Oliver.
~
We slept in.
It was a blessing after such an eventful weekend.
I woke up in the early afternoon with Ayshe still sleeping on my chest. Her face filled me with a rare peace.
Yesterday we got good news.
Asin took Desiree off my hand. This means that whatever meeting we were supposed to have now disappeared like a lie. After all, Asin knew how uncomfortable this entire situation made me.
He won't make me meet her unless it is necessary..
Talk about necessary.
We need to address the crew today they probably want to see Asin in person. Talk to Metin and Kerem, who stayed in Konore with a few of ours, about the elusive captain..then of course there's the whole .. missing father situation as well.
Our life becomes more and more complicated by the day.
~
The princess suite had 5 separate rooms with their own bathrooms .. but we only found Marie and Aunt Krista in the main room by the time we arrived.
They were laughing.. it was a rare sight. Their relationship seems to have improved.
" Morning .. Where's the others? " I asked.
Marie answered.
" Asin took the girls for a little shopping, Baban is getting a massage, that took some convincing .. and Asin left a message for you. "
Look at her .. speaking 9th Creole. Aunt Krista looked pleased.
Ayshe took a seat next to her sister, and I took out my phone.
Asin did send a message.
* .. Be back by 3 pm .. get the crew together, I'm taking Desi with me. I'll see you there. *
I see .. today is the day then.
Desiree will fully integrate into our secret lives. Since there was no return.. I made my peace with it and listened in on the ladies' conversation.
" .. Lau Selma will teach you, daughter. With my supervision, of course. " Aunt Krista tapped her chest. " The tradition of the 9th is extensive.. and can be often seen as .. outdated, so to speak, but I'm certain you will be fine. "
Marie was doing her best to learn and assimilate the strange and confusing world of the 9th ward.
Asin never pushed her .. and I think that was a good choice. Now she will do it because she wants to.
" I'm ready to learn. " she nodded with confidence.
Aunt Krista took a sip of her tea grumbling.
" If we ever get to go home .. "
Last night, they were asleep when we arrived, and Asin probably kept what happened to himself. So it falls on me to explain.
" You can go home whenever you like dearest Aunt. The elders gave him their blessings last night.. and he made those who knelt.. take an oath of death to guarantee their loyalty. "
Aunt Krista stayed silent for a while before she gave an approving nod.
" .. He had no other way to keep them alive. Good job, son. At least that's done, and we can soon go home. "
I didn't wanna ruin her mood.. but I doubted Maya will be that enthusiastic about the news.
Last night must've been terrifying for her. As a native she grew up listening to those awful stories.. and even witnessed one unfortunate mother stoned and shunned at 7 years old.
The memory must've lived inside her and after last night..she probably needs a little time to fully trust those she called friends.
It was still hard to believe those idiots thought they could do something so awful with Maya Crigmasky.
Where were those who been helped by Uncle Ivan? .. afraid of the mob, for sure. Stayed inside their house and pretended nothing is happening.
After a few minutes, I politely excused myself and called Leyla and the others.
Kept today's meeting from the ladies. Now wasn't the time for them to meet Desiree.. besides.. Aunt Krista knew her and most likely would talk about unnecessary things.
After the meeting was confirmed, I called Metin and Kerem.. they had information that won't make Asin happy when he heard it.
The captain got away.
As in left the country. How?
With help from his benefactor. They sent me footage from the airport and another piece of information.. something we might be able to use.
He had a family he left behind.
———
Asin.
~
" .. Uh huh. "
" Maybe those as well.. what do you think? "
I took a quick look at the same onesie she had already bought 100 of and shrugged.
" Uh huh .. "
Maya took offence and quickly grabbed my ear.
" You're the one who insisted on us shopping together.. so be an active part of it ..okay!? "
I couldn't fight because.. well, the baby, so I made a mental note of this and simply nodded.
" .. She is right to be angry, you know? You keep nodding to everything she shows... pay attention. "
Lilly added her piece.
" Fine .. but none of these make sense! " I took out a few bibs she put on our cart. " I mean .. look at them.. yellow, blue, pink .. those have teacups on them .. and this? W-what .. are these? "
" Dinosaurs. " Maya smiled.
" See what I mean? She's buying them in a way so we can't tell if it's a boy or a girl.. damn these mind tricks. " I shoved them back in the cart.
I ignored her coy smile and grabbed a few random accessories quickly, filling the cart.
The ladies who helped us shop looked at me funny, but I ignored them .. however Maya scratching my arms .. I couldn't ignore that.
" Salek! ( idiot. ) .. you can't just buy everything you see just because you're bored. "
That gave me an idea.
" Laides .. umm .. Finy dear. " I read one of their name tags. " How much would it cost to buy everything in the store? "
" Well.. we .. I would have to look at our stock take from last week and then ..
" There's no need.. " Maya quickly stood in front of her. " My brother was just joking.. he thinks he is funny. "
After the ladies shared a smile, Maya turned to me.
" It's a baby.. it won't need everything in here. This is a big store.. Salek. " she gave me a light tap.
" So what? We can donate what you won't need to the 9th .. these things cost a fortune and they will be happy, I'm sure.. at least they tell their families about the gender. " I complained.
Maya couldn't argue with charity, so the ladies shared a high five and went to inform the shoppers to grab what they needed because the rest is sold.
" You're insane .. but thanks. " Maya looked up.
Despite her secrets.. about everything .. I couldn't stay mad at her. I tried earlier to ask one last time about .. that cockroach who touched her .. but she went silent and didn't talk until I promised not to ask anymore.
Fine Sissy.. don't blame me for using my own methods.
~
" Those are so cute!! "
" If you like, we have about 1200 more .. "
Marie didn't even blink hearing our shopping spree .. she learned to deal with my crazy.
She really was the one for me.
" Olume, the people at home will be very grateful for these. "
Amne approved at least holding and admiring a colourful rattler.
Earlier, the old man left for the 9th to talk to the elders and to make an appearance. He promised to stay in the hotel .. until my birthday at least.
My mother called me soon as I woke up .. she was on edge since the injury and demanded I go home for dinner and party preparations.
Oliver got everyone ready .. it was time for us to go.
" Let them use it good health, Amne.. we are going now. We have to make an appearance with the team.. then dinner at the mansion. " I got on my feet.
Before we could leave with Oliver, my wife caught up to me.
" Jojam .. ( husband. ) "
" Oh oh .. look at her. " I pulled her in my arms. " You be fluent in no time, aren't you, Taridgem ( wife. ).
She understood from the looks and nodded with confidence.
" Just wanted to show it off before you go. " She locked her hands around my neck. " .. Your birthday is in 3 days. I need time to prep two parties.. ironically, both with your parents..than I need to talk to him ..
She nodded towards Oliver, who simply ignored her.
" .. than.. pick up something essential for your birthday present as well. " she gave me a seductive smile. " .. What's your favourite colour? "
I shrugged but looked at myself.. she nodded after a little.
" Right .. Black it is. " she placed a small smile on my lips. " Hurry back. "
..
Walking out the hotel and getting to the car .. I turned to Oliver.
" .. Why would she need my favourite colour? "
He kept staring.. like I'm supposed to know.. but nothing came to mind.
Oliver eventually shrugged and got inside the car.
" Maybe she wants to get a dress you might like. "
I had a feeling he thinks I'm a Salak as well.
" .. I'll go and pick up Desi. You go ahead and prepare a warm welcome. "
I saw his entire body shake a little before he curtly nodded and left ahead me.
I promised myself to have a talk with him after this entire birthday nonsense ended. I had questions I kept in for a while.
It was time for answers .. and to gain clarity.
———
Ayshe.
~
As the door closed behind them, an uneasy feeling filled my chest.
Marie and others had no idea, but Desiree would make an appearance with the crew as Asin's assistant to be.
I still had a hard time wrapping my head around the situation.. or get a clear picture of her end game.
The ladies couldn't stop the baby chatter.. than I noticed something.
Marie had a strage light in her eyes watching a black onesie.
" Sis? .. Are you crying? " I asked.
She quickly put the baby clothes down and wiped her eyes, but it was all the proof I needed, before she even answered.
" I'm not crying. Just .. it's baby clothes. They are so small and cute. " she gave me a stock answer.
Oh boy .. she was ready to become a mother .. but that was just my intuition. It's not like it's strange for a married woman .. but if you knew her from before, it quietly becomes weird.
This was the same girl who had her entire life planned just last year. Famous musicians and composers by 25, Married by 30, kids however were never on the table.
3 months into her marriage, and she was a totally different person.
Brand new priorities, no more planning ahead, and yet .. I felt like this change was a good one. She was more spontaneous and looked happier.
" Alright ladies .. it's time to talk about the upcoming party. " she spoke up cheking with everyone. " .. I need to know what the outlines of the plans are. "
She mainly asked Aunt Krista, who we assumed was the party planner of it.
" .. I need Julie. " she kept it short.
Before we could ask who Julie was, she continued.
" Sweet girl from the Adans.. often helped my son with the races. She also one who made notes .. I wish I could go home. This would be so much easier, but I wait until Ivan comes back. "
Marie listened intently and then nodded.
" We table that until then.. I go talk to Mother Seline tonight.. and that leaves ..
She kept staring at me first, but my prolonged silence drew the others as well.
" Come on.. I don't know anything substantial about Oliver's plan. " I promised. " .. he is not stupid to tell me since .. Well, you. "
I smiled at my big sister, who made a sour expression.
" Whatever.. what about gifts? Anme? What did you get for him? "
Aunt Krista gave us a mysterious smile and a little wink, indicating it was a surprise. Marie turned to Maya.
" .. I am his present. " she gave a simple nod. " I came back and stayed for good. "
We shared a look with the girls and probably thought the same.. he most likely would agree with her.
Some people have it easy.
My own present was on its way.. all the way from Japan. Oliver also failed to mention that each of those Black Diamond apples cost as much as a bushel of the normal one in a grocery store.
Rich peoples taste, I guess.
3 more days before the momentus day.
———
Marie.
~
Going back to work felt like a holiday compared to the crazy we lived through over the last few days.
Despite my early worries, we all fitted in like we were doing this for years. I often ran into Henny and Lilly on my coming and goings, and I never saw my friends as happy as they were lately..
Ayshe seemed alright one second and annoyed at the next so there's no change there.
More importantly the people surrounding us seemed to be more open and friendly.
All was going well for day's.. and than ..
" I need your help. "
I looked up, seeing Henny standing with her arms crossed in front of my table.
" .. Okay. Ayle kiremi ( tell me, friend. ) "
She rolled her eyes, hearing me mixing in 9th creole. I enjoyed it, even the way it annoyed them.
The lessons went well. Anme moves back into her house and introduced me to Mrs Lau Selma. She was the most traditional woman I've ever met.
Had no patience when it came to teaching, but oddly enough, I think it helped me pick up the language faster. Since failure was met with unflattering words and often physical pain in the form of her cane.
Luckily, Henny understood my meaning..or was too tired to ask anymore.
" We have 3 parties in a row after tomorrow, and I'm the only one who will walk in alone in all of them... what's up with that? "
I leaned back on my chair and gave her a sympathetic look.
It's not like I didn't understand her feelings .. or didn't know this conversation was coming but as far as solutions.. I had nothing, really.
" I feel for you, sweetheart, but I'm not sure how ..
" Find me a rich .. Good looking .. boyfriend. That would help me. " she cut me off.
There was one problem with that.
Since my lessons started, I learned what the 9th considered proper etiquette from a lady like myself and turns out talking or staying alone with another man except my husband was a big nono.
As outdated as that sounded, I was fully on board. It's not like I have many male .. heterosexual .. friends anyway.
Besides, my husband didn't show it but was a crazy jealous type, which I openly loved about him.
" That's sounds great, Hen. Anything else? "
Ayshe chuckling wasn't appreciated nor her sarcasm. Henny was ready to burn her with the fire her eyes emitted.
" Forget her .. " I tapped my desk to get my friends attention. " I would do anything for you, but please tell me you have some .. some potential suitors at the very least. "
I waited as she took a seat, but as far as her facial expression, I didn't have high hopes.
" Unfortunately, work is out of the question. " she took a quick look outside. " The man working here would most like want the same thing I do. "
I nodded with perfect understanding.
" .. but .. someone maybe in Asin's crew might have a chance. " she turned back. " Like those captains of his ..
" Nah .. " I made an X with my arms. " Metin and Kerem are both married. Is there anyone else? "
She made a sour expression leaning back.
" .. No, not really. They at least had the looks I like. The rest are just not my type. " she complained.
" Does it have to be someone in the crew? " asked Ayshe without mocking this time.
" I would prefer if I don't have to keep some giant secret like that from him. " She turned to her.
Hmm .. she was already very considerate about her hypothetical boyfriend.
Secretly I very much agreed with her views. I can only imagine how a relationship like that would perform over time.
" Look .. " I got up and sat in front her taking her hand. " As you said, it's 3 parties in the row. I'm certain you will find someone attending one of them. Stay calm and make sure you capitalise on the opportunity when it presents itself. "
3 parties indeed .. tomorrow we attend the party his parents throw inside the Great Hall of Josea. Mother Seline and Derya made sure the entire capital was invited. All rich and famous.. foreign bitches included.. I bet their will be some singles in there.
After that on Friday we will all head to the Adans and celebrate with the 9th. Anme reckon thousands will attend to see their new leader being crowned and his 26 oath brothers.. I was still unsure what exactly that means but I'm sure it's something ridiculous like most things in our lives.
.. and of course.
Saturday we jet down to the Island Oliver bought to the most private and luxurious celebration of them all .. at least that's what stupid Oliver said.
" I can't believe you paired up so well and I was left behind like that. " Henny pouted. " .. Me? The most adventures of us all. "
I exchanged an amused smile with Ayshe. To be honest she wasn't lying. First boyfriend? Henny.
First kiss? Henny.
Until Ayshe decided to step up with Oliver on that boat .. whom I still haven't named yet .. Henny was the queen of first and most of us turned to her for advice when it came to man in general.
" You won't be alone at all. Maya will come solo as well. " Ayshe tried to comfort her.
" Maya is pregnant.. she never alone. " Henny smiled. " Any news of the elusive father? "
I actually talked about that cockroach of a man yesterday with Asin.
" .. Well maybe. Asin decided to fly out all her friends to interrogate them in person. Apparently his man couldn't get a single word out of them. They arrive on Monday. "
" Very ominous indeed. " Ayshe nodded. " I hope the man will step up.. Once he is found. "
He kind of had too..otherwise his life will turn into an unending sequence of agonising torture.. according to Asin.
He will make the perfect father out of him or else..
" Maya still at the Royal? " Henny asked.
" She'll move back today. Asin will accompany her .. he also assigned an army as her guardians. "
To her credit she had the good sense not to complain. I had a feeling she liked the treatment her little brother provided.
She got an assistant, a chef from America to cook whatever she wanted, a personal trainer, not one but two doctors..both ladies.. a midwife, and something called a soothsayer to calm her at all times.
The last one I'm pretty sure it was for my husband's benefit.. Maya .. so to speak.. was a little hormonal which drove him crazy. So the soothsayer only job was to calm her down as much as possible.
I checked my phone .. we were a little bit over 26 hours away from the parties to start.
.. and I still needed a few .. accessories to complete my own present.
———
Oliver.
~
" .. "
" Feeling good? " I smiled.
" .. Maya wants cruelty free chocolate from a reputable company .. I'm feeling great Oli. "
" Princess Maya returned I hear. How's the move? Any problems with the residents? "
I was stuck at the office for another few hours and couldn't attend.. but maybe I had another reason.
Desiree was his assistant now .. and needles to say she was in her element. Wouldn't leave his side for anything lately.
I almost forgot how close they used to be before our breakup.
" No .. every one of them now treats her as their own elder sister. " he answered.
" Well she's not just the previous leaders daughter but the futures sister as well .. that's normal. How are you brother? Still moody? "
As the day of his birthday approaches he became more annoyed and irritable.
" I'm okay .. "
His lukewarm answer hid the real one as well.
" Don't you worry. We'll have plenty of fun once the weekend starts .. I guarantee it. "
I managed to keep my present a secret, which was quite a take considering the amount of people we had to get there .. not to mention entertainment, food and booze. It was a big undertaking but well worth it once he sees it unfold.
" I'm counting on you brother. I'm going now and try to find.. slavery free sweets for our sister. "
His long sigh made me smile and once he disconnected my mother made an appearance in my office.
" Sweetheart you need me to pick up your tuxedo for tomorrow or ..
" I'm okay mom thanks. Can I go? I could use the time to prepare for it. " I pleaded.
" Sure .. but make sure to adhere to the dress code this time. "
I gave her a smirk thinking how 2 years ago we ditched the penguin suits for jersey's and sneakers.. bringing some much needed colour for these parties.
" We grown up mother. Don't you worry. "
She left unconvinced but at least I was free.. so I dialled my girlfriend.
" .. Want me to pick you up? "
———
Asin.
~
" Leader .. "
I sighed as another person came over pledging loyalty to the end kissed my ring and walked away.
Took a look at the ring that I admired since I was a 14 years old.
It made me smile thinking how much bigger it looked back than..and weightless.
For now it felt heavy. Filled with thebblood others will shed for me in the future.
I felt a light tap on my shoulder.
" Heavy heads .. heavy crowns .. etc, etc. "
" Thanks Desi. " I smiled.
She returned it and motioned to the line to continue.
..
After another 30 minutes it was finally over. Most of the representatives of the 9th kissed the ring and after Friday it will be official.
" Well done boss..
" Stop. " I looked up.
" .. Sorry. Want to fitt in. " Desi pouted. " So .. the council send their representatives as well with a gift and the initiation will commence Wednesday night. Information forthcoming. "
" You make things easier.. thanks. "
She puffed out her chest. " My job .. boss. "
Cheeky girl.
I got up and she followed me towards my new oath brothers.
" Leader .. "
Cesur become their official mouthpiece which made things more convenient.
" Come closer brothers .. " I waited until they formed a circle around us. " Traditions aside I have a little surprise for you all. "
Just in time Ovuz and my security came out carrying a bunch or nicely carved wooden boxes.
They hand them out, one of each and stood aside.
" Go on .. open it. " I urged them.
As they did I started talking.
" Many of you know that every new leader must chose an insignia representing their organisation. Some of you might also know that only ancient legends had more than 3 Oath brothers at the time. As my Oath brothers you will represent me at all times .. and more importantly our family here. "
The boxes revealed a large gold medallion.. with Baban old insignia carved into them.
Two snakes meeting above an upside-down triangle cross, swords instead of forked tongues.
" As you can see .. I decided to continue using Baban insignia. As his son it is my right to continue to further the family brand. " I waited until they all took them out of the box. " With those in hand everyone from our world will understand.. that you all speak with my authority. "
They each gone down on their knees creating quite a medieval picture.
" Leader .. we will carry this with the utmost pride and care. Promise to never abuse the power it was given. To never shame your name. " Cesur spoke a little emotional.
I nodded smiling ear to ear. It was those words that gave me peace.
" I expect you all to uphold those words.. but you also have other responsibilities. " I looked at Desi.
She smiled and stepped forward addressing them.
" You will be handed a card .. " As she spoke my security came forward handing them an envelope. " .. you may use them as you see fit but I recommend a wardrobe change first. "
She allowed herself a little smirk before continuing.
" As Oath brothers of our leader you all need to make sure our people feel heard and appreciated. Make sure to listen .. and help all those in need. The 9th ward residents will be your ultimate judges and I myself will be available if you need further guidance. "
Other than a card, she put her own number inside all of them as my assistant she will act as middle man .. for my life was still a hectic mess .. I needed help.
They all shared a quick look filled with shock and amazement.. some even had tears in their eyes as they played with their gold cards.
" Leader this is ..
" It's necessary.. " Desi cut off Cesur. " I trust you all that those cards won't be abused for personal reasons. "
Cesur got up a little heated. " We would never betray our brother like that. "
" Than take them and ensure the wellbeing of his people. "
Desi wasn't phased even a little and stood his accusing looks.
" Alright then. " I stepped between them. " Now go and start your new lives. I will see you all Friday for our celebration...
" And your birthday. " injected Desi.
" .. Yes .. and that as well. Now go. "
After a few more rounds of bowing they all dispersed and we headed towards the Old man's house.
" Time to face the music. " I murmured.
" Your sister is the perfect princess type. " Desi smiled.