The Periapt

The Periapt

By S.L. Killian

For Thomas, Amanda, and Darla

Who know how to keep a friend’s spirits up.

Prologue

Long ago in Subtera, a kingdom far below the Gemini Ocean, the merman King decided to take a Queen. His name was Perish, he had reigned for one hundred years, and had no heir to claim his throne. Merfolk naturally live between four and five hundred years so, for the King, this seemed a reasonable point in time to find a wife. However King Perish was unaware that he’d drawn the attention of a certain pair of eyes. This powerful gaze had witnessed every moment of his mortal life. Channary Induja Raka, the celestial child of the moon goddess Nabhasi, had seen the day of his birth and every day after. The moon gods had always been partial to the sea kingdoms. Her mother had even encouraged her to watch the rise of a king. She’d observed him with childish curiosity at first, but soon found love blossoming inside her heart as she saw the kindness within his own. Channary, although she was half as old as the ocean itself, was still a child in the realm of the gods and this was her first experience with love. It excited her and inevitably developed into enough of an emotion to act upon. King Perish began to have young women brought in from everywhere. He had decided to choose his Queen as he would choose a good soldier, by selecting the best of the best. Women of fine birth and rank noted for courage, morality, and beauty. Once Channary understood the King’s intentions she could not be kept from Subtera. She pestered Nabhasi tirelessly until the goddess agreed to let her descend upon the mortal realm.

Mortals marry, have children, work and die. That is the way. You mustn’t alter his fate, Nabhasi replied solemnly to Channary’s request.

Mother, you are all powerful! There must be a way! My entire being flows to him and cannot rest until I am with him. All I ask is a chance, as any other mortal woman would have, to capture his heart! Channary pleaded her case. Nabhasi was stern but she could see the determination in Channary’s eyes. She didn’t take the matter of disturbing the order of this mortal’s life lightly though, so she formed clever a plan.

You may go to the mortal world. We will test fate’s resolve… create a detour. The day you meet this King, he will also meet the woman he was destined to marry. This will disrupt his destiny, but it will ultimately be his decision whether to marry a goddess or return to his original path. So be wary child! If he chooses you, you must stay, live, and die a full mortal life as his Queen. If he chooses the mortal woman you must return to this realm, and never tamper with them again Nabhasi presented her ultimatum. Channary eagerly agreed and was abruptly dropped into the depths of the Gemini Ocean. She appeared in the middle of a ballroom filled with hundreds of young women, but they were too busy chatting to take any notice of her sudden appearance. Normally Channary’s skin had a somewhat golden hue giving off a natural glow, and the light would even shine through the tips of her golden hair. However, Nabhasi had not simply sent Channary to Subtera, she’d also striped her of all power effectively reducing her to a mortal. The impact on her body made her hair a muted yellow color and her skin turned dull, pale, and pinkish. Her hands began to shake as she looked down at them. Having always emitted light, to be without it, made her feel naked.

Are you alright? a tall thin woman with dark blue feathers in her hair quietly asked, placing a gentle hand on Channary’s shoulder.

What are you? Channary replied looking up at the woman curiously. She couldn’t help noticing all the little feathers poking out of the woman’s cheeks and hands.

You mean originally? A humming bird. This is just a spell. A useful gift from a warlock I once knew. Forgive my manners. I’m Quire. Who are you? the bird replied shaking her head and chuckling as she offered Channary her hand.

I’m…um…Chan Channary answered unsure if she should give her real name. Suddenly a boy with electric green dreadlocks, whose skin was as black as tar, entered the ballroom sounding a conch to quiet the room. He was dressed very formally in pale green, blue, and yellow: the kingdom’s colors. Channary felt her heart beginning to pound and thought it might leap out of her throat. She knew who was about to enter the room, they all did, and their combined anxiety was almost palpable.

All hail King Perish, ruler of Subtera! the conch boy proclaimed. Then it happened. The King entered the ballroom. He had hair as white as polar bear fur and eyes the color of sea foam. He was extraordinarily tall and lean, with the stiff sort of purposeful stride befitting a king. Perish had handsome features denoting his youth: a sturdy jaw, high cheekbones, and broad shoulders. All were taken by his beauty. He was accompanied by six sharks, which were a fierce burly breed of mermen with teeth and eyes like a shark, kept as body guards for the royals. The crowd burst into acclamation but Channary couldn’t move. She’d never seen him this way before. In the flesh he felt so close and, somehow, more real. Her face reddened unable to keep from noticing his strong arms, and the longing she felt wanting them to be wrapped around her. Such ideas were new to the goddess. Unfortunately, the moment passed as quickly as it came. King Perish gave a short speech welcoming them to his kingdom and then all of the girls, including Channary, were put into groups and led out of the ballroom. Each group was to be presented to the king on a different day. Also, before meeting the king, each girl was put through a week of hell; something the attending eunuchs liked to call beauty treatments. Three days of spa treatments and baths involving an assortment of scrubbing, mud, oils with potent fragrances and dyes in the water. Two days of sweat houses and detoxing with, what Channary noted to be, the most unsavory aliment she’d ever ingested. The last two days were focused on hair, makeup, and attire. Throughout all seven days, two hours each night were spent enduring a rigorous exercise before a shower and bed. This process weeded out quite a surprising number of hopefuls, though each pushed for day eight: the King Day, or K day as many of the girls came to call it. With so many girls to choose from it took two weeks before Channary’s group was even brought in to begin beauty treatments. Quire was there and was a good friend to Channary, especially during the two days of detox. They bore it all until, finally, the eighth day arrived.

Chan wake up! It’s K Day Chan! Quire whispered excitedly as she knelt on the floor beside Channary’s cot.

Mhmm, Channary mumbled pulling her covers back over her head.

Chan! Quire blurted giving Channary one forceful shove.

K Day! Channary gasped, jerking out of bed, having finally realized what Quire said.

Yes! Listen Chan, the servants haven’t come to dress us yet, I’m not even sure if we’re all going to see him today. I think we should try to stick together though, if possible, I feel kind of sick Quire said grabbing Channary’s hand trying to make her pay attention.

There’s no need to be scared Quire. King Perish is a good man. I know he is, Channary replied reassuringly.

I know, that’s what you’ve always said. I want this so much but…if I’m not chosen I truly hope it’s you, Quire said bending to give Channary a light hug. The servants came in soon after and woke the rest of the group. There were six girls all together, including Channary and Quire, but only three were taken to be dressed.

What shall the rest of us do? Twiddle our thumbs? Quire huffed feeling more anxious than ever. This waiting is going to kill me.

Not long after she’d spoken two eunuchs entered the room beckoning, Daughters, follow us! Today you meet your King. Channary, Quire and a girl named Jarr were taken to the baths, had their hair styled, and were dressed in expensive fabrics. Afterwards, being properly prepared, they were separated and put in their own separate offices. Quire gave Channary one last nervous glance, and she returned the look with a reassuring smile and nod before entering her room.

Please wait in here miss a eunuch addressed Channary ushering her through a triangular shaped door, into a monochromatically blue room. She entered hesitantly suddenly feeling leery, regarding the test about to ensue. The fact that her fate was about to be decided was sinking in almost too quickly for her body to handle. Luckily her beautifully blue room was furnished with a large couch covered in throw pillows. Channary moved towards her life raft quickly flopping down upon it. She viewed this as a small victory considering how dizzy she felt. Also there was a glass table near the couch, on which rested a pitcher full of water and a cup, which she made quick use of once seated. The goddess closed her eyes and took a long deep breath inwardly reminding herself: you can do this…you have to do this. There was a small knock at the door before the doorknob turned, and she felt her whole body halt.

She exhaled a sigh of relief when a guard entered the room, but resumed her panic once he announced The King is here milady. Her only reply was a quick nod. When King Perish entered the room Channary felt her hands begin to shake.

Hello my name is Perish, as I’m sure you know. Do you mind if I sit next to you? he greeted her politely.

By all means she croaked as her heart pounded wildly in her chest.

So, Chan, where are you from? he inquired.

Above Channary said unable to think of a lie. In these, their first moments, she found herself unable to be dishonest with him.

I see. Good. Do you think you would be able to adjust to life here? You would never see the sun again. I hear that is an issue for most landwellers, he remarked while a small smile pulled at the corners of his mouth.

The sun? The sun. Could you believe we’ve not much use for the sun where I come from either? Channary said giggling at the idea.

Really? That’s a relief! I often find visitors have a hard time adjusting to our dim atmosphere. It would certainly ease my mind if I knew my Queen could handle the lighting! he exclaimed with a chuckle.

Well, I won’t say that I’m not used to being surrounded by light, but definitely not the sun Channary elaborated hoping it wouldn’t matter.

I could always have a servant follow you around with a lamp if you like, Perish offered glibly grinning from ear to ear. Channary shook her head and laughed.

Light or no, this is exactly where I want to be she sighed after a moment suddenly very aware of his gaze. His merry eyes were so calm and beautiful as they stared at her.

That is good. A Queen here must be wise, honest, and willing to stand by her King in any situation. Of course I wouldn’t mind if she were beautiful, kind, and deeply in love with me either he stated.

Channary could feel her cheeks turning red so she looked away from him meekly before replying, I hope you find all of those traits in me.

Yes most, I think, already but…oblige me, please, tell me something wise and true he requested solemnly.

Channary only paused for a moment before answering, Where one story finishes another always starts.

Indeed! he chirped, There’s always another perspective, relationship, or event to explore. A good fact, indeed, but why do you mention it?

Because, she answered softly, This could be a very new start for me. The King stayed a little while longer after their talk to have a glass of water, and they sat pleasantly together in silence. Though Channary suddenly felt unsure of what to do with her hands, and twined her fingers together nervously. Also it was a bit unnerving because Perish continued to stare at her the whole time. First she avoided making eye contact with him but soon the idea, that this might be their only time together, emboldened her enough to meet his gaze full-on. Something wonderful happened then.

He leaned over, gently pressing his cheek to hers, as he whispered This may sound silly but you remind me of the moon. You have a glow about you. That was it. Afterwards he smiled and rose giving her one slight nod and a bow, to say goodbye, before leaving. Once he was gone she sat staring at the door for a moment, mentally begging him to renter though she knew he would not. She knew he would meet the other woman, the one he was predestined to marry, and a choice would have to be made. The end followed quickly.

The next day the women gathered in the ballroom once more but this time, instead of being sent to a spa, they would be sent home. This time the King’s speech was not a welcome it was a thank you and goodbye. He said many things about the woman he’d chosen in the end, clarifying his process of elimination.

I only wanted a good strong woman whom I felt would be capable of leading by my side. Also I wanted someone I felt, given more time, could win my heart. I believe I have found that woman among you, King Perish stated before stepping aside to let his steward announce the lady’s name. The sequence in which things occurred next would forever be a blur to Channary. Once the chaos died down she found herself before King Perish, returned to her goddess glory, with tears streaming down her face. He had not chosen her. Instead, to her utter dismay, he’d chosen Quire the humming bird. Her only friend during this trial was to be her enemy in the end. Feeling her power fully restored, buzzing up her spine and out her fingertips, she contemplated what kind of wrath she could inflict. However, looking into Perish’s eyes once more somewhat deflated her rage. He stood protectively in front of his trembling bride with his face aghast.

Forgive me, child of the moon, I did not know!  Take pity on us goddess, please?! he pleaded with her as she sauntered towards them.

Be still, she commanded. Once Channary reached him she leaned in and pressed her cheek against his, as he had done. She glanced over his shoulder at Quire who was shaking and deathly pale to whisper, This is for you because, even though you have broken it, you have owned my heart since the day you were born. Channary then took a few steps back. A darkened determination eclipsed her eyes as she placed her right hand over her heart and began to press her fingertips into her chest. Channary threw back her head and let out one terrible scream, as she ripped into her ribs, before withdrawing an orb of light so bright it could not be directly looked upon. King and company watched in astonishment as she closed her eyes and pressed the light between her palms. The amount of concentration was evident upon her face as she swayed, and tilted her head, all the while molding the orb to her satisfaction. At first the crowd was convinced they were witnessing her destroy her own heart, and awaited what wrath might follow such an act. They were astounded when, at last, she reached out to give Perish what she had made. Not a bloody organ, or orb of light, or the ashes of either, but a charm. An amulet to be exact. A silver necklace with a circular silver periapt hanging from it. The pendant was intricately formed with a serene looking face on it reminiscent of the moon.

It is my gift to you. Its wearer holds much power. Although it is useless unless given out of love. I give it to you now with all of the love in my heart, Channary explained placing it gently in Perish’s palm.

Mighty goddess…even though I am not worthy, Perish humbly replied, I vow I shall never forget your mercy. If it pleases the goddess, should this sacred gift ever leave my family line let it be rendered useless! Such a thoughtless offence should not be tolerated!

It shall be as you’ve requested, she stated adding, But, Perish, do me this one kindness: Pray. I would enjoy hearing from you. And you… Channary said turning to glare at Quire. I hold back my hand from the many terrors I could inflict. I cannot convince myself the act would bring me enough satisfaction.

Please! Quire sobbed once the goddess addressed her. She fell to her knees and began to beg for mercy. Please, Chan, remember I was your friend! I am unworthy of the King! I know! I am only a bird and you are a goddess. So, command me! Tell me how I might appease you. I would leave this kingdom forever but, please, spare me.

Look upon your future Queen, Perish. Is she strong? Can she lead by your side? Certainly she is beautiful. So keep her. No - HA! Channary mocked as she let out one wicked laugh but, all at once, her face fell and became grim as an idea slipped into her mind. I dare you to leave her Perish. I dare you to try and go back on your choice. Break my heart. Now I have none. And I will poison your grave should you disown her. You will live happily together even if you don’t.

Goddess, I promise to keep her. Your word is my law and your mercy is beyond comprehension. It was my choice Perish stated solemnly and, keeping his eyes on Channary, lifted Quire from the floor.

It must be your hand on my heart that such soft words can assuage me now, Channary whispered shutting her eyes and turning away from them. You bend in a way befitting a King that still leaves you with your dignity, she added aloud. I had hoped you would choose a Queen that could equal such diplomacy.

I do not deserve the compliment King Perish replied. Had I been wiser I would’ve chosen the girl, when she was a girl, who reminded me of moonlight.

I will leave you now Channary said calmly meeting his eyes one last time. They silently acknowledged one another’s laments while simultaneously sighing at the unsatisfactory end. Then, as all had been said and all had been done, as surly as she’d arrived, she was gone.

Chapter 1

Vampires had built blood banks in each civilized society for centuries, but once they discovered Abaddon they vowed it would be their headquarters. You see, Abaddon was a city sometimes. This directly depended upon the season. Most of the year the population was town sized, because the weather was akin to what you might know as autumn. There was a summer-like season as well though, during which, so many people migrated to Abaddon that one might easily mistake it for a sacred pilgrimage. The beach attracted mortals and mortals attracted vampires. That and the geographical perfection. This sometimes-city was positioned in a great valley, a bowl at the base of a mountain range known as the deadly Jig Jaw Peaks, which lay to the east. Towering like titans in the daylight the peaks jutted into the belly of the sky. Only dragons, goats, winged-leopards and lizards lived there. West led immediately to the Forgetter’s Forest which, due to it being thickly wooded and swampy, was perpetually mysterious, dark and uninviting. Aside from having no trails to point a traveler in either direction the forest was riddled with fair folk, gypsies, and all manner of mischievous creature. South, for residents and tourists alike, was the real point of interest in Abaddon. For, there lay the beach at which the vast Gemini Ocean lapped. It was a large beach far and wide with the most pure soft white sand imaginable; kept that way by a very diligent committee called: Abaddon’s Ocean View Admirers or A.O.V.A. as they were more commonly known. North of this bottleneck was where the rest of the world resided. North where mayors’, councils’ and townsfolk were not as welcoming to vampires. Although mayors’, councils’ and townsfolk had little to argue about in Abaddon. The usual controversy led with opponents arguing that a blood bank would increase the mortality rate, and only serve to breed more blood suckers by drawing them in. While the endorsers argued that it would do exactly the opposite. That, by providing a moderate supply of blood, the vampires would have no need to kill the living. Fortunately, Abaddon existed within a wonderful little sphere of tourism more resilient than any political agenda. Generations upon generations of humans and creatures had vacationed at this location for centuries. One blood bank was not going to make a difference. This was the exact argument that Carver Drake, head vampire of the Drake coven, had presented to the mayor of Abaddon, his council and townsfolk. Not even one hundred years passed before he and his coven were sitting comfortably within their new headquarters. It turns out that constructing an empire isn’t so hard after all. If one has the time.

This brings us to the subject of Jackabee Drake: