***
It was time.
A frantically nervous Leah flanked by her two Verone Elite guards followed Sini towards a soft lift.
Sini commanded the lift and in thirty seconds they were on another floor, which could be anywhere in the fortress. It was terribly disorientating, and Leah made a mental note to ask for a map at some stage. Surely just going to visit someone in the fortress did not require company all the time!
She listened to the tapping of her heels on the smooth, shiny, dark floor, combined with the booming echo of the guards’ boots walking down the corridor past the flickering torches.
How long does it take to clean this place? Who does clean this place? Are there many spiders?
Her mind filled with absurd thoughts, as a bid to distract her from what was before her.
She concentrated on her dress, which hugged her every movement, she could feel her right leg almost completely exposed each time she stepped forward. Deep down it felt good to be a woman, but her nerves restrained her.
At the end of the corridor was a double door around four meters high and three meters wide. Leah was surprised to be confronted by a picture of the Black Star Portal imprinted on its surface, with a brilliant light shining on it. It was so beautifully sketched she was not sure if it was only just a drawing. Looking closely, it looked almost three dimensional. She felt she could reach up, walk through it, and disappear! Then something more intriguing caught her attention. Three small stones clustered together seemed to be superimposed near the top of the BSP. They had the same markings on them as her stones. They were her stones! She was just about to lift her hand up to touch them when the sudden movement of the door sliding silently open prevented her.
The guards stood stiffly beside the door entrance as Leah followed Sini into a large foyer. She pivoted and smiled at Leah. “My master is waiting for you.” Sini presented Leah with a deep curtsy and left the room. The guards turned and followed.
She was now alone.
The foyer was decorated in warm but garish tones of red and gold, reminded Leah of a movie theater entrance that she attended as a young girl. It even had that familiar old fashioned hot buttered popcorn smell to it which made Leah feel very hungry. It took her mind off her nerves. Comfortable overstuffed chairs and low tables were spread over the area and looked as if it had seated many a dignitary over time. Lights propped on the walls seemed to be slowly dimming. Leah half expected that if she flopped into a chair a movie screen would drop, and a sweet vendor selling his wares would provide the popcorn she could smell. I’m outta here if they start playing War of the Worlds or Invasion of the Body Snatchers.
Overall, the pleasant, warm, atmospheric glow in the room made one feel at home.
She remembered the picture of the BSP and turned to see if the picture was on the other side of the door. Shit! The doorway was gone, only chairs, tables and four huge walls.
Perhaps there was another room adjoining this one? She had a quick look around and as far as she could ascertain there was no other doorway. So she sat down in a chair (a movie did not start playing!) but her stomach started to churn. She began to feel a little afraid which quickly flared into annoyance.
Where was Kalvich? Was he going to make a grand entrance? Or stand her up? Was she doomed to wait here all night. Perhaps he was going to be fashionably late. She giggled to herself.
A few minutes ticked by and her mood darkened.
Who the hell does he think he is? I have journeyed millions of light years to meet this dude and he is not even here. I’ll give him a piece of my mind. She contemplated taking up chewing her fingernails, a habit she had overcome years ago, when she became aware of a presence.
“I am so sorry to have kept you waiting, my dear.”
Leah looked up to where the low, deep voice came from. A few feet away, a tall, silhouetted figure was effectively blocking a torch on the wall, producing an ominous effect. She felt a tiny twinge of fear, and her jaw involuntarily trembled, would he be the one, the one from her dream? He stepped forward, and his face came into focus. Even sitting down she knew he must have been well over a towering two meters tall, broad and muscular. His shoulder length dark hair set off his ample physical presence. He oozed raw power. Oh my God, yes. This was her mystery man from her dream, every detail.
Captivated by this male monolith before her, she forgot all manners and stared at him as if in a trance. She did not even seem to realize she had floated to her feet, as she was caught up in those steely, animalistic, inviting eyes. Was she still in that dream? Don’t you dare run away this time!
So captivated was she that if he had at that moment ordered her to do a silly tap dance she would not hesitate. Then her brain began functioning again. She embarrassingly found herself taking a few deep breaths and felt her heart thumping nineteen to the dozen, which she hoped he would not notice. Just like in her dream, she felt like an infatuated pubescent schoolgirl.
Naturally, Kalvich had not failed to notice her reaction, and though he semi expected it, he was incalculably pleased. His Cathexistome was in a drug induced sleep since he underwent the transformation operation, which did not help matters when it came to suppressing weaker emotions, but thanks to years of discipline, he had adequate control. If Leah sensed the creature, things may get very complicated, but she was not even aware of how to control any of her powers, yet.
Just as important, he had sensed no flicker of hate or malice towards him. The result of Leah’s reincarnation was so far working to their advantage. But there was no guarantee her memory would not come flooding back. They had to work fast.
He took her hand and kissed it, sending a shiver through her just like in her dream; her knees quaked. She thought that silly reaction was only a creation of a romance novelist. Oh no.
“I am Kalvich,” and he bowed deeply. She recovered enough to notice he had not used his formal title as everyone else did.
Yes, you are.
Leah pinched herself with her free hand, yep she was here, and so was that large warm hand holding hers. She glanced at it and saw a few rings. One shiny silver ring caught her eye.
Her eyes chose that moment to blatantly dart over his body.
Boy, it looks like I can remove gorgeous Greek gods off the endangered species list.
To her dismay he released her hand.
With an effort, she located her voice, which wavered “I, ha ha ha, I’m sorry. I’m not sure if I should introduce myself as Kate or Leah.”
Kalvich smiled warmly. “Queen Leah is fine.”
Hearing both the title and her new name spoken from his lips took on a new meaning for Leah. Deep in her soul she instinctively knew this man had a grip on her. Whether it was good or bad, she did not know. Right now, she was too excited, or smitten, or in awe, or something!
Leah could not fight the conscious awareness that she had succumbed to this enigmatic figure, effectively weakening her own resolve. Had she, fallen in love at first sight, like in her dream. Well, you have placed him on that lofty pedestal!
You have what they scientifically call a crush. It takes time to genuinely fall in love. You are just a lusty, hormonal female.
Yeah, whatever!
She took in his attire. The clothes looked expensive and of exceptional quality. An open, black top coat that draped to his upper thighs semi-covered a striking gold and black silk waist jacket, crossed diagonally at the chest revealing a lightly hairy, muscular chest. A wide black belt hugged the tight dark shimmering animal skin pants that seemed favored by the higher ranking warriors. His knee high boots were like a mirror. To top it off, he had some kind of cologne on that made her feel high of all things! Overall, he reminded Leah of a handsome swashbuckling space pirate, without the eye patch. Hmm, wonder where he keeps his sword! Down girl! I bet this man likes his little luxuries and is used to having his way.
A huge ear to ear grin spread over his face. Leah realized her serious faux pas a
nd desperately tried to think of something, anything less personal to say (and think!) and hoped Sini’s makeup hid the now perpetually rising heat registering on her cheeks.
Kalvich decided to tease her further, stood back, and made no effort to hide the fact he was exaggerating his appraisal of her. A little harmless fun, besides she was a gorgeous woman and was a pleasure feast to his eyes. “You look stunning, my love.”
Whatever was left of her composure crumpled, and her eyes fell on the reflective shine on his boots. Her personal thoughts, his lavish compliment, his very presence made Leah’s heart go into overdrive and thump so hard, she thought she was going to have a heart attack. She felt the start of a sweat come on and hoped she would not black out as she did when she first arrived on Heliostronus.
Whatever she was going to say was destined to come out wrong or stupid.
He sensed her dilemma.
“How thoughtless of me! I have not even asked how you are since your visit to my physician.”
Instant relief.
“Oh, I’m fine, umm, thank you. I appreciate what you have done, Kal, er, Supreme Ruler.”
“Please, my dear, you do not need to stand on ceremony for me. We are alone, and I want you to be just yourself and relax.” He bent down and whispered in her ear, “I promise I won’t read your mind.”
Leah pursed her lips and nodded. Okay, I’ll take you up on that. Are you real? Because I recently had a dream about you, and we were whirling away on the dance floor then you said something about a journey then buggered off. But I’ll never forget the kiss. So how about i‑ Kiss me now!
No reaction.
Good, still she decided to play it safe.
“I feel I have met you somewhere before.”
He broke into a chuckle. “About six thousand years ago.”
“Yes,” she looked away self consciously. “I am meant to be your Queen Leah’s reincarnation.”
He paused. “Due to these unusual circumstances, I feel we should get to know each other a little first.”
Now that understatement belongs in the Guinness book of records.
She smiled politely, sounds like Sini has talked to him.
Her eyes studied him further. But I’m sure I could force myself to spend eternity with you, honey cakes.
Phew, again no reaction.
“Are you hungry?”
Leah was famished.
“A little.”
“Come.”
He took her arm and placed it under his, funnily, much the same as Talokta did on his ship. Could be a Trimadian custom or was he too the chivalrous type? No, face it, they do not care much for females in general; it is all for you. Why weren’t her past dates more like this? Then again, some were but it never lasted, or it hid their true intentions. Time would always tell.
Would Kalvich be different?
She was glad he had taken charge.
They walked silently back through the now reappeared doorway that she had earlier entered. Was she going nuts? The corridor seemed different, should she chance a look over her shoulder to see if the door had the BSP on it? No, that could wait. There was only so much her nerves could take. But if she started seeing white rabbits with timepieces, they would have to lock her up!
Presently, they came to a small room. Set in a corner was a cozy table set for two, unbelievably simple, unpretentious, and intimate, quite the opposite to what she had expected.
Kalvich guided her to one of the chairs. There was a small candle in the center, starched gold serviettes, golden cutlery, and two fine goblets with gold filigree handles. All perfectly laid out on a gold and black tablecloth. A single red and black Gerbera was sitting by the candle. So this was her first “alien date.” She appreciated the thought and trouble he had gone to; it was quite sweet. A fond memory of her and her ex husband in a similar situation came to mind. The damn flower (made of paper) next to the candle had caught fire and they tried discretely to blow it out, much to the barely hidden amusement of the musician beside them trying his best not to burst out laughing.
Her host clapped his hands, and a servant appeared from around a corner. “Omh a mala shetu, valuu!”
Leah was glad she was sitting down, because she knew exactly what that meant.
The servant bowed and exited.
She burst out, “I know what you said.”
Kalvich smiled and sat opposite her. “Of course, you do.”
“Serve the food and wine, now. How‑how can I understand your language?”
“Leah, you are the Chosen One born of the mortal world, destined to bring together our worlds. You are more powerful than you could ever realize. The longer you are here, in my home, the more you will learn and absorb.” Oh yes, will you absorb!
She stared at him, no one had ever said that to her on a first date.
“A simple ‘you are a quick learner’ may have been more appropriate. That was a heavy one liner. You almost sounded like Lord Talokta.”
He laughed heartedly, “I am sorry, forgive me. That was rather, what you would say, a little over the top, but it is true. You just don’t realize your potential yet. But given time in our presence, you will come to realize and appreciate what is before you.”
“I think ‘time’ was the key word there.”
Kalvich’s handsome face broke out into a boyish smile. “It seems I am going to be apologizing all the time.”
It was Leah’s turn to laugh. He had a warm, disarming quality which endeared Leah to him.
He leant forward. “My dear, I am just so happy to finally be in the same room with you.”
Yeah, after a six thousand year wait, what were the odds!
Again, Kalvich did not react. She smiled sweetly at him; she did not know what to say.
Now close to him, she studied his fine handsome features. He could so easily be a top model back on Earth. If she were plain old Kate with no special “Chosen One” shit laid on her, would she ever get a chance to date a creature like this?
He may have hit her with the magnitude of a statement before, but regardless, he made her feel special, desired. But she had to keep this all in perspective. She suspected she was not going to get many easy straightforward specific answers. She would have to learn the rules before she played the game.
“Somehow you have been studying our slang terms on Earth, haven’t you?”
“I am very fond of your planet and how you have evolved. I have had a long time to study your numerous languages, social structures, your revolutions, your diverse cultures and customs, insurmountable laws, and even, of course, entertainment.”
Leah looked puzzled. “I have been given the very clear impression you had plans to take over Earth, enslave and kill the people as we are enemies.”
Without flinching he replied, “We are a strong and proud civilization, and our culture and traditions have kept us alive and a true dominating force in the universe. Leah, to survive, you must always know your enemy, how they think, respond, and their weaknesses. But have no fear, if we wanted to destroy your planet we would have done so, and your fellow humans would all be slaves right now.” His eyes were flashing.
“And we wouldn’t be having this conversation,” she retorted.
“You are one of the reasons why Earth has been left alone; the other is simply the gods would have stepped in.” He saw her look of uneasiness and took stock of his tone. “Earth is a favorite of the Elder Gods that rule this universe. They exist in a different dimension than their mortals do. They too have been waiting for your reincarnation and entrusted Cemel as your guide.”
Though they never expected me to get to you so fast!
“You and Cemel are, or were enemies. I don’t understand.”
“You have had visions and they have not been very coherent all of the time, have they?”
“You are right about that! But how do you know all this?”
“Because I have your third bloodstone an
d Sidonio was trying to stop you from getting it.”
So Sataal was right, there was a third stone—an important connection to her.
The Trinity Peak.
“Sidonio? My, er, husband from millennia ago. Why?”
“Sidonio and I were brothers, and we were both in love with you. We hailed from the Elder God family, and through the gods’ experimentation were able to move through your dimension. However, we were both a little on the rebellious side. Sidonio went one step further, turned his back on his heritage to be with you, and he was stripped of his immortality and powers. He was forbidden to tell you of his true beginnings as mortals and immortals are not to mix, let alone have relationships. We used to argue a lot over you, and Sidonio amidst a moment of jealous insanity, tried to kill me. I managed to take his knife off him, but during our struggle, he tripped and fell onto the knife. As he was now mortal, I could not help him. The Elder Gods have certain rules where interference is forbidden. May I also add, they do subtly change rules when it suits them.
“My brother and I never saw eye to eye, but do not get me wrong. I miss him, but even I cannot change the rules the Elder Gods have laid down. That is why I have my own rules, and we generally keep out of each other’s way.”
Leah saw a crushing sadness in his eyes and felt sorry for him. They had both fought over her resulting in a tragic crime of passion; yes, she knew all about that, from Cemel, it was nice to hear it from the horses’ mouth. That would be a dreadful burden to carry on their shoulders for, well, eternity. Worse, she could not remember much at all about Sidonio or any of what he was telling her. She could not form a bond with a person she could not remember. Had she subconsciously blanked it out?
No matter what circumstances, the instinct in her did not want him to suffer.
“You don’t have to tell me more, Cemel told me. He came to me when I was asleep on Talokta’s ship and gave me a pretty good rundown. With my incoherent visions I felt a little prejudiced toward your actions. Cemel went a long way to making me see that I was wrong about you. But I need to ask you something.”
They were interrupted by the servant entering with an elegant tray on wheels laden with food and wine. He quickly served them, bowed, and exited. The food was exquisite and Leah ate heartily.
Kalvich poured the wine and noted her slight hesitation before sipping it. He smiled to himself remembering her recent experience and reaction to the doctored wine on his ship.
She held her glass up towards him. “Another Earth custom,” she said, and they clinked glasses. “Your health!”
He watched her quickly finish the wine and unhesitatingly refilled it. He watched as she drank thirstily. “You were going to ask me something before my servant brought the food in.”
“Oh yes, well, I feel a little embarrassed on hindsight now. But . . .” He smiled encouragingly at her. She continued, “But you already know what I am going to say due to your telepathic abilities.”
“Can you read my mind now?”
“No, I can’t,” she admitted.
“Contrary to popular belief, telepathy has got to be practiced and involves various techniques, even for those born with the ability. You can learn to block your mind as well,” he grinned. “Don’t discount yourself, you are very powerful, Leah. Cemel will take you through all that, but something is telling me, it will come naturally to you. Whether I read minds or not doesn’t mean to say I can all the time, or I would be inundated with noise. I would much rather hear the music of your voice. Please talk to me, tell me anything you want to. You may surprise yourself. More wine?”
“Can’t say no, it is delicious, though a little on the strong side.”
Her companion barely hid his amusement as he watched her polish off her third goblet.
Leah sighed happily, “I met you… in a very lucid dream recently.”
“Oh?”
“It was at a ball I had attended years ago, where people wear masks, a type of masquerade dance. Though in my dream no one would ask me to dance, everyone was ignoring me. You came up and that all changed. I felt thrilled and was the center of attention. You took your mask off and wow! After the one dance you left. I went after you but you just disappeared. I asked this guy, a doorman, if he had seen you. I mean you had headed straight in his direction, but he denied it. Next minute he was warning me about something evil, and he, err, got thrashed around by an invisible force. The crowd then set upon him and dragged him away. It was very violent. Thank goodness it was just a dream.”
He listened with interest. This was an event that had not been passed on, as the cloning operation took place during or after the fact. His master must have used the Chalmoc on her subconsciousness.
His initial report to his master would show he had made a good first impression with the queen. He had suspected he may be observing them now, but being so unsure of Leah’s abilities, more than likely would not take the risk.
She was definitely attracted, albeit infatuated. He wondered how far he was going to be allowed to take this relationship. Would she truly fall in love or— he stopped. She was looking expectantly at him.
“You seemed a little preoccupied. What I wanted to ask was, were you yourself aware of my dream? I know that sounds rather far-fetched, but my version of the rules of reason no longer count. In this particular dream, I saw your face as clear as I can now. Perhaps you dreamed it at the same time as I did. It certainly felt, umm, more than a real connection between the two of us.”
“No, Leah, I know nothing about this. It could be a sign that a slice of your past life’s subconscious memory crossed over into your present memory. You say it was a ball you attended, and I was present. Your memory put you into a familiar situation that you, as the Kate entity can relate to. Maybe as Leah, you recalled the image of myself and put the two images together.”
“Interesting theory,” Leah murmured and finished her wine. He quickly refilled her goblet. “Sini woke me from my dream, and said I was mixing my words. I didn’t think anything at the time but now, perhaps somehow my dreams are trying to teach me, trying to put my past life together.” She laughed lightly. “I honestly think I learn in my dreams.”
Kalvich put his large hand on hers and said softly, “Leah, you are changing, evolving, and the longer you are here with me the more you will realize your potential. You can speak our language. You have been without realizing it, and now your mind is starting to understand phrases; tonight was a perfect example. Soon more things will happen over time; you may or may not be consciously aware. This is only the start. For all I know, maybe it began when you consciously made the decision on Talokta’s ship to finally accept your true identity as Queen Leah, or perhaps it began six thousand years ago.”
“Hope that includes gettin’ my memory back,” she slurred. “Life can be so damn complicated enough without all this mind blowing stuff.” She glanced at his hand, enjoying the warmth and responded by turning her palm upward into his. This gesture he found most gratifying.
“Sometimes it is the simple things in life that one should appreciate,” she murmured.
“Sweet Leah, I will always be here for you. Maybe you just need to have the confidence to believe in yourself.”
“You sound like Cemel, in my dream, I mean.” She took a breath. “So, I don’t sound pretentious if I said I can make a difference, to this world, to this universe?”
“Absolutely, the three bloodstones that Cemel will present to you are the key, and you are the holder.”
“And the Black Star Portal the door?”
He did not expect that. A very astute assumption.
Distracted, she sat back, disappointing him by removing her hand.
He cleared his throat, “Cemel will instruct you in the ways of the stones and how they relate to the Door of Endless Light, your Black Star Portal as you call it. No one knows their full potential or yours for that matter. We need to talk about the ceremony that will be taking place.?
??
She leaned forward, with her hands under her chin, trying her best to stay focused.
“I’m all ears.”
He told her the ceremony was to take place in a private ballroom (Leah smiled at that). He would formally introduce the queen to his Trimadian people, and Cemel would make a formal presentation of the bloodstones to her. Technically, as far as Leah was concerned, all she had to do was walk on a podium, sit on a throne, and look pretty. The attendees would number around two hundred and twenty-five thousand individuals in total, give or take a few.
Leah’s mouth dropped open. “What? Now, I am nervous, I used to sing in front of a drunken few at a club back on Earth, but this is a little different. Are you sure, I don’t need to say anything?”
“At this stage, no. I assure you the people will love you, they know you are here. You are, to quote your Earth saying, the talk of the town. The people are in need of a queen.”
Two hundred and twenty-five thousand in a ballroom! It must be a hell of a big ballroom.
They had finished their meal and were on their third bottle of Tryvenal wine. Leah found the wine deliciously relaxing and was thankful she still had some of her wits about her, or so she thought.
“Oh, I just want to thank you for granting me the use of some gymnasium equipment,” she smiled demurely. “I like to keep in shape.”
“You are most welcome. Come walk with me, you will meet Cemel, but first, I want to show you something.”
With full wine glasses in hand, he took her arm and led the way. Whether it was the wine or not, being so close made her feel safe in this wondrous, unpredictable but exciting world.
It occurred to her that no guards were accompanying them.
“Where are your Verone Elite?”
“Oh, they are busy and do not need to be with me all the time.”
He lent down and whispered close to her ear, “We don’t need a chaperone, do we?”
Leah’s heart kicked into double time once more. Was he joking or deliberately flirting? He squeezed her arm a little and continued, “You will always be safe with me. In fact, this fortress, my Casus Belli is the safest place anywhere; it is impenetrable.” Again he squeezed her arm.
“Why do I have to have guards following me, even out in your gardens?”
“I will not take any chances with you, sweet lady. There is always a chance of an attack from an enemy, an enemy that could be disguised, could be in the form of a simple drug perhaps. I do not want to take anything for granted. Outside, the more practical scenario is you could need assistance for a simple thing like falling and hurting yourself. Also, I would rather take no risks until you have familiarized yourself in and around my home a little more. Guards accompany you inside the walls, because you do not know your way around yet.”
“Yes, about that, any chance of a map or something?”
“Beside every transport lift there is a small computer station that can show you where you are and the route of where you wish to go. I have a ring that, among its many uses, acts like your Earth global positioning systems, but do not concern yourself about that now, just relax. You may be surprised just how natural everything will come to you.”
They carried on with their walk. She noticed he had not bothered to use the lifts. Leah truly felt relaxed and happy. Kalvich’s arm had casually slipped around her waist, and she enjoyed his closeness. Dissolved were thoughts of how long it would take for her to learn what she needed to reach her potential. Any thoughts of escape had left when she stepped inside Casus Belli. Her mind was focused on more intimate matters thanks to this handsome engaging excellent example of manhood. Her mind and body were taking in the warmth of the moment.
They came to a heavy wooden oak door. “Please close your eyes.” Leah closed them. Into the Lion’s den, she thought. Kalvich led her through the doorway. “Open them.”
Leah gasped.
“This is the room I have designed for your special night, Queen Leah.”
She had entered a room that seemed to keep going up and up, several stories above her, making her palms break into a sweat. It was a huge, breathtaking oval shaped arena, she estimated triple the size of any major Earth sport stadium; it was overwhelming. Looking up, she could not see the ceiling clearly and was thankful Kalvich still held her to him, or she would have lost her balance.
“Wait,” he stated. He finished his drink and threw the goblet in the air. Leah watched it, until it disappeared from view—but it never came down. He grinned widely at her expression and with his eyes not leaving hers, he swiped his hand in the air, and all the lights dimmed. Leah groaned with amazement. The ceiling had turned into the night sky with thousands of shiny stars. It was so beautiful it brought tears to her eyes. He smiled as he watched her wide eyed expression.
Opposite their position was a large podium with a table covered in the traditional gold and black cloth with various Trimadian tattoos stamped all over it. As he led her over, Kalvich explained they were representative of all the Trimadian groups that would be present to witness and welcome Leah into their Domain World. Leah turned around to see if the entrance way had disappeared. No, still there, along with gold pillars, statues, and huge vases, several meters tall, highlighting the doorway and all around the perimeter of the arena.
A sophisticated Roman-Trimadian Colloseum. An Arena of Death? Not one hundred and eighty million light years away.
The flickering fire torches seemed to ominously make the statures come alive. It was so large, she would need binoculars to take it all in. After several minutes, they stopped in the center of the arena. Leah turned slowly around and was glad she was not agoraphobic. Countless rows of seats right around the stadium continued upward toward the shimmering stars above them. The walls around the arena had drawings of star constellations. Hanging from the podium’s ceiling was a huge sphere shape that had to be representative of Heliostronus, and beside it, what looked like Earth.
“Some ballroom! My ballroom in the dream was, er, on a smaller scale,” Leah commented.
“I have always believed in grandness on a large scale, especially in front of all types of people who must now and then be reminded of just where the power comes from and who defends their worlds. When you are immortal, a god, it comes naturally. You and I are of incredible importance.”
She was awestruck. This man, this god, possessed incredible supernatural powers including a predilection for creating/changing rooms at a whim.
If he can do this, what the hell am I able to do?
He was staring intently at her, waiting for a response.
“What, oh yes, I—I suppose,” she stammered. “Kalvich, I remember Cemel told me there were three Chosen Ones, you, Sidonio, and myself. Apparently, I am a free spirit not governed by the usual god rules. It all seems a little heavy for me.”
He nodded, “As I keep telling you, in time, Leah, you probably will find it will come naturally, as I said, just relax.” He affectionately stroked the back of her neck, and Leah felt the tension lift through his touch. She felt herself go pink in the cheeks, yet again. Somehow, this was more than a first date or meeting. In her blood, she knew she had met this man before, in a past life. But was he the same man or a brutal monster that enslaved the innocent. Could she simply trust him with what he told her? His charisma and charm made him damn irresistible. Her present memory was just not there to back up his words. God knows, she’d had her share of sweet nuthins whispered in her ear by men with unscrupulous intentions. Get real, girl! If this was a try on, it was an elaborate one.
What does he have to gain? My soul?
He walked her up the fifty or sixty (she was trying to count) steps to the podium. On top, Leah could turn three hundred and sixty degrees and every soul inside the arena would have a clear view of them. The table up close was huge; probably seat sixty or more, though her sense of proportion was probably miles out.
Kalvich guided her across the stage past the table th
ough a side doorway behind a yellow and black curtain that was draped from a recessed ceiling. This afforded privacy as it was totally hidden from public view. She guessed this could be where she would make her entrance. Down some steps they entered a small foyer, which opened into a huge conference room with another large table. “As of very recently, here is where I hold all my meetings concerning the running of my empire. All major subjects are attended to—creation of laws, trade, rules, war strategies, building, and planning, anything. Though this is only temporary, and part of the changes I made to incorporate the large ball room, which is specifically created for your arrival. My normal offices are on the other side of the fortress and far more boring and practical than what you see here. But it gives you an insight. Now look into this room.”
He guided her into another dimly lit room.
Kalvich kept his arm firmly around her waist and watched her face for her reaction.
“Oh my God!”
It was a magnificent throne room. Two highly decorated thrones side by side were on a dais and a large Trimadian flag was behind them. The walls looked like they were moving, but it was a shimmering gold material with light hitting it that gave that impression. Symbols with scripture were scattered all around.
“This is the throne room, but yet only temporary, do you know why Leah?”
She studied the room. “Hmm, with the coming and going of many people, everyone would know where I may be, at a certain time. So, if this was permanent, that could leave me exposed for attack?”
“Yes, exactly. This is also purely for show, the more permanent room set aside is much nicer, less exposed, is security guarded night and day. Generally, the throne room is where you will meet other dignitaries, guests, city officials, and so on when your duty calls for it. Only a short time ago, there was only one throne. Look closely at the left throne, Leah. Does it look familiar?”
She walked slowly toward it, “No. Yes, in one of my earlier dreams I could see a woman sitting on one. I could hear voices and names spoken but all the faces were in shadow. I never took much notice of the throne. I’m sorry.”
Kalvich held up his hand. “It’s alright. I wanted you to have it back.”
She was speechless.
“On the night of the ceremony the walls behind the curtain on the stage are moved, and the throne platform rises and moves forward so it is elevated above the stage. There, you and I will be seated to receive worship.”
“Look Kalvich, about this worship thing, I don’t know if, well, if I deserve it? I haven’t even done anything.”
“You did six thousand years ago; you were a strong leader, and you have returned. Besides, it is your destiny. You now are the living legend, proof of the story that has been passed on from generation to generation. Your greatness was only cut short by the curse you made Cemel perform on you. You both thought you were doing the right thing for your people. You thought they would live forever in subjugation, which was not true. Do you remember much about that part of your past life?”
“A little, but it is all disjointed. But I could sense great fear and sadness.”
“I didn’t want to tell you this, partly because of unfounded loyalty to my brother, but Sidonio was sent to you as a spy from the gods.” Kalvich’s tone rose in dramatic passion. “Yes, he fell in love with you, yes, love clouded his judgment and made the gods angry, and he lost his powers through not just the cost of living with a mortal, but by betraying them. They never wanted you to know that. The gods are jealous of the ones they created in their image, but their very nature and pride will never ever let them openly admit they would sometimes prefer mortality than a life designed for eternity. The way I have chosen is a little different, and they have shunned me for it.”
“They lost control, you mean, but why are you telling me this and why now?”
He held her by her upper arms and looked deeply into her jeweled eyes, “Because you deserve the truth and should always be told the truth. Cemel is a soldier of the gods, sent to help you to reach your destiny, the link between mortality and immortality, for your chosen people. He was given the ability to ‘walk the dimensions’ as it is termed. Cemel did not know this, but the gods were simply using him.
“Once he had trained and prepared you and you possessed all three stones, the gods were going to claim you as theirs, and you would never be human again, never be independent or free to make choices like I do. With me, you can be immortal, a goddess, and walk in this dimension just like I do now. You and I would not be affected by any rules.”
He paused, his eyes dark with passion. “I made the fatal mistake of implanting you to try in vain to make you live and keep you in the mortal dimension, but Cemel’s curse overpowered the Cathexistome. The gods took you away from me before I could take away the mask that was blinding you from the truth. Now, you have a second chance, with my help, you can forgo the gods and truly be free, we can start an evolution of a new race without any outside interference. Do you see now? I know how the gods work and I never trusted their Chosen One experiment. The only way I could get to you and warn you six thousand years ago was an invasion of your planet, which distracted and effectively stopped them and an innocent Cemel from stealing you away from your freedom. That is partly why he never got around to preparing you; he knew the gods had their own agenda to use you, but not to what extent. I know he loved you like a daughter too, and wanted to shelter you. He knew something was not right. That is why he and I are great friends now.
“A voice I heard from childhood told me I had to find ’the sign.’ I came to you, alone, the day before the invasion. Using the Door of Endless Light, I needed to warn you what the Gods had planned. When I saw you; you were that sign Leah! But, the fact remained, you were with Sidonio. He and I let our emotions become embroiled, and we had the fight and you know what happened from there. I knew right then that the gods were protecting you from the day you were born. If I told you the complete truth, they more than likely would have removed my powers, and made sure I had a fatal accident. They would use any covert means to keep you from knowing the truth, in this case, they used Sidonio, and he paid the price. I, being immortal, was the only one to stand up to them. He and I were the only ones who have seriously defied the Elder Gods in history. Cemel created your three stones to symbolize the joining of the Cathexistomes, representing the spirit, plus the Cantals–the physical, they bring together the strongest race ever created – The Trimadians. Your stones collectively are known as the Trinity Peak. But they are useless without the holder, the mother of the stones, you, Leah. You are the only one that can control their power, the only one that the gods are afraid of, though they will never admit that. If you know the truth, they will never be able to control you, like they have all other races through the universe. You are the start of a new power, a new existence.”
Leah was fascinated. She had never interpreted the story this way. “I have been told little bits of information, but I had no idea it was as big as this. I thought it was just grandiose beliefs.”
Kalvich shook his head. “I know it is a lot, especially after our first dinner,” he chuckled. “But, you needed to know. Poor Cemel, has never forgiven himself for what he did, he wishes to put things right this time. Six thousand years ago, he never wanted to hurt you, he was a victim too, and you didn’t know your true enemy was the gods. I did, and I only wanted to protect and love you.”
“Wow, what you have just told me is quite incredible, almost like something out of an elaborate fairy tale, but, I guess it makes sense.”
“I think I have said enough for now. I may end up giving you a headache.”
He guided her up the throne steps. Leah stared at the ornate seats, encrusted with bedazzling jewels. He offered her the left throne, bowing. Leah took the cue and sat down slowly, as if the seat may bite her. Kalvich promptly sat in the one beside her. “Six thousand years ago you sat in that very throne, you ruled over your land, and I wanted to bring it he
re, so we can do just that. It is beyond words to see you in your rightful place, and very soon, it will be official. You will not just receive the stones, my dear. You will also receive other symbols of faith, like an exquisite tiara that will be symbolic of your Earthly royal heritage and power. Do you like all this, what I can offer you?”
Leah was taken aback. “Cemel did tell me some— I‑I don’t know what to say. This is all happening so fast, but I—”
“This is my world I am offering to you, Leah.” She sat up straight as his voice, dramatically underscored with passion, declared, “But I am not asking you to let go of yours. Earth can become the Trimadian’s allies. You and I were destined to rule together, like six thousand years ago, we knew how we felt about each other, and one day you may remember: it was magic. You will never want for anything, ever. I want you to have what is rightfully yours, to inherit the destiny that was yours, your powers, and to always keep learning. I have my powers and keep learning. I have only ever loved one woman and I have waited a long, long time for you to join with me and take your rightful place by my side. You will never be alone again.”
Leah felt tears sting her eyes as she sank into his passionate charm.
Never suffer loneliness.
But, would he always be true to her?
“So, are you telling me that your people, the Trimadians, would not hurt the people of my world? There could be a future for both?”
“There always was, and there always will be.” His voice became low and smooth. “Sweet Leah, I need to ask you something. I hope you do not think less of me.”
He cast his eyes down, as if not knowing how to say what he had to say.
“What is it?” her voice, soft, encouraging.
He looked at her, he had her captivated, her eyes so kind and reassuring.
“There is one rule I have to adhere to or the gods could stop us from completing and enjoying the ceremony. You must understand that I need to be honest with you so you can freely make an informed choice.”
Leah saw his cheeks turn a shade red as he looked down again.
This time, she stood up and placed her hands firmly on his upper arms.
He closed his eyes, embracing her touch, he could feel it, but he needed to hear it from her lips.
“Just say it, Kalvich. You can trust me.”
He looked into her eyes again and nodded. “You are such a beautiful, wonderful woman; you have enlightened and put courage in my heart. Trust is so important, and I trust you implicitly, if I were mortal, I’d give you my life.”
Leah smiled warmly at him and stroked his cheek, fighting tears that were firmly welling in her eyes. “You can tell me anything,” she said softly.
“When you said the word ‘trust,’ Does that mean you could trust me? Trust me enough to be with me, to be loyal and true only to me, because, just like I did those years ago, I‑I have fallen in love with you. In fact, that has never changed. I am so scared of repeating history and making the same mistakes I did six thousand years ago and lose you. If your Highness accepts me, everything I have is yours and I want to give you my heart. If you come to me with an open heart, willingly, I mean, I must and would never force you…”
Leah felt her head spin at hearing the words. Her ex-husband told her he loved her, and look what happened. She thought she would never hear those sacred words again, certainly not from an immortal warlord god. She wished she could remember the past. However, she was a forty-year old woman, old enough to know that actions always speak louder than words. Did she have the courage to open her heart to someone else again, release the trust that was buried behind her heart’s safety barrier? Could she take that chance again? Did she love him? She remembered the statement she had told herself months earlier.
I’m destined to be more than what I am now!
One implication of that was right in front of her–giving her permission to take a chance, take a risk. Make a decision.
For God’s sake woman, the poor man has opened and poured out his heart to you, what more do you want? He loves you put him out of his misery! Her heart racing, she never thought she would ever do this to anyone, especially a man, but it felt right, she felt impelled. She knelt at his feet, not an easy task in her tight dress, and took his hand that was trembling and kissed it. “I accept.”
Wordlessly, he took her hand and helped her up. He placed a finger lightly on her chin and lifted her face to kiss her. Leah closed her eyes and felt the warmth spread through her body, those wonderful, strong arms pulled her to him. This was that infinite moment in time she wanted to freeze, as she opened her heart to him. She felt gloriously safe, accepted and loved. Besides, if he was not holding her tightly, she knew her knees would betray her.
A long, passionate, tender kiss. Just like her dream-dance kiss, only difference was she was very much awake and this was raw reality.
Please don’t break my heart.
Chapter 38—The Sublight City Bar