A New Order
When we arrive at the compound, things are understandably in disarray, but the Protectors affiliated with House Durov seem to have the situation in hand. There are still several dead bodies to be cleared, many of them not much past their teens, but fewer than I’d feared. “It’s always the ones in their twenties who end up dead. Either they’re compelled to support the old regime due to mistaken loyalties, or they try to take advantage of a perceived opportunity to further their own agenda. It’s such a waste.”
We walk through the main building and into the offices where the Guild conducts daily business. As I pass each Protector, they kneel and offer me their blade. I take it, accept their pledge, then hand the weapon back, instructing each to follow me into the large ceremonial hall, where there’s enough room for everyone.
A pair of Protectors opens the large black doors to the hall, and I almost stumble to a halt just inside, startled by the complete transformation of a room I haven’t stepped foot in for six years. The layout of the hall is the sameas the Segnature Coven’s ceremonial room, with the two sections of benches and the main aisle between them. Knowing about our shared history, I’m certain that was by design. But where the coven’s room is sparse and focused on the Segnature practice of magic, this room is anything but. It’s no longer an austere chamber designed to bring focus to the swearing-in of new Protectors and the secret oath-taking ceremonies of the Shabah. Now it’s a gaudy, extravagant throne room, right down to the ornately carved chair, inlaid with onyx and covered with black silk, positioned in the center of the dais. Its ostentatiousness is only dwarfed by the larger-than-life painting of Cosimo Vitorio dressed in silver and black finery hanging on the wall behind it. Founder! This is a manifestation of the sickness within this organization. I add it to the handful of things I’m going to change immediately. And it’s time to begin that process.
I walk down the center aisle to the dais and climb the few stairs, then stand in front of the throne facing the room that is now filled to capacity with black-clad Onyx Guild and Shabah members. Someone castsVoiceto amplify my words, and there’s a slight tingle as the spell settles on me. “I am Grand Master Zayd al-Qadir.” Several Protectors are surprised, though I’m not sure if it’s because of my name or the new title. In either case, they’ll have to get used to change, as there is a lot coming. “You are here to learn about the future of the Onyx Guild. Not all of you will agree with the direction that our organization is taking, and if this is the case, you’re welcome to leave. I’m sure you comprehend the ramifications of such action, though.” Imeet and hold the gazes of as many people as I can. I don’t want more bloodshed over the changes I’m making, but I won’t hesitate to strike if needed.
“As of today, I am the highest-ranking member of this Guild and will steer us back to the original intent of the Brotherhood. For those of you who might have forgotten what that is, or possibly never learned our history, we will be the primary defense for Amagi, protecting our towns and cities, as well as our borders, from any individuals or groups, internal or external, who attack us. We’ll take protection contracts that benefit the continued governance of those Amagian officials who would administer our laws justly and eliminate those who would oppress the Amagian people or who manipulate the law for their own gain. We’ll continue to protect our recovery expeditions and the witches who bravely go to Earth to rescue fellow witches from persecution. I plan to extract our Guild from petty squabbles between Houses and political rivals. That was never part of our original charter.” I wait to let the information sink in.
“You might not be aware that, for a very long time, the Onyx Guild has been a divided house, with one part the public face and one kept so secret that many of our own members were in the dark about it. That secret part has been corrupted, hired out to the person or persons with the most money or power, taking contracts regardless of how, or if, it supports Amagi or our laws. They even sanctioned a government official’s contract on one of our own.” That gets them all riled up, and I have to wait a few minutes for the chatter to die down. “All of that endsnow. The Shabah will no longer exist as a ghost entity. It will be a special force used to support our original charter and laws, for the good of all Amagians, not only the wealthy and powerful. So again, if you disagree with my plans, you’re welcome to leave. If you have questions or need clarification on any point, please see my Counselor, Nicolas Medina.” I gesture to my right, where Nico stands behind me. Again, this causes a quiet fury of murmurs.
“This brings me to the next set of changes. There will be no moreacquiringchildren to bolster the Shabah ranks. Only young people who show exceptional raw talent and the desire to join us will be accepted into the Brotherhood, and only once they reach the age of maturity. The program will be rigorous, and many won’t make it. But there will be no more brutal training or death matches of any kind. For those of you lucky enough to witness Counselor Medina’s fight with Leonardo Santorini, you’ve seen proof in both participants that natural talent and demanding preparation can produce amazing results.“ Low chatter erupts as those present at the Keller compound recount the fight between Leonardo and Nico. I grin, allowing it to continue for a bit. Nico has gained a much-deserved reputation. Hopefully it keeps him safe.
“And finally, relationships of a romantic nature will no longer be grounds for punishment or death.” I watch as several people furtively glance at each other. “Those wishing to enter into such relationships, or who are already in them, should make that situation known immediately. They should also know that the Brotherhood will not pay ransom to kidnappers or send rescue missions for theirloved ones. However, if the Protector involved would like to undertake the mission on their own, they will be granted leave to do so.” There are quite a few positive reactions to this statement, which makes me glad. But there are as many frowns and grumbles.
“There will be an elite squad of Protectors who will learn special skills, train under strict rules, and refrain from emotional entanglements. These Protectors will align more closely with the Shabah intent and be used for the incredibly sensitive missions, especially those outside of Amagi. For those of you familiar with Earth cultures, think of this as our Special Forces team.” Some of those with previously negative reactions now nod in approval. Not everyone embraces change well.
“Before I dismiss this meeting, I would like to introduce you to Elanil Durov.” I motion to my left, where she stands behind me. “She will be my second in command.” The reaction is less than the resounding approval I expect. “The Guild has had very few females of higher ranks. This will change. By adding women to these positions, we give ourselves a broader perspective, new ways of thinking, and fresh ideas. If the Guild is to survive the changes that are coming to Amagi, we must adapt.” I once again hold each of their gazes. “If this is a problem, you may leave, fully aware of what that means. I am open to honest, constructive suggestions and dialogue regarding the future of the Onyx Guild. I absolutely intend for us to be around and relevant for many, many decades to come. I look forward to working with those of you who remain. However, if you stay and attempt to undermine my authority or thwartmy plans, you will be dealt with swiftly and lethally.” Once again, I scan the room, letting each person see my intentions. “I’ll be meeting with you individually and in small groups to share how this change impacts you. That communication will come through Counselor Medina.” I gesture to Nico. “For now, that’s all. Dismissed.”
I’m physically exhausted but more deeply tired of seeing frowns on the faces of those who disapprove of my plans. Once everyone else files out, I drop into the ridiculous throne. “Not all of them support my ideas.”
Nico steps close, and I can tell he wants to touch me, but he doesn’t. So I take his hand. I can use the comfort. “You knew that would be the case when you decided to make these changes. And the majority agreed wholeheartedly. Or appeared to. There were quite a few smiles and nods. You will probably have to make an example out of one or two, and possibly replace them, but you have at least half of them right now. Likely more.”
I sigh and close my eyes. “I’m glad you’re helping me with this. It’d be very difficult to do this alone.”
Elanil clears her throat and approaches us. “You and Counselor Medina are not alone, Grand Master. You have me, and all of House Durov, to the last member. We have your back.”
The proud set of her shoulders and the conviction in her eyes are the boost I need. “Thank you, Elanil. That means a lot.”
“So what is next, Bello?” Nico glides his thumb along the back of my hand.
Briefly closing my eyes, I gather my strength for the massive amount of work that’s ahead of us. “Send word to the other guilds, officially alerting them to the changes. They’ll get the message out to those who need to know. Especially those who’ve used the services of the Shabah.”
“I can handle that for you. That is what your Counselor is supposed to do. Correct?”
I chuckle. “I thought you’d like that. I’ve been considering what title to give you for weeks. And then it came to me. There’s a book I read on Earth where the king had a Counselor who advised him on important matters. And I’ll always want to make the important decisions with you. So it seemed fitting.”
“I like it. It sounds very important.”
“It is very important.” I stand and slide my hands around his neck, slipping my fingers into his hair, playing with the soft curls. “You are very important. You are themostimportant.” I tug gently on his neck, eager to kiss him but stop when Elanil clears her throat again. I grin at Nico.
“I will go make sure no one is stirring up any trouble. Call for me if you need anything. Congratulations on a successful mission, Grand Master.” Elanil leaves, silently closing the doors behind her.
I pull Nico close and softly brush my lips against his. “Now that we’re alone, I want to talk to you.”
He pulls back slightly, eyebrows raised. “You do?”
“I do.”
He strokes my hair and holds my gaze. “What you have done today is monumental. How are you feeling?”
“Tired. It’s all a bit surreal. I’ve been imagining this day for so many years, and now it’s done. Everyone on the contract is gone.”
Nico frowns. “Except Lorenzo.”
“Except Lorenzo. But his support has been severely damaged. It will take him a while to regroup, which will give us time to solidify our base and hopefully make it impossible for him to hold this much sway again. But we should put some of the loyal Protectors in place to watch him until we’re sure he’s no longer a threat.” I take Nico’s hand and kiss his knuckles. “I think Kas would have approved of the changes I’m making.”
