Mariard Volume 1 The Gifting by Christine Jones.
Category: Science Fiction & Fantasy
Paperback: 262 pages
Language: English
ISBN: 143484014X

" The full moon’s glare penetrated the glass panes of the balcony doors. Flickering flames burned strongly in the grey stone hearth, casting shadows throughout the castle’s largest bedchamber. White ceilings with decorative cornices were partially discoloured from smoke, where the walls in deep burgundy hid the build up. Thick candles set on cast-iron stands dripped wax on the mantelpiece and were merely a personal preference to solar powered lighting.

Lace drapes adorned the four-poster double bed in carved oak where the young Queen lay in labour, her cries shattering the silence. Wet with sweat, Sestina’s petite figure briefly relaxed between contractions. A cool cloth felt soothing on her ivory complexion, administered by the priestess, who sat on the edge of the bed beside her. Artemis’s slender fingers brushed strands of damp copper hair, having come free from the Queen’s lengthy braids.

A woman of authority, Artemis expressed compassion in serene features, which cleverly masked a cold self-controlled nature. Though appearing youthful, like the woman she nursed, the priestess’s hands revealed otherwise. Befitting an eminent status, the priestess’s white attire hid her tall shapely figure. The long apron, draping a simple lined lengthy garment, bore large silver embroidered symbols down the right-hand side. Housing a centred blue gem, a chrome headband secured the wimple and none but her personal aide knew the colour and length of her hair.

The imperial history book had a number of chapters dedicated to Artemis with the woman being an authoritative figure within the royal household. It was written that she had placed Kings on thrones, delivered their heirs and retained, without question, the position of personal adviser to the King and his council. The religious system of this vast kingdom was based on an unseen higher consciousness, which Artemis claimed to receive instruction from. Revered as the sacred voice of the Mariard, no one doubted the priestess’s integrity.

"Artemis!" Sestina grasped the cuff of the priestess’s sleeve, leaving a damp impression on the fine cotton.

"Hush my child," Artemis replied with clear diction. "Your husband has been called. Rest now. Your time draws near." Taking the Queen’s dainty hand in hers, Artemis looked steadily into Sestina’s glaring eyes as her patient again cried out in pain.

The opening of the chamber door diverted the priestess’s attention. On seeing the young man, Artemis stood, watching King Tayo Maroda drop his lengthy, earthen toned cloak to the polished floorboards. Being a perfectionist, she noticed his dark, lengthy curls loosely strung back in a ponytail and the sweat stains on his frilled shirt, evidence of his haste. She would excuse his sloppiness, considering the circumstances. Breathlessly, Tayo positioned himself at Sestina’s side.

With the King expressing his love for his wife, Artemis contemplated the man’s character. The priestess thought him a King worthy to lead the Mariard regime in a new direction, which would see her own plans fulfilled. Aware Tayo was about to feel the pain of loss, she was also aware of the many emotions he and those of the kingdom had yet to experience.

Insight into the new era had Artemis mentally reeling off a verse from her own prophetic writings, foretelling this event.

A great evil will be born to the royal household. Woe be to the mind, body and essence, as this evil will spread to pollute all flesh.

Despite her inward celebration, Artemis’s expression did not change. The birth of the King’s heirs would set her on a path to obtain a greater power, but she would have to be patient. "