The Betrayals of Tenni
Spring 366
My name is Tenni Lanquist Ishzark, fourth daughter of King Peor Ishzark. As I open this journal I begin my banishment from my homeland. This blank tome was a final gift from the Captain of my father's guard, Asril. I can still close my eyes and see the haggard, homely old man. He hid my love of books from my father all my life. I'd like to believe he'll take that secret to his grave.
I fondly recall that twirled mustache he'd play with to warn me when someone might see. Though blasphemous to say, he'd been more of a parent to me than almost any of my bloodline. My mother would always be busy speaking with my father's other wives, often ostracizing the newest addition to secure her own position or draw attention to her. As I was the fourth child and a woman, my father had no interest in me.
Put simply, to him I was a tool to be used when he would need a favor from one of his allies. It was explained in no certain terms I was to be married off as soon as someone's child came of age. So, I would while away my life reading works of my ancestors when my other duties of being present and silent didn't demand on me.
The best way to begin this is to speak of my crime, such as it is. To any who might find this, know that the Djinni are a race of liars who push forth falsehoods. Most famously, my people are known to be beings that can alter the world to suit their whims. While it is true there are some who can shape the world to one degree or another, most cannot wield anything more spectacular than a sharpened steel. Even then, we are too few to be much of a true threat.
So, when our neighbors threatened war with each other and both sides demanded my father's assistance, he was more than a little distressed. I will never forget that day and night; As I went about my life in the palace, he would wander from one room to the other standing like some incredibly lifelike jade carving. Words spilled from his lips in nonsensical order. My younger siblings made a game of trying to make him laugh or get mad. They only managed to be scolded by their caretakers.
Our home is an oasis created by an ancestor blessed with true power. The palace itself has aqueducts through almost every hall. Having so much water in the middle of a desert has made us not only influential but wealthy. Armies gathered on both sides with no evident advantage. Though, that place is no longer my home, is it? During my father's meanderings, he noticed me teasing my youngest brother by causing his piled up sand to move.
Struck by a desperate inspiration, he began to hail me as his savior. Where I had merely been a child of no note, he raised up to be his favored. For the first time, my older siblings spoke to me. The younger children were hushed by their parents in my presence, though I would give them warm smiles regardless. With a promise of money and prominence to my mother, the deal was struck. I would cause a sandstorm until both armies would be forced to go home for harvest. Hailed as a 'true Djinni' in the palace and streets, I was showered with cheers as I was marched out into the desert with Asril at the head of my escort.
Hour after scorching hour the horse beneath me trudged diligently onward. We reached a location I couldn't tell from the rest of the desert. Somehow, Asril recognized it and ordered the soldiers to set up a tent for me. Then, he ordered me to stir up the desert sands in as large an area as I could. That old soldier then patted me on the head like I was still a child before adding one to my bottom to set me on my task.
Striding forth, I recalled the words that had been inscribed in a hidden room of the Palace. My forgotten ancestors had left many old tomes on how to use their power. Reciting her invocation, I felt the sand begin to stir at the tips of my fingers. It was a sense far different from moving the occasional pile of sand or dust. I'd only ever used the spell to clean out the storage room when it was my turn. One had to be careful of not 'pushing' too hard or you could break something. This time, though, there was no need to hold back, so I threw my arms out.
My arms shook, it felt as though I was pushing against a mountain and I needed to hold it up with just my own strength. I'd practiced the spell a thousand times up until we departed. Still, using the spell was a whole different sort. When I opened my eyes, a sandstorm raged before me.
Satisfied that I was doing my job, Asril had my food and water kept inside the tent. I was so focused on the sight I'd conjured, I didn't notice the soldiers were leaving till they were in the distance. So, alone, I watched the sand dance but that quickly lost its charm. At first I was afraid to move away from the storm for fear of dispelling it. I began testing how far I could move away. First, one step, then five. I realized then that the spell seemed only to require me to remember it existed to remain. So, I retired to my small tent for relief from the sun.
So began my martyrdom, keeping our allies from killing one another. In the long hours I would frequently remind myself of this fact but that offered little relief from the boredom. I would look forward to Asril's weekly visits since he would bring me books from our home. He claimed he'd 'forget' them and my tent became a haven of stories. Some on scrolls while others were on sheets of lambskin bound by rope. Months passed.
It was during these long periods of inactivity I noticed something in my sandstorm. At first it was a chill that pierced even the midday sun. The sensation only grew in strength as the ominous chill made it impossible to read. As I stood beneath the desert sun, I shivered. A single figure appeared through my sandstorm. It was then I noticed not a single grain of sand touched the stranger, as if he was protected from it by some strange force.
As he came into focus, I couldn't help but blush. The man wore nothing. I could see his body was covered in mud brown skin with blue scales in some places. His long black hair swayed wildly in the wind but fell still when he cleared my storm. He was a physically impressive man, standing easily twice if not three times my height. Each of his fingers ended in a cruelly curved claw. Four leathery wings stuck out from his back.
Seeing me, the stranger gave me a menacing smile, his mouth was filled with fangs! I recoiled in horror and fled back to my tent. Taking up a spare stake, I held it ready to brutalize the creature. I expected him to rip my tent apart. Instead, I heard a voice ask, “Are you the great sorceress responsible for that sandstorm?”
A small part of me savored that. It was true, I was a great sorceress. I was the only one in my household who could have created that storm. But, I couldn't admit that to something so terrifying. So I cleverly declared, “I'm the protector of her. Who wants to know?”
“Just a mercenary hired to stop the storm,” The creature rumbled like distant thunder. I bit my lip and slowly crawled closer to the flap. The man explained, “If you could speak to the sorceress on my behalf, let her know if she can drop the storm for one day, I'm willing to give her the gold I'm being paid.”
I laughed, bolder than I felt, “Why would a mercenary give up the gold?”
“Cause there's also a magical sword as payment and I'm more interested in that,” The man said happily. Using my stake, I parted the flap to look out. The man was crouched before the tent's entrance giving me an unfortunate view of his manhood. I retreated back and the man let out a laugh apologizing, “Sorry about that. It's so hot out here I forgot I even stripped down.”
A shuffling preceded the man inviting himself inside. Now a white skirt clung to his waist and covered his lower half. I held my weapon ready as the man said, “Could you consider my offer?”
“H-how much gold?” I stammered looking into his yellow eyes.
With a chuckle the mercenary turned over his hand saying, “As much as I can hold in one hand. So, probably sixty gold coins is what I'll get.” I bit my lip thinking how upset my father had been when he'd been short changed silver. So, I imagined him being overjoyed at me bringing in so many coins.
“Can you give me some proof that what you say is true and that I can trust you?” I asked, skeptic of the large man's intentions. With a smile and a flick of his wrist, the man produced a sheet of paper. I recognized the enchanted contract's signature as being the King of Teper's, one of our neighbors. The spells on the parchment rendered it almost indestructible and legally binding. Taking hold of the paper, I read it: it confirmed that if someone could end the sandstorm, they'd be given a handful of gold.
“So, can you speak to the great sorceress on my behalf?” The man requested offering me a hand. I reached out to return the paper and he took my hand in his much larger one. Giving me a shake that left my arm numb he said, “I just need you to drop it for one day so I can get paid. After that, she can put the storm back up cause I'll be gone.” His contract vanished as suddenly as it appeared after he departed from my tent.
Looking outside, I saw him walking back with his wings held up as protection from the sunlight. Then, I realized the storm had subsided! I bit my lip and decided to keep my word. The gold would cover for one day's negligence if I was discovered.
As the moon sat above me, I enjoyed the peace and quiet I'd never gotten when the storm had raged on and on. Sooner than I expected, the mercenary returned. His white skirt still completely pristine despite traveling in the desert. Our eyes met as he approached and he held up a sack triumphantly. Standing a few feet away, the large man knelt down with the pouch held up to me. Pulling on the string that kept it closed, I opened the container to a sea of gold. Glinting in the moonlight the coins made wondrous noises as I took my reward.
“Give the great sorceress my regards and be sure to take some for yourself, protector,” The mercenary said through a sly grin. I remembered my lie and bowed my head.
“It was good doing business with you,” The man nodded and stood over me. Even in the dark of the night, his yellow eyes were ever present. I shivered under his gaze before he turned on his heel and left. I watched, holding my coins with both hands, as the large man disappeared beyond the dunes. Part of me was giddy as I hid my collection among several scrolls in my tent.
In the morning I restored the sandstorm, eagerly awaiting Asril's visit. I wondered if I should show him my gains for his advice on how to spend them. I didn't suspect anything until Asril arrived late in the afternoon in full regalia. He cut a far more intimidating figure with his breastplate gleaming in the daylight and his sword held bare. Six riders flanked him on either side. As I stepped out to greet him, Asril only told me, “Princess please remove your magic. I'm sorry, but you must return to the palace now.”
It didn't take long for the soldiers to bundle up my life and stow it away. As I was bid, I silenced the storm while they did so. The soldiers didn't speak much beyond barely audible grunts. Their nervous air infected me and I contemplated running for a moment. What use would that be against mounted men? It wasn't a long trip back home since Asril kept us at a quicker pace than we'd come out there with. Once inside the walls, no fanfare awaited me. In fact, the roads were desolate.
Upon reaching the Palace, I was immediately taken to my father's throne. He'd grown more gaunt and thin since I'd seen him. Never a large man, the King often wore thickly soled shoes when he was on business. Only my father and Asril were present and the doors were shut behind us. The King told me, “King Teper's son died in battle yesterday. He was shot with an arrow on a patrol when the sandstorm disappeared.”
My heart sank and my knees vanished beneath me. Now, the King towered over me as he took me by the jaw. His brown eyes were ruthless stone as he spoke coldly, “Your mother has been put to death and you shall be expelled from this land. You are no longer any child of mine.”
“F-father, please,” I stammered trying to process his words. My vision grew hazy and salty water got in the way of my eyes. My mind shut down, I struggled to move my body closer, to see my father tell me it was some cruel jest of my mother's.
“I just told you,” The king's ringed hand came across my cheek as he roared, “You are no child of mine! I would have you executed alongside the whore if our laws allowed it. Begone or I'll find some mercenary scum to do it!” Any remaining strength I had left me. Lifting my limp body like I was a doll, Asril dragged me to the Palace gate.
A single horse had been loaded with everything that had populated my tent except the tent itself. The old man whispered into my ear, “Go south to the free port of Tesral and go across the sea. That will stall your father's killers.” I numbly climbed into the saddle and Asril sent my horse off with a slap on its flank. Instinct more than anything else took over and I rode out of my home. Night faded deep into the next morning before I dared to stop.
Nestled in the shade of two dunes, both my mount and I collapsed. Much as I tried not to, I sobbed pitifully but was too dehydrated to give anymore tears. I shivered and shook for longer than I care to admit but once I finished, I felt renewed. Asril's words echoed in my mind then. He'd been correct, the port would be my best bet to survive; After all, a lone Djinni wouldn't be welcome in our neighbor's lands.
I examined my current dress, the thin fabric was wonderful for lounging about the palace but would do little to help conceal my green skin. Summoning my strength, I examined my horse's packs. Pulling open the first one, I found some bread and water. I sung Asril's praises between bites as that first food passed my lips. Sharing some of my water with my mount made my horse start to lick me playfully. I giggled and then went to check the rest of my pack. Several tomes were present.
Trembling fingers reached inside as I recognized the books. They were from the secret room in the palace. Four tomes from my ancestors who had been blessed with power sat in my pack. I'd spent countless days reading and re-reading these books secretly. As a daughter, I was expected to do my duty and marry the man my father decided upon. Then, I'd spend the rest of my life hidden away, producing and raising children. I began to shake and laugh until I cried some more. Those books had been my little secret, my spark of defiance against the rules. This was the first time I discovered Asril had known of how rebellious I'd truly been. Everyone else assumed I had simply been born with the power.
Basic supplies made up the rest of my pack; flint for fires, a tarp for a tent and such. Taking one of the tomes, I rested and read in the shade. More than just spells are contained in Tomes. Oftentimes, they're more like diaries and talk of the people around them or their observations. Once the sun drifted low, I climbed upon my mount and began to ride. I had to reach the port, but, then what?
Across the ocean, that much was certain. If I could get lost in another land, I'd be out of my father's reach. So, I pushed my horse and myself to reach the town as soon as possible. It took me only until the next morning to reach the white walls of Tesral. The scent of fish had long since soaked into the entire city and even at the gates I couldn't escape it. Mixing in with a trade caravan that had just arrived, I entered the port receiving the usual spiteful glares my kind always got from humans.
As I walked along the streets, I was exposed to sights I'd never seen before. The traders I followed in are arguing with a baker. A stand next to them is manned by an older man missing the lower portion of his leg. Several children push their youngest member towards the stand. With trembling fingers he reaches out for a fish. Fast as lightning, the fishmonger swipes at the child with a stick he keeps nearby. His would-be thievery thwarted, the child returns to the others in shame and is ignored.
It reminds me of the days we entertained guests on my father's behalf. How busy those days were but it was different here; this seemed to be a case of everyday life. Amid the bustling and moving people, I tried my best to navigate. Flustered, I decided to climb aboard my mount to give me a better vantage point. On horseback, I managed to reach the port without much further difficulty.
Most of the ships tied to the wooden docks were small fishing vessels, unsuitable for my needs. A few larger ships were present so it wasn't a complete loss. I noticed another Djinn moving rope on a fishing ship, his wild hair swept away from his face. Approaching him, I asked, “Excuse me, do you know where I can charter a ship?”
“Huh?” The man seemed disoriented so I repeated my question. I felt his eyes stare at my exposed flesh making small bumps rise on my arms. With a sigh he directed me to the port authority office. As I entered, a human man sat behind a desk as a much taller being stood with its arm crossed. Both men stared at each other in icy silence. I winced as the door slipped from my fingers to slam shut.
Only the human man gave me the briefest of glares before returning to his original target. He let out a sigh saying, “Don't make this difficult. I have to check the cargo hold of every trade ship to verify nothing out of the ordinary. This is standard practice.” The human's thick beard and hard eyes were unflinching. All at once, the tall being began to speak something I couldn't understand and the man held up his hand saying, “In common, damn it! I don't speak elf!”
“Fine,” The tall elf sighed with obvious contempt, “We're an endorsed trade ship out of Nightrivers. Our cargo is our business and will not be held hostage to some glorified thug.”
“You've taken up my best dock for a week now! Just let me look in your hold and you can go in peace!” The man sighed. The two were obviously at an impasse and I felt something bubble up inside. An old memory of my father dealing with two bickering merchants; both claimed ownership of a gold bauble they found in the desert. Rather than listen to it further, he bought the bauble and gave both half the money.
Putting on my most majestic stride, I walked forward to both men saying, “Good morning, gentlemen. You both seem to be at an impasse. Might I offer some help with this situation?”
“What do you want, little girl?” Growled the human man. The elf didn't even bother looking at me.
“My name is Tenni of the Ishzark royal family. I'm looking for passage across the ocean. If I could charter passage upon this good sir's ship, I'm sure my father will gladly cover any expenses he's incurred,” I continued my gambit. The human man leaned back in his squeaky chair as the elf looked down at me. His grey eyes were so intense I thought he might be searching my soul. More bumps rose along both arms.
Letting out a groan of frustration, the human man pressed his fingers to the bridge of his nose saying, “The Ishzarks have been decent traders for demons. Sure, I'll agree to that. Can you, Lizrel?”
“To be free of you, I'd take a Kraken upon my ship.” The elf spoke coldly. Both men nodded to each other. Signing my father's name to a few documents, I was guided by the Elven captain to his vessel. The two masted ship rose above me. I'd seen the ocean itself one time when I was much younger and my father took our whole family to visit King Teper. No ship in that port matched the majesty of this one.
Hanging from the front of the vessel was a statue of some Elven woman holding up a lantern. The ship itself was curved as well and the sails all had some writing along the edges. At the Captain's approach I saw the crew all line up in neat rows. Each one wore long pants as green as my own skin with white shirts. The Captain announced simply, “We sail, make preparations!” A cheer and flurry of motions followed his announcement.
“Oh, right. Tishrel, prepare the storage room, we will have a guest aboard on our trip home,” The Captain said causing one of the female Elves to nod and disappear below deck. Turning to me he explained, “We will be leaving with the evening high tide so you have until then to settle your business and we will leave without you.”
“I shall return shortly,” I nodded and departed the ship. As I stepped off the boarding plank I looked to my mount, unsure what to do with it. Following the main road to the town square, more stalls had been opened and the bustling of the day had come into full swing. Many sold fish, unsurprisingly, so when I came across a merchant specializing in mounts, I felt overjoyed.
It didn't take long to settle on a price. The coins that rattled around in my pouch made a far less wonderful sound than the ones the mercenary had given me. I winced at the thought of him. Though part of me loathed the man, he had kept his word. Perhaps I should look for him for vengeance? Then I recalled his size and stature. There would be no way to kill him with my own hands. I could swear I heard his voice whisper the words, “Great Sorceress.”
With a laugh, I shook my head. Of course! I was not some frail creature! I was a sorceress! I needed only to harness the power of my ancestors. Then, I could break him. Smash him. Tear at his heart and then feed his soul to true demons over a thousand years. I would need to study and do more than treat it as a hobby. I would dedicate myself to this.
As I returned to the ship with my few possessions left, I was guided down underneath the top deck. Sleeping arrangements were little more than sheets tied between posts for the crew. When we reached the back end, a small room was presented to me. A bed like the rest of the crew's was made and I was afforded the luxury of a door and a small window. Laying upon the sheet has taken some getting used to but once I could enter without falling out, I set myself to writing this.
This is a promise to myself and to the all the Gods. I will seek out the one who ruined my life and with all the power I wield, shall have my revenge. I shall become the righteous fist to bring justice to the one who shattered my life. This I swear under the name of Tenni Lanquist Ishzark.
My name is Tenni Lanquist Ishzark, fourth daughter of King Peor Ishzark. As I open this journal I begin my banishment from my homeland. This blank tome was a final gift from the Captain of my father's guard, Asril. I can still close my eyes and see the haggard, homely old man. He hid my love of books from my father all my life. I'd like to believe he'll take that secret to his grave.
I fondly recall that twirled mustache he'd play with to warn me when someone might see. Though blasphemous to say, he'd been more of a parent to me than almost any of my bloodline. My mother would always be busy speaking with my father's other wives, often ostracizing the newest addition to secure her own position or draw attention to her. As I was the fourth child and a woman, my father had no interest in me.
Put simply, to him I was a tool to be used when he would need a favor from one of his allies. It was explained in no certain terms I was to be married off as soon as someone's child came of age. So, I would while away my life reading works of my ancestors when my other duties of being present and silent didn't demand on me.
The best way to begin this is to speak of my crime, such as it is. To any who might find this, know that the Djinni are a race of liars who push forth falsehoods. Most famously, my people are known to be beings that can alter the world to suit their whims. While it is true there are some who can shape the world to one degree or another, most cannot wield anything more spectacular than a sharpened steel. Even then, we are too few to be much of a true threat.
So, when our neighbors threatened war with each other and both sides demanded my father's assistance, he was more than a little distressed. I will never forget that day and night; As I went about my life in the palace, he would wander from one room to the other standing like some incredibly lifelike jade carving. Words spilled from his lips in nonsensical order. My younger siblings made a game of trying to make him laugh or get mad. They only managed to be scolded by their caretakers.
Our home is an oasis created by an ancestor blessed with true power. The palace itself has aqueducts through almost every hall. Having so much water in the middle of a desert has made us not only influential but wealthy. Armies gathered on both sides with no evident advantage. Though, that place is no longer my home, is it? During my father's meanderings, he noticed me teasing my youngest brother by causing his piled up sand to move.
Struck by a desperate inspiration, he began to hail me as his savior. Where I had merely been a child of no note, he raised up to be his favored. For the first time, my older siblings spoke to me. The younger children were hushed by their parents in my presence, though I would give them warm smiles regardless. With a promise of money and prominence to my mother, the deal was struck. I would cause a sandstorm until both armies would be forced to go home for harvest. Hailed as a 'true Djinni' in the palace and streets, I was showered with cheers as I was marched out into the desert with Asril at the head of my escort.
Hour after scorching hour the horse beneath me trudged diligently onward. We reached a location I couldn't tell from the rest of the desert. Somehow, Asril recognized it and ordered the soldiers to set up a tent for me. Then, he ordered me to stir up the desert sands in as large an area as I could. That old soldier then patted me on the head like I was still a child before adding one to my bottom to set me on my task.
Striding forth, I recalled the words that had been inscribed in a hidden room of the Palace. My forgotten ancestors had left many old tomes on how to use their power. Reciting her invocation, I felt the sand begin to stir at the tips of my fingers. It was a sense far different from moving the occasional pile of sand or dust. I'd only ever used the spell to clean out the storage room when it was my turn. One had to be careful of not 'pushing' too hard or you could break something. This time, though, there was no need to hold back, so I threw my arms out.
My arms shook, it felt as though I was pushing against a mountain and I needed to hold it up with just my own strength. I'd practiced the spell a thousand times up until we departed. Still, using the spell was a whole different sort. When I opened my eyes, a sandstorm raged before me.
Satisfied that I was doing my job, Asril had my food and water kept inside the tent. I was so focused on the sight I'd conjured, I didn't notice the soldiers were leaving till they were in the distance. So, alone, I watched the sand dance but that quickly lost its charm. At first I was afraid to move away from the storm for fear of dispelling it. I began testing how far I could move away. First, one step, then five. I realized then that the spell seemed only to require me to remember it existed to remain. So, I retired to my small tent for relief from the sun.
So began my martyrdom, keeping our allies from killing one another. In the long hours I would frequently remind myself of this fact but that offered little relief from the boredom. I would look forward to Asril's weekly visits since he would bring me books from our home. He claimed he'd 'forget' them and my tent became a haven of stories. Some on scrolls while others were on sheets of lambskin bound by rope. Months passed.
It was during these long periods of inactivity I noticed something in my sandstorm. At first it was a chill that pierced even the midday sun. The sensation only grew in strength as the ominous chill made it impossible to read. As I stood beneath the desert sun, I shivered. A single figure appeared through my sandstorm. It was then I noticed not a single grain of sand touched the stranger, as if he was protected from it by some strange force.
As he came into focus, I couldn't help but blush. The man wore nothing. I could see his body was covered in mud brown skin with blue scales in some places. His long black hair swayed wildly in the wind but fell still when he cleared my storm. He was a physically impressive man, standing easily twice if not three times my height. Each of his fingers ended in a cruelly curved claw. Four leathery wings stuck out from his back.
Seeing me, the stranger gave me a menacing smile, his mouth was filled with fangs! I recoiled in horror and fled back to my tent. Taking up a spare stake, I held it ready to brutalize the creature. I expected him to rip my tent apart. Instead, I heard a voice ask, “Are you the great sorceress responsible for that sandstorm?”
A small part of me savored that. It was true, I was a great sorceress. I was the only one in my household who could have created that storm. But, I couldn't admit that to something so terrifying. So I cleverly declared, “I'm the protector of her. Who wants to know?”
“Just a mercenary hired to stop the storm,” The creature rumbled like distant thunder. I bit my lip and slowly crawled closer to the flap. The man explained, “If you could speak to the sorceress on my behalf, let her know if she can drop the storm for one day, I'm willing to give her the gold I'm being paid.”
I laughed, bolder than I felt, “Why would a mercenary give up the gold?”
“Cause there's also a magical sword as payment and I'm more interested in that,” The man said happily. Using my stake, I parted the flap to look out. The man was crouched before the tent's entrance giving me an unfortunate view of his manhood. I retreated back and the man let out a laugh apologizing, “Sorry about that. It's so hot out here I forgot I even stripped down.”
A shuffling preceded the man inviting himself inside. Now a white skirt clung to his waist and covered his lower half. I held my weapon ready as the man said, “Could you consider my offer?”
“H-how much gold?” I stammered looking into his yellow eyes.
With a chuckle the mercenary turned over his hand saying, “As much as I can hold in one hand. So, probably sixty gold coins is what I'll get.” I bit my lip thinking how upset my father had been when he'd been short changed silver. So, I imagined him being overjoyed at me bringing in so many coins.
“Can you give me some proof that what you say is true and that I can trust you?” I asked, skeptic of the large man's intentions. With a smile and a flick of his wrist, the man produced a sheet of paper. I recognized the enchanted contract's signature as being the King of Teper's, one of our neighbors. The spells on the parchment rendered it almost indestructible and legally binding. Taking hold of the paper, I read it: it confirmed that if someone could end the sandstorm, they'd be given a handful of gold.
“So, can you speak to the great sorceress on my behalf?” The man requested offering me a hand. I reached out to return the paper and he took my hand in his much larger one. Giving me a shake that left my arm numb he said, “I just need you to drop it for one day so I can get paid. After that, she can put the storm back up cause I'll be gone.” His contract vanished as suddenly as it appeared after he departed from my tent.
Looking outside, I saw him walking back with his wings held up as protection from the sunlight. Then, I realized the storm had subsided! I bit my lip and decided to keep my word. The gold would cover for one day's negligence if I was discovered.
As the moon sat above me, I enjoyed the peace and quiet I'd never gotten when the storm had raged on and on. Sooner than I expected, the mercenary returned. His white skirt still completely pristine despite traveling in the desert. Our eyes met as he approached and he held up a sack triumphantly. Standing a few feet away, the large man knelt down with the pouch held up to me. Pulling on the string that kept it closed, I opened the container to a sea of gold. Glinting in the moonlight the coins made wondrous noises as I took my reward.
“Give the great sorceress my regards and be sure to take some for yourself, protector,” The mercenary said through a sly grin. I remembered my lie and bowed my head.
“It was good doing business with you,” The man nodded and stood over me. Even in the dark of the night, his yellow eyes were ever present. I shivered under his gaze before he turned on his heel and left. I watched, holding my coins with both hands, as the large man disappeared beyond the dunes. Part of me was giddy as I hid my collection among several scrolls in my tent.
In the morning I restored the sandstorm, eagerly awaiting Asril's visit. I wondered if I should show him my gains for his advice on how to spend them. I didn't suspect anything until Asril arrived late in the afternoon in full regalia. He cut a far more intimidating figure with his breastplate gleaming in the daylight and his sword held bare. Six riders flanked him on either side. As I stepped out to greet him, Asril only told me, “Princess please remove your magic. I'm sorry, but you must return to the palace now.”
It didn't take long for the soldiers to bundle up my life and stow it away. As I was bid, I silenced the storm while they did so. The soldiers didn't speak much beyond barely audible grunts. Their nervous air infected me and I contemplated running for a moment. What use would that be against mounted men? It wasn't a long trip back home since Asril kept us at a quicker pace than we'd come out there with. Once inside the walls, no fanfare awaited me. In fact, the roads were desolate.
Upon reaching the Palace, I was immediately taken to my father's throne. He'd grown more gaunt and thin since I'd seen him. Never a large man, the King often wore thickly soled shoes when he was on business. Only my father and Asril were present and the doors were shut behind us. The King told me, “King Teper's son died in battle yesterday. He was shot with an arrow on a patrol when the sandstorm disappeared.”
My heart sank and my knees vanished beneath me. Now, the King towered over me as he took me by the jaw. His brown eyes were ruthless stone as he spoke coldly, “Your mother has been put to death and you shall be expelled from this land. You are no longer any child of mine.”
“F-father, please,” I stammered trying to process his words. My vision grew hazy and salty water got in the way of my eyes. My mind shut down, I struggled to move my body closer, to see my father tell me it was some cruel jest of my mother's.
“I just told you,” The king's ringed hand came across my cheek as he roared, “You are no child of mine! I would have you executed alongside the whore if our laws allowed it. Begone or I'll find some mercenary scum to do it!” Any remaining strength I had left me. Lifting my limp body like I was a doll, Asril dragged me to the Palace gate.
A single horse had been loaded with everything that had populated my tent except the tent itself. The old man whispered into my ear, “Go south to the free port of Tesral and go across the sea. That will stall your father's killers.” I numbly climbed into the saddle and Asril sent my horse off with a slap on its flank. Instinct more than anything else took over and I rode out of my home. Night faded deep into the next morning before I dared to stop.
Nestled in the shade of two dunes, both my mount and I collapsed. Much as I tried not to, I sobbed pitifully but was too dehydrated to give anymore tears. I shivered and shook for longer than I care to admit but once I finished, I felt renewed. Asril's words echoed in my mind then. He'd been correct, the port would be my best bet to survive; After all, a lone Djinni wouldn't be welcome in our neighbor's lands.
I examined my current dress, the thin fabric was wonderful for lounging about the palace but would do little to help conceal my green skin. Summoning my strength, I examined my horse's packs. Pulling open the first one, I found some bread and water. I sung Asril's praises between bites as that first food passed my lips. Sharing some of my water with my mount made my horse start to lick me playfully. I giggled and then went to check the rest of my pack. Several tomes were present.
Trembling fingers reached inside as I recognized the books. They were from the secret room in the palace. Four tomes from my ancestors who had been blessed with power sat in my pack. I'd spent countless days reading and re-reading these books secretly. As a daughter, I was expected to do my duty and marry the man my father decided upon. Then, I'd spend the rest of my life hidden away, producing and raising children. I began to shake and laugh until I cried some more. Those books had been my little secret, my spark of defiance against the rules. This was the first time I discovered Asril had known of how rebellious I'd truly been. Everyone else assumed I had simply been born with the power.
Basic supplies made up the rest of my pack; flint for fires, a tarp for a tent and such. Taking one of the tomes, I rested and read in the shade. More than just spells are contained in Tomes. Oftentimes, they're more like diaries and talk of the people around them or their observations. Once the sun drifted low, I climbed upon my mount and began to ride. I had to reach the port, but, then what?
Across the ocean, that much was certain. If I could get lost in another land, I'd be out of my father's reach. So, I pushed my horse and myself to reach the town as soon as possible. It took me only until the next morning to reach the white walls of Tesral. The scent of fish had long since soaked into the entire city and even at the gates I couldn't escape it. Mixing in with a trade caravan that had just arrived, I entered the port receiving the usual spiteful glares my kind always got from humans.
As I walked along the streets, I was exposed to sights I'd never seen before. The traders I followed in are arguing with a baker. A stand next to them is manned by an older man missing the lower portion of his leg. Several children push their youngest member towards the stand. With trembling fingers he reaches out for a fish. Fast as lightning, the fishmonger swipes at the child with a stick he keeps nearby. His would-be thievery thwarted, the child returns to the others in shame and is ignored.
It reminds me of the days we entertained guests on my father's behalf. How busy those days were but it was different here; this seemed to be a case of everyday life. Amid the bustling and moving people, I tried my best to navigate. Flustered, I decided to climb aboard my mount to give me a better vantage point. On horseback, I managed to reach the port without much further difficulty.
Most of the ships tied to the wooden docks were small fishing vessels, unsuitable for my needs. A few larger ships were present so it wasn't a complete loss. I noticed another Djinn moving rope on a fishing ship, his wild hair swept away from his face. Approaching him, I asked, “Excuse me, do you know where I can charter a ship?”
“Huh?” The man seemed disoriented so I repeated my question. I felt his eyes stare at my exposed flesh making small bumps rise on my arms. With a sigh he directed me to the port authority office. As I entered, a human man sat behind a desk as a much taller being stood with its arm crossed. Both men stared at each other in icy silence. I winced as the door slipped from my fingers to slam shut.
Only the human man gave me the briefest of glares before returning to his original target. He let out a sigh saying, “Don't make this difficult. I have to check the cargo hold of every trade ship to verify nothing out of the ordinary. This is standard practice.” The human's thick beard and hard eyes were unflinching. All at once, the tall being began to speak something I couldn't understand and the man held up his hand saying, “In common, damn it! I don't speak elf!”
“Fine,” The tall elf sighed with obvious contempt, “We're an endorsed trade ship out of Nightrivers. Our cargo is our business and will not be held hostage to some glorified thug.”
“You've taken up my best dock for a week now! Just let me look in your hold and you can go in peace!” The man sighed. The two were obviously at an impasse and I felt something bubble up inside. An old memory of my father dealing with two bickering merchants; both claimed ownership of a gold bauble they found in the desert. Rather than listen to it further, he bought the bauble and gave both half the money.
Putting on my most majestic stride, I walked forward to both men saying, “Good morning, gentlemen. You both seem to be at an impasse. Might I offer some help with this situation?”
“What do you want, little girl?” Growled the human man. The elf didn't even bother looking at me.
“My name is Tenni of the Ishzark royal family. I'm looking for passage across the ocean. If I could charter passage upon this good sir's ship, I'm sure my father will gladly cover any expenses he's incurred,” I continued my gambit. The human man leaned back in his squeaky chair as the elf looked down at me. His grey eyes were so intense I thought he might be searching my soul. More bumps rose along both arms.
Letting out a groan of frustration, the human man pressed his fingers to the bridge of his nose saying, “The Ishzarks have been decent traders for demons. Sure, I'll agree to that. Can you, Lizrel?”
“To be free of you, I'd take a Kraken upon my ship.” The elf spoke coldly. Both men nodded to each other. Signing my father's name to a few documents, I was guided by the Elven captain to his vessel. The two masted ship rose above me. I'd seen the ocean itself one time when I was much younger and my father took our whole family to visit King Teper. No ship in that port matched the majesty of this one.
Hanging from the front of the vessel was a statue of some Elven woman holding up a lantern. The ship itself was curved as well and the sails all had some writing along the edges. At the Captain's approach I saw the crew all line up in neat rows. Each one wore long pants as green as my own skin with white shirts. The Captain announced simply, “We sail, make preparations!” A cheer and flurry of motions followed his announcement.
“Oh, right. Tishrel, prepare the storage room, we will have a guest aboard on our trip home,” The Captain said causing one of the female Elves to nod and disappear below deck. Turning to me he explained, “We will be leaving with the evening high tide so you have until then to settle your business and we will leave without you.”
“I shall return shortly,” I nodded and departed the ship. As I stepped off the boarding plank I looked to my mount, unsure what to do with it. Following the main road to the town square, more stalls had been opened and the bustling of the day had come into full swing. Many sold fish, unsurprisingly, so when I came across a merchant specializing in mounts, I felt overjoyed.
It didn't take long to settle on a price. The coins that rattled around in my pouch made a far less wonderful sound than the ones the mercenary had given me. I winced at the thought of him. Though part of me loathed the man, he had kept his word. Perhaps I should look for him for vengeance? Then I recalled his size and stature. There would be no way to kill him with my own hands. I could swear I heard his voice whisper the words, “Great Sorceress.”
With a laugh, I shook my head. Of course! I was not some frail creature! I was a sorceress! I needed only to harness the power of my ancestors. Then, I could break him. Smash him. Tear at his heart and then feed his soul to true demons over a thousand years. I would need to study and do more than treat it as a hobby. I would dedicate myself to this.
As I returned to the ship with my few possessions left, I was guided down underneath the top deck. Sleeping arrangements were little more than sheets tied between posts for the crew. When we reached the back end, a small room was presented to me. A bed like the rest of the crew's was made and I was afforded the luxury of a door and a small window. Laying upon the sheet has taken some getting used to but once I could enter without falling out, I set myself to writing this.
This is a promise to myself and to the all the Gods. I will seek out the one who ruined my life and with all the power I wield, shall have my revenge. I shall become the righteous fist to bring justice to the one who shattered my life. This I swear under the name of Tenni Lanquist Ishzark.