Tiva Boon: Royal Guardian (4 page)

“Do you not get chastised for such acrobatics?” Tespor said handing her another pebble.

“No, why would I?”

“What you did was dangerous, you could have injured yourself,” he said.

She began to chuckle and shake her head.

His brow furrowed. “You think jumping down from such a height is wise?”

“Tespor, dear friend, I have been jumping from Te since I could walk. From my window since I was six, and soon I will jump from the roof.” She smirked. “All it requires is balance and practice. Perhaps I can teach you.”

“Tiva, the higher you jump from, the harder your descent to the ground.” He threw a pebble up into the air and followed it as it fell into the field.

“True, but you can slow your descent by the motions of your body and gauging the wind.” She threw her own pebble into the field.

“I can’t gauge the wind, wait, do you have the Nature Sense?” he said, she nodded. “Intriguing. I’ve been told I might have the ability to mind-speak, but I am still too young.”

“Practice can help with that from what I have learned.” She walked through the field, tossing the pebbles in their path. “So, speak of the training I am to begin. Most have been secretive of my first day, and I am unsure what to expect. Can you enlighten me?”

“I will keep your first day a surprise.” He smiled while hers changed into a frown. “However, I can tell you, it is a day of introductions and some fun. The normal training and schooling schedule is the same for all inductees. You will be in class from morning until high noon. Then you have weapons training, empathy training, which is more fun than you may think, a lecture each day by a different guardian, and the day ends with patrols alongside an elder guardian. That is most of what you will do in the first stage.”

“It sounds perfect.” She hopped on one foot and took off one of her shoes, then removed the second. She let her toes dig into the grass as she walked, feeling the soft blades tickle her skin. “I was so bored with my pre-induction schooling; it wasn’t very challenging.”

“Me
, too. You will find many challenges in guardian training, and when you reach stage three I am told we learn covert tactics.” He grinned. “I can’t wait to start that training. After stage three they begin aptitude trials to best suit each guardian into a position.”

“I am going to be a level one guardian,” she said and approached her tree, gently taking one of its leaves in her hand.

“You jest,” he said, “Abennelp has no girl elite guardians.”

“I will be the first, you will see.” She smiled at him and jumped up into Te’s welcoming branches then curled up in her usual sitting place. “My place is at the king’s side, like my father and his father.”

“Perhaps, perhaps not. A mighty feat could earn the post, but don’t think the path will be easy.” Tespor tilted his head up to meet her eyes. “I wish you luck in your endeavors.”

“Thank you, my friend.” She nodded to him. “I haven
’t seen you in many moons, how are you faring in the Finto home?”

“It is still hard, but I
’m adjusting. The Finto’s are a fine family, though stringent in their care of the children. They are not as free spirited as your parents seem to be.”

“What do you mean?” she said, cocking her head to the side.

“They would surely reprimand me for being out at such an hour, but it is worth it to see you.” He smiled and blushed—his markings turned a deep pink, hers mimicked his, and she let her lip curve slightly. She stood up on Te’s trunk and held two of his sturdier branches to keep steady. Tespor watched, his emotions unhidden from her. “Tomorrow you will have the chance to meet Neola Riin, she is between us in age, and is training with the Vicars in Degort.”

“I have heard that name before…she is the High Healer of Degort’s granddaughter
, is she not?” Tiva said.

“Yes, she is,” Tespor said.

Tiva allowed him to change the subject. She was unsure of all that she sensed. He enjoyed spending time with her, but there was an elusive emotion emanating from him. She shook off the thought and motioned to the horizon. The night sky was lightening; the suns would rise in a few hours.

“Do you still wish to know what the Mystic told me?”

“Yes, I do, did he see your future?”

“He claims to have seen it, but his words were riddled and unclear.”

“Speak of what he said.”

“All he said was something about traveling, wings, and weight
, and I am not as I seem…”

Tespor frowned. “Not very interesting.”

“Indeed.” She sighed. “Perhaps Mystic Litak needs more practice.”

He chuckled then looked toward the Finto family home. “Alas, the night is ending soon and I must head home before anyone realizes I have been away. I’ll see you in the morrow at training.” He shrugged. “Try to sleep some before you depart.”

Tiva rolled her eyes as he took off running through the field. She watched him for quite some time before he was off the edge of her family land, and when he seemed only a shadow in the distance, she jumped down from the tree and lay on the ground below. The sky above was indeed beginning to brighten. She had plenty of time to rest before she would leave for the city, so she closed her eyes and freed her mind, allowing her to drift off into sleep.

Excited, Tiva sat next to her mother trying to stay still. D’laja steered the hovercraft expertly along the road. She was glad her mother was escorting her to the palace. She would have preferred both her parents, but duty interfered.

Kevler had left at dawn. An urgent call came from the Hentor Province, on the opposite side of Abennelp. He was unsure how long he would be gone, sometimes days other times entire seasons. It was the only part of being a guardian that Tiva felt unsure about, long leaves from her family. She knew her first tour or assignment would be much later, when she was older, but she missed her parents when they were away. Luckily, the king valued family and rarely sent parents away at the same time if both were under the guardianship.

They arrived at the gates of the palace. D’laja saluted the keepers. Tiva did not know them personally, but their darker skin tone identified them as members of the Ispek family. As they passed through the gates, Tiva noticed one of them wink at her while the other smiled. She furrowed her brow with confusion. D’laja chuckled
, but gave no explanation, and set the vehicle down when they reached the docking deck.

Her cousin Towt stood guard at the side entrance to the palace, and grinned at them as they approached.

“Spirited greetings!” he said happily.

“Spirited greetings,” they both said.

“Ready for your first day, little cousin?” he said and opened the large doors.

“Yes, I am,” Tiva said. “I know not what to expect, but I hope all goes well.”

“Don’t worry, you will be pleased,” he replied.

Tiva stepped inside and was awestruck. The corridor was vibrant and beautifully decorated. She noticed the floor first.
Florid symbols and golden words were etched on the stone slates, each block holding a different word: duty, honor, trust, love, among others. All words she would need to know as a Royal Guardian. Portraits of past guardians who had lost their lives while in service of the king hung on the wall. The two closest to the doorway were Tespor’s parents, Ader and Yinlla, the most recent to perish. Their portraits were a virtual projection. The images were almost statuesque. Her father, weary of new technology had not purchased a virtual imager, but as she gazed over the portrait, she knew she would ask for one on her next Remembrance.

D’laja took her daughter’s hand and tugged her down the hall. Tiva examined all the portraits as they walked. Each one older and less sophisticated than the previous as the times had changed. They reached the end of the hall, and above the door was a life size painting of the first Royal Guardian, her ancestor, Trilo. She stopped in her tracks and stared at the painting. It seemed well preserved for its age, and as she studied his features, she swelled with delight. He had dark hair like her own, his eyes a sharp green. The markings on his forehead were dark purple, which she found curious, and his stature was stocky yet strong. Under the painting was a plaque; she read the words aloud.

“Trilo Boon, founder of the Royal Guardians. His lifeblood was spilt on the twenty-seventh day of the Warming, the 1234th cycle of Abennelp.” She turned to her mother. “That will be five-hundred cycles ago next Warming, Mother.”

“You are correct, precious one, and most likely will be your first official assignment as a guardian. The Founders Festival will be a joyous celebration, but the guardians still protect the king and queen whilst they are among the people. Guardian trainees have patrols on the outside gates of the palace, with elders.” D’laja opened the door and tugged again.

“I will be honored, Mother. Duty comes before pleasure, does it not?” she said.

“Most times, Tiva, most times.” She smiled.

They entered the next room, and Tiva again became infatuated with the colorful and exquisite decorating. Her mother placed a hand at the base of her neck and she turned her attention forward noticing several guardians standing by a very large window. They all saluted, D’laja and Tiva returned the gesture. She lowered her fist from her heart, and dropped to one knee as instructed earlier.

“Trainee, Royal Guardian Tiva Boon reporting.” She bowed.

“Greetings, Lady Boon.” Her former instructor Jaina Jelev smiled. “I am pleased to introduce you to guardian trainer, Zenid Finto. She will be your instructor for general classes as well as your empathic studies.”

Tiva felt a wave of relief wash over her. Zenid Finto, her neighbor and a close friend of her mother’s
was one of the three stage-one trainers. Her cousin Rae had told horrid stories of Guardian Yoka Becha, an older and less friendly trainer. Luck was on Tiva’s side, but she kept her excitement hidden.

“For weapons training you will study with your uncle Devler, and this week you will be patrolling with Royal Guardian Lety Ispek.” Each acknowledged her with a tilt of their head, with the exception of Devler who winked at her. “Your mother will take you on a tour of the palace and when you are through, you’ll have morning meal with the king and queen in the Great Hall. Then I’ll give you a listing of studies, your lectures for the week, and take you for a tour of the palace grounds. After midday meal we can discuss your aspirations and what you wish to gain from your studies, and conclude the day with aptitude tests to place you at the appropriate levels.” Jaina smiled.

Just as the trainer finished her speech, three young people came into the room. One was Tespor, who smiled casually at Tiva, the other a young girl dressed in cleric robes. Tiva guessed that was Neola, and the third another young boy, a guardian trainee. The three walked toward the trainer and others near the window. They saluted before standing to the side.

“Lady Boon, I would like you to meet your training companions.” Zenid Finto stepped forward, “I believe you know Tespor Roxon, and this is Jex Jelev, both are in stage two, however you will see them in some of your classes, as well as weapons and empathic training.” She walked to the girl and put a hand on her shoulder.
“This is Vicar Trainee, Neola Riin and she will be in a few of your classes as well as empathic training.”

Tiva nodded to her training mates and sensed from them the same excitement she felt. She let a small smile form on her lips. They responded in kind and Zenid smiled along with them. “May the spirits make you all fast friends,” she said as if reading their minds.
“These three must head to class. D’laja will take you on your tour now.”

D’laja and Tiva bowed then waited as they all filed out of the room. When the doors closed shut
, Tiva jumped up into her mother’s arms. D’laja swung her around playfully.

“Do you wish to pick where to go, or shall I lead, precious one?”

“I will follow you, Mother.”

D’laja opened the large doors to the hall. When they stepped out
, Tiva snapped up straight, and turned serious. D’laja chuckled. “Tiva, you do not need to be so somber, everyone can sense your excitement.”

“I know, Mother, but I wish to prove I can be the best Royal Guardian ever.” Tiva smiled and squeezed her mother’s hand. “I am looking forward to my studies. Do you think I will impress them at the aptitude testing?”

“Perhaps you will, just do your best and do not fret.”

The remainder of the day kept Tiva’s mind active and her spirits high. During morning meal with the king and queen, she sensed from the king that something was amiss within the palace. D’laja and Mirta talked of the children, but Harer kept his attention divided between Tiva and the Royal Guardians who interrupted occasionally to whisper in his ear. Darlew Finto, another elite level one guardian, and Zenid’s husband, called the king away from the meal on an urgent matter.

Her mother shuffled Tiva back to the main study to continue with the orientation.

Tiva’s study listings were unusual, but interesting. Among the topics that piqued her interest: history, combat and theory, and meditation.

While touring the grounds she asked many questions about the smaller buildings surrounding the palace. Some of the older structures, constructed over time, when different kings held power, were still standing. Her knowledge of past kings was limited, but her studies would help remedy her ignorance.

After the midday meal, Zenid and D’laja ushered Tiva to the lift in the main hall of palace.
She stared at the beautiful glass-enclosed contraption that carried people up to the different levels of the tower. As they waited for the doors to open, D’laja knelt down and kissed her daughter on the cheek.

“I will meet you by the hover after your aptitude tests,” she said brushing her thumb across Tiva’s forehead. “I must collect your siblings from Aunt Zizi. She is on duty soon.”

“Yes, Mother.” Tiva nodded. D’laja rose, pulled at Zenid’s tunic, and whispered in her ear. Tiva watched the two, and raised an eyebrow sensing amusement from her trainer. Zenid grinned and then D’laja took off. The doors to the lift finally opened, and Tiva waited for her trainer to enter. Zenid nodded and walked in, followed by the young girl.

“Your manners are impeccable, Guardian Boon
,” Zenid said.

“Thank you, Guardian Finto,” she said with a slight bow of her head. Again, she felt amusement emanating from her trainer, but remained silent. They rode up for a few long moments. The doors opened. Zenid walked out and looked down at the hollowed space surrounding the lift. Tiva followed, resting her hands on the guardrail, admiring the breathtaking sight. Not only were they almost at the top of the tower, she could see every floor’s walkway below them. The people scurrying across the expanse looked strange from high above.

“Are you ready to discuss your aspirations, Guardian Boon?”

“Yes, I am.”

“This way,” she said, and clasped her hands in front of her and led her into another room that was sparsely decorated, yet comfortable. They sat opposite each other on soft couches, and Zenid handed two parchments to Tiva and took out a small palm-sized data recorder. “The first is level three duties: The Palace Grounds. You can choose to be a gatekeeper, standard patroller, tower watcher, or general security. The second is level two duties: The Palace. For this level, you can choose to be a guard for the various floors of the palace, including the throne room and Great Hall. You can also opt to patrol the perimeter, entrance/exit monitor, as well as palace escort to visitors.”

Tiva reviewed the list of duties. “I know which I will choose for each level, but my aspirations go beyond level two, Guardian Finto.”

“I have heard as much…” she said, then twisted her mouth slightly, “Tiva, speak forthrightly of what you wish.”

“I wish to be the king’s Royal Guardian.”

“You are aware that Abennelp has never had a female elite guardian? The test for level one is very intense and difficult.”

Tiva nodded looking straight into Zenid’s eyes. “I understand, but it is my wish. Each first-born child in my family has been an elite level one Royal Guardian. Tradition may say that a girl has never held such a rank, but I will continue the history of my family. I will train hard, and I will be the first.”

“You seem very determined. I will mark it on your record. First, however, take a step back and speak your choices for level three and two.”

“I wish for standard patrols or security, and perimeter or interior patrols,” she said, trying to glance at her record covertly. Zenid shifted on the couch pulling the recorder closer and met her
eyes. Tiva’s markings turned slightly pink as she grinned sheepishly. “May I know what my record says?”

“Not at this time, perhaps in the future,” Zenid said. “Now, what else do you wish to accomplish during your training, Guardian Boon?”

“I would like to become well rounded in all there is to know about being a guardian. Aside from education, my empathic abilities require more centering, and I wish to sharpen my fighting skills.”

“I see, very well. Your parents seem to have taught you well at home, you are quite articulate for someone of your age.”

“Thank you, Guardian Finto.” Tiva bowed her head slightly. Zenid chuckled slightly and put a hand on her shoulder.

“You may call me Zenid, Tiva.” She smiled. “Guardians must stick together, and many of us have adopted a casual manner with each other. Besides, we are neighbors and I have known you and your family for many cycles. Just remember, in the presence of the Royals or government heads, you need to use proper titles.” Tiva nodded. “I see a productive future for us, Tiva. Are you ready for your aptitude tests?”

“Yes, Guar…Zenid, I’m ready.”

“Prepare to fight,” Zenid said.

Tiva pulled her sword from its sheath and held it flat against her nose. Tespor, her opponent, followed suit and smiled from behind his blade. She didn’t return the smile. Instead, she elevated her elbow moving the sword up to her right, parallel to the ground. Tespor lunged forward, swinging his sword at her shoulder. Tiva blocked the attack and spun around quickly building momentum. The sword neared Tespor’s chest,
but she changed her assault, forcing the blade down toward his stomach. Again, the weapons collided. Tiva felt the vibration ride up her arm through her hands. They danced back and forth, dodging, blocking, parrying, and striking at each other. Tiva never let her attention stray from Tespor, but she felt Zenid’s eyes studying her.

“You need not to hold back, Tiva,” Tespor said as his sword slammed into hers.