Horizon Storms - Kevin J. Anderson [177]
Jora’h knew she was proficient at weapons work, though not as physically strong as the soldier kithmen. Yazra’h had taken many lovers, all of them guards or soldiers; she had never shown any interest in nobles, weakling bureaucrats, or preoccupied lens kithmen. When Jora’h had questioned her about this, she’d answered, “I’m afraid I might break them, Father.”
Now she tossed her long hair and met his eyes. “I’m always honored when you summon me. What service may I offer you, Father?” It was refreshing to have someone face him so directly. The batch of Hyrillka pilgrims still waited outside, and the nobles gradually went about their duties, though they continued to look askance at the Isix cats.
The Mage-Imperator leaned forward in his padded seat. “I wanted to ask your opinion, Yazra’h, about the current role of women in Ildiran society. I believe you have…somewhat different ideas than most Ildirans hold.”
“I certainly do. The females of some lower kiths, the workers and servants and soldiers, are treated as equals and contribute as much labor as the males. But look at the higher kiths, the nobles, the bureaucrats”—she gestured scornfully around the room—“the courtiers. What do the women do? They are just…decorations, and they are proud of it. If they are so evolved and intelligent, perhaps they should contribute more to our society.”
Jora’h grinned, knowing that most Ildirans would hear her words with horror. “And what about yourself, Yazra’h? Do you believe you can contribute as well?”
“I already have, and I expect to continue to do so.”
“Perhaps we’ll start with you, then. Our Empire is troubled. Through the thism I can sense that many things are wrong. Even here in the Prism Palace, some say I should be more wary. I’m inclined to heed that advice, though I can’t conceive of my own people turning against me.”
“From what I’ve read in the Saga, ” Yazra’h countered, “many inconceivable events have occurred in our history.”
Jora’h settled deeper into his chrysalis chair, glad to know that she read the Saga on her own, rather than just listening to the dramatic distillations in rememberer performances. “Yazra’h, many guard kithmen are assigned to watch over me, but my father selected Bron’n as his special personal guard. Bron’n was ultimately responsible for the Mage-Imperator’s safety. I have not yet announced who will serve me in that capacity.”
Yazra’h gave him a stern look. “You should not wait, Liege. I can offer advice. I know many of the guards, and I can tell you which are the most dedicated, which are strongest, which would serve you best.”
Jora’h waved his hand. “I’m not interested in them. I’ve already made my decision.” She showed no indignation that he had not consulted her. “I have selected you, Yazra’h. I want you to be my personal bodyguard.”
Caution warred with hope in her topaz eyes. “But, Father…there are more qualified fighters.”
“I have seen you train, Yazra’h. I know you are superb with weapons. Your Isix cats obey your every command.” He smiled proudly. “Besides, would not a daughter do anything to protect her father? The thism shows me that your loyalty is without question.”
Yazra’h made no further objection. They both knew the obvious drawbacks. The selection of a female as the Mage-Imperator’s personal bodyguard—a woman not even of the soldier kith, but noble-born—would cause much discussion and consternation. Already the nobles in the reception hall were filled with dismay at Jora’h‘s startling breaks from tradition: standing and walking around the Palace on his two feet, leaving Ildira to visit Dobro, sitting in the chrysalis chair only when it suited him, and now choosing his daughter for a position always reserved for a different kith.
Yazra’h made the slightest gesture, and all three of her Isix cats got to their feet, dynamos of golden fur and rippling muscle. They all faced the Mage-Imperator. “I would be honored to serve in such a capacity, Liege. I will never fail you, and I will protect you to my last breath. I will make you proud.”
“I know.