Warrior's Pain (Cadi Warriors Book 4)(124)
“Cyprian de Praefectus,” Kagan calling his name, pulled Cyprian from his thoughts. “Tytus, June, Vintor, Ashtoret, Thunder and your clan, Cadi is in your debt for what you have done. Sundara, Stigand and Metcor, your assistance and support in this mission, along with what you have contributed to your province has not gone unnoticed, and will not be forgotten.”
Kagan turned toward the gathered Toufik and made sure to sign the gestures for thanks and respect in their language. The hairy people looked deeply affected, as they returned the gestures to the Daimio. Cyprian couldn’t help the swell of pride he too felt. They’d been more successful than he could’ve hope for, given the mounting odds.
Kagan shifted to stand before their large bone-armored guest.
“Aculus of the Osivoire, thank you for your willingness to trust, and your aid in our time of need. It is my greatest hope that our people continue on this path as allies.”
“Based on what I have seen, the Osivoire would be honored to stand with the Cadi,” Aculus replied to Kagan, his red eyes serious and sincere.
Cyprian nodded in appreciation. Meeting new races is difficult at best. Knowing they earned a new friend, rather than an enemy, was a relief. The Osivoire would make a terrible foe. They were technologically advanced, and if Aculus was any indication, their warriors were fierce.
“This brings me to another citizen I must thank.” Kagan turned to Riley.
Riley stiffened beside Cyprian. He rubbed her knee.
“When Cyprian and Vintor arrived at the auction with the smugglers, Feroze’s identity was still unknown. Our esteemed warriors discovered how deeply the traitors were involved with the Jurou Biljana as they worked to find out who was at the top of this plot, and devise a way to free our brethren. However, little did my general know, he had some unexpected help from the human he was sent to rescue.” Kagan smiled at Riley.
“Riley, I am staggered by what you were able to accomplish amidst such dire circumstances.” Kagan turned to the regents. “This colorful female, while enslaved, slyly bargained with her captors to gain a hidden data chip, containing the star charts that led to her people. She made friends with our new ally the Osivoire, when we might have become enemies, because of the dishonorable part our two undercover warriors were forced to play. When Riley learned the asteroid was going to be destroyed to dispose of a world-ending weapon, she pushed down her fear and acted. I can’t begin to fathom how you manipulated your captors to plant those explosives in their database.” Kagan shook his head in amazement. “Then yesterday she confiscated Feroze’s communicator, and aided Cyprian in questioning the traitor.”
“I apologize, but I must correct you,” Cyprian interjected. “It was Riley who questioned Feroze, striking fear and getting answers, where I was unsuccessful.”
There were murmurs all around. Everyone knew who Cyprian’s family was. The appreciative gleam in Kagan’s eyes grew as he stared at Riley.
“You discovered the truth in time for us to seek cover. And it was you who recalled the phrase that halted the weapon sent to destroy us. My thank is not nearly enough,” Kagan said as he slammed his fist against his chest and gave Riley a deep bow.
“I only did, what any of you would’ve done,” Riley replied quietly.
“No, Wild Manx.” Cyprian took Riley’s face in his hands. “I could not have done what you did. It took your unique combination of compassion, inner strength and wiles to bring us all home safe. You are amazing.”
Riley’s large, dark eyes filled with tears. Her lips quivered and he wanted to kiss them.
“Here, here!” June yelled as she and the other human females clapped their hands.
The Cadi and Toufik present stomped their feet in agreement. The pride Cyprian felt was overwhelming.
“As much as I hate to cut this short, we must discuss some additional business,” Kagan spoke over the boisterous cheer. “Feroze’s betrayal has left several voids in the council. I have mulled over who should become the new Chekil Province Regent, and keep coming back to one individual. This individual has successfully driven the Chekil economy, and can lead effectively but mercifully. This person has donated land for the common good and cared for all province citizens, Cadi and Toufik alike. Sundara, please come forward,” Kagan requested.
The Cadi female stood looking surprised, and approached Kagan. There was a murmur that moved over the crowd. The plantation workers were excited, while the Cadi regents seemed uncertain and stunned. This was unprecedented. No female had ever been named regent, that Cyprian knew of.
“I understand your reticence,” Kagan addressed the regents. “However, you have heard what our females can accomplish. Agreed, they are not the same as males. Thank Kali. But they stand on the same battlefield. Do not let their outer appearance fool you into thinking they are weak. Do not let their willingness to compromise, lull you into the belief that they are docile and without spirit. As we are learning, this is not a trait carried by human females alone. Mark my words, for Cadi to be great, we cannot relegate half our people to the sideline.” Kagan paused to let his words sink in. “Now, without further discussion, Sundara, I pronounce you Chekil Regent.”