Epics Of Legacy

But remember, my dear, revenge

and war will not be the 

only way forward.

~Shiekha(Baldar)



Zoa had been liberated from the Rezaygat, yet Safah knew that this respite would be brief. Lord Azar still had a formidable army at his disposal, and she couldn't afford to let her guard down. She needed to send word to the north and muster support as soon as possible. As she inquired about the state of the city, a young Ta'isha soldier came forward, his face filled with determination.

He began to recount the night of the massacre, explaining that a strange silence had descended upon the city. No one had heard the horrific events that unfolded within the Baldar manor. When morning broke, the citizens were shocked to see Rezaygat banners hanging over their beloved manor. The Zoan had demanded the release of the Baldar family's bodies for a proper burial, and Lord Azar had reluctantly complied. The soldier guided Safah to the graveyard, where a somber sight awaited her.

One by one, the graves of her family members stretched before her. Her father, her mother, and her brothers, each with their own resting place. Dozens of graves had been dug, but Safah noticed something that took her by surprise.

Safah scanned the rows of graves, and it became apparent that her stepmother, the Sheikha, her father's first wife, was nowhere to be found among the resting places of her family.

"The Sheikha, where is her grave?" Safah inquired, her voice tinged with concern and confusion. It was a conspicuous absence that troubled her, and she sought an answer.

The young Ta'isha soldier, still emotionally wrought from the recent turmoil, hesitated for a moment before responding. "My lady, the Sheikha... she wasn't found among the deceased when the Rezaygat released the bodies. We don't know what happened to her."

Safah's heart sank. The missing Sheikha raised many unsettling questions. Had she managed to escape? Was she taken captive by the Rezaygat? Or, even more disconcerting, had she met a different fate altogether? The uncertainty gnawed at Safah, but she knew she needed to focus on the situation at hand. Her people were in the midst of a precarious revolution, and the threat of Lord Azar's return loomed large. Her determination to rally an army had become all the more urgent.

She inquired about her father's generals, and the soldier informed her that many of them had been imprisoned to prevent any uprising. He also revealed that the noble families in Zoa had been coerced into adhering to Lord Azar's rule, and some had fled the city to avoid his tyranny. The city had become a shadow of its former self, with its once-proud generals and noble families either imprisoned, living in fear, or in exile.

She understood that her first task was to rally those who remained loyal to the Ta'isha clan and begin the process of getting ready for the looming threat of Lord Azar's return.

Safah was resolute and commanding, she took charge of the chaotic scene. She raised her voice, her tone unwavering, as she issued orders to the disoriented people around her. "Someone, quickly, ensure the generals are freed and tend to any wounded. Secure the city, make certain that no one enters or exits without undergoing the proper procedures. Gather the remaining council members, and I need every able person to search for the sheikha." As the others set out to execute her commands, she found herself alone in the midst of her slain family. Grief weighed heavy upon her, and she knelt by her father's grave, tears welling in her eyes.

"I will avenge you, Father," she whispered, her vow a solemn promise. She knew that this was not the end but merely the opening chapter. Back at the grand manor, the Zoa ruling council had assembled. Six noble men, who had aged far beyond their years during the oppressive months under the tyranny, sat solemnly in a dimly lit chamber. Each of them cast a gloomy gaze at Safah, who had called this meeting to address the dire situation. These council members were no strangers to her.

Among them, she recognized Lord Sef, a stalwart figure from the esteemed Malik house, who had stood as a pillar of strength. The bald man, Lord Zahar, was responsible for the vital farming operations that sustained the city. Lord Muaref of the influential Marwa house managed the precarious budgeting that kept the city's finances afloat. Lord Mumil, representing the diplomatic finesse of the Jilbe house, had navigated treacherous negotiations during these turbulent times.

Lord Salim, the valiant leader of the Kala house, had been entrusted with safeguarding the city's military might, a role that had taken a heavy toll on him. Lastly, there was Lord Harmon, overseeing the welfare of the citizens from the Usain house, who had struggled to maintain the city's social fabric.

"The North made a solemn promise to my father and I will not allow them to dishonor that commitment," She declared with unyielding determination.

In response, Lord Mumil, a master of diplomatic negotiation, calmly spoke, "The North made that promise to your late father, a man who cannot fulfill his end of the bargain as he lies in the embrace of death."

Safah's resolve was unshaken, even in the face of this harsh truth. She knew that to secure the army her city desperately needed, she had to offer herself as the price. "My father swore an unbreakable allegiance to the North, a pact to protect all of us. We may not be as powerful as the Rezaygat, but we've fought and perished time and again. It's time to change that, to pay tribute to the North in exchange for the protection that will ensure our survival."

Safah's words hung in the chamber, a heavy silence enveloped the room. The council members exchanged wary glances, fully aware of the gravity of her proposal. Lord Sef, representing the Malik house, was the first to break the silence.

"But at what cost, Lady Safah? What tribute do they demand?" he inquired, his concern etched across his face.

Safah met their eyes with a resolute gaze. "My father met with emissaries from the North, and they seek our loyalty, a portion of our resources, and, yes, a personal pledge from him to serve them in matters of diplomacy and governance."

"And he was willing to make this sacrifice, to leave his people in their care?" Lord Mumil nodded slowly.

"He was willing to do whatever it takes to protect our city and its people. We've suffered enough, and it's time to change our fate. The North offers us a chance at survival and prosperity, and my father would have bear this burden willingly." She said.

The council members exchanged glances once more, understanding the gravity of there late Nizars decision. They knew that their city's future depended on their willingness to adapt and make difficult choices. Lord Salim, the military leader, spoke up, "Then we shall stand by his words, as we have always done, ready to defend our people and their future."

With a collective nod of agreement, the council members began to discuss the logistics and details of the arrangement with the North. Safah's bold decision had set the city on a new path, one that offered hope in the midst of adversity. Safah's voice resonated with determination as she boldly asserted, "We will send to the North what the late Nizars once offered. They demanded a bride to seal the pact. My father confided in me about it on the night we were ambushed. I will journey north as soon as possible to fulfill this promise."

Her proclamation was met with concern. Lord Sef, fervently devoted to safeguarding the city, couldn't conceal his desperation. "You are the last Baldar, the sole survivor. We can't send you north. The Ta'isha clan relies on your presence; it symbolizes our fight for freedom today. If you stay, we can wage this battle."

She regarded the Lord with respect but resolve unwavering. "We may not have enough men to protect ourselves, Lord Sef. We require a powerful alliance, and the North has offered that. My duty is clear: to secure our city's future. I will not falter in my resolve."

"Lady Safah, I'm not sure we can afford your absence. Your presence here has been a symbol of faith and support to the people." Lord Muaref expressed his concerns as well with a heavy heart, However, she remained resolute in her decision.

"I have faith that the sheikha is still alive, and as soon as we locate her, I will depart to fulfill my duty in the North. There, she will take over the responsibilities willingly. She is the better and more reliable person for this role, and I'm merely fulfilling my duty as her daughter, nothing more." She replied.

Lord Zahar steered the conversation toward an unexpected revelation. "Regarding the prisoners, I believe one of them is Lord Azar's son, the young man who was entrusted with the Baldar manor. Azar had thought he had captured a Baldar, but it appears he made a grave mistake."

Lord Usain confirmed this revelation. "Indeed, it's his one and only son. I knew the lad; he used to follow his father closely."

Safah's curiosity was piqued, and she sought further confirmation. "Are you certain of this, my lords?"

Lord Mumil, the diplomatic expert, asserted with confidence, "I am one hundred percent sure, my lady. Lord Azar was never blessed with children, and the young man at the Baldar manor is undoubtedly his son."

She recognized the strategic opportunity this presented, took swift action. She picked up a piece of parchment from the shelves and composed a letter.

"Letter to the Lady of Qualme House from the Daughter of the Baldar: Your son, the young lord, is a guest at the Baldar manor."

After drafting the message, Safah passed it to the council members, who read it carefully before returning it to her. She signed and sealed it with the insignia of the Baldar house.

She then turned to Lord Salim, the military leader, and said, "Send this letter with one of the Rezaygat soldiers' heads. This will buy us time. Azar may hesitate to attack until his son is freed to secure his legacy."

The council members gazed at her in admiration and awe, recognizing her shrewd and resourceful leadership in this critical moment.

Lord Salim accepted the sealed letter and nodded in agreement, Safah's strategic move to use Lord Azar's son as a pawn in this dangerous game was met with mixed emotions from the council members. Some were impressed by her foresight, while others were concerned about the potential consequences of such a bold action. Lord Sef, who had always been a staunch advocate for direct confrontation, voiced his reservations.

"Using the young lord as leverage, is a risky gambit. We don't know how Azar will react when he receives the letter." Safah, however, remained composed.

"I understand the risks, Lord Sef, but we're in dire straits. This could buy us time to secure the alliance with the North. We must be prepared for the consequences, whatever they may be." Lord Mumil interjected.

"It's a calculated risk, and one that may prove crucial in our survival. Azar values his legacy, and this may force him to reconsider his actions." With the decision made and the letter entrusted to Lord Salim, the council members resumed their discussions, weighing the many challenges and uncertainties that lay ahead. The council members continued to deliberate, considering the details of their plan and the potential reactions of enemy. Safah's resolve had set them on a path with unknown outcomes, but they understood the necessity of such calculated risks in these trying times.

"We should also prepare for contingencies. If Azar decides to attack before we secure the alliance with the North, we need to ensure the city's defenses are in order. Lord Salim, perhaps you can make necessary arrangements for fortifications and supplies." Lord Zahar spoke up.

The military leader, nodded in agreement. "You're right, Zahar. We must be prepared on all fronts. I'll take care of the defensive preparations and ensure our people are ready to defend our home."

Safah acknowledged the importance of their discussions, added, "We're taking risks, but we must stay united and vigilant. Our clan's future hangs in the balance. Each decision we make now could determine our fate."

"This is a fortuitous turn of events. Having the sheikha here with us will undoubtedly boost the morale of our people." Lord Usain, offered a relieved smile. "

Safah nodded in agreement. "Indeed, the sheikha's presence will help instill faith among our clan and it would give me chance to go north" The anticipation in the chamber was palpable as the sheikha's arrival drew near. Safah, despite the weight of her responsibilities, couldn't help but feel a surge of relief.

When the sheikha was finally brought to the manor, the entire council, along with Safah, gathered to receive her. She looked frail but resolute. The sheikha's eyes met Safah's, and they exchanged a knowing glance that spoke volumes.

"It is a blessing to have you back, Sheikha," Safah curtsied her voice filled with gratitude.

The sheikha smiled warmly and addressed the council, "Thank you, my dear Safah, and thank you, council members, for your unwavering loyalty during this trial. We face challenging times, but together,we shall overcome." Safah carefully assisted the limping sheikha up the grand staircase, calling out urgently for someone to bring a healer. As they ascended, the weight of the recent events pressed upon them, and when they finally reached the sheikha's private chamber, they found themselves alone for the first time since their reunion. Safah gently helped the sheikha onto a luxurious chair, both women exhausted and emotionally overwhelmed.

Tears welled up in their eyes, and without hesitation, they let the floodgates open. Safah, who had vowed not to cry again, found herself unable to contain the emotions that had been building inside her. It was a moment of relief and sorrow, a bittersweet reunion amidst the ruins of their family and their city. The room echoed with their quiet sobs as they held each other, sharing the pain and the hope that they could rebuild what was lost.

"I'm grateful that you've survived, and not only that, you've reclaimed the city. I couldn't have accomplished this," the sheikha held Safah warmly as they both sobbed.

Safah tried to downplay her role, saying, "I did very little, Sheikha. It was the Zoan who rose against tyranny on their own."

The sheikha wouldn't accept her modesty. "You inspired them, Safah. Why didn't they act when they saw the Rezaygat banners that day? It was when they saw you that they found their courage." The healer continued her work while Safah and the sheikha discussed the future of their clan.

"what's the state of our clan?" Sheikha asked when the healer arrived and started checking on her.

"We had Lord Azar's son in our cell, and I sent a letter to the Qualme house, claiming their son's presence in a way only a Baldar would. This may buy us enough time for me to journey North and secure Lady Nima's army, fulfilling father's promise," Safah explained.

The sheikha listened carefully, concern etched on her face. "Oh, dear! You are the last legacy of our house, and you must bear us sons and daughters to continue our family name. We can't send you North."

Safah, resolute, responded, "Sheikha, we need men to defend our clan. Our military is depleting, and we require a significant force to ensure the Ta'isha's future. I can undertake this mission and still bear sons to uphold the Baldar bloodline."

The sheikha looked into the Safah's eyes, a determination born of hardship and responsibility in her gaze. "you have grown, dear. In the span of a few months, you've become a true Baldar at heart. You know that no one can dim your light, and the weight of thousands of souls rests on your shoulders if you choose to go north." The sheikha nodded offering another suggestion, "We have another option to halt this impending war. We can unite the Qualme house and the Baldar under one banner through marriage. By proposing this idea, we can prevent the conflict."

Safah's response was filled with unwavering resolve, "I can't, Sheikha. I would rather end my own life than marry into the Qualme house. Unless I have the chance to poison them all, but even then, it wouldn't be the fate I want for them. I want them to watch as I seize their lands and take their heads, one by one." Her fiery determination was clear, as she remained steadfast in her quest for revenge.

The sheikha looked at Safah, her expression a mix of concern and pride. "Your fire and determination remind me so much of your father. But remember, my dear, revenge and war will not be the only way forward. We must be cautious in our choices."

Safah knew that the path she had chosen was a treacherous one, but it was one she felt compelled to follow. "I understand, Sheikha. I promise to consider every option and choose the path that will secure our future."

With the healer's treatment, the sheikha's condition began to improve, and Safah started making preparations for her journey to the North. She knew that there were many challenges ahead, but she was resolute in her determination to honor her father's promise and bring an army to protect her people. As she prepared to leave Zoa, Safah carried the weight of her family's legacy and the hopes of her people on her shoulders.

Characters

1. Safah: The protagonist and the last surviving member of the Baldar family.

2. Bahar: Safah's companion, mentioned earlier in the story. Presumably, they travel together in the forest.

3. Lord Azar: The antagonist, the leader of the Rezaygat forces who has taken control of Zoa. Safah recognizes the continued threat he poses.

4. Young Ta'isha Soldier: A soldier who recounts the night of the massacre in Zoa to Safah and provides information about the current state of the city.

5. Sheikha: Safah's stepmother, the wife of Safah's late father. She is initially missing but is later found in an outlying village. She offers guidance and emotional support to Safah.

6. Lord Sef: A member of the Zoa ruling council, representing the Malik house. He is a stalwart figure who has stood as a pillar of strength.

7. Lord Zahar: A council member responsible for vital farming operations that sustain the city.

8. Lord Muaref: Represents the influential Marwa house and manages the precarious budgeting that keeps the city's finances afloat.

9. Lord Mumil: Represents the Jilbe house, known for diplomatic finesse. He has navigated treacherous negotiations during turbulent times.

10. Lord Salim: The valiant leader of the Kala house, entrusted with safeguarding the city's military might.

11. Lord Harmon: Oversees the welfare of the citizens from the Usain house, struggling to maintain the city's social fabric.

12. Healer: Attends to the sheikha's injuries and health, ensuring her recovery.

13. Lady Nima: Mentioned as the head of the Qualme house. Her son, a captive, becomes a pawn in the unfolding events.

14. Lord Azar's Son: Captured by the Zoan, believed to be a Baldar, but later revealed to be Lord Azar's only son.

Places

1. Zoa: The city that Safah is determined to liberate. It is under the control of Lord Azar and the Rezaygat forces.

2. Rezaygat: The ruling forces led by Lord Azar, who has taken control of Zoa.

3. Baldar Manor: The residence of Safah's family, which becomes a focal point of the conflict.

4. Graveyard: Where the deceased members of Safah's family, including her father, mother, and brothers, are buried.

5. North: A distant region that Safah plans to approach for support and alliance, fulfilling her father's promise.

6. Council Chamber: The meeting place for the ruling council of Zoa, where Safah discusses the city's dire situation and proposes her plan.

7. Outlying Villages: One of these villages is where the sheikha is found, and her return brings relief to the people.

8. Sheikha's Private Chamber: A room in the grand manor where Safah and the sheikha have a moment of emotional reunion and discussion.

9. Forest: The place where Safah encounters Bahar before returning to Zoa.