Author Note: I wanted to thank all that reviewed for my last chapter and to those who hit it up. Getting reviews seriously makes me squeal and makes my day so please review? Yes, I know that Gabranth/Ashe is pretty much dead at the moment, but me and my girlfriend are trying to change that! :) Anyhoo, I realize now that trying to structure what's going to happen in a chapter does not work, at least not for me, but I do know where I want this story to go so I'm hoping to have updates at least every so often if possible. Again thanks for reviewing! Oh and I'm not sure if I'll ever write in anyone else's POV, but just in case, I'll always state who's talking at the beginning.
Disclaimer: I do not own FFXII! Thank you.
Chapter 2 – Convalescence
Point of View – Ashelia B'nargin Dalmasca
"Ashelia. B'nargin. Dalmasca. Would you really have this of me? Would you have me beg for just the chance? The chance to protect you? The chance to be more than what I'm called to be? All my life the only thing I have ever cared for, all that I have fought to protect, was my honor. And should I find something greater to fight for, to live for, I would perhaps find...in you."
The mist was thinning, dispersing like the fog that clouded my mind. A roaring silence rang in my ears and my entirety felt as if it were made of lead. I possessed neither the strength to lift my eyelids nor my senses which both seemed heedless to my petitions. A sharp inhale pricked at my lungs and chest which ached from their expansion. The sound of shuffling footsteps bombarded my auscultation and a low groan escaped my lips as I began to feel my entire body awaken from this coma.
"She's waking! Go fetch the physician! Make haste, boy!" I heard a far off voice command. Gabranth? "Your majesty."
My eyes slowly opened, almost overcome by the bright light that shined from over head. Instinctively, my arm pulled up to shield myself. However, I found my arm lightly restrained by wires attached to my wrist and finger. Half alarmed I quickly sat up, regretting my action immediately as a small wave of dizziness struck me.
"Your majesty, you must be still, the physician is on his way."
I vision finally cleared and focused to reveal my uncle kneeling beside my bed, his face deepened with worry. The dull ache that settled itself in my temples and made my eyes burn made it hard to focus on one thing for too long. All I wished to do was rest my head back on the cool pillow and relinquish myself back into that coma that had released me from its clutches just moments ago.
Just as sleep began to weave its threads into the dark consciousness that held me, the sound of more footsteps brought me back from the edge of slumber as I heard more people enter my chamber.
"Is she conscious?" I overheard the royal physician walk over to me as the Marquis stepped back. I once again forced my eyes open despite the burning sensation. I felt myself slowly being prodded to sit up against the firm pillows and leather headboard, the dizziness that had struck me before was kept at bay this time. However, much to my dismay another visitor was present, almost well hid behind the Marquis.
A realization struck me as I became aware that I wore only my thin night robe. Shifting uncomfortably, I attempted to draw the duvet around me, covering my body as much as would be allowed. I could feel those eyes on me, studying me, and I could not help the flush that had crept its way up to my cheeks and caused my ears to burn. Irritation began to grow and develop in the pit of my stomach, demanding to know why he was present.
The quick examination procedure did not occupy too much time, to my delight, and the physician presented me with a small vial of medication and informed me that the medication was to be administered every four hours and that I was not permitted to leave my bed chamber for a few days. Apparently during these past few weeks I had developed an acute respiratory infection and it had escalated due to my weakened immune system which came about as a result from stress from the coronation.
As the physician began to pack his things, the Marquis again knelt at my bedside, relief evident on his features.
"Your majesty, in light of your current condition I suggest that you heed the doctor's orders. I will send for your ladies-in-waiting to watch after you and keep you company until you have fully recovered. If you require anything do not hesitate to call for me," Marquis Ondore bowed and headed out the door.
At this I turned to glance about the room, expecting to see Gabranth, but to my surprise he had disappeared. A foreign sensation snaked its way along the base of my spine and ended branching to my head and shoulders, causing a slight light-headedness. Was it possible to dislike someone so, yet still wish they were near? Shaking my head from frustration I decided to dismiss the subject until later. For the moment my body ached for rest, a request I could not ignore. And as I lay my head back on the cushions beneath me, I could almost swear that someone was speaking to me earlier, as if in a dream.
Never had I heard it before, that tone, yet the unfamiliarity of it intrigued me. For all I knew, it was that voice that had pulled me from that blackened sleep. And not unlike before, sleep began to weave the threads of unconsciousness through my vision, through my limbs, easing me back into a peaceful slumber.
Like a dawn creeping up upon the horizon, consciousness leisurely eased me from that place of restless calm. A deep breath of cool morning air elicited a small groan as I turned on my back and stretched my still numb muscles. As I peered out through the sheer curtains that hung around the large, four poster bed, I realized that it must have been quite early in the morning as the last bits of night's twilight still clung to the windowsill's drapes, illuminating the chamber with a soft, fresh blue glow.
The growl of my stomach urged the ruffle of the duvet and my footsteps to the door, the headaches and dizziness had subsided, much to my delight. As I quietly pulled the door ajar, it swung open to reveal a dark clad figure standing at the doorway. Intuitively, I jumped back, not expecting someone to be there.
"Your majesty," a head of sandy blond hair bowed and stood, his russet eyes locked with mine unwavering. My automatic scowl made a stealthy path to my face, half out of an unwelcome surprise, and half to embarrassment when again I realized I only wore my night gown, though he seemed not to take notice. Those eyes were bearing into my own, silently burning with something unsaid. Something powerfully fragile that periled an insanity all its own. It was a few moments before I could gather coherent words.
"I'm hungry," was all I could manage as I somewhat shifted uncomfortably in my place, confused as to what his presence meant. His seemingly expressionless resolve never dithered as he looked on.
"I will see to it then that a meal is brought up to your quarters immediately," he replied, once again bowing. "Your majesty should regard the physician's orders and keep to your rest."
"What were you doing outside my door, Mr. fon Ronsenburg?" the question abruptly left my lips, partially against my better judgment. The man stood his place, appearing not surprised as his eyes held mine.
"Your majesty must forgive me. I seemed not able to fall asleep last night and decided to take a stroll around the palace. As I passed your chambers I found your guard neglecting his duties and dismissed him, taking his place myself."
His official tone was laced with a softness foreign to his usual manner. For a moment I found myself at a loss for speech. My mind was reeling with questions that would not form into coherent sentences as I kept my gaze at his. And there was a glimpse. Briefly as it may have been I thought I saw a soft hue glow just near his pupils. But this was nonsense.
"As you wish, Noah," I broke the gaze harbored between us as my eyes fell. Turning back to my bed I heard the door shut and a sinking feeling settled itself in the pit of my core. Why though I held not the answer. Furrowing my brow as I settled back under the duvet, I could not help but wonder. And wonder did I of those russet eyes.
"My lady, I may be of use to you in any way?" my head lady-in-waiting asked as I tossed aside the notebook that I had been desperately seeking solace in.
In the few days since I awoke I had been confined to my bed almost continuously. Needless to say I had almost had enough of this treatment. I had already argued with the Marquis and the head of my privy council that it was imperative that I return to court, but they had insisted that I stay at least until the end of the fort night. To my glee, tonight would be the last I would have to spend in my imprisonment.
"No, but thank you, Shmi," I gave her a smile as I turned to retrieve cards that were placed on my night stand. Subsequently, I began to lay out my deck as a loud knock on my door stole away my attention. All in my chamber was silenced as Shmi gave me a puzzled look. The clock read half past nine in the afternoon, too late for the Marquis or my physician to be paying me a visit. I conferred a brief nod to Shmi as she stood and opened the door, letting in the man whom I figured it would be.
The light of the fireplace shown and almost danced on his groomed hair, russet eyes flickering in a respectful manner as he stopped a few feet in front of me and bowed. A slight flutter in my lower abdomen nearly caused a hesitation in my speech but was overcome as I addressed him curiously.
"Mr. fon Ronsenburg," my eyes locked with his. He seemed so proper, arms behind his back which was always straight, in an almost arrogant way. He bent forward slightly, his eyes never leaving my own.
"I was wondering if your majesty requested anything more of me before I retire from my post for the night?" his expression never changed, though I could see through the corner of my eyes the expressions of my ladies. Many a night since he first arrived have I heard my maidens whispering of his good looks, how handsome he is, how reserved is actions are. I knew for a time that many a lady at the palace desired him. So why did the fact now seem to prick and tug at my composition? Yet, as long as he was here, and I bored, why not?
"Do you play cards, Mr. fon Ronsenburg?" I gestured he take a seat across from me on the bed.
"You needn't any formalities with me, your majesty," he took his seat and grinned to himself. "And no, not usually."
I half smiled, "As you wish, Noah."
The next few minutes were spent reviewing the rules of poker and dealing cards, all the while exchanging fleeting glances. As much as I detested the past of this man, I had to admit that his attention to me during these past few weeks had earned him a soft spot not many could claim. He learned quickly and was indeed a suitable partner if ever I had one.
"So how has your majesty been feeling as of late?" he asked, his eyes leaving the hand dealt to him to meet my own eyes. I smiled genuinely this time, actually enjoying the time spent.
"Much better, fortunately. I never had the opportunity to thank you, did I?" I looked into his eyes earnestly, searching for a change in them. I found it not, but it seemed his facial features softened faintly.
"For what, your majesty?" he looked down at his card hand and proceeded with the game.
"For the night of my coronation. I barely remember it, but the Marquis informed me that you carried me to my room and stayed by my side until the physician had examined me," I sighed, returning my attentions to the game once again. Even though he hadn't lifted his head, I could feel those eyes watching me silently. I wasn't sure whether or not I enjoyed it.
"Think nothing of it, your majesty. It was in my duty to do so," he responded, setting down his hand and looking up at me. "I concede, my lady, for the clock strikes eleven and I must be off to bed, as should you."
I quickly turned towards the clock, the machine indeed reading such a late time. A cheerless sigh escaped my lips as he stood from my bed, bowing slightly as he strode to the door. Suddenly, he stopped and once again turned to face me.
"I almost forgot, your majesty. Word was received by the Marquis that Al-Cid Margrace, upon hearing of your successful recovery, has set the date and place of the summit to a fort night from tomorrow at the capital city of Barbastella in Rozarria."
I perked up at the statement. I had been longing for word of when it would take place, "Thank you, Noah. The news brings me great relief and pleasure."
And as he bowed and set for the door I could not help but make my decision known, "Oh, and Noah, I am pleased to say that you have been appointed as the captain of my bodyguard while I am in Rozarria. I have spoken to my advisors as well as other sources and they have all agreed to allow you and a few other members of my guard to escort me to the summit."
"It will be an honor, your majesty," he bowed deeply and quietly left.
As the other ladies-in-waiting retired to their adjoining bedrooms, Shmi walked over and began putting away the cards, smiling softly to herself. I furrowed my brow at her in playful suspicion. Shmi, a young window who had lost her husband and young son to the war, was the only one of the lot whom I trusted.
"What is it, Shmi?" I asked, confused as to what she found amusing.
"Oh, nothing, my lady," she teased. "I just think that you've taken a liking to a certain Mr. fon Ronsenburg. I'll tell you the rest of your ladies are quite jealous."
I couldn't help but roll my eyes about the situation. "I doubt it not that Mr. fon Ronsenburg has found some favor with me, but I deem it hardly note worthy."
"Well, time shall reveal all, your majesty. Now, you should rest," and with that she gathered her things and took her leave, my silence and contemplation of her words the only company of mine left for the night.
Author's Note: Review please! Anything is great and fuels my writing more! And again, special thanks to everyone who reviewed my last chapter. :)
