The Plot is Sprung
The young woman entered the House of Iltani with a purpose. The guards at the door recognized her as the youngest child and only daughter of Ekurzakir, the head of the Iltani household. As a priestess of the goddess of love and war, Ishtar, Erisciana was dressed in garb common to her sect. She wore a white mid-length wrap-around skirt, edged in blue and with silver embroidery. A light blue long sleeved silk garment covered her upper body and she gripped a dark blue cloak about her to ward off the slight chill of the early Spring evening.
She tossed aside the cloak impatiently, as she entered. Her considerable amounts of jewelry normally chimed musically, but her violent actions made the sound more cacophonous now. A grim look etched on her face, she strode determinedly toward the living quarters, her bare feet moving quickly across the cool marble floors and her many anklets jangling with each rapid step.
She went first to check on her father. He had been laid low by some mysterious ailment, which left him unable to speak and barely coherent. For a time, the entire household, including guards, attendants and slaves, was panicking that some malady or plague was striking, for a few of the family’s workers also fell to the same symptoms. Erisci, though not very far advanced within the hierarchy of her temple, blessed everyone who lived there and it seemed as though no one else had succumbed in the last several days.
Now though, Erisci had other information. Vital information that reeked of treachery! Her father’s condition had not changed. After a few moments she was off to find the object of her intent, her brother Balathu and second son of the Iltani household.
He was not in his quarters, but Erisci was sure where she would find him. Down in the lower levels, in the alchemy lab that Balathu secreted himself within often, was where the priestess was sure she would confront her brother. She was not wrong.
Balathu was working on an experiment, but his mind was not fully engrossed in the subject at hand. Instead he was reveling still in the accomplishment he had developed some days ago. It was the culmination of months and months of pain-staking tests. The price in test slaves alone was more than he had expected, but worth it now that his plan was slowly achieving fruition. Suddenly, he was roused from his musing by shouting from outside the door to his lab. His guard was told to let no one ever disturb him while he was here but was obviously not succeeding in his task. It might be time for a new guard.
The door burst open and Balathu was surprised to see that it was his sister who had forced her way in here. “Unhand me, lout!” she screamed as she wriggled free of the guard’s grasp. Raising herself up to her full 5-feet 2-inch height, she wagged her finger at the much taller armored man, as he stopped short. “Do not dare to deny a priestess of the goddess of war, lest you find yourself learning the full anger and retribution that you incite!!” Waving her hands in a circular motion, suddenly the torches on either side of the door burst out in a fountain of flames. The guard retreated, but looked to his master for direction, as Erisci turned her back on the now-forgotten guard and strode towards Balathu. He waved the guard away with a smile on his face. “Leave us! And make sure, this time, that we are not disturbed!” He turned to take a drink from his wine cup. “So little sister, what has you so up in arms this fine evening?”
As he turned back to his youngest sibling, he was surprised to receive a sharp slap across the face! “Pig! Traitorous scum!!” she shouted as she aimed another violent blow at her brother’s face. The shock of the first blow had knocked the wine cup from his hands, and he barely avoided the second. Erisci was slender and slight of build, but her anger fueled her with an unexpected strength. Still her brother was skilled in martial disciplines and in such a fight, she was never a match for him.
He caught her wrist on the next blow and then grabbed the other and forced her to a nearby chair. “Why don’t we talk about this like the civilized noble people we both claim to be,” Balathu said, with a sneering smile on his face. “I don’t even know what these accusations are all about, dear sister.” Retrieving his cup, he calmly poured himself another drink. “You seem like you could use a stiff drink yourself, Erisci. Care for some? It’s T’edge.”
“Spare me the pleasantries, brother,” she said, sarcastically emphasizing the last word. “We both know why I am here!”
“Perhaps. And then again, perhaps not,” he said between sips, a knowing smile forming on his lips. He took a seat across from her. “Please delight me with whatever fantastic tale you are spewing this time!” He sat back and regarded the girl for a moment. If she knew the truth, she might prove dangerous, but if she did not then better to not give away any secrets.
“I have spoken with Tiallah.” The woman of whom she spoke was not just an attendant to the noble daughter of Ekurzakir, but she had been a life-long friend. She was her most trusted confidant and still lived in the Iltani household even though Erisci was often at the Temple of Ishtar for nights and weeks at a time. “She saw what you did! She witnessed the deed.” That made Balathu’s eyes flash with anger and also a trace of fear. Erisci came to her feet and stepped toward her brother. “She spoke to the attendants that you used. The same ones that you had killed after they assisted in your devilish plot!”
Balathu came forward menacingly. So much so that Erisci stepped back and fell into the chair she had been sitting in a moment earlier. Her brother flung the chair and her backward and it shattered as it hit the marble floor. He was on her in a moment, a handful of her dark curly locks in one hand and a dagger in the other. One that was aimed at her throat. “That whore you call an attendant is not a reliable witness,” he hissed. She gritted her teeth and sneered back at him, but said nothing, the point of the dagger pressed firmly against her neck. “Why, just before you arrived, I was informed that she had been arrested for prostitution and assault against a noble friend of the family. You remember Sir Sargon? Of course you do, you spurned his marriage proposal some months ago. Seems your wench tried to take your place,” he said with a mirthless chuckle.
“Sargon is a pig and so are you,” she replied carefully through clenched teeth. Then a moment later, a bright flash of light erupted from the woman’s hands and sparkling bolts of energy ripped into her brother’s body. He fell back enough to free her from his grasp and she scampered away from him a short distance. Erisciana was not only a priestess, but she was also a fledgling mage. The Magick Missiles were enough to catch her brother unaware and unexpected, but not enough to cause fatal injury.
He regained his dagger but did not come closer. For now, the advantage was hers and he was not certain just what she might be capable of. That first attack hurt well enough. “Tiallah,” he began while dusting off his pantaloons and smoothing his hair and mustache, “will face her punishment. She will be sold into slavery. There is nothing you can do to stop that.”
Erisci’s mouth dropped open at the words and the thought of her dearest friend subjected to such a horrible, life-long punishment. “Oh, I suppose she will end up secreted away in some nobleman’s hideaway, working her fingers to the bone, if she’s lucky.”
Erisci’s eyes flashed anger and hatred. “Still, I have the proof. Your plan has failed! How could you do such a thing to your own father?!”
“Quite easily, dear sister. You well know that our beloved father has been set in the old ways. The ways which have failed our kingdom and our house, time and time again. He would not listen to reason and so he had to be made to step aside.” Balathu walked back to his wine and poured himself another cup. The courage he found at the bottom of his cup was a welcome companion now. “You shall do nothing, Erisciana Iltani. If you bring word of this to anyone,” he paused and stepped toward her again, brandishing his dagger menacingly, “then you will end up in chains, just like your unfortunate wench! Would you care to learn the feel of cold, hard steel riveted about your neck, your wrists, your ankles? And do not think that your goddess or your sect will somehow save you,” he said, once more grinning like a Cheshire cat. “We have allies among those who serve Ishtar as well.”
Erisci’s lower lip was trembling by now in fear and anger. “You will not get away with this, I swear,” she said quietly as a single tear ran down her cheek. Unable to accomplish anything here, she stepped towards the door. Passing the now forgotten experiment, she swept her hands through all the vials and bubbling pots, sending them all crashing to the floor. Anger flashed once more on her faced as she turned to him, but she could not form words, only a guttural hiss escaped her lips and she was out the door, slamming it behind her.
“Do come back and chat again some time,” he said, despite her being out of earshot by now. “I quite enjoyed this conversation.” Balathu took another long drink from his wine cup and smiled a sinister smile.
Prequel to Adventure - Erisciana
Re: Prequel to Adventure - Erisciana
Honor Above All
Erisciana, priestess of Ishtar, sat next to her mother’s bed. Erisci’s father had been laid low by a vile and sinister plot. And to make matters worse, it was not a strike from enemies without, but from a far more dastardly and heart-breaking internal source. The Iltani patriarch, Ekurzakir, had been poisoned by his own son. As if to make things all the worse, Erisci’s mother was also bed-ridden. The doctors said that she was in perfect physical health, but she was barely responsive and did not speak. She had remained in bed since just after the attack had come against her husband and was almost as if one dead herself. It seemed that Ku-Aya had fallen into some sort of depressed shock at the illness of her husband. She was attended to around the clock by house servants.
Erisci’s mother lay there, almost like one dead, and dressed in her finery. Her rich gown of forest green was embroidered with golden thread in an intricate pattern. Like her daughter, Ku-Aya wore many jewels, only these were of pure gold and the gems were of the highest quality.
“Everything seems to be falling apart around our family, mother,” Erisci took her mother’s hand as she spoke. “But perhaps it is good that you do not know the source of all this pain.” She thought back to the recent encounter with her middle brother and the manner in which this situation had started to unravel even further. Soon she would put an end to this however and reveal all to her eldest brother, Zarek. Then they could start to put the broken pieces of this family back together. Then the House of Iltani would be made whole again, if perhaps a tad smaller.
“I do not know if you can hear me,” the priestess of Ishtar continued. Stopping for a moment, she looked over to the attendant nearby. With a quick motion of her head toward the door, Erisci signaled for the girl to leave them. She was not sure whose ears belonged to whom at this point. The girl caught the unspoken command and hesitated a moment, as she had been directed to watch Ku-Aya at all times until relieved. However, as Erisci’s eyes narrowed at the girl and a scowl formed began to form, she decided that following the priestess’ wishes was the prudent choice and quickly departed the room.
Eri moved closer this time, kneeling close to her mother and leaning in across her. She spoke clearly but in more of a stage whisper not wishing to allow ears, that might be attempting to overhear, the satisfaction of her information. “While they have not yet found a cure for the malady that befouls father, I now know the source of the sickness and the poison. With some effort, the madman’s vile plot will be unraveled and all will be made well again.” Erisci noticed that her mother’s eyes twitched as she started her explanation. Maybe she was getting through somehow?
“Unfortunately,” she dropped her voice a tad lower and moved closer still to speak, “the attack came from within our own walls. Vile, wicked deceit. But once Zarek learns that his own brother was the cause of this calamity and the shock wears off, I am certain….” Erisciana yelped in surprise as her mother not only moved, but quickly, grasping her daughter’s arm in her left hand. The grip was strong and persistent and the look that came over Ku-Aya’s face gave Erisci serious pause.
The voice was firm, but hoarse from many days of unuse. “You will not destroy this family any further!” Ku-Aya looked deeply into her youngest child’s eyes. “You must not speak of this. Not to anyone. And certainly not to Zarek.”
Erisci pulled away in shock and horror, standing up and taking a few steps backward. Her hand went to her mouth, which hung agape at the surprising turn of events she just witnessed. Erisci looked about for a moment, almost unsure of what she had heard. But her mother’s face remained coherent and her eyes bored directly back at the young girl.
Finally, Erisci was able to speak again. “You choose to defend Balathu over your own husband for the sake of appearances to other families? You accept this treachery in order to save face for Zarek? You remain silent, despite knowing all that has happened, simply because of what…?!! Honor?! Customs?!” Erisci balled her fists in frustration. “Damn your honor and your customs! What about love? What about devotion? What about commitment to your only one and true partner? He would not respond as you if your situations were reversed!!” Ku-Aya was as stoic as she had been for the previous days. If she heard her daughter’s rants, she gave no indication.
The attendant though had clearly heard the commotion and entered the room, this time with a guard. Erisci turned and anger flashed in her eyes. “If you wish to see tomorrow, then you will get out! Now!” Despite their dedication, the two were unwilling to challenge Erisciana. She could be fierce when angered, they knew.
Erisciana turned back to her mother. She let out a long breath and calmed slightly, but anger still remained in her eyes. “This… is not over. I shall not remain silent as you have chosen to do. I shall not!” She turned and grabbed her things and left the room quickly now, passing the two cowed servants outside without even giving them a second glance.
Erisciana, priestess of Ishtar, sat next to her mother’s bed. Erisci’s father had been laid low by a vile and sinister plot. And to make matters worse, it was not a strike from enemies without, but from a far more dastardly and heart-breaking internal source. The Iltani patriarch, Ekurzakir, had been poisoned by his own son. As if to make things all the worse, Erisci’s mother was also bed-ridden. The doctors said that she was in perfect physical health, but she was barely responsive and did not speak. She had remained in bed since just after the attack had come against her husband and was almost as if one dead herself. It seemed that Ku-Aya had fallen into some sort of depressed shock at the illness of her husband. She was attended to around the clock by house servants.
Erisci’s mother lay there, almost like one dead, and dressed in her finery. Her rich gown of forest green was embroidered with golden thread in an intricate pattern. Like her daughter, Ku-Aya wore many jewels, only these were of pure gold and the gems were of the highest quality.
“Everything seems to be falling apart around our family, mother,” Erisci took her mother’s hand as she spoke. “But perhaps it is good that you do not know the source of all this pain.” She thought back to the recent encounter with her middle brother and the manner in which this situation had started to unravel even further. Soon she would put an end to this however and reveal all to her eldest brother, Zarek. Then they could start to put the broken pieces of this family back together. Then the House of Iltani would be made whole again, if perhaps a tad smaller.
“I do not know if you can hear me,” the priestess of Ishtar continued. Stopping for a moment, she looked over to the attendant nearby. With a quick motion of her head toward the door, Erisci signaled for the girl to leave them. She was not sure whose ears belonged to whom at this point. The girl caught the unspoken command and hesitated a moment, as she had been directed to watch Ku-Aya at all times until relieved. However, as Erisci’s eyes narrowed at the girl and a scowl formed began to form, she decided that following the priestess’ wishes was the prudent choice and quickly departed the room.
Eri moved closer this time, kneeling close to her mother and leaning in across her. She spoke clearly but in more of a stage whisper not wishing to allow ears, that might be attempting to overhear, the satisfaction of her information. “While they have not yet found a cure for the malady that befouls father, I now know the source of the sickness and the poison. With some effort, the madman’s vile plot will be unraveled and all will be made well again.” Erisci noticed that her mother’s eyes twitched as she started her explanation. Maybe she was getting through somehow?
“Unfortunately,” she dropped her voice a tad lower and moved closer still to speak, “the attack came from within our own walls. Vile, wicked deceit. But once Zarek learns that his own brother was the cause of this calamity and the shock wears off, I am certain….” Erisciana yelped in surprise as her mother not only moved, but quickly, grasping her daughter’s arm in her left hand. The grip was strong and persistent and the look that came over Ku-Aya’s face gave Erisci serious pause.
The voice was firm, but hoarse from many days of unuse. “You will not destroy this family any further!” Ku-Aya looked deeply into her youngest child’s eyes. “You must not speak of this. Not to anyone. And certainly not to Zarek.”
Erisci pulled away in shock and horror, standing up and taking a few steps backward. Her hand went to her mouth, which hung agape at the surprising turn of events she just witnessed. Erisci looked about for a moment, almost unsure of what she had heard. But her mother’s face remained coherent and her eyes bored directly back at the young girl.
Finally, Erisci was able to speak again. “You choose to defend Balathu over your own husband for the sake of appearances to other families? You accept this treachery in order to save face for Zarek? You remain silent, despite knowing all that has happened, simply because of what…?!! Honor?! Customs?!” Erisci balled her fists in frustration. “Damn your honor and your customs! What about love? What about devotion? What about commitment to your only one and true partner? He would not respond as you if your situations were reversed!!” Ku-Aya was as stoic as she had been for the previous days. If she heard her daughter’s rants, she gave no indication.
The attendant though had clearly heard the commotion and entered the room, this time with a guard. Erisci turned and anger flashed in her eyes. “If you wish to see tomorrow, then you will get out! Now!” Despite their dedication, the two were unwilling to challenge Erisciana. She could be fierce when angered, they knew.
Erisciana turned back to her mother. She let out a long breath and calmed slightly, but anger still remained in her eyes. “This… is not over. I shall not remain silent as you have chosen to do. I shall not!” She turned and grabbed her things and left the room quickly now, passing the two cowed servants outside without even giving them a second glance.
Re: Prequel to Adventure - Erisciana
Falling on Deaf Ears
Erisciana of the house of Iltani and priestess of Ishtar fell back into the nearby chair and dropped her head into her hands. “This is a house of madness,” she whispered, mainly to herself.
“I must say that I am very glad that we decided to have this fallacy of a talk in private,” Zarek said, as he looked at his youngest sibling and shook his head sadly. She was somehow not coherent or else simply raving mad. “When the words first came from your lips, I thought there was some sort of a joke involved. There must be, don’t you agree?”
“How naïve are you being, Zarek?” Erisci pleaded. “Why will you not even consider the possibility that what I am saying is the truth?”
Zarek stood up from the desk that once belonged to her father. This was his personal study, which Zarek had not only already claimed but also brazenly taken to beginning some redecorating. He stepped around and stood in front of his younger sister. “The possibility you suggest is impossible to imagine. It is madness. Our brother poisoned our father for…. What end? What end would it gain him, even if it were possible for a family member to exact such deceit and dastardliness? I am the one who has taken father’s place, not him.”
Erisci looked up at her eldest brother, still trying to convince him of the seriousness of the situation. “There are so many ends that Balathu could be playing. Clandestine plans with other powers. Allies who will benefit him and strike down this family. Deals…”
“…with the underworld. Demonic pacts. Sacrificial victims. The dead walking the streets.” Zarek stopped for a moment in disappointment. “Listen to yourself, Eri. You have lost your senses!”
She had to make him understand. “Zarek….”
“Enough talk!" he interrupted forcefully. "I have heard your words and they are like unto a fool’s advice. Your source is a criminal! Your claim is preposterous! A brother would not scheme against brother and in doing so brutalize his own father. You claim mother knows of this, but she will not speak to anyone. If I did not see rational thought in your eyes, I would have you restrained, sedated and under constant care of the physicians.”
Erisci just let out a sharp breath through her nose and pursed her lips.
“But as you clearly are rational, if not somehow deluded, then I have no choice.” Zarek returned to his desk and clasped his hands before his chin in thought. Erisci stood and was about to speak, but he raised one hand to stop her and she grudgingly complied. He was the head of the household now and as much as she wanted to rebel, his word was currently law within these walls. She was walking a fine line.
“I am afraid that you cannot be trusted currently,” Zarek began.
“I cannot be trusted….?!!” Erisci was beside herself with anger and frustration by now. She slapped the desk hard with her hand. “And yet you believe that jackal has your best interests at heart?!”
Zarek seemed to ignore her outburst. “And therefore, my decision is that you will be assigned to a very special task that has recently come into need. Several of the noble houses have been agreeing that the barbarians to the east must be watched, but from within. We need an envoy to speak to their leaders, to determine their strengths and weaknesses, to learn about their plans and goals.” He paused for a moment for effect. “This envoy shall be you.”
“What….???!!!” The priestess was beside herself now. “You are ….. what??!!!” The priestess could hardly form a coherent thought at this outrage.
Zarek smiled. “It is quite an honorable endeavor. For the good of all Zakhara.” He smiled at her, satisfied with himself. “And it shall keep you out of trouble.” His smile made her grimace.
Erisciana closed her eyes. Every step she had taken on this path had led her further and further towards ruin and not resolution. Still, she was not going to let this beat her. She opened her eyes again and looked at her brother. “You,” she said, pointing and waving a finger at her brother. “You may not be the deceitful bastard that Balathu is, but you are just as willing to accept the fruits of his efforts. You have been waiting for father to step aside and now that he is out of the picture, it is so very convenient to just let that ‘circumstance’ continue, so that you benefit. Balathu may be the mastermind behind this devilish plot, but you are just as guilty! You gladly accept the results of this travesty through your pitiful, cowardly inaction!” She sneered at her brother, disgusted with his lack of courage and honor. “You sicken me,” she said through gritted teeth.
“If you are finished, we shall be having a banquet for your departure in three days hence. You will leave the following morning.” Zarek did his best to blissfully ignore her criticisms and condemnation.
Erisci let out a mirthless laugh. “I shall think not,” she said as she turned to leave the room. “The temple has need of me. I shan’t think they will allow me to be going anywhere anytime soon.” She looked at him one more time, and shook her head sadly. Then she left the room, closing the door quietly behind her.
“We shall see about that. I believe you are about to be in for a bit of a surprise, dear sister.”
Erisciana of the house of Iltani and priestess of Ishtar fell back into the nearby chair and dropped her head into her hands. “This is a house of madness,” she whispered, mainly to herself.
“I must say that I am very glad that we decided to have this fallacy of a talk in private,” Zarek said, as he looked at his youngest sibling and shook his head sadly. She was somehow not coherent or else simply raving mad. “When the words first came from your lips, I thought there was some sort of a joke involved. There must be, don’t you agree?”
“How naïve are you being, Zarek?” Erisci pleaded. “Why will you not even consider the possibility that what I am saying is the truth?”
Zarek stood up from the desk that once belonged to her father. This was his personal study, which Zarek had not only already claimed but also brazenly taken to beginning some redecorating. He stepped around and stood in front of his younger sister. “The possibility you suggest is impossible to imagine. It is madness. Our brother poisoned our father for…. What end? What end would it gain him, even if it were possible for a family member to exact such deceit and dastardliness? I am the one who has taken father’s place, not him.”
Erisci looked up at her eldest brother, still trying to convince him of the seriousness of the situation. “There are so many ends that Balathu could be playing. Clandestine plans with other powers. Allies who will benefit him and strike down this family. Deals…”
“…with the underworld. Demonic pacts. Sacrificial victims. The dead walking the streets.” Zarek stopped for a moment in disappointment. “Listen to yourself, Eri. You have lost your senses!”
She had to make him understand. “Zarek….”
“Enough talk!" he interrupted forcefully. "I have heard your words and they are like unto a fool’s advice. Your source is a criminal! Your claim is preposterous! A brother would not scheme against brother and in doing so brutalize his own father. You claim mother knows of this, but she will not speak to anyone. If I did not see rational thought in your eyes, I would have you restrained, sedated and under constant care of the physicians.”
Erisci just let out a sharp breath through her nose and pursed her lips.
“But as you clearly are rational, if not somehow deluded, then I have no choice.” Zarek returned to his desk and clasped his hands before his chin in thought. Erisci stood and was about to speak, but he raised one hand to stop her and she grudgingly complied. He was the head of the household now and as much as she wanted to rebel, his word was currently law within these walls. She was walking a fine line.
“I am afraid that you cannot be trusted currently,” Zarek began.
“I cannot be trusted….?!!” Erisci was beside herself with anger and frustration by now. She slapped the desk hard with her hand. “And yet you believe that jackal has your best interests at heart?!”
Zarek seemed to ignore her outburst. “And therefore, my decision is that you will be assigned to a very special task that has recently come into need. Several of the noble houses have been agreeing that the barbarians to the east must be watched, but from within. We need an envoy to speak to their leaders, to determine their strengths and weaknesses, to learn about their plans and goals.” He paused for a moment for effect. “This envoy shall be you.”
“What….???!!!” The priestess was beside herself now. “You are ….. what??!!!” The priestess could hardly form a coherent thought at this outrage.
Zarek smiled. “It is quite an honorable endeavor. For the good of all Zakhara.” He smiled at her, satisfied with himself. “And it shall keep you out of trouble.” His smile made her grimace.
Erisciana closed her eyes. Every step she had taken on this path had led her further and further towards ruin and not resolution. Still, she was not going to let this beat her. She opened her eyes again and looked at her brother. “You,” she said, pointing and waving a finger at her brother. “You may not be the deceitful bastard that Balathu is, but you are just as willing to accept the fruits of his efforts. You have been waiting for father to step aside and now that he is out of the picture, it is so very convenient to just let that ‘circumstance’ continue, so that you benefit. Balathu may be the mastermind behind this devilish plot, but you are just as guilty! You gladly accept the results of this travesty through your pitiful, cowardly inaction!” She sneered at her brother, disgusted with his lack of courage and honor. “You sicken me,” she said through gritted teeth.
“If you are finished, we shall be having a banquet for your departure in three days hence. You will leave the following morning.” Zarek did his best to blissfully ignore her criticisms and condemnation.
Erisci let out a mirthless laugh. “I shall think not,” she said as she turned to leave the room. “The temple has need of me. I shan’t think they will allow me to be going anywhere anytime soon.” She looked at him one more time, and shook her head sadly. Then she left the room, closing the door quietly behind her.
“We shall see about that. I believe you are about to be in for a bit of a surprise, dear sister.”
Re: Prequel to Adventure - Erisciana
Abandoned by All
Erisciana stood in the inner chamber of the Temple of Ishtar awaiting the arrival of Aegos, who had been the one to summon her. She fidgeted as she waited, unsure of the reason for such a calling. It was a rare honor to be personally summoned by the High Priest and so it was not without some nervousness that she stood. To distract her though, she took in the beauty of the temple she called home as often as not. It was a sight of which she doubted that she could ever tire.
She stood upon the raised dais where a hundred armored men could stand abreast and still there would be room to walk its perimeter. Low stairs, three in number, as wide as a third of the dais allowed for ascent both from the direction of her arrival as well as across from her, where she expected Aegos to enter. In the very center of the dais was set a hole where a 10 foot rod of pure crystal resided, topped by a blue sapphire that glowed with a luminescence all its own. The sight was magnificent and she felt very small, standing here all alone.
The chamber itself was also circular in its construction, with large windows cut from its wall. Truly a giant could have climbed through any of the windows without the need to stoop. They were all open to the air and the smell of the sea filled the room, mingling with the fragrant flowering vines that grew up around the four pillars that helped support the domed ceiling. The pillars themselves were wider than five men’s arm reach would allow for. The entire chamber was constructed of marble the color of sapphire. Erisci continued to stand still and face the opposite entrance, but her gaze continued to stray about the room. The air was warm, but she had gooseflesh forming on her arms as she waited nervously and she felt a chill run down her back which she knew had nothing to do with the coolness of the marble under foot.
Between each pillar, at the compass points, stood a magnificent statue of a lion reaching thirty feet in height. Each of the lions’ heads allowed for its gaze to fall upon whoever stood on the dais as if always under constant scrutiny from the goddess herself. These lions were carved from an ivory marble and stood in stark contrast with the rest of the chamber.
The entire inside of the domed roof was a brilliantly painted mural created by the finest artisans of Zakhara. Gazing up nearly seventy feet to take in its beauty brought about a sense of vertigo to first time viewers but Erisciana had long since calmed such feelings within herself. It depicted the Goddess Ishtar in a number of scenes. One portrayed her upon her flying chariot pulled by seven enchanted lions. Another scene showed her offering her attentions upon a handsome man born of the Shining Coast. Yet another showed her wrath against her foes, using unbridled energy upon a horde of faceless enemies.
The view from the large windows was just as breathtaking, for the manned battlements of the temple were visible no matter which direction one looked. The sapphire cloaks of the temple guard were visible, billowing in the sea breeze, even at such a distance. The monstrous defensive walls did little to hide the rest of the view however, for the inner chamber commanded a strategic, and equally scenic, position atop a hill. To the west were the docks and beyond them the Shimmering Sea; its waters glistening like countless diamonds in the noonday sun. To the north came the noises from the marketplace, with all its colorful tents mixed in with the marble of the buildings surrounding it. To the east stood the great wall with its towers and battlements, ballistae and scorpios, and beyond that the vast tracts of farmland that brought food to the capital’s populace. To the south were the drilling fields shared by the temple and the city guard to hone skills that made the Shining Coast undesirable to attack. Erisci loved everything about Huzuz and her life here.
“Ah good, you have come,” Aegos said in his quiet voice that somehow carried far beyond its means. “Diligent as always to your duties.” Erisciana straightened more and looked ahead.
He was a man of at least sixty years but could pass for nearly half that. He was fit; bronzed muscles evident beneath the light tunic of the purest white that he wore. His kilt was also white with blue cuneiform writing all along its hem. The pictograms told of the deeds and teachings of the goddess Ishtar and Erisciana knew them well. Aegos did not wear his ceremonial peaked hat, instead showing his shaved scalp. His black beard was long, nearly to the center of his chest, and was well groomed despite his hair being the consistency of coarse wire.
Erisciana smiled and bowed low, giving Aegos his due respect. Upon her raising back up she found his hand cupping her chin gently as he regarded her face with what might have seemed to be compassion; like an uncle might look upon a favorite niece.
“You are probably wondering why I have summoned you here mid-week,” he began, releasing his grasp and turning his attention to the large crystal rod in the center of the dais. He possessed a rod himself, albeit much smaller, but capped as well with a sapphire. The ceremonial rod was tucked into his broad sash of the same color as the gem.
“You have been chosen for the most special of assignments,” Aegos said, still regarding the large crystal staff. “It is an honor for one of your station to be called upon for such.”
The young priestess nodded, although Erisciana could not help but wonder why he refused to look at her then, and why no others were present to bear witness if it was indeed the honor he was attempting to build it up as.
“You shall go forth into the eastern lands,” he said, finally turning to look at her, his expression unreadable. “It is there among the barbarians that you shall spend your time learning what you can. Seek out the knowledge of their alliances, their partners in trade, the things that make them believe they are kingdoms themselves.” The word ‘kingdoms’ used only with much effort put forth by its speaker. In utter disbelief Erisciana stood there, her mouth agape and continued to listen, for she had little choice in the matter. Somewhere high above the temple a shikra called shrilly, kik-kii kik-kii.
"Furthermore," Aegos continued, his brow furrowed as he spoke. "We have received words that far in the east the threat from those who worship the deity they call Hextor have gained considerable power. Surely this is some avatar of Nergal and his vile attempt to usurp some of the very powers of the Queen of Heavens herself!" Aegos bowed his head briefly and Erisci followed the motion. "We need to know more of this horrid cult that is festering. If left to linger it may actually prove a threat to our own Golden Coast and that must never be."
Erisci composed herself a bit more, as thoughts began to race through her mind. “It is the decision that is upon us whether to send diplomats or swords upon these various upstart peoples and you shall be our eyes in this,” he commanded. “Return only when you have all that we require so that a proper discussion can commence. It is one you must do alone however, for to bring a retinue of retainers and slaves would only draw undue attention. Once you reach the extent of our current borders, you must leave your trappings of royalty behind, save that which you carry on and within yourself. May Ishtar bless and guide you.” Erisci’s shoulders dropped at these commands. She was unwilling and unable to argue the directive, but she could only think, “Are you truly serious? What madness continues to haunt me?”
With that, Aegos looked at the girl another moment, regarding her defeated pose. She met his gaze and straightened up again, standing as tall as her diminutive frame allowed and her eyes narrowed in seriousness. Without a change in expression, the High Priest turned and headed towards the massive door, framed in silver and studded in brass, from which he had emerged, leaving Erisciana alone with her thoughts under the gaze of the lions of Ishtar. He offered her no chance for question or rebuttal, and for that she frowned. She could not help but feel as though a prison sentence had just been passed.
Erisciana stood in the inner chamber of the Temple of Ishtar awaiting the arrival of Aegos, who had been the one to summon her. She fidgeted as she waited, unsure of the reason for such a calling. It was a rare honor to be personally summoned by the High Priest and so it was not without some nervousness that she stood. To distract her though, she took in the beauty of the temple she called home as often as not. It was a sight of which she doubted that she could ever tire.
She stood upon the raised dais where a hundred armored men could stand abreast and still there would be room to walk its perimeter. Low stairs, three in number, as wide as a third of the dais allowed for ascent both from the direction of her arrival as well as across from her, where she expected Aegos to enter. In the very center of the dais was set a hole where a 10 foot rod of pure crystal resided, topped by a blue sapphire that glowed with a luminescence all its own. The sight was magnificent and she felt very small, standing here all alone.
The chamber itself was also circular in its construction, with large windows cut from its wall. Truly a giant could have climbed through any of the windows without the need to stoop. They were all open to the air and the smell of the sea filled the room, mingling with the fragrant flowering vines that grew up around the four pillars that helped support the domed ceiling. The pillars themselves were wider than five men’s arm reach would allow for. The entire chamber was constructed of marble the color of sapphire. Erisci continued to stand still and face the opposite entrance, but her gaze continued to stray about the room. The air was warm, but she had gooseflesh forming on her arms as she waited nervously and she felt a chill run down her back which she knew had nothing to do with the coolness of the marble under foot.
Between each pillar, at the compass points, stood a magnificent statue of a lion reaching thirty feet in height. Each of the lions’ heads allowed for its gaze to fall upon whoever stood on the dais as if always under constant scrutiny from the goddess herself. These lions were carved from an ivory marble and stood in stark contrast with the rest of the chamber.
The entire inside of the domed roof was a brilliantly painted mural created by the finest artisans of Zakhara. Gazing up nearly seventy feet to take in its beauty brought about a sense of vertigo to first time viewers but Erisciana had long since calmed such feelings within herself. It depicted the Goddess Ishtar in a number of scenes. One portrayed her upon her flying chariot pulled by seven enchanted lions. Another scene showed her offering her attentions upon a handsome man born of the Shining Coast. Yet another showed her wrath against her foes, using unbridled energy upon a horde of faceless enemies.
The view from the large windows was just as breathtaking, for the manned battlements of the temple were visible no matter which direction one looked. The sapphire cloaks of the temple guard were visible, billowing in the sea breeze, even at such a distance. The monstrous defensive walls did little to hide the rest of the view however, for the inner chamber commanded a strategic, and equally scenic, position atop a hill. To the west were the docks and beyond them the Shimmering Sea; its waters glistening like countless diamonds in the noonday sun. To the north came the noises from the marketplace, with all its colorful tents mixed in with the marble of the buildings surrounding it. To the east stood the great wall with its towers and battlements, ballistae and scorpios, and beyond that the vast tracts of farmland that brought food to the capital’s populace. To the south were the drilling fields shared by the temple and the city guard to hone skills that made the Shining Coast undesirable to attack. Erisci loved everything about Huzuz and her life here.
“Ah good, you have come,” Aegos said in his quiet voice that somehow carried far beyond its means. “Diligent as always to your duties.” Erisciana straightened more and looked ahead.
He was a man of at least sixty years but could pass for nearly half that. He was fit; bronzed muscles evident beneath the light tunic of the purest white that he wore. His kilt was also white with blue cuneiform writing all along its hem. The pictograms told of the deeds and teachings of the goddess Ishtar and Erisciana knew them well. Aegos did not wear his ceremonial peaked hat, instead showing his shaved scalp. His black beard was long, nearly to the center of his chest, and was well groomed despite his hair being the consistency of coarse wire.
Erisciana smiled and bowed low, giving Aegos his due respect. Upon her raising back up she found his hand cupping her chin gently as he regarded her face with what might have seemed to be compassion; like an uncle might look upon a favorite niece.
“You are probably wondering why I have summoned you here mid-week,” he began, releasing his grasp and turning his attention to the large crystal rod in the center of the dais. He possessed a rod himself, albeit much smaller, but capped as well with a sapphire. The ceremonial rod was tucked into his broad sash of the same color as the gem.
“You have been chosen for the most special of assignments,” Aegos said, still regarding the large crystal staff. “It is an honor for one of your station to be called upon for such.”
The young priestess nodded, although Erisciana could not help but wonder why he refused to look at her then, and why no others were present to bear witness if it was indeed the honor he was attempting to build it up as.
“You shall go forth into the eastern lands,” he said, finally turning to look at her, his expression unreadable. “It is there among the barbarians that you shall spend your time learning what you can. Seek out the knowledge of their alliances, their partners in trade, the things that make them believe they are kingdoms themselves.” The word ‘kingdoms’ used only with much effort put forth by its speaker. In utter disbelief Erisciana stood there, her mouth agape and continued to listen, for she had little choice in the matter. Somewhere high above the temple a shikra called shrilly, kik-kii kik-kii.
"Furthermore," Aegos continued, his brow furrowed as he spoke. "We have received words that far in the east the threat from those who worship the deity they call Hextor have gained considerable power. Surely this is some avatar of Nergal and his vile attempt to usurp some of the very powers of the Queen of Heavens herself!" Aegos bowed his head briefly and Erisci followed the motion. "We need to know more of this horrid cult that is festering. If left to linger it may actually prove a threat to our own Golden Coast and that must never be."
Erisci composed herself a bit more, as thoughts began to race through her mind. “It is the decision that is upon us whether to send diplomats or swords upon these various upstart peoples and you shall be our eyes in this,” he commanded. “Return only when you have all that we require so that a proper discussion can commence. It is one you must do alone however, for to bring a retinue of retainers and slaves would only draw undue attention. Once you reach the extent of our current borders, you must leave your trappings of royalty behind, save that which you carry on and within yourself. May Ishtar bless and guide you.” Erisci’s shoulders dropped at these commands. She was unwilling and unable to argue the directive, but she could only think, “Are you truly serious? What madness continues to haunt me?”
With that, Aegos looked at the girl another moment, regarding her defeated pose. She met his gaze and straightened up again, standing as tall as her diminutive frame allowed and her eyes narrowed in seriousness. Without a change in expression, the High Priest turned and headed towards the massive door, framed in silver and studded in brass, from which he had emerged, leaving Erisciana alone with her thoughts under the gaze of the lions of Ishtar. He offered her no chance for question or rebuttal, and for that she frowned. She could not help but feel as though a prison sentence had just been passed.
Re: Prequel to Adventure - Erisciana
Family Bonds
Erisciana was finding herself stymied at every possible turn and her surprising plight was beginning to look somehow hopeless. Eldest brother Zarek had not taken kindly to her accusations regarding Balathu and the plot against her father. Surely he did not share the middle child’s underhanded deceit. No, that did not appear likely, but Zarek did have ambition and clearly he was taking steps to solidify the situation to his advantage. Zarek was a willing pawn in these devious machinations.
“But Tabni,” Erisci protested again to her mentor in the temple. “There are studies to complete, rituals to learn. Going away to Cynalon will delay all of that!” Tabni had been entrusted with training the young Iltani woman, since she had joined the sect many years ago. They were currently in Erisci’s personal quarters. She had quickly moved up beyond the lowest levels of follower and her success in leading combat against the pirates of Dead Eye Cove had only assisted in that ‘honor’ being recently granted. With her status as a noble it only solidified her rank in the temple.
There were those who did not think that was fair. Erisci was presumed by many to be a favored of Ishtar: her eye color was unusual and marked her for Ishtar’s service. Further it was well known that a bright comet ripped through the evening sky on the day she was born. Right through the constellation of the lion. Her father declared that it happened at the very moment of her birth. If so, it was a momentous omen to be sure.
Tabni placed her hands on the younger girl’s shoulders comfortingly and smiled broadly. Tabni was several inches taller than Erisci. She had reddish-auburn hair and dark eyes. She was dressed much like Erisci was in light, loose clothing. Her family standing being lower than the Iltani House, Tabni wore much less jewelry, but still sported several pieces of silver. Most of the priests and priestesses favored white and blue in their wardrobe, especially when at the temple. “Erisciana Iltani. You already know the rituals and the ceremonies, better than most. What few studies you truly need can continue during your travels. This is a prestigious honor which has been bestowed upon you!” Eri wrinkled her nose at the whole idea.
The priestess looked down in despair. This was no honor. She was being sent away because she was thought only to be causing trouble within her family’s house. This was only punishment and nothing else. And worse there were rumors and troubling visions that circulated in hidden conversations. She herself had recently been having nightmares about be pursued by incoherent blobs of pure black evilness. Erisciana’s plight might only be the beginning of something even more sinister. “And the Golden Archipelago will still be here when you return. Now smile,” she said lifting her pupil’s chin with her hand. “I wish I was going on such an adventure.”
Erisci wanted to tell Tabni to go in her stead, but there was no point in continuing to be so dire. There was only worse trouble to be had if she let on what she knew. That much was certain. Somehow the intrigue against her also involved the Temple of Ishtar as well as her own House. There was careful quiet talk of scheming affecting the Temple of Anu. And in the Temple of Enlil there were several surprising promotions to positions of power. The web of intrigue had already been woven deeply and she was no longer certain who she could even trust. Her only choice now was to play along, or there may never be a chance for retribution and restitution. She managed a light smile from somewhere deep inside her.
“Now, that’s more like it. You only have two more days to get ready! Oh, and I almost forgot, your brothers are here at the temple. They are waiting for you.”
That came as a complete surprise. “Here?” she responded incredulously. Neither of them had ever visited her while at the Temple of Ishtar in all the years she had belonged. If they needed to speak to her or see her, they waited until she returned to the family estate or simply summoned her as needed.
“Yes, I believe they said they have a present for you. Zakiti is waiting as well.” Zakiti was a higher-ranking member of the temple. Erisci knew that Zakiti was clearly power-hungry and had been Tabni’s mentor before being promoted to her current station. Zakiti was a member of the House Uktannu. It was a noble house, but less prestigious than the Iltani and certainly much further removed from the bloodline of the Priest-King. Erisci smiled again, but it was a smile of helplessness. The web was in plain view and yet wholly inescapable.
Arriving in one of the temple’s antechambers, Erisci surprisingly saw that the room was nearly filled with people. “Ah, dearest sister, you have arrived,” her eldest brother said. “We know that the preparations for your journey will keep your next days quite full. Thank you for taking the time to see us.”
What a mouthful of puffery and drivel, Erisci thought to herself. Looking at the numbers here, she responded, “I thought my departure banquet was to be held tomorrow evening?” Zakiti had her attendant present and each of the brothers had a guard and a second with them as well. Another man stood behind them. He wore his wavy hair very long and his beard travelled part way down his chest and was woven with beads and gold. Even from this distance, she could feel the hint of magick about him. Zakiti looked at her with a hint of disdain and a sour smile; Erizhi picked that up easily enough. Zakiti was apparently enjoying the departure of the youngest of the Iltani House as much as the brothers were.
“Most certainly, you are correct, Eri,” he said using the least formal form of her name this time. “But Balathu informed me of a present he wanted to give to you and once learning of it, I could not wait to offer it to you. I trust you will be most pleased.”
Erisci thought to herself that with the assembly here she could do nothing but play along. Being belligerent was likely what they were hoping for. “I won’t give any of them that satisfaction,” Erisci decided. “Time to play it sweet and pleasant.” Clearly she wanted nothing that Balathu could ever give her even if it were golden and completely studded with diamonds of the highest quality. “But of course, dear brother. I would be honored to accept such an offering. I do so love gifts!” She hoped her words weren’t as hollow as she intended them to be.
The newest head of the Iltani household stepped forward and kneeled at her feet. He motioned to his second, who produced a silken sack and presented it to his master. Zarek removed the contents and placed them on the floor before her. Erisci saw that they were a pair of brightly polished silver cuffs and some other small item. Her first thought was that they looked like a fancier, finer pair of slave anklets. She quickly looked to Balathu for a moment, unable to hide a bit of shock for just a moment. The terrible grin on his face, the unspoken look he gave her as her eyes met his, told her that in essence it was true.
Zarek reached forward toward her already jewel-adorned feet and waited. “If I may, dear sister?” Reluctantly, she offered her right foot and he swept it up in his hand. “There is always room for more jewelry, eh?” Placing her foot upon his thigh, he took one anklet and quickly closed it upon her ankle with a click. Then taking the small tool that accompanied them, he used it to further lock the cuff about her. He then took her foot in his hand once more and kissed it. The process was then repeated on her left ankle.
She stepped back for a moment and gazed at the anklets locked firmly about her. Balathu had threatened that she would end up in chains. Erisci was appalled that he was now not far off from that threat. She was not in control of her actions or her direction, she was being sent to the eastern lands of Cynalon on a mission that sounded prominent, but was truthfully simply created to remove her from the capital and now she was locked in these cuffs, an affront that only her and her brothers might completely understand, but that was enough. It was all she could do to keep her composure. She bit her lower lip to keep it from trembling.
“How do they feel, Erisci?” Balathu asked, quite mockingly, clearly referring to the conversation they had in his lab two days previous. “They are extremely fine and sturdy craftsmanship.”
Erisci was on the verge of tears, but was not about to let them take her pride, even if they were taking nearly everything else from her. She took a few steps and then flexed each of her feet. They were comfortable enough to move about in and yet snug enough to often be reminded of their presence. “They fit perfectly,” she finally said, in a more positive tone than she thought she could muster. “I shall treasure them as a reminder of Zakhara and of my family while I am away,” she said with a growing resolve, finding strength in her vow to right all these many wrongs. “Every night I will gaze at them and remember what is waiting for me here at the Iltani household. And I shall wear them when I return and complete the task that fills my heart with purpose!” That was said even more forcefully. Balathu’s smile faded from his face now and a touch of fear entered his eyes. He had not broken her as he hoped. Still what possible menace could she pose now? Zarek did smile however, as he was unaware of the veiled threat she brandished in her words.
“We are pleased that you like them,” he said, nodding in Balathu’s direction. “There is one more step to complete. They have been enchanted with magicks. We can return you to us, at the Iltani Estate, with the proper incantations. Just to make certain you do not fall into serious harm’s way on your mission. And to make sure they are not stolen from you…” Zarek motioned to the Mage who had come with them. He made several motions and a bright, bluish-white light flashed from one of the anklets. Erisci thought she saw a tinge of red at the end of the flash. For some reason that seemed even more ominous. A moment later, he repeated the spell with the other ankle cuff. “It is done,” was all that the wizard uttered as he stepped back behind the others.
“Now they cannot even be taken from you, or cut off by some horrible barbarian enemy,” Zarek smiled. More correctly, the intent was that they could not be removed, especially by her. Many families in Zakhara had house slaves. They would be marked for ownership by a collar or ankle cuffs. Most people outside Zakhara would only think they were ostentatious decoration. Here in Zakhara in the upper levels of society there was a definite insinuation of penance and judgement, if nothing else.
Wizard lock, Erisci thought. That would likely guarantee their continued presence for the foreseeable future and beyond. She bowed extravagantly to her eldest brother and then curtsied to the rest of the assemblage. “I am so very thankful for your gift and your presence here. But I fear that I must now take my leave. There is indeed much to finalize before my departure and all must be ready before tomorrow’s banquet.” The priestess was beyond ready to depart this extravagant farce.
“Quite understood, dear sister. We must also take our leave.” Zarek nodded in her direction and stepped out the door with his attendants. As he passed Balathu, he pressed the locking key for her anklets into his hand and then was gone. Erisci left the room as quickly as her feet could take her and returned to her quarters. She worried that her strength in the face of all that had happened would desert her at any moment and she was unwilling to give any of them the satisfaction of breaking in front of them. The tears came as soon as she entered her quarters and launched herself onto her linen mattress.
Balathu also departed with his retainers and the mage. Once outside the temple grounds, Balathu turned to the mage and handed him a satin sack. The mage shook it once and was satisfied with the sound of the considerable gold pieces that jangled within. The sun glinted off the silver snake pendant that the wizard wore. “As always a pleasure to do business with you, Balathu.” And with a wave of his hand, the mage was gone in a puff of purple smoke.
The second son of Ekurzakir allowed himself a satisfied smile. All was continuing to progress nicely and another few troubling pieces were about to be out of the equation. He looked down at the key still in his hand and then up to the spire of the temple. His smile grew as he tossed the key into the undergrowth near the temple grounds wall. Then he took the reins of his horse, mounted the steed and rode off.
Erisciana was finding herself stymied at every possible turn and her surprising plight was beginning to look somehow hopeless. Eldest brother Zarek had not taken kindly to her accusations regarding Balathu and the plot against her father. Surely he did not share the middle child’s underhanded deceit. No, that did not appear likely, but Zarek did have ambition and clearly he was taking steps to solidify the situation to his advantage. Zarek was a willing pawn in these devious machinations.
“But Tabni,” Erisci protested again to her mentor in the temple. “There are studies to complete, rituals to learn. Going away to Cynalon will delay all of that!” Tabni had been entrusted with training the young Iltani woman, since she had joined the sect many years ago. They were currently in Erisci’s personal quarters. She had quickly moved up beyond the lowest levels of follower and her success in leading combat against the pirates of Dead Eye Cove had only assisted in that ‘honor’ being recently granted. With her status as a noble it only solidified her rank in the temple.
There were those who did not think that was fair. Erisci was presumed by many to be a favored of Ishtar: her eye color was unusual and marked her for Ishtar’s service. Further it was well known that a bright comet ripped through the evening sky on the day she was born. Right through the constellation of the lion. Her father declared that it happened at the very moment of her birth. If so, it was a momentous omen to be sure.
Tabni placed her hands on the younger girl’s shoulders comfortingly and smiled broadly. Tabni was several inches taller than Erisci. She had reddish-auburn hair and dark eyes. She was dressed much like Erisci was in light, loose clothing. Her family standing being lower than the Iltani House, Tabni wore much less jewelry, but still sported several pieces of silver. Most of the priests and priestesses favored white and blue in their wardrobe, especially when at the temple. “Erisciana Iltani. You already know the rituals and the ceremonies, better than most. What few studies you truly need can continue during your travels. This is a prestigious honor which has been bestowed upon you!” Eri wrinkled her nose at the whole idea.
The priestess looked down in despair. This was no honor. She was being sent away because she was thought only to be causing trouble within her family’s house. This was only punishment and nothing else. And worse there were rumors and troubling visions that circulated in hidden conversations. She herself had recently been having nightmares about be pursued by incoherent blobs of pure black evilness. Erisciana’s plight might only be the beginning of something even more sinister. “And the Golden Archipelago will still be here when you return. Now smile,” she said lifting her pupil’s chin with her hand. “I wish I was going on such an adventure.”
Erisci wanted to tell Tabni to go in her stead, but there was no point in continuing to be so dire. There was only worse trouble to be had if she let on what she knew. That much was certain. Somehow the intrigue against her also involved the Temple of Ishtar as well as her own House. There was careful quiet talk of scheming affecting the Temple of Anu. And in the Temple of Enlil there were several surprising promotions to positions of power. The web of intrigue had already been woven deeply and she was no longer certain who she could even trust. Her only choice now was to play along, or there may never be a chance for retribution and restitution. She managed a light smile from somewhere deep inside her.
“Now, that’s more like it. You only have two more days to get ready! Oh, and I almost forgot, your brothers are here at the temple. They are waiting for you.”
That came as a complete surprise. “Here?” she responded incredulously. Neither of them had ever visited her while at the Temple of Ishtar in all the years she had belonged. If they needed to speak to her or see her, they waited until she returned to the family estate or simply summoned her as needed.
“Yes, I believe they said they have a present for you. Zakiti is waiting as well.” Zakiti was a higher-ranking member of the temple. Erisci knew that Zakiti was clearly power-hungry and had been Tabni’s mentor before being promoted to her current station. Zakiti was a member of the House Uktannu. It was a noble house, but less prestigious than the Iltani and certainly much further removed from the bloodline of the Priest-King. Erisci smiled again, but it was a smile of helplessness. The web was in plain view and yet wholly inescapable.
Arriving in one of the temple’s antechambers, Erisci surprisingly saw that the room was nearly filled with people. “Ah, dearest sister, you have arrived,” her eldest brother said. “We know that the preparations for your journey will keep your next days quite full. Thank you for taking the time to see us.”
What a mouthful of puffery and drivel, Erisci thought to herself. Looking at the numbers here, she responded, “I thought my departure banquet was to be held tomorrow evening?” Zakiti had her attendant present and each of the brothers had a guard and a second with them as well. Another man stood behind them. He wore his wavy hair very long and his beard travelled part way down his chest and was woven with beads and gold. Even from this distance, she could feel the hint of magick about him. Zakiti looked at her with a hint of disdain and a sour smile; Erizhi picked that up easily enough. Zakiti was apparently enjoying the departure of the youngest of the Iltani House as much as the brothers were.
“Most certainly, you are correct, Eri,” he said using the least formal form of her name this time. “But Balathu informed me of a present he wanted to give to you and once learning of it, I could not wait to offer it to you. I trust you will be most pleased.”
Erisci thought to herself that with the assembly here she could do nothing but play along. Being belligerent was likely what they were hoping for. “I won’t give any of them that satisfaction,” Erisci decided. “Time to play it sweet and pleasant.” Clearly she wanted nothing that Balathu could ever give her even if it were golden and completely studded with diamonds of the highest quality. “But of course, dear brother. I would be honored to accept such an offering. I do so love gifts!” She hoped her words weren’t as hollow as she intended them to be.
The newest head of the Iltani household stepped forward and kneeled at her feet. He motioned to his second, who produced a silken sack and presented it to his master. Zarek removed the contents and placed them on the floor before her. Erisci saw that they were a pair of brightly polished silver cuffs and some other small item. Her first thought was that they looked like a fancier, finer pair of slave anklets. She quickly looked to Balathu for a moment, unable to hide a bit of shock for just a moment. The terrible grin on his face, the unspoken look he gave her as her eyes met his, told her that in essence it was true.
Zarek reached forward toward her already jewel-adorned feet and waited. “If I may, dear sister?” Reluctantly, she offered her right foot and he swept it up in his hand. “There is always room for more jewelry, eh?” Placing her foot upon his thigh, he took one anklet and quickly closed it upon her ankle with a click. Then taking the small tool that accompanied them, he used it to further lock the cuff about her. He then took her foot in his hand once more and kissed it. The process was then repeated on her left ankle.
She stepped back for a moment and gazed at the anklets locked firmly about her. Balathu had threatened that she would end up in chains. Erisci was appalled that he was now not far off from that threat. She was not in control of her actions or her direction, she was being sent to the eastern lands of Cynalon on a mission that sounded prominent, but was truthfully simply created to remove her from the capital and now she was locked in these cuffs, an affront that only her and her brothers might completely understand, but that was enough. It was all she could do to keep her composure. She bit her lower lip to keep it from trembling.
“How do they feel, Erisci?” Balathu asked, quite mockingly, clearly referring to the conversation they had in his lab two days previous. “They are extremely fine and sturdy craftsmanship.”
Erisci was on the verge of tears, but was not about to let them take her pride, even if they were taking nearly everything else from her. She took a few steps and then flexed each of her feet. They were comfortable enough to move about in and yet snug enough to often be reminded of their presence. “They fit perfectly,” she finally said, in a more positive tone than she thought she could muster. “I shall treasure them as a reminder of Zakhara and of my family while I am away,” she said with a growing resolve, finding strength in her vow to right all these many wrongs. “Every night I will gaze at them and remember what is waiting for me here at the Iltani household. And I shall wear them when I return and complete the task that fills my heart with purpose!” That was said even more forcefully. Balathu’s smile faded from his face now and a touch of fear entered his eyes. He had not broken her as he hoped. Still what possible menace could she pose now? Zarek did smile however, as he was unaware of the veiled threat she brandished in her words.
“We are pleased that you like them,” he said, nodding in Balathu’s direction. “There is one more step to complete. They have been enchanted with magicks. We can return you to us, at the Iltani Estate, with the proper incantations. Just to make certain you do not fall into serious harm’s way on your mission. And to make sure they are not stolen from you…” Zarek motioned to the Mage who had come with them. He made several motions and a bright, bluish-white light flashed from one of the anklets. Erisci thought she saw a tinge of red at the end of the flash. For some reason that seemed even more ominous. A moment later, he repeated the spell with the other ankle cuff. “It is done,” was all that the wizard uttered as he stepped back behind the others.
“Now they cannot even be taken from you, or cut off by some horrible barbarian enemy,” Zarek smiled. More correctly, the intent was that they could not be removed, especially by her. Many families in Zakhara had house slaves. They would be marked for ownership by a collar or ankle cuffs. Most people outside Zakhara would only think they were ostentatious decoration. Here in Zakhara in the upper levels of society there was a definite insinuation of penance and judgement, if nothing else.
Wizard lock, Erisci thought. That would likely guarantee their continued presence for the foreseeable future and beyond. She bowed extravagantly to her eldest brother and then curtsied to the rest of the assemblage. “I am so very thankful for your gift and your presence here. But I fear that I must now take my leave. There is indeed much to finalize before my departure and all must be ready before tomorrow’s banquet.” The priestess was beyond ready to depart this extravagant farce.
“Quite understood, dear sister. We must also take our leave.” Zarek nodded in her direction and stepped out the door with his attendants. As he passed Balathu, he pressed the locking key for her anklets into his hand and then was gone. Erisci left the room as quickly as her feet could take her and returned to her quarters. She worried that her strength in the face of all that had happened would desert her at any moment and she was unwilling to give any of them the satisfaction of breaking in front of them. The tears came as soon as she entered her quarters and launched herself onto her linen mattress.
Balathu also departed with his retainers and the mage. Once outside the temple grounds, Balathu turned to the mage and handed him a satin sack. The mage shook it once and was satisfied with the sound of the considerable gold pieces that jangled within. The sun glinted off the silver snake pendant that the wizard wore. “As always a pleasure to do business with you, Balathu.” And with a wave of his hand, the mage was gone in a puff of purple smoke.
The second son of Ekurzakir allowed himself a satisfied smile. All was continuing to progress nicely and another few troubling pieces were about to be out of the equation. He looked down at the key still in his hand and then up to the spire of the temple. His smile grew as he tossed the key into the undergrowth near the temple grounds wall. Then he took the reins of his horse, mounted the steed and rode off.