cautiously took his hand, expecting him to shake it. Instead, he slowly raised it to his lips
, and kissed it softly, his eyes never leaving hers, as he said, “There are many beautiful women in Lon Tesse who would gladly trade places with you, Lysette."

"I’ve found
many have." She answered, turning away from him in anger.

"Lysette!
I'm shocked!" His feigned astonishment lasted only an instant, quickly replaced with laughter.

Turning back to glare at him, Lysette had to admit how truly handsome he was when he laughed.
Roth stood several inches taller than her, his lean frame shook with his surprised amusement. Annoyed by his callous reaction, she faced him fearlessly. He was vain and overconfident, just like all other Royal heirs she had known throughout her childhood. Yet his constant declarations of love had swayed her into believing he was different. Until she discovered he sought the attention of another woman, while waiting for her response, to his wedding proposal.

She had suspected him of unfaithfulness before
yet had found no basis to her suspicions. When Lady Farster came to her to brag about their liaison, Lysette had decided to put an end to his lies. "Roth, you are sweet and attentive, when we are together. I do enjoy your company when you are not spending all your time telling me how wonderful you are. However, I will not be lured into an affair with someone who cannot remain faithful to me for more than a few hours at a time. Nor do I wish to marry a man who cannot stand and face me when caught in a lie."

“Lysette, you know I love you . . .
” Roth's gleeful expression turned to one of distress, as he tried to defend himself.

"I'm afraid I no longer
want to be near you. I have grown tired of your endless games." Lysette snapped, turning toward the groomsman arriving with her horse.

"Lysette, you've kept me waiting so long.
Is it wrong for me to find someone to occupy my time?" Roth stammered.

"Occupy your time? So, Lady
Farster was only a distraction? Is that what you consider a woman to be?" Lysette turned back, furious at the self-consuming Prince.

"I . . .
No! Not at all. All I'm trying to say is, it's very difficult to wait, to have your heart broken by a woman as beautiful as you!" Roth knew he had lost the battle, but he wouldn't relent.

"I'm not an innocent child that will hang on your every word, Roth. I
’ve dealt with all sorts of people while, in the Medical Relief Corp, Liars and deceivers were the worst of them all. You've abused my trust and friendship for the last time. I don't think there is any way you can earn it again." Slamming her long bow down on the small portable table the judges had vacated, she motioned for the groomsman to bring her horse. Then she galloped off toward the riding course, which ran the circumference of the Regents estate.

As Katar and his entourage moved their horses down out of the mountains, they took in the view of the Regent's immense summer retreat
, in the valley below. The high, white, stonewall that surrounded the estate, and the large, green lawns within gave it more the appearance of a palace, than a summer home. Their three-week journey through the mountains had left Hanlin exhausted. Katar's spirits had soared, once they had begun sleeping under the stars again. Still, the disappearance of Commander Connor had caused him some concern. He had assumed the Commander would head for the Summit after leaving the hunting party. Yet, the Chasm watch reported. No one had traveled through the pass in the last two weeks.

If Connor
was lost, or turned back for Borel, so much the better as far as Katar was concerned. As Katar's thoughts went back to Bosen, he wondered if the small band of soldiers had found themselves facing the angry Commander along the trail. He decided to contact Eades, after settling in at the Retreat, to make sure he and the others had arrived safely in Borel. Suddenly, his thoughts went to Enda. By now the beautiful widow had discovered his generous gift of resolving her debts. He would have to make her understand; he would not repeat the favor. She would have to learn to control her finances. Perhaps Hanlin had been right; he knew she would be better off with someone who loved her.  Reluctantly, he decided upon his return to Borel; he would end their relationship.

Cap
appeared on the widening trail beside him, pointing toward the stable area through the trees saying, "The men are all in agreement. Even though we may miss our welcome luncheon, we'd much rather swim in that huge bath house."

"I'd much rather you did, too." Katar wrinkled his nose in disgust.

"You're not so sweet smelling yourself, Your Grace.” Cap countered with a grin. "Especially in those filthy buckskins."

As they reached the gates, a messenger galloped toward the palace to deliver the news of their arrival to the Regent. Katar
’s horse pranced when it saw a large clearing ahead, asking for some speed. 

"Shadow wants some exercise. Is Steele up to it?” Katar challenged, receiving his
response, as Cap charged off toward the stables. Katar pursued, and they arrived together.

The remaining members of the troop followed at a slow canter, arriving as the grooms took the two large men's horses. Cap ordered the soldiers to assist the groomsmen
, as he helped Hanlin from his saddle. Frowning at the sight of the exhausted Advisor, Katar shook his head and sighed. “I was crazy to allow you to come, Hanlin. You're returning to Borel via helijet, no mountain excursions for you, old man."

"
I’m too tired to argue.” Hanlin said quietly, and headed toward the bathhouse a short distance from the stables, bent on soaking away the pain from his overtired muscles. He stopped abruptly as he noticed Lysette walking across the courtyard, a short distance in front them. She was heading for the women's building. Hanlin was stunned by the resemblance she bore to her grandmother. He whispered softly, "Lady Nolan." 

Coming up beside him, Katar followed his gaze, seeing only the door closing behind her.
"Are you sure?" He asked, motioning for Cap.

"Yes, she looks just like her grandmother." Hanlin answered, still gazing at the closed door. The memories of Lady Moore flooded his mind, holding him in a trance. "You're going to have to tell me what hold Lady Moore has over you, Hanlin." Katar smiled, turning to Cap and talking quietly.

Cap's face filled with pleased surprise, as he motioned for the soldiers to follow him. Cap and the three soldiers moved toward the back of the women's bathhouse. Katar boldly approached the front door. This was a chance he had hoped would present itself. We weren’t going to miss an opportunity to show the prudish Lady Nolan just how ill mannered, and unrefined, Treborelan men could be. Not realizing what Katar had in mind, Hanlin followed slowly. Then, as he realized the men were headed toward the wrong spa, he hurried to catch Katar. 

Changing into her robe
, Lysette crossed the large, white, steam filled room to a small pool, carved into the stone of the hot springs. She cringed when she saw the Regent's Mystic, sitting at the side of the deep pool soaking her feet. The ancient woman looked unworldly, wrapped only in a long, white towel. Her long, silver hair, and black eyes accented her dark skin and deep, sultry voice. Deeply wrinkled with age, it was impossible to tell exactly how old the woman really was. Lysette smiled, remembering the night Alia had claimed to witness the Great Destruction. That had been over a hundred years ago. It had left the planet scarred, and frightened.

The Mystics appeared shortly after.
Alia's skin did bare the mark of severe burns. Lysette considered it a miracle she had survived such an all-encompassing injury. It appeared her hands were the part of her body that remained unscarred.

"I have been waiting for you, My Lady."
Alia's soft voice beckoned her nearer.

Quietly accepting the delay in her warm swim, Lysette sat down at the edge of the pool next to the Mystic. She wished she had gone to her room and showered
, instead of indulging herself at the spa.

"Why would the Regent's Mystic have need of me? Are you
sick?" Lysette surveyed the elderly woman, concerned.

"No, child, I have no need of your medical skills this day." Alia leaned over the steaming water
, and gestured for Lysette to do the same. "Stir the water, child, I would know more of you."

Believing Mystics to be profiteers and deceivers, Lysette expressed great concern when the Regent took an interest in the old woman. Lysette held
her tongue, only when her Uncle Sean had warned  anyone who showed disapproval toward Alia, would be shunned by the Regent. So instead, she had chosen to stay close, and watched for signs of deceit. As of yet, she had no reason to suspect Alia.  Once again Lysette held her tongue and touched the water, stirring it with the tips of her long fingers.

Alia gazed deeply into the swirling
, steamy, water and said, "Love is very near to you, child, yet you resist."

Suppressing the smile that threatened, Lysette suspected Alia had come to convince her of Roth's love. Wondering if Roth had asked a favor, she kept silent, waiting
to hear what yarn the old woman would spin. Her attention moved back to Alia, as the old woman gasped, glancing quickly around the room in alarm, and said, “I see a demon with royal blue eyes stalking you!” Alia peered back into the pool. "He speaks of love, yet has the eyes of death. There is blood all around you, twisted limbs, and broken bones. One who is dear to you, lies at your feet; his life is slipping from him."

"Alia, I have no confidence in Mystics, so these little tales of yours will do nothing to put you in my favor. I really must insist
. . . “

"He is here!" Alia screamed, jumping to her feet, pulling Lysette up with her. "You must flee!"

"Alia! Calm down, there is no one here!" Lysette snapped at the crazed mystic. "You're going to slip on the stone floor and get hurt." A movement came from the back of the room, and Alia spun to face the four men that emerged from the curtained room just beyond.

"They are here for you! Run
child!" Alia screeched, dragging Lysette toward the front of the spa.

Unnerved by the appearance of the filthy, animal-clad barbarians, Lysette allowed the Mystic to lead her toward the front door. The men began to coo and call to the two females as they reached the door, causing Alia to shove Lysette forward
, and directly into the arms of Katar.

"What's this? “Katar asked, with a wicked grin."
A forest nymph? Come to welcome me to Lon Tesse with a kiss?" 

He was equally filthy; his blonde hair was wild, giving him the
appearance of a savage. His stench was a mixture of sweat, and animal musk, causing Lysette to struggle in his grasp, disgusted by the tall barbarian. Lifting her off the ground, Katar spun Lysette around, out into the dim daylight. Fully intending to kiss the prissy young woman, he stopped as his eyes fell upon her face. Stunned by the bright, green eyes and delicate features that glared at him in defiance, he hesitated. 

Disgusted by the barbarian that held her; Lysette controlled her
fear and plunged her knee deep into his stomach. As her feet hit the floor, Lysette grabbed Alia and ran from the doorway, yelling for the guards. Seeing the expression of surprise on Katar’s face as he doubled over, Cap howled with delight. His loud guffaws mixed with that of the three other soldiers, as well as Katar’s own gasping laughter.

"Fiery wench!”
Cap teased, as he reached Katar, glancing past him. He noted the approach of the palace guards, and soberly turned to warn his friend. "We have company, and they don't look like a welcome party."

When the guards arrived, demanding an explanation, Lord Wills stepped forward and
presented Prince Katar. At the mention of his name, the guards drew back and allowed him to speak.

Katar explained, "I’m terribly sorry, we must have gotten confused. The men's bathhouses in Treborel are always located f
urthest from the main buildings, instead of closer as they are here. We were just as startled by the Ladies appearance, as they were by ours. I can assure you." Katar smiled innocently, managing to control his amusement.