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    Falling From the Tree (Darshian Tales #2)
    Falling From the Tree (Darshian Tales #2)
    Falling From the Tree (Darshian Tales #2)
    Ebook907 pages16 hours

    Falling From the Tree (Darshian Tales #2)

    By Ann Somerville

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    About this ebook

    Sixteen years after "Kei’s Gift", Karik is taking his first steps into the wider world. But the question of his parentage, and the role Arman played in his history, are mysteries Karik has to solve. But in doing that, he gets a lot more than he bargained for – and to face the new challenges, he’ll need to grow up in a hurry.
    "Landing softly" is a side story to "Falling from the tree".

    LanguageEnglish
    PublisherAnn Somerville
    Release dateFeb 17, 2010
    ISBN9781452305127
    Falling From the Tree (Darshian Tales #2)
    Author

    Ann Somerville

    Ann Somerville is white, Australian, heterosexual, cisgendered. She/her.

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      Book preview

      Falling From the Tree (Darshian Tales #2) - Ann Somerville

      Voyaging: 1

      Karik was sure the merko had gone into the stable through the hole in the wall—she’d been carrying enough food that she had to be feeding young, so maybe this time he’d be lucky. He stood still and listened hard. In his imagination, he traced the path a small mammal might take to avoid detection, one that could run up timbers and along rafters with ease on agile, clawed feet.

      There....

      There was a store box Pa kept old harnesses and worn-out saddles in. Karik crouched down, then he went very still again. Yes...there it was—the shrill piping of young merkos, shrieking for insects and grubs.

      What are you doing, Ka-chi?

      He fell back, startled, then sighed as he got to his feet and dusted off his pants. No chance now of getting himself a nest of baby merkos, and by the time he came back, the mother would have moved them again. Nuh-nothing, Meran.

      But his visitor crouched down to look where he had been. What’s that noise?

      Baby mer-merkos. There’s a nest b-behind there.

      Yuck, why are you looking for them?

      She looked at him in puzzlement. He was used to that look. None of the children in the village were interested in the smaller wildlife except as food, however much he tried to tell them that animals like merkos were useful because they killed the pests that ate the crops. They looked at him much as Meran did now, and then they’d laugh. He was used to that too.

      Knowing the nest would be abandoned now, he decided to pull the store box away and have a look, but as soon as he moved it, there was a flurry of furry action. Meran screamed in terror. Get it off me! Get them away, Karik, they bite!

      She was swiping at her clothes and shaking her braid as if there were hundreds of merkos all over her, instead of a single fierce-looking individual who had fallen off her leg almost as soon as it had run up it, before dashing for cover. Karik shoved the box back and then grabbed her hands. It’s all ri-right. Gone. For a healer’s daughter, Meran could be pretty squeamish.

      She went still. Are you sure? He nodded. Oh good. Hate them, they’re so ugly, with those noses, they look like they’ve got something wrong with them.

      The-they ju-just.... He stopped, frustrated at his stupid stutter which made a simple explanation so hard. He took a deep breath. They eat in...sects. The...the nose fi-fi—

      Finds insects?

      He nodded curtly, annoyed at her finishing his words—he hated people doing that to him—then stood and pulled her up. She sat on the store box, idly dusting off her trousers, and then she patted the place next to him to indicate he should sit down. You’re strange, Karik. But you’re cute too.

      He stared at her. She was smiling at him in a way he didn’t much care for. Cu-cute?

      Yes. Pretty. She reached behind him and pulled his braid out. It’s so pale, like a cloud. He was astonished at her boldness, but she seemed not to notice. But it’s not soft...it should be soft with that colour. He pulled the tail of the braid out of her hand, wondering why she was suddenly so fascinated by his hair. It wasn’t like she hadn’t seen it before. You’re really different. You’ve even got hairs here.... She touched his face where the slightest wispy moustache was starting to show, much to his intense displeasure. Pa didn’t have hair there. None of the men in the village did.

      Karik turned his face away from her hand, wishing she would back off. Wuh-what do you want? As if he couldn’t guess. He’d seen young girls flirting with some of the other boys in the village—he’d just never thought to be the target of it himself.

      Don’t get annoyed. I’m just talking, she said, sounding hurt. I did my chores, and Ma’s visiting Meis so I thought I’d come find you.

      Oh. She seemed really offended. S-sorry.

      It’s all right. I should have known you’d be down in the dirt, looking at bugs or something.

      "N-not bugs."

      She laughed a little. Oh, sorry, I didn’t mean to be rude about your pets. You’re really strange sometimes. She touched his face again. But you’re really handsome too.

      He could feel his face burning, and knew his cheeks would be bright red in a way that those of no other person in the village could turn. Sometimes he wished he could paint his skin brown so he didn’t show every passing emotion on his stupid face. M-Meran. He was wondering how he could get away from her without hurting her feelings.

      She was leaning towards him, as if she was trying to get a closer look at him, but her eyes were half closed. Mer— His protest was cut off, not by his stammer this time, but by her lips touching his. He stumbled backward and fell off the box. Meran, don’t!

      But she just followed him down, and suddenly he had a lap full of girl. What’s wrong, Ka-chi? There’s nothing wrong with kissing.

      Actually, he was pretty sure kissing was on the list of things he really shouldn’t be doing—and neither should she. He shoved her and she fell back onto her rump.

      Karik!

      Meran? Karik? Meran froze, and when Pa came around the edge of the stall, Karik knew how it must look to him. What’s going on?

      Nothing, she said too quickly, scrambling up and looking as guilty as hells.

      Pa frowned at her. Myka was looking for you, Meran. Why don’t you run along and see what she wanted?

      She nodded quickly and almost ran out of the stables, leaving Karik still lying on the ground. He really didn’t know how he was going to explain this.

      His father held out his hand to help Karik up, and he took it, but he didn’t look at Pa as he dusted himself off. Sit down, son. Karik sat on the box again. I assume there’s a perfectly innocent explanation for what I just saw? his father asked as he sat down next to him.

      Karik nodded. Wuh-wuh— He stopped, clenching his fist in frustration. Stupid stutter. Pa put a hand on his shoulder and waited patiently for him to get his mouth under control. We...were...looking at merkos.

      Merkos? In here?

      Y-yes. Nest. B-behind here. He pointed down at the bottom of the box. Gone now.

      Right. And Meran...?

      Wuh-was being s-silly, Karik said firmly. She just s-startled me. He didn’t want to get her into trouble.

      I bet she did, Pa said heavily. I might have a word with that young lady’s parents later on. She’s getting a bit forward for fourteen. Privately, Karik agreed with him. His father gave him a rueful smile. I know I can trust you not to hurt her, but she’s just not old enough to know what she might be getting into. I’ll have a word with her too, if you like.

      Karik nodded, appreciating the offer. Pa wouldn’t stammer and blush as he said what needed to be said, and it would be good not to have to hurt Meran’s feelings. He was very fond of her, seeing her almost like the sister he’d never had, but it seemed that he really needed to avoid being trapped alone with her for a while until she got this out of her system. At least most of the other girls preferred boys who looked more like they did. Maybe Meran had done it on a dare. It wouldn’t be the first time he’d been used that way.

      So why were you hunting merkos again?

      I wuh-wanted to catch a whole fuh-family this time.

      His father chuckled. You remind me of Kei, you really do. Your mother will have a fit if you keep a whole family of those damn things in the house. You know what she said when the last one got loose.

      I ju-just wuh-want to study them.

      Hmmm, that’s what you always say. Maybe we can try and trap them together. It’s always easier with two, you know that.

      Yes, Pa.

      His father’s eyes crinkled up as he smiled. Good. Now I’ve got you though, I can ask—how do you like the idea of a trip to Darshek with Risa and me next week?

      Karik stared at him in astonishment. Me? Really? He’d been taken to Darshek a couple of times when he’d been much smaller, when Ma had gone with Pa on one of his trips, but, of course, he could remember nothing of it at all. Now he was older, it was his job to look after the remaining beasts while Pa was away. Who would do that if he went?

      Why not? Misek and Pia are bringing up a load of seeds and dried plants from the herbarium for me to take to Darshek, and Gyo is coming with them. I thought you two might like the chance to see the city—Misek already said Gyo can go. We could do with the help, with the winter bean harvest coming in—it’s a good crop this year and it all needs to go up. I could ask Lori or one of the other men to come, but I’d like your company just this once.

      Karik flushed with pleasure. I’d ll-like that too, Pa.

      Pa slapped his thigh. Then it’s a deal. We can visit Kei and Arman in their house for a change, and you can see how a big important healer lives, eh?

      Karik grinned. Pa was always teasing uncle Kei about being so high up in the academy now, although Karik wasn’t actually sure what he or Arman did. The only time that he’d dared asked Arman, he’d given him an odd smile and said he was just a servant. Which made no sense when Meis explained what a servant was. Karik couldn’t really see Arman cooking or washing dishes, or cleaning a house. That surely had to have been a joke.

      Pa wanted him to help with a sick beast that needed catching up, so they walked out together to the fenced pens where Pa kept his pack animals. As they climbed through the fence, the sick beast was easy to spot, a little way off from the herd. His father had already tried to catch him on his own but the damn thing was proving uncooperative, he’d said. Drive him that way, Karik, he said, already walking towards the animal. Damn, he looks worse. Still spooked too.

      Karik nodded, and wondered what Pa would do if this one wasn’t going to be fit to travel—it was one of the bigger beasts, one they would need to take the heavy bean harvest to Darshek. Pa usually took eight or so animals, some times as many as sixteen, either tied to the wagons or pulling them in a train. He didn’t used to take such big loads, but once Risa had come to work with him, he could manage them. Sometimes he talked about Karik working with him too. Karik wasn’t sure he wanted to do that.

      The beast they were going to catch up was roaring and being unusually skittish. Pa already had the rope in hand he was going to use to throw over the animal’s neck. It was Karik’s job to distract it. The other beasts were in the far corner watching them approach their herd mate, but not reacting. It would be different if Karik and his father lost control and the sick beast dashed towards the herd. They had to stop that happening.

      Now, son, Pa said calmly, as if he wasn’t talking about the urs beast at all. Karik moved away and when his father nodded, he suddenly flung up his arms. The beast looked his way and started, but Pa had the rope over its neck in an instant. Get the harness, Karik.

      Karik made a grab for the harness on the animal’s head, wishing he had his Pa’s height as the beast reared up and forced him to jump for the straps. He got a hold of them, but they were wrenched away as the animal jerked and tore the rope out of his father’s hand, then tried to bite him. Pa grabbed the rope again and got hold of the harness, but the beast lashed out with its foreleg, catching Pa on the knee, making him crumple in pain. Then the animal delivered a final insult by kicking his father in the side as it bolted away, leaving him groaning in the dust.

      It had all happened so fast, Karik was already trying to chase the animal away as it ran off of its own accord, before he realised his father was hurt.

      Pa! He dropped to his knees—his father was white-faced and in obvious agony. He didn’t know what to do first—if he left Pa like this, the beast might come back and trample him, it was in such a strange mood. He looked around—he could see no one nearby at all. Help! Someone! Pa’s hurt! He looked down at his father. Pa, can you walk?

      No, Pa whispered through gritted teeth. Get...Jena.

      But the beasts—

      Get...her.

      That decided him. Pa knew beasts better than anyone and if he thought it was safe to leave him, then it was. I’ll be quick.

      He never ran so fast in his life, yelling for help—later he would think it was odd how his stutter disappeared completely for those few desperate minutes—and to his relief, he saw Risa coming out of the stables. Pa’s hurt, in the herding pen. Go help, I’ll get Ma.

      Risa wasted no time, dashing past Karik towards the pen. Karik could then look for his Ma, who was probably still in their house, he thought.

      His mother was in the garden, picking herbs. Ma! Pa’s hurt—kicked by a beast!

      She dropped her basket and got up immediately, her face stricken. How bad?

      Knee, side. Not head.

      Oh gods. Right, find Banji and Peit, tell them to bring a litter. Go quickly, son.

      She ran into the house, while Karik continued through the village, looking for his father’s friends, both big, strong men who could lift another with ease. Peit was at his house, fletching arrows, but told Karik that Banji was at the mine, too far to come quickly. Lori was up on Fedor’s roof a few minutes ago—see if he can come. I’ll go to Jena.

      Karik ran to the clan head’s house, and saw Myka and Meran walking up the street. Karik, what’s wrong? Myka asked.

      Pu-Pa—hurt. Pens. Need Lori.

      Gods, Jena’s gone to him? Meran, go get my kit. Karik, get Lori. Go, Ka-chi!

      And so Karik ran, hoping all the help he was sending to Pa would do some good. He could see Lori up on the roof, a tile in hand. Lori! Pa’s hurt. I need you!

      Lori raised a hand up in acknowledgement, and disappeared briefly, before coming out from beside the house. Where?

      P-pens. Beast k-kicked him.

      Pissing hells. Come on, lad. Did anyone get a litter?

      Karik had forgotten to tell Peit to fetch one. No.

      That’s all right, we’ve got one in the house. Give me a minute. He was already untying his workman’s apron as he went inside.

      Karik could only wait anxiously, wondering how bad his Pa’s injury was. Urs beasts could kill a man, or a carcho who tried to prey on a herd, but the domestic ones were much less inclined to lash out unless they were injured or frightened. Pa had had his share of bruises and bites, but never anything serious. To see his big strong father helpless on the ground like that, made Karik sick to his stomach with fear.

      Come on, lad, let’s find him. Don’t look so worried, Reji’s tough as tanned jombeker hide.

      Karik couldn’t find it in him to answer Lori’s reassuring smile, but he ran after the man down the street and out to the pen where he could see people clustered around his father. Risa kept the beasts back—Karik couldn’t see the injured one, but hoped it had just dropped dead, the bad-tempered creature. He came to where Ma and Myka were both tending to his father. Pa was conscious, but also in a lot of pain judging by how he was grimacing and biting his lip. Ma looked up. Oh, good, you’ve got the litter. Lori, Peit, let’s get him to the house.

      Karik stood aside and let the older, taller men handle things in their own quietly efficient way. His mother didn’t look too anxious, but he went to her side as she started to follow the litter. Ma?

      She turned and gave him a reassuring smile. Oh, Karik. He’ll be all right. He’s just got a couple of dreadful bruises and he might have cracked a rib. Don’t look so worried, dear.

      The endearment cheered him up a little and he was able to walk calmly behind the litter back to the house. He supposed he really ought to stay and help Risa with the beasts, but he needed to reassure himself that his father would be all right.

      Pa was carried into the front room and laid on the long chair. Ma and Myka held a low-voiced conference at the door, and then Myka called her daughter to her side. He’ll be fine, Karik. Jena doesn’t need us, but she’ll need you, so stay and help her, all right?

      He nodded and Myka smiled before she led Meran out. Meran had been avoiding his eyes. but Karik had more important things than her feelings to worry about just now.

      Peit and Lori were standing out of Ma’s way, watching as she probed his Pa’s side. Pa was gritting his teeth, but she soothed him gently as she worked. It didn’t look as if Pa was dying. Karik came to them and knelt at his mother’s side. Do you n-need help?

      In a moment, Ka-chi, she said somewhat distractedly. Peit, Lori, thanks for your assistance—maybe one of you can see if Risa needs a hand.

      We need to...catch that beast, Pa got out in wheezed gasps.

      Oh hush, Reji, let Risa sort that out, Ma scolded.

      Leave it to us, Peit said in his calm, deep voice. Come on, Lori, let’s see what mess Risa’s made of things.

      Pa made a face at the insult to his partner and then sighed as the door closed. He reached for Karik’s hand. Thanks...son.

      I’m sorry, P-pa. I sh-should have kept huh-hold of the beast b-better.

      Pa shook his head and winced as Ma probed his ribs. Not your fault. Just an accident.

      He still felt guilty, but then his mother turned her head to look at him. That one’s been funny for a day or so. We might have to cut its throat. Can’t have an animal like that in the herd, right, Reji?

      No, love. Risa’ll— He winced again as he moved slightly. Damn it.

      Well, lie still, you idiot. Yes, you’ve cracked two ribs, I’d be sure of that and you’re going to have a lovely bruise. Karik, would you get me the new pot of chuo sap ointment—I just made a batch this morning and it’s in the workroom.

      Karik nodded and went to his mother’s workroom at the back of the house. It stank of tirsel leaf—she had clearly been making up stocks of ointments and creams, which was probably why she’d been in the garden collecting herbs when he’d found her. He collected the large pot clearly marked in her neat hand and brought it back to the front room.

      Ma asked him to help take his father’s trousers off. When the damage to the knee was revealed, she tsked. You’re going to have trouble walking for a few days.

      Got work... to do.

      Not in this condition you haven’t. Karik, you’ll have to help Risa for your Pa. Lori will give you a hand and then Gyo will be here in a couple of days.

      Yes, Ma.

      Good lad. Now lie still, Reji, or this cream will end up somewhere you don’t want it.

      Pa pulled a comically horrified face, and Karik grinned. Ma made Pa comfortable and treated his injuries with the ease of long experience, her calm demeanour doing much to reassure Karik. It was obvious that Pa wouldn’t make the stairs for a day or two, so she and Karik made up a bed for him on the long chair. Although he grumbled about the things he needed to do, he was still in enough pain for that grumbling to be only a token, and once Ma gave him some pijn, he dropped off to sleep. Ma took Karik out to the workroom while she tidied up her kit. You still look worried, Ka-chi, she said, chucking him under the chin.

      He caught her hand again. It was so much easier using her gift to talk to her. It just happened so fast.

      I know, dear. You did the right thing, though.

      He flushed again. Pa asked me to help with the next caravan, me and Gyo. Do you think he still wants me to go?

      She frowned a little. I think he probably does more than ever now. Risa can’t manage on his own. He might ask if Lori can go with you, although it’s short notice.

      He nodded. I want to help, Ma.

      Of course you do, Ka-chi. She pulled him to her and kissed his forehead. I can manage with him now. Why don’t you go and talk to Risa about helping with the transport? I think he’d appreciate that.

      Yes, Ma. I’ll come back in an hour or so.

      Thank you. Now go on, your Pa is depending on you.

      Voyaging: 2

      Arman shook the raindrops off his cloak and cursed the weather soundly as he shivered in his wet clothes. Not on the wooden floor, Arman, his housekeeper scolded him, coming up to take the cloak from him. And take those boots off right now.

      Sorry, Pira. I just wanted to get dry. I’m soaked.

      She put her hands on her hips to give him a proper glare. Well, why didn’t you put your cloak on?

      He grinned at her. I got caught by the docks and left my cloak in the carriage. I’m sorry, he said, hanging his head in mock shame.

      Useless man, she grumbled. Here, give me that shirt and go find a dry one. Anyone would think you’d never seen rain before.

      I wasn’t expecting it and I hadn’t realised how dark it had got.

      Oh, that’s just silly. Go and find Kei. He’ll tell you you’re silly too.

      Yes, Pira, he said meekly, handing over his wet clothes. He would need to change his trousers, but he wasn’t going to do that in the hall. Is he in the library?

      Where else? Go on, I’ll tell you when supper’s ready.

      I’m starving, I hope it won’t be long.

      It’ll be ready when it’s ready—don’t be greedy.

      Yes, Pira.

      She could have let him have some bread, he thought disconsolately, but Pira didn’t like him making raids on her kitchen, and Arman had long ago given up trying. It was a small price to pay for a quiet, comfortable household. It used to irk him that they needed a housekeeper, but he knew it was simply practical—they had too many claims on their attention and time to spend it on routine chores. And Pira needed the position and the accommodation, so it all worked well.

      As he walked into the library, Kei held up a hand without turning around, still scribbling furiously, so Arman waited patiently for his lover to finish recording the thought he had in his head. Finally Kei stopped, and turned to him with a big smile already on his face. Sorry about...well, look at you, he said, one eyebrow raised. "A firm admirer of your beautiful body though I am, I have to say I’m a little surprised at this display, he added. Pleased, but definitely surprised."

      Arman grinned and came over to him. Warm me up, I’m frozen.

      Kei put his hand back up again with a look of horror on his face. Not on your life—gods, did you jump in the sea? He stood but kept a wary distance from Arman’s cold, damp flesh.

      More or less. Got caught in that downpour.

      Oh, did it rain? he said vaguely. You look cold. Go and dry off and I’ll bring your robe.

      Kei allowed him to steal a quick kiss before shooing him to the washroom. Arman had to admit the low heat from the stove was welcome—winters in Darshek were mild but on a wet evening, they could be chilly and he was thoroughly soaked. Later he’d have a bath, but he liked to do that just before they went to bed and it was too early for that now.

      Kei joined him and took on the task of mopping the water from his thick plait. It would take forever to dry and Kei suggested he just unbraid it and tie the whole thing up in a towel, piling it all on top of his head like he did when he bathed.

      Finally he was warm and dry, and his fastidious lover allowed him to hold him close. You’re home early, Kei murmured.

      Well, I got wet, Arman said simply and Kei laughed. Kevi was less voluble than normal and I finished the inspections sooner than I expected.

      The new gantry’s done?

      Nearly. A week, I think.

      Good. Come and get something hot to drink, I’m sure Pira will make us some tea.

      Of course. She’d make tea for Kei. She’d probably dance naked through the streets if Kei asked. But then a lot of people would.

      Pira only smiled as Kei led Arman into the kitchen. Some tea for the poor old frozen man, Pira?

      Less of the ‘old’, you brat, Arman grumbled.

      Pira only shook her head in amusement. She was a good deal older than either of them and doubtless thought they were both brats. She had water already boiling—which made him think she’d been planning to take pity on him anyway—and tea was soon set in front of him, along with two sweet cakes. One for you, one for him, she said sternly. Don’t spoil your supper.

      Yes, Ma, Kei said, snatching up the cake so eagerly, he looked more like six than thirty-six. Your cakes are too good. I can’t stop eating them if you put them out.

      Huh, it’s more that your stomach is a bottomless pit. Don’t steal Arman’s or I’ll slap your hand.

      Arman looked at his lover sternly. Glad to see someone can keep you under control.

      Kei just laid his head on Arman’s shoulder. But you love me anyway.

      Sadly true. He poured out some tea and then sipped it, glad of the warmth both from the drink and Kei’s body so close to his. So what were you working on? he asked as he slipped an arm around Kei’s waist.

      Oh, Jezinke wanted to talk to me about the results of the oivi mould tests and I wanted to get the notes down while they were fresh in my mind.

      Promising?

      Yes, they are, but the side effects are still a problem. He’s going to try some other leaf moulds from the oivi trees, and see which ones he can make into pellets without losing effectiveness. Arman nodded. There had been some great advances in medicine under Kei’s directorship of the medical section at the academy, and the sister institution in Urshek had contributed a good deal to the anti-infection drugs that were Kei’s main research interest, along with decent pain killers that were less disabling than the ubiquitous pijn. It had actually been a Prijian healer who had discovered that the leaves of the yusus plant were an efficient, minor pain reliever, although he’d had to come to Darshek before he had done so. Oh, there’s letters from Mari and your brother. And I had a chat with Jena. Reji’s managed to get himself hurt by being kicked by a beast, can you imagine?

      How on earth did he do that? I thought he was infallible when it came to those things. Arman sipped more tea and assessed Kei’s demeanour. Reji couldn’t have been too badly injured if he was this calm.

      Jena isn’t sure—he was with Karik at the time. The beast was behaving very oddly and just lashed out. He’s got a badly sprained knee and cracked ribs. Feeling sorry for himself, she said. Anyway, it means he’s not coming up this time. Risa’s going to bring Karik and Gyo to help, and see if he can persuade someone like Lori to come too.

      Karik? Arman frowned. Isn’t he a little young still? He’s no giant, either. Gyo, I can see, the boy’s tall. Karik’s not.

      He’s nearly sixteen—sixteen next month, in fact. As for tall...well, he’s got a deft hand with animals, Reji says, and that’s the main thing. They don’t seem to mind his looks or his stutter, poor lad. Kei looked briefly sad. Jena and Reji think it will be good for him to see other Prij and the world outside the village.

      He’s not a Prij, Arman pointed out curtly.

      You know what I mean—don’t get all prickly, Kei said in a soothing voice. It’s a shame Vikis and Kesa moved up here. Karik’s got no one to compare himself with. Except you, of course, and you’re not his age.

      Arman grunted. The subject of Karik always aroused rather confused emotions inside him. Unlike his real parents, Karik was modest and scholarly, which was one of the reasons Kei liked him so much. Arman certainly didn’t dislike him, and the boy seemed to have a good heart, but being in his company made him uncomfortable. Karik’s stutter—caused, Kei thought, by a severe lack of self-confidence—made talking to him a chore, and although Arman tried his best to ignore the defect, it was another reason to avoid him. Are they to stay here?

      Jena would appreciate it. Would you mind?

      Pira sat down at the table and poured herself some of the tea. It’d be nice to have some youngsters around here, I say.

      What, younger than me? I thought I was your adopted child, Pira. I’m wounded, Kei said, and laughed at her disgusted expression.

      You already have too many people mothering you, Arman said, tugging Kei’s braid. No, of course I don’t mind, and I imagine Jena and Reji would feel happier about that.

      Yes, they would, Kei said, smiling at him in gratitude. They won’t be here for nearly a month. They’re bringing the beans—it’ll be slow going no matter what wagons they use.

      Fine, then we have a month to arrange things for them, he said, batting Kei’s hand as it reached for Arman’s cake. Don’t, you tuktuk.

      That’s an insult to tuktuks, Pira said, sipping her tea. Now hurry up and clear off. Dinner will be half an hour and I don’t want you in my way.

      Yes, Ma, Kei said cheekily, but he leaned over and kissed her forehead. You better eat some sweet cakes too, you’re so grumpy. He ducked away from her attempts to tug his braid, but forgot Arman had an easier reach. "Ow!’

      Stop teasing her, and come give me my letters, Arman said sternly, but inside, he was smiling. Kei had hardly changed in sixteen years and Arman still adored every teasing, annoying inch of him.

      ~~~~~~~~

      So what does your brother say? Kei asked as they lazed in the bath after supper and two more hours of paperwork. The hot water had driven the last chill from Arman’s bones and he felt nicely languid and relaxed. Kei’s lovely body sitting in his preferred spot on Arman’s lap helped, of course.

      Arman had meant to pass on the contents of the letters earlier, but they had got onto the subject of the new teachers from Kuprij and Andon coming to the academy and whether Lord Meki was finally going to retire this year or not, and he’d forgotten to mention it. He confirmed the reports we’ve had—Kita’s getting more erratic, apparently, and more extravagant too. Prijus encourages her, of course—no sense in that damn family at all, it seems. The senate are actually starting to voice criticisms aloud—it’s even more strident in private, he says—and there have been riots in the market place over the increased taxes. It got pretty ugly, he says. He’s talking about moving out of Utuk again—he’s worried about the children’s safety.

      Can he do that and still be a senator?

      He can if he doesn’t care about having an active political role, and there are certainly things he can do in Garok. My father won’t be happy with him, but reading between the lines of what Mari said, I think they might like to leave too.

      Kei settled himself in a slightly better position on Arman’s lap. They could come up here.

      "Oh, and that would cause a stir, don’t you think, an active senator suddenly decamping to Darshian? Besides, Tijus wants the children raised in Kuprij. You can’t blame him for that."

      No. But your father and Mari could come up here to live. No one would care about that, surely.

      "Probably not, although Tijus would have to listen to the gossip. But Father won’t leave his grandchildren, and you can’t blame him for that either. Not when his daughter-in-law had finally fallen pregnant after ten barren years, and then produced two children in quick succession. Arman had been pleased too—Tijus had wanted children very badly, and he and his wife deserved their fortune. But Mari says they might visit again at the end of this year. Father’s arthritis hasn’t been too painful lately and the winter might be kinder to him here than on Kuplik."

      I’d like to have them here again. Mari is such a nice person. Your father is too, of course, Kei hastily amended.

      I doubt even Mari thinks he’s ‘nice’, Arman said with some amusement at his stern, gruff father being equated with the sweet and gentle Mari. Still, there was no doubt his father had mellowed considerably in his old age, now he had found a measure of contentment in his life. But it would be good to see him again. I doubt he’ll make many more journeys north.

      No, Kei agreed sadly.

      Visiting Utuk wasn’t an option either of them had ever suggested. Many of the people who had witnessed Arman’s treachery were still in post, including several senior (albeit now very elderly) senators, Lord Blikus and, of course, the sovereign herself, who’d never forgiven Arman and made a point of mentioning the fact to his brother as often as possible. Tijus often reported her jibes with his usual benign humour in his letters, but Arman knew it had made his position difficult.

      Kei interrupted his musings by kissing him on the cheek. Don’t be sad. You’ll see him again. He’s still easily able to come. He enjoys sailing—it’s not as hard as it might be for someone his age.

      Maybe. It’s all right. You don’t need to worry about me. I’ve got you and that’s all I really want.

      Family’s important too, especially when you spent so long thinking you didn’t really have one.

      Arman stared into Kei’s loving, worried eyes. You’re all the family I need, and I mean that. Now, stop talking about them. I want to know what terribly naughty things you plan to do to me tonight.

      Kei grinned. Perhaps I was just planning to go to sleep. I’ve been teaching most of the day and I’m very tired.

      That would be very naughty indeed, considering what your bottom is doing to my cock.

      My bottom? My bottom is merely sitting where it always sits.

      Yes, and it always makes my cock want to do things to it, as you perfectly well know, especially when you wriggle like that. If you really are tired, then stop that right now.

      Kei pouted and took Arman’s earlobe between his teeth, tugging on it gently. Funny, he breathed. I don’t feel so tired anymore.

      "So you are planning naughty things? I was hoping you were."

      "Maybe I want to know what naughty things you’re planning."

      Me? I’m too old to be naughty, remember?

      Ah yes, but not too old to have things done to you. When will you be too old for that, do you think? I want to line up my next lover in good time.

      Arman clasped Kei firmly to him, and kissed him with authority. I’ll never, ever be too old to have naughty things done to me so long as you’re doing them. Then he pinched the backside causing him such delicious torment. But I suspect you’d find a way to arouse a corpse, so age doesn’t come into it.

      Oh, yuck, Kei said, pulling away from him. Now I think you think I’m perverted.

      No, I think you’re incredibly tempting, especially when you put that pout on. Arman kissed his soft, and, indeed, pouting lips again. "So we’ve established I have no naughtiness planned, and that you, despite claiming to be tired, are always planning something. What are you going to do to me tonight?"

      Kei’s eyes took on a glint even more stimulating to Arman’s cock than the feel of his bottom. Come to bed and I’ll show you.

      Arman grinned. Kei being too tired for sex—that would be the day, truly.

      Voyaging: 3

      Even when his father was in good health, the bean harvest was always a busy time for Karik and the other able-bodied men and women in the village. Fortunately, the older men like Fedor and Rin who’d lived through dozens of bean harvests, helped Risa get it all under control.

      Karik worked alongside him, glad to be busy. It made it easy to avoid Meran, and when she came to the stables to look for him, he could excuse himself to go and help Risa. He wasn’t sure if she wanted him to apologise, or to apologise to him—he just didn’t want to be caught alone with her again. Having watched other boys of his age begin the mating dance, and seeing how stupidly they behaved to impress their girlfriends, he’d decided already he had better things to do.

      Meran gave up on him eventually, to his great relief—like him, she was really too busy for this nonsense if she wanted to help her Ma. He had other things on his mind anyway, waiting for his friend to arrive from Ai-Tuek. Every time he saw small dust clouds rising in the distance, he hoped it would be Gyo and his parents, but it was three days before they finally arrived late in the afternoon, leaving themselves very little daylight in which to unload their cart. Karik noted ruefully Gyo had grown even taller in the three months since he’d seen him last.

      Gyo waved at him enthusiastically, as Risa came up to greet his brother. There were smiles and hugs all around, and then more as Misek’s parents and other family turned up to meet them. Misek’s wife, Pia, a quiet woman, sat in the cart with their nine-year-old daughter, Keira, and waited until most of the boisterousness was over. Keira smiled shyly at Karik, who smiled back. He liked Keira. She never teased him.

      Where’s Reji? Misek asked his brother.

      In his house, all banged up.

      What in hells?

      Gyo only waited to hear Risa’s explanation before grabbing Karik’s arm and dragging him away from the busily chatting group. Come on, they’ve got enough people to help. Karik wasn’t sure—he really ought to stay and unload Misek’s wagon for him. It’s all right, Ka-chi. I want to see the fire-beetles.

      Karik grinned at Gyo’s enthusiasm. His friend loved all beetles, especially fire-beetles, which were less common around the herbarium for some reason. Gyo liked to catch them and watch their tiny lights in his hands before letting them go—he was never cruel or destructive towards them.

      The winter air became frosty as the night drew in. The fire-beetles were one of the few insects to be active all year around, and their tiny shrill buzz was loud in the cold stillness over the waterhole, seeking mates, flashing their red-lit tails as they flew.

      What happened to the beast that kicked Reji?

      P-Peit shot it—Risa wuh-was still trying to catch it up but Fedor said the thing wuh-was just too c-crazy to help. When Peit wuh-was butchering it, I asked him to crack the s-skull open—there was a lump like this in his b-brain. Karik held up his curled fingers to indicate the inch-wide mass they’d found.

      Gyo stopped walked and turned to him. Really? What was it?

      There was a wuh-worm inside it. Ma thinks i-it built the gall and that was wuh-what made the beast crazy. I’ve k-kept it if you w-want to see it. I was going to show uh-uncle Kei.

      I’d like to see it. Reji was lucky if the beast was crazed. I’ve never heard of that before.

      Karik nodded. M-me neither.

      Gyo was distracted then, suddenly darting forward. Got it! Karik crowded close to see the tiny insect. He’s a big one.

      Muh-maybe she.

      No, it has to be a boy—I can see his balls.

      Karik laughed and the beetle, as if offended at the joke, flew away. P-Pa wuh-wants me to g-go to Darshek.

      I know, my Pa told me when he asked me—that’s great, Ka-chi. Are you excited?

      A l-little.

      It’ll be fun. It’s better than weeding, he said, pulling a face. But if Reji’s not going, three of us aren’t enough, are we?

      N-no. L-Lori might c-come.

      Gyo suddenly snatched another beetle from the air—he was so fast at that, Karik thought enviously. But he was good at all kinds of physical things. Tall, strong and graceful—if Gyo hadn’t been so sweet-tempered just like his father, Karik might have had to dislike him out of pure jealousy. But no one could dislike Gyo.

      They came to the edge of the water hole, where the fire-beetles were really putting on a show. They mated in mid-air, and despite what Gyo had said, it was almost impossible to tell the sexes apart at this time—only when the female was laying eggs could one be sure. Now was the best time of year to see them. Gyo sat down on a log to watch, entranced. Karik, more used to the sight, was more concerned by the fact the daylight was going, and after just a few minutes, he nudged Gyo. Wuh-we better go.

      Yes, Gyo said with a sigh, climbing to his feet. Pa says we’ll stay with Kei and Arman. Do you think you’re going to ask him about...you know?

      Karik had already given this a lot of thought. No.

      Oh, come on, Ka-chi! You’re nearly sixteen—you need to know.

      That might be so, but it didn’t mean it was easy to ask the question. All he knew was Arman had given Karik to his Ma when he was a tiny baby, and Ma had loved him and looked after him ever since with his Pa. Neither of them knew who his parents were, they’d said, and told him it didn’t matter because he was loved, and beautiful, and theirs. When Karik had asked Kei, he’d said more or less the same thing. Karik had never had the courage to ask Arman. There was something rather forbidding about the man, something that said personal matters were off-limits.

      He couldn’t help knowing the gossip, hearing the tail ends of speculation by adults who stopped speaking when he came near, forgetting their own children would gleefully pass it on as a way of teasing a stuttering boy who looked so different from them. Some people thought he was Arman’s own son. Some said he was the Prijian sovereign’s boy Arman had stolen to get revenge on her. One or two said he must be the child of a mistress, although Karik didn’t know exactly what a mistress was.

      He didn’t look like Arman. Karik was short and slight, certainly nothing like his tall father who could lift and toss bales of hay like children threw leather balls in the fields for fun. And Arman had the bluest of blue eyes, almost like the sky, they were so blue, while Karik had eyes green as new leaves. Gyo had green eyes too, because they said his real father was a Prij. But they weren’t as green as Karik’s, and Gyo’s hair and skin were as dark as any one else in the village.

      You don’t kn-know who your fuh-father is, ei-either. Gyo looked away shiftily, and then started to walk along again. Gyo?

      Ma told me, he said in a rush.

      And?

      His friend seemed intensely unhappy at what he was about to say. He...he was some senator, in Kuprij. She was...well, you know your Ma and my Ma were in Utuk? Karik nodded. It wasn’t something Ma talked about a lot, but it was during the war that she’d met his Pa, and Kei had met Arman. Anyway, she was...his servant...and...he raped her.

      R-rape? Karik didn’t know the word.

      Gyo looked down at his feet. Forced her...you know...to sleep with him.

      Oh. Karik was horrified. I’m s-sorry.

      I wanted to kill him, Gyo said with more anger in his voice than Karik had ever heard before. To do that to my Ma.... I hate him. Ma says he’s dead now. But I wanted to kill him.

      Karik thought about telling Gyo such thoughts were wrong, but then if it turned out someone had attacked Karik’s Ma, he bet Pa would want to kill them. And Karik would too, probably. Better to h-have Misek. Go-good man.

      Pa’s the best, Gyo said fiercely. I know people think he looks funny, but I love him and he loves Ma and me.

      Now the big secret was out, he’d lost all his cheerfulness, his shoulders slumped and his expression blank. Karik slipped his arm through that of his friend’s. Our fuh-fathers are better than any P-Prij. Ah-Arman says so.

      Gyo made an effort to smile. He would know. Anyway, you should ask him.

      M-maybe.

      They had reached the edge of the village proper, and Karik saw Misek’s wagon had already been dealt with and taken to the stables. Oh there you are! Risa came out of the stores shed, looking annoyed. Where in hells did you go, Karik? I need you now, you know that.

      Karik flushed and opened his mouth to try and make an apology, but Gyo beat him to it. My fault, uncle Risa—I asked him to come with me. I haven’t seen him for months.

      Risa pursed his lips. That’s all very well, but there’s work to be done. You’re not going to wander off like this on the trip, are you?

      No, uncle Risa. I’m sorry.

      Hmmm. Well, at least you’ll have your Pa to keep you in line.

      Huh?

      Risa gave him one of his brief, close-mouthed smiles. Mis has decided he’s going to take Reji’s place. He’s worked with him before, so it’s a good arrangement.

      In an instant, Gyo’s good mood was restored. Great! Where is he?

      At Ma’s. Go wash up, Gyo, your grandma will have supper out soon. Karik, you better head home too.

      Yes, R-Risa.

      Gyo touched Karik’s shoulder. I’ll see you tomorrow, early, Ka-chi. Oh, this is going to be fun! he yelled over his shoulder as he sped off.

      Risa shook his head at his nephew’s exuberance. Off you go, Karik. Let Reji know, will you? I’ll speak to him tomorrow but I know he won’t have a problem with it.

      Karik nodded and walked further on down the street to his parents’ house. Gyo was lucky. Karik wasn’t really looking forward to the journey as much as he would have done if Pa had been going—Risa was nice, but it wasn’t the same.

      Ma was cooking and his father was lying on his makeshift bed, holding his ribs. Oh, there you are, he said. I heard Misek had arrived but then no one came near us.

      Perhaps they’ve got better things to do than dance attendance on your lordship, Ma said tartly, but Pa only grinned. How’s Gyo?

      G-good. Mi-Misek is going to c-come with us.

      Oh? Pa said, trying to sit up and wincing as he failed. Karik went to him and shoved another pillow behind him so he could straighten more easily. Thanks, son. How can Misek leave the herbarium for two months?

      Karik shrugged. It had been cooked up between the two brothers, and presumably Pia had agreed. D-don’t know.

      Pia’s managed before, you know. And she’s got her brother and her father to call on, Ma pointed out as she stirred the pot.

      Yes, but spring’s their busy time. I’ll have a word with Risa—

      Ma turned and wagged her wooden spoon at Pa. No, you won’t. You said Risa was in charge, so leave it be. Gods, Reji, you’ve known Misek twenty-six years—have you ever known him make a stupid decision? I’ve known him sixteen and damned if I can remember him doing so.

      True. All right. He’s got the experience Lori hasn’t, so it makes me a little easier. I think it will help Risa too. What do you think, Karik?

      Karik was a little startled by the question, since he thought he wasn’t really part of the discussion any more. Y-yes. That sounded rather weedy. It’s a g-good idea.

      There you go, his mother said firmly. Karik, set the table, please. Reji, can you manage to sit with us, or shall I bring you a tray?

      Let me try the table—my arse is turning to rock lying in bed all day.

      She hooted with laughter. This is the man whose idea of fun is to do just that.

      Just because I want to spend all day in bed, Pa retorted, doesn’t mean I want to keep still.

      He got through supper sitting normally, although it was clearly a trial for him. When he declared he wanted to sleep in his own bed with his own lover that night, Ma made a protest for the look of it, and then agreed, although she insisted he would have to use a chamber pot if he needed to relieve himself in the night.

      Anything you want. I can’t sleep on that chair, it’s harder than stone, Pa declared with feeling. As soon as I’m mended, I’m going to ask Noki to help me make a new one. If any of us get sick in the future, we’ll need it.

      Ma kissed his cheek. You’re only thinking of your own old age, which is a little closer than it is for the rest of us, she teased.

      Pa slapped her rump. Now come on, you old hag, you’re only two years younger than me. Maybe I better just move our bed down here and Karik can bring us our soup while we drool on the pillows.

      Karik will be married and too busy to feed you anything by then, his mother said. Won’t you, Ka-chi?

      Personally, Karik thought that was unlikely, but he smiled anyway. I mi-might stop by.

      So kind, son of mine, Pa said, pulling a face at him. I knew there was a reason we kept you around.

      It was just a joke, but Karik couldn’t stop the slow burn in his face, or the emotions the words caused. Ma gave him a sharp look and then turned to Pa. Reji, are you ready for me to give you a wash?

      I can wash myself, he said impatiently. I’ve only sprained my knee, not broken it in two.

      She folded her arms. Fine. Be an independent arse and when Karik and I have to come and pick you up off the floor, you’ll only have yourself to blame.

      Pa got to his feet with the help of the chair back and his stick. Oh, be quiet, you harridan. You’re enjoying this far too much.

      Ma rolled her eyes at him. Come on, Karik, we’ll clear up while your Pa proves what a man he is.

      Karik’s parents were the only adults in the village who spoke to each other like this and he sometimes wondered if they were quite right in the head. He began to clear the plates to take to the sink to scrub, while Ma put the bread away in the bread bin and the other food into the larder. He knew she was listening out for Pa, but since his father was being so pig-headed, he also knew she wouldn’t go in there unless he yelled.

      She startled him by laying a hand on the back of his neck. What’s bothering you, Ka-chi?

      He turned to look at her—all he saw in her expression was kind concern. Ma, when you were in Utuk.... Her expression changed immediately, becoming wary. Did you know what happened to Pia?

      She relaxed immediately, but he wasn’t sure why. Gyo’s said something or been told something?

      He said...he said his Ma was raped. It was such an ugly word, he thought, but then it was a damn ugly thing.

      Oh. Come and sit, dear, so we can talk about it.

      Karik nodded as she led him over to his Pa’s now abandoned bed. He’s upset, Ma. Really angry with the man who hurt her.

      I don’t blame him. We were all very angry about it. She wasn’t the only one, but for her sake and the others, we don’t talk about it, and you aren’t to, either. It’s not fair on Pia. And Gyo is Misek’s son in everything but blood, just as you are mine, Ka-chi. She kissed his forehead in blessing and he couldn’t help but be warmed by the tender gesture.

      He said the man was dead. Is that true?

      Yes, dear. Her mouth tightened as she added, He died five years ago, and good riddance to him.

      You knew who he was?

      We know who they all were, she said bitterly. And most of them are dead or forgotten.

      What about the people who had you? Are they dead too?

      She picked at a speck of dirt on his shirt before answering. Yes, but the man I was with was different. Karus was a very kind, gentle man who died before we were rescued. Don’t tarnish his good name with the sins of the others.

      The name was too similar for coincidence. Karus?

      Yes, you were named for him. He was a good person.

      Ma, if you know all this stuff, why haven’t you told me about it?

      She took her hand off his arm. We uh...Karik, it’s very complicated, and some of it isn’t mine to tell.

      Ah-Arman kn-knows who my p-parents are.

      She touched him again. Ka-chi, I think it’s time you had a talk to Arman when you get to Darshek. But you have to understand that adults have secrets too, and pain, and sometimes they want to hide things, not because they don’t trust you, but they don’t trust themselves.

      I just want to know who my father is.

      Your father is Reji, my son. I am your mother. Whoever planted his seed on whatever woman, doesn’t alter that, do you understand?

      She almost looked afraid as she said this, for all the fierce tone in her voice. I know, Ma. I’m your son. I just want to know who gave birth to me.

      She relaxed again. That’s perfectly natural. Hopefully one day, it won’t matter any more whether your hair is blond or brown, or what the colour of your eyes is. You’ll know you’re just Karik, our beloved son. She tugged his braid affectionately. But you have to reach that conclusion on your own. I just ask you to be respectful of Arman. He gave up a lot to leave Utuk, and you’ll remind him of that.

      Karik nodded. She smiled and kissed his forehead again, then straightened up and put a wry grin on her face. Do you think your Pa’s fallen over yet?

      Should I go and look?

      Why not? I doubt it’ll hurt his pride any more to have you see him like that than me.

      Karik got up to see if Pa needed help. He would have liked to have spent more time talking to Ma about what she’d said, but she was clearly uncomfortable with the topic. When he got to Darshek, he’d have to ask uncle Kei about it.

      ~~~~~~~~

      The subjects of fathers didn’t come up again with Gyo, although his friend was happy to spend all his spare time with him. They worked together on the bean loads and with Gyo’s strength, the task was done in less than half the time, leaving the two of them plenty of time to talk and to explore.

      Gyo was really sick of working in the herbarium, he said, however much he adored his Pa. He wanted to be a carpenter, or even a wainwright. But there’s no room for another apprentice in Ai-Tuek, he said gloomily. I’d even work as a trader. I think I’d really like that. Wish Pa was a trader like Reji, instead of a gardener.

      I d-don’t wuh-want to be a trader, Karik confessed. I w-want to be a h-healer.

      Gyo looked at him. Still? It’s a lot of study, Ka-chi. What about your...? He pointed at his mouth. Might make it hard.

      Karik nodded. It was unfortunately true his stammer would make being a healer very difficult. Knowledge was only part of it, Ma always told him. A lot was reassuring the patient, getting information and giving instructions. When he sometimes found it hard to get even the simplest sentence out clearly, that side of the job would probably be beyond him. M-maybe I c-could work with d-deaf people.

      Gyo laughed and clapped him on the shoulder. Maybe you could. You’re smart. Smarter than me. I could never be a healer, but I don’t want to be one, so that’s good. I’ll race you over to the mine head, all right?

      Not fair, Karik complained to himself as he struggled with the twin disadvantage of surprise and shorter legs. It was about half a mile to the spoil heap which marked where Banji and Rin and their people were working the new shaft. As Karik jogged up, Gyo was already talking to his uncle and grandfather, who waved politely at Karik as he pulled up, out of breath. You b-bastard, he muttered at his friend who only grinned. Huh-hello, Rin, B-Banji.

      Banji’s shy ten-year-old son, Keiji, smiled at Karik as his father greeted him. Hello, Karik. Come to see if you might like to be a miner too? You’re short enough. When he grows up, young Keiji-ki can keep you company.

      Karik refrained from scowling at Banji’s jibe. Just because he was short didn’t mean he wanted to spend his days living like a worm. Rin ignored both of them and continued what he was saying to Gyo, something about starting a new shaft sooner than they expected. Karik muttered a polite rejection of Banji’s suggestion before wandering off to where Gyo’s aunt was hauling ore buckets up on a winch. Pijli was easily as strong as him. All of the mining family were very fit and the men were stronger even than Pa on his best day.

      "How

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