AUTHOR'S NOTE: Now begins the rest of the story so sit back and enjoy.

Finally came the day of departure. It had taken our sovereign one year of preparations before this moment.

Alarica stood in front of the portal with everyone behind her waiting, Queen Melisandra, Princess Claryvorra, and a select group including guards and servants. She stood there thinking history may repeat itself but only if we do not heed the lessons that history teaches us. I remember grandmother telling me that two of her favorite servants were lost because they fell through the portal as it was transitioning between doorways. The punishment of banishment is carried through by pushing the guilty through the portal at any given moment just as I had done with Odette.

Alarica took a count of everyone in attendance. All were there except Ernestine. The guard reported that Councilor Ernestine had been awakened and would arrive at any time. She could not wait any longer. The doorways were at random so there was no telling when the proper doorway would appear.

"I would like everyone's attention. I want to remind everyone that it is paramount that we wait for the proper doorway to appear. If we do not, and pass through the portal while the portal is in transition, we will be lost forever without any means of return. Am I making myself perfectly clear?" Scanning the crowd, she saw everyone nodding their head in agreement. Now all they had to do was wait. It should come up anytime now, England, Ireland, Russia, Antarctica; soon, it will be here soon.

Ernestine finally arrived still half-asleep, which meant that the chance of something going wrong increased. She was not paying any attention where she was going, tripping over a floor tile, which caused her to push a guard, creating a domino effect.

"Ernestine be careful. No!! Ernestine!!" Everyone was pushed through the portal.

One year had passed since everyone was pushed through the portal. Alarica thanked every deity she could think of for everyone's safe arrival. No thanks to Ernestine, she thought. After the incident, it was a silent proclamation to shun Ernestine for her ill timing and negligence, negligence for her thoughtlessness as well as negligence for everyone's well being. It was a long time before the members of the household forgave the adviser.

Time had passed and now it was just a matter of getting used to the American mentality, custom, and lifestyle. This would be a hard and difficult task. The two societies are so much different. The Americans were looked upon as chaotic and unfeeling, always in a hurry. The people of Avalon lived a simple life of horse drawn carriages and neighbors reaching out for one another. No matter where they looked, be it the streets or the shops, everyone seemed of the same mentality: cautious. There was a mission to accomplish, though, and it will be done.

Things were going according to plan and were going to work out just as she thought it would. Well, that is what she thought at one time, but now she realized she was being naive. She forgot to account for the male mentality that she would encounter. The quiet whispers, the howling, and the groping were encountered at least everyday, but this was to be expected. Time and patience was what she needed. That and a dagger to be rid of the many hands that touched her private person.

Meanwhile, an eight year old had a report to write on a foreign country. She asked her mother to take a walk with her to view the houses of the representatives from different countries. There at the end of the block was a large house with large wooden double doors. There was a driveway that led to the street cut off by a high iron gate, which, even when the child stood on tiptoes, the top still could not be reached. There was a sign outside on the iron gate that read Avalon. She never heard of it before and thought what a great report that would be. All she had to do was ask someone inside if she could have some information to help her.

There was a guard posted outside the gate. The little girl walked up to the guard to ask, "Excuse me ma'am, but could I go in please? You see, I have to write a report on a foreign country and I can't do that because I don't have any information on it. Could I go?"

The guard replied with a straight face, "I am sorry. You may not enter without an invitation and you must be accompanied by a member of the household." The guard immediately turned to face the street, ending the conversation.

She noticed a car pulling in to the driveway. The gate opened to let the car in and she snuck in along with the car before her mother could grab her. The guards found her, however and, she was immediately escorted off the premises. With a scowl on her face, arms crossed and foot tapping; she stood there thinking of another way to enter. She did not pay attention to her mother's insistence on leaving. There has to be a way to get in there somehow. All I want is some information. I'm just a kid, what could I do? Realizing that maybe another try on another day would be best, she finally calmed down enough to hear her mother and started to walk away. Then, she heard a voice.

"Welcome to the house of Avalon. How may I be of service to you?"

The little girl stopped to turn around and looked up and up and even further up and there she saw where the voice was coming from. Looking up into the eyes of the stranger, she replied, "Hi, my name is Melisent but my friends call me Mel. I'm supposed to do a report on a country. I asked my mama if she would take a walk with me to help me figure out what country. I saw your sign and I told my mama that's it, that's the one. I was going to go and ask if they had any information that I could have. But since you're here, do you?" Giggling, she amended her question, "Oh I forgot, please may I have some information? I tried asking the lady at the gate and she said I couldn't come in without an invitation. Does this mean I have an invitation now?"

Alarica was amazed that such a small child would have so much to say. She felt the child to be gifted with the knowledge of words and well mannered. She had no choice but to reply, "Greetings to you. I am Alarica. Yes, you have an invitation now and I may have some references that would assist you. If you would follow me I will see what there is that I may give to you."

Melisent with a big smile on her face simply said, "'Kay." They all walked up the driveway through the iron gate. As they approached the doors, Melisent was amazed that the doors were so tall. "They must be ten feet tall. Wow, mama, look at how tall the doors are!"

Alarica's eyes left the gaze of Melisent to find a reflection of her dreams. In the sunlight, the golden tresses had a reddish glow that topped a very petite woman who stood well below Alarica's bust line. Small in height and stature with the face of an angel, there she stood: her consors, her next companion. The dreams have come alive--I had been wrong. I had been wrong all along and chose the wrong person to be my consors. Clearing her thoughts Alarica turned around to open the door to let her guests enter the house.

Alarica placed her hand gently upon Melisent's shoulder "Does your mother not wish to come inside?" She asked with a concerned tone, wondering why a mother would let her child be with a stranger. Alarica would never hurt a child, but she was still a stranger.

Not knowing what to say, Melisent shrugged her shoulders and walked back outside to get her mother. She pulled and tugged her mother's hand to encourage her to follow. Finally, mother, toddler, and child walked into the house to join their host waiting for them at the door. Once inside, the mother stood there with hands folded, clutching her toddler's hand. She stood with her head down and feet together by the door, looking a bit like a punished child. The face was expressionless and the eyes an empty green, now that Alarica had a better look.

She knew this would be her next consors. It would not be an easy task to accomplish, but she knew that with time and patience this would be the greatest treasure found in America. The greatest treasures, after all, at first do appear dull and lifeless, but with effort will be the most precious gem anyone could possess. Two fingers gently and slowly lifted the mother's chin hoping the eyes would follow. The eyes turned downcast as the chin was lifted. In a gentle tone she said, "Greetings, I am Alarica. Who would you be?" Alarica was pleased as the woman started blinking, eyes coming into focus upon her.

This woman had asked her a question. She knew she had to answer. When someone asks a question, an answer is expected. However, thoughts of her mother telling her repeatedly that no one wants to listen to a babbling idiot who is not able to speak without sounding like a baby came into her head. She was asked a question though, and fear determined her next decision. She motioned for Melisent to come back beside her. After a whispered conversation, Melisent replied, "My mama told me to tell you that her name is Breanne."

The child answering for her mother confused Alarica. She was always studying American culture and habits but was unaware that this was another American custom. More research was needed to find the answer. She also thought Breanne to be timid which to her did not make sense. The child was bright and lively, but her mother was timid. Alarica was puzzled as to how this could be. Hearing screams for her eminence from her councilor, Alarica closed her eyes, wishing for a hole to appear to swallow Ernestine. "Please accept my apologies and hospitality while I find the reason for the screaming." Bowing at the waist, she said, "Please pardon me." She then walked backwards three steps before turning around to see to Ernestine's execution. On her way out, Alarica instructed Elmira to be sure that her guests were comfortable.

Seeing somebody else approaching, Mel started introductions. "Hi, I'm Melisent, what's your name? This is my mama, Breanne, and my baby sister, Emily. She's three years old. I forgot to introduce Em to the woman that left. She seems really nice."

Elmira escorted them into the study. The study was a large room with a floor to ceiling window that spanned the entire length of the wall. Alarica would be able to see outside, but no one would be able to see inside, being bulletproof helped to provide extra security. Alongside of that was a large built-in bookcase, filled floor to ceiling and wall to wall of various books, both old and new. On the opposite side was the lavatory alongside the wardrobe closet. The desk was a large wooden desk placed in front of the picture window with two leather chairs in front of the desk. Providing comfort for the visitors, a circle of cushions on which to sit surrounded a low table off center on the carpet: if so desired, comfortable chairs could replace the cushions. A love seat by the doorway surrounded by two small tables offered another place of comfort.

Elmira broke their trance as she entered, smiling, "Hi and welcome. I am Elmira. Let me pour you something to drink while waiting for her return." Pouring three glasses for the guests, she noticed the mother standing by the entryway to the study. Both daughters found comfort on the cushions on the floor. However, the mother continued standing by the entryway with her head down and back so straight, nothing would be able to pass between the wall and the woman's back. Elmira was puzzled with this display. She had not seen anything like this before. Alarica had finished speaking with Ernestine and returned to her guests. She noticed the puzzled look on her sister's face and wondered what the cause was. Both sisters met each other's gaze and knew what each was thinking. Elmira had motioned to Breanne to indicate the answer to her sister's questioning gaze. Alarica nodded her head and thanked her for her assistance.

"I go pee pee now!" declared the toddler. Melisent looked around the room to find a bathroom. Spotting one, she said, "Excuse me, Miss Alarica, but Em just turned three years old and she needs to go really bad. Could she use the bathroom, please?"

"Of course she may use the lavatory," Alarica replied, thinking that the mother would still be there standing against the wall. She was proven wrong as she saw the mother assisting the children in the bathroom. Quietly, a conversation was held among the three. Mother and toddler stayed behind in the bathroom as Melisent approached. "Excuse me, Miss Alarica, but it will be nearly lunch time and my sister gets cranky when she gets hungry. Could you point me in the direction of your library or give me the books now so we could go?" Looking up into Alarica's eyes, she amended, "Sorry, forgot again. Please may I have them?"

"Of course you may have them now. The books that I will be giving you are very precious to us. As a show of faith, I would need something of yours that is precious to you. I will keep your treasure safe here with me. I will return your treasure back to you when you return the books to us."

"Well . . . I don't really have anything . . . wait, yeah I do." Melisent reached behind her neck to take off her treasured item. Feeling another pair of hands, she looked behind her to see her mother unclasping the necklace. Accomplishing the task, Breanne gave Melisent her necklace. Holding out her hand, she said, "Miss Alarica, this is my locket. It's the only treasure I have would you keep it for me and I promise that I will give you back your books. The report is due in three weeks and I should be done with the books in about two weeks but I'll give you back your books when I hand in my report . . . If that's okay?"

Alarica stretched out her open hand to receive the necklace. Alarica studied the necklace carefully and placed it in a secret pocket located inside her cloak, with the intention of placing it in a secure location later.

"I know it doesn't look like much but it's my locket. It has our picture inside of it. It's the only treasure that I have." Melisent said shrugging her shoulders.

"This will be fine, Melisent. I will place it in a safe place later. Let us go now to the archives to find the necessary books, shall we?" They both headed in the direction of a large room located directly across from the study. The room was filled to the brim with books. No matter which direction Melisent turned, there were books everywhere. There was a small case with scrolls stuffed inside the cubbyholes and a large table surrounded by chairs in the middle of the room. A light fixture from above provided the necessary light.

Alarica had an idea of what sorts of references were needed as she had studied many of the texts and scrolls herself. Placing the books inside a satchel, she lifted the satchel to judge the weight. "I believe these would give you the necessary information. Would this be too heavy for you?" Alarica asked. Just then, another hand reached out to grab the satchel. Breanne had quietly approached them after finishing with Emily in the bathroom.

Breanne and the girls had a whispered conversation. Melisent stood there, smiling and nodding to what her mother had asked. The three of them were ready to leave. There were things that needed to be done.

Alarica was slowly becoming enchanted to this little mother with such a bright child. Though she was confused, she believed Breanne to have a mother's heart and a beautiful spirit here, unknowingly casting a spell over the sovereign. Perhaps there was a chance to spend more time with Breanne over the afternoon meal, maybe. The queen was always away shopping at the mall. It was something new and exciting for her when she discovered it upon arrival. That meant Alarica was here alone to spend time with someone who would be her next consors.

Never speak when other people are present. No one wants to listen to someone who cannot speak properly without spittle coming out of the mouth. These words were repeating themselves over and over again. Breanne knew it was rude not to respond and to ask Melisent to speak for her, but what choice did she have. Breanne was not able to change the way she spoke. They tried therapist after therapist but nothing worked. So Breanne was taught not to talk to anyone and stay out of the way until everybody was gone. No one would miss somebody that stupid anyway. If she did talk, it meant suffering the consequences that she did not want.

Alarica needed an answer to the question why does she use her daughter to speak for her. Alarica wanted to encourage Breanne to speak for herself but was unsure how to proceed. "Breanne, would you care to stay and share an afternoon meal with me? We would be able to sit and chat with one another."

Breanne panicked, thinking, why does she insist on talking to me. I'm nothing, I'm stupid, and I'm fat. I don't understand. Breanne started to rush out of the house. She did not plan for this to happen. Melisent was supposed to get the necessary information and leave.

Alarica was confused. A moment ago, everything seemed to be as they should have been but now she was not sure. "Breanne, is something wrong? The baby is all right, yes? Breanne, I assure you that when the books are returned to me the necklace will be given back to Melisent. I will keep the necklace safe until all is returned." Alarica had tilted her head slightly in confusion over the events that had unfolded. Alarica focused her will and heard Breanne's thoughts. "I do not understand. You are something because you are a mother and I insist on speaking with you because I would like to get know you better."

Melisent knew her mother and knew what that look meant. That look meant that her mother was scared, thinking that maybe retreat was an answer "Thank you, Miss Alarica, for your help. We have to go now. We'll keep them safe. I promise, cross my heart. Good-bye now, we have to go." Melisent started walking backwards following her mother to the front door and watching Alarica following them.

Alarica was still confused. Even more so now. Things changed rapidly before her eyes not knowing if it was something she had said or done. What confused her even more was the look of fear on all of their faces; not just Breanne's. Seeing that they would bump a table that was behind them she tried to stop them, but failed. Instead, they turned around and ran out the door. Alarica ran after them but stopped, thinking that tomorrow would be a better day. She did not see them the next day or the day after that. Alarica thought the deity to be cruel to deny her this woman.

Three weeks had passed and during that time, Breanne finished the paintings that were to be hung in the local art gallery. Breanne loved to paint. It was her world, her creation, something that she could control: she would become a god when she painted. It was during this time that nothing else existed. The canvas, the paints, and the tools used to create her pictures were all that she needed. Her mother told her she was getting fat, therefore did not eat. She ignored her stomach growling and as long as she was sitting and resting, she did not have any dizzy spells. She had an alarm clock that was set to ring at the times that were necessary to care for the girls. This was her world her existence. Nothing else mattered. After all, nobody wanted to be friends with someone who sounds like a child talking . . . Right?

Alarica was confused and angry. Confused over what had happened and angry that she could not find the answer. Everyone kept their distance in the manor. Princess Claryvorra would sleep with her mother hoping that maybe during sleep her love would spread to her mother and then the mother she knew and loved would be again. Alarica needed to think. She needed to do something, deciding that a walk would be the key. She pulled on her boots, the appropriate dress, and her cloak to ready herself for an adventure. Claryvorra wanted to go along with her mother, wanting to spend more time with her. The princess got herself ready before asking her mother to take her. Alarica agreed and both walked out the door, hand in hand.

They came upon the town square. Alarica stopped suddenly when she saw Breanne sitting at the center fountain. Claryvorra knew her mother had met someone and was confused about the events and was further confused about what had just happened. "Mother, why did you stop suddenly? Is there something or someone that you are curious about?"

Hearing her daughter's voice brought her mind back into focus. "It is her, Claryvorra, sitting at the water fountain. It is she. I thought I would not see her again, but there she is. Come on. I have some inquiries that must be answered." Alarica held her daughter's hand and proceeded to the water fountain.

Breanne looked up and saw Alarica approaching. Breanne got up from where she was sitting and was walking towards the bookstore that her children were visiting, listening to the storyteller. Breanne heard her name called. She thought she would be able to reach the bookstore before Alarica caught up to her. She was proven wrong when she felt a hand placed on her shoulder and that same contralto voice spoke--that kind and gentle voice of the woman she thought she would not see again. Breanne had stopped and did not move did not speak. She did not want to embarrass the kind woman by having a conversation with her out here in public. Her mother would not like that. She kept her head down hoping that Alarica would let go so she could escape inside.

Alarica would not be denied this time. There were too many inquiries that needed to be answered and the only one that had the answers was Breanne. She had found Breanne and was feeling a lot like a panther chasing after its prey; the panther had caught her prey and now to do what needed to be done. To encourage the prey to respond to her without fear was the question, though. Alarica stood there, waiting for Breanne to acknowledge her presence, but nothing came. Alarica let go, hoping that the power of words instead of the power of might would bring about the desired response.

Breanne took the opportunity and had escaped inside. She found her kids and told them to hurry they had to leave now. Breanne started feeling dizzy, the world spinning, breathing hard, hanging on to whatever she could to keep herself upright, her vision growing dark. She tried a few more steps before collapsing on the floor. She awoke in a strange place where nothing looked familiar. It was not a hospital; the room was warm and comfortable, with the smells of flora mingling in the air confirming this. She was on a bed next to a tall wooden cabinet. There was a small workstation in the middle of the cabinet and two large windows behind her, with their drapes closed. There was a love seat under the windows and a wardrobe closet by the entryway. Breanne left the bed and stepped outside to look, but nobody was around. She used this as an opportunity to leave whatever this place was. She had just left the room to find her children when she felt a hand on her shoulder.

"It is good to see you up and about. Please follow me back to the laboratory would you? Please?" Alarica was indeed happy that her newfound friend was awake, but there was something wrong, something that had caused the confusion. She had examined both girls and both were healthy. Melisent was anxious to wake up her mother so they could leave. To anybody else Melisent was over reacting, but to Alarica's experienced eyes, Melisent was preventing her from finding out the truth, whatever the truth is. It had taken quite a bit of effort for Alarica to calm Melisent, who was now resting in the bedchamber.

Breanne was standing there, looking at Alarica saying nothing. She had many questions, none of which would be answered; after all, no one would talk to someone who was not able to speak properly. She did not understand why this woman insisted on taking care of her, why she was being nice to her and, most of all, why she wanted to talk to her. She did not understand. She only knew she had to find her girls and leave. That was all that mattered.

Alarica waited for Breanne to answer. Maybe she did not understand. "Did you understand what I said, Breanne?" Tugging slightly on the fingers as gentle encouragement, Breanne just stood there. "Breanne, you are at my manor with your daughters. Melisent is resting peacefully with Emily. Melisent's unusual behavior has me worried, however, and I was hoping to discuss the situation with you. I need us to go back to the laboratory, though, to examine you properly. The drapes will be drawn to ensure our privacy. Does that answer your fears?" Alarica lifted her eyebrow, waiting for an answer.

Breanne did not think she had a choice. She had to answer. She needed to do what this woman said in order to leave. She did not want to risk the consequences. She looked around for paper and something to write with. She would not be able to speak, but she could express herself with pictures. The pictures displayed a message where are my girls? Are they sick? Breanne's arms immediately came up to defend her against the beating she knew would follow. It always happened. Her mother never liked it when Breanne answered in this manner.

Alarica was still confused. No matter how much encouragement she used, she could not get Breanne to give a verbal answer. Was Melisent protecting her mother? Alarica reached up to gently place her hands on Breanne's arm to lower them, saying, "Breanne, you do not need to protect yourself. Everything is all right. I promise. Lower your arms now so we may proceed to my laboratory."

Breanne opened her arms just enough to see what sort of reaction she would receive. She was used to being teased and beaten, but accepted like this was new. Was she being accepted? Was that a smile she saw? Using the smile as encouragement, she slowly lowered her arms, though she immediately put her hand over her mouth.

Alarica urged Breanne ahead of her to proceed towards her laboratory. Alarica closed the drapes behind her. "Breanne, I need to see you. You have nothing to fear. I will not hurt you out of anger or taunt you. There is a reason why you collapsed inside the bookstore and I need to find out why. I am a skilled healer. Everything I am doing I will describe to you as I am doing it. Do you understand?" she gently asked. Breanne nodded her understanding.

"I will now proceed to take off your clothing. Lower your hand, please." Alarica gently tapped Breanne's hand and smiled, waiting for Breanne to respond. Breanne slowly lowered her hand. "I need you to raise both arms with the fingertips reaching for the ceiling." Breanne looked up to see if there was anything hanging from the ceiling that could be used for torture. Seeing nothing, she raised her arms slowly as Alarica removed the sweatshirt that she had been wearing. "I will now remove the trousers that you are wearing." Breanne immediately closed her legs as tight as she could, not knowing what would happen. Alarica saw this and said, "Relax your legs, Breanne, and let the trousers fall. Your lingerie will stay on."

Alarica started rubbing Breanne's hips in an attempt to comfort Breanne and to encourage her as well. Breanne took in a deep breath, tensed her body, and let the trousers fall. She immediately clutched herself as tight as she could to help protect against the beating she was sure to come. Closing her eyes as tight as she could, she stood there listening to Alarica pick up the clothing that was left on the floor. She felt hands rubbing her shoulders. "Breanne, I need to see your body. In order to see your body I need for you to relax. It works best if you relax yourself. If I gave you something to help you relax, the tests may not give me true results. Relax, Breanne; it is just you and I." Alarica continued to rub Breanne's shoulders, feeling the fear take hold of Breanne as she started to shake. Alarica started to sing in an attempt to relax Breanne. Breanne knew the beating would start. Her mother would tell her the same thing. The paddle, where was the paddle? Why was she singing? Opening one eye, she saw Alarica standing there, singing and rubbing her shoulders. Mother never did that. Breanne slowly let go and opened both eyes, watching a smile come over the woman who had shown Breanne something she never thought she would ever receive: respect.

Alarica examined Breanne and found the possible reason for Breanne collapsing. Breanne was far too skinny. "Breanne," she started as she reached into a closet for a robe, "Breanne, I have examined both of your daughters. Both are healthy and well cared for. However, I wish the same for you. You are malnourished, as evidenced by the shape of your body and the fact that you collapsed inside the bookstore. I can visibly count each and every one of your ribs, Breanne. That is not something that I would not find on a healthy body," Alarica said while placing a robe over Breanne's body. "I am not sure which paddle you are speaking of and I was singing you a lullaby. My mother would sing me a lullaby when I was not feeling well."

The robe was soft and warm and she could not help but to enjoy the feel. Alarica smiled, seeing her friend relax at last. "Melisent was quite concerned over your well being. She tired herself out struggling with me. She saw reason, I think, when I told her it would be better if her mother were to stay here with me so I may take care of her because I am a trained healer rather than go to a hospital. Here, everyone would be comfortable and well cared for. She is now resting after crying herself to sleep, feeling a failure, I think."

Breanne turned around to find a paper and a pencil, just something to write with to draw a picture. Finishing a rough sketch of the question,how do you know what I'm thinking? Nobody is supposed to know what I'm thinking.

Alarica slowly placed her hand upon Breanne's shoulder. Breanne misinterpreted the action and thought Alarica was finally going to give her the beating she was expecting. "I will not hurt you, Breanne. I do not know who has done this to you. To cause such fear within you! I will not hurt you. I know what you are thinking because I am able to see to hear your thoughts. You will not speak to me so I must find another means of communicating with you."

"Breanne, I believe you to have a musical voice. Please speak to me. Here in this house of Avalon, it is considered rude and a sign of mistrust, using someone else to speak for you. Remember, I am able to see and hear your thoughts. Until you decide to speak to me, that is how we will communicate. I will voice my thoughts and I will read yours. I am the only one in this house that is able to do this. No one else, not even my mother, has this ability. Do you understand what I am saying?" Alarica said.

Breanne nodded her head in understanding. Breanne brought her hand up to cover her mouth in a nervous gesture. Alarica slowly and carefully lowered it to grasp its partner in front. No one wants to read my thoughts cause I'm stupid. I just want to go home. I'm sorry for causing so much trouble.

"There is no reason to apologize. I was merely puzzled about Melisent's behavior. The other issues will be addressed later." Alarica stood there thinking of a way to inquire further. However, she thought that maybe it would be too much for Breanne right now. Alarica was starting to regard Breanne as a fragile treasure that must be protected and cared for.

Her thoughts were interrupted by Ernestine, screaming for her eminence. "I am sorry, minime uni, but Ernestine is insisting that she speak with me about the state of my negotiations with the American President." Alarica blew out a breath as she lowered her head to gather what strength she could to prevent her from hurting, or better yet killing, Councilor Ernestine. Alarica felt a kiss placed on her chest. She looked at Breanne as a smile was forming

Maybe she is just lonely Breanne thought, looking into Alarica's eyes, seeing a smile form on the face that not a moment ago was looking very angry.

"If she is lonely, that would be her own doing. Please pardon me while I speak to Ernestine. Make yourself comfortable. I will see to it that a platter is provided for you, soft foods to start with," Alarica walked towards the doorway to open the drapes.

As Alarica started opening the drapes, she heard Breanne's thoughts. I'm fat, though Breanne thought.

Alarica suddenly stopped to turn around and face Breanne. "We will discuss that later. Not another word about you being fat. I will return. This will only be a moment." She continued to the doorway to open the drapes. Breanne stood there, watching Alarica leave the room, not knowing what to think or what to feel. She was told she was too skinny and she was not hurt. This was not normal. It had to be too good to be true.

Breanne closed the drapes again to give her privacy to change. Meanwhile, Melisandra had returned home from her excursion and had seen the closed drapes. She thought she would surprise Alarica, have a little bit of fun, and show her the new lingerie that she had purchased. Breanne was pulling on her pants as the drapes were suddenly opened. Seeing a stranger come into the room, Breanne panicked and started screaming. Alarica heard the screams and knew that it was Breanne. Alarica rushed back to her laboratory to see Melisandra at the doorway, just standing there while Breanne was screaming.

Alarica shoved Melisandra aside without saying a word. Melisandra reacted and saw Alarica, her sovereign, her love, care for this stranger. Melisandra was puzzled. Who was this woman? In addition, why would Alarica take care of her? Was this woman seducing her wife away from her? She wanted answers. She wanted them now.

"Who is this and why are you taking care of her? I demand an answer!" Melisandra yelled from the doorway. Alarica ignored her to see to Breanne's well being. Breanne relaxed a little and pulled on her pants as they had a private conversation. Breanne left the room to find her daughters. Alarica watched her leave the room and then turned her attention to Melisandra.

"You demand an answer do you? You have been spending too much time visiting the market place. This is your station. I thought you were aware of your duties, but I was wrong. Tonight you will relearn everything that a queen, the mate for the sovereign, is to do. You will relearn everything." Alarica replied with a cold smile. She was angry that Melisandra destroyed something that she worked so hard to build.

Melisandra was still angry, though, and retorted, "I will speak to you that way because I am the queen. Did you forget who I am? Do you need a reminder? I came back early because I wanted to share love as only two mates can. Who is she?" She did not realize that Alarica was getting angrier as Melisandra spoke to her in such a manner.

Alarica snatched the bag from Melisandra and set it on fire by a simple touch. She lowered her voice and spoke, "Was that it? Is there anything else? No? Good, then listen very carefully. I will speak slowly and carefully so even you may understand. We will have a discussion after the last meal to be followed by a sparring session after the morning meal tomorrow. I will not wait for you to awaken. If you are not awake, I will wake you up, and if I have to do that . . ." Alarica abruptly turned to leave the room to look for Breanne, leaving behind a stunned and angry queen.

Melisandra knew that tone well. It was not when the sovereign yelled that someone needed to fear; it was when the sovereign spoke softly so only the person for which it was intended would hear. That was what happened and now Melisandra was scared, very scared, for more than one reason. Perhaps, maybe, there was a possibility that the sovereign could be distracted. The sovereign was a woman, after all.

Breanne found the girls in what looked to her like a room for a princess. Large cushions on the floor with thick blankets on top ready for someone to slumber. All lined up along the wall was a tapestry, a beautiful tapestry with visions of magical creatures. The walls were a warm brown, giving the feeling of comfort and warmth. There were French doors with sheer linen curtains leading to a balcony, an entryway that led to a double sink washroom with a wardrobe on the opposite side, large enough to hold clothes for everyone in the manor. Inside the wardrobe were many drawers and cupboards, without any handles or knobs. Maybe this was somewhere to sleep. I have to get the girls.

Alarica found Breanne in the bedchamber waking up the children. Alarica wanted them to stay to be sure everything and everyone was all right. She quickly and quietly walked toward Breanne to stop her from waking up the children. She knew that as soon as the children were awake they would leave. She placed her hand gently on Breanne's arm to get Breanne's attention. Breanne felt the hand placed on her arm and immediately moved into a position to protect her children. She did not bother looking to see who it was. She just assumed it was her mother. Alarica gently patted Breanne's back to get the attention that she wanted. Breanne instead clutched the children closer to her in an attempt to protect them.

Melisent was awake with Emily crying. Melisent did not understand what was going on. She turned her head to see why her mother was trying to protect them. Melisent slipped out from her mother's grasp to stand in front of her mother. Breanne quickly grabbed Emily and stepped out in front of Melisent in a protective stance. Alarica was stunned and knew that her efforts for the day were forgotten. She stopped immediately to kneel on the floor in front of Breanne lowering herself to a less fearful position. Breanne took this opportunity to run away with her children. Breanne knew that the beating would eventually come; it was only a matter of time. As they ran away, Alarica stayed there, kneeling on the floor.

Breanne and the children made it back to the house in time to get ready for tonight. This was the night that her pictures were going to be showcased at the local gallery. Breanne made previous arrangements with her neighbor to care for her girls. Breanne knew she was going to be late tonight so she prepared the girls to stay the night at her neighbor's house. She and the girls were ready to go. The girls were dropped off at her neighbor's house before she left for the gallery.

It was a splendid evening as the patrons viewed her pictures. Comments such as, what wonderful use of color and I feel as if I am a part of the picture were heard all around. "I will not pay a penny below 15,000" she heard someone say. Breanne came home very late, having had a successful night. All of her paintings sold. All of her babies found a home and for that she was very happy, not because of the money but because her babies will be admired by someone who cares.

Everything was quiet at the house of Avalon. Not out of exhaustion, but from the fear of angering the sovereign even further after everything that had happened. After the last meal, everyone readied themselves for sleep. The sovereign escorted her queen to the archives to review the Scrolls of Protocol with orders to reread and study everything. The queen would be tested in seven days. This was followed by a lengthy lecture on proper behavior for a queen to follow when addressing her sovereign; sleep did not come until very late that night.

Alarica woke up as the sun rose the next morning her wife still snoring. She picked up a pail of water to pour over her wife to awaken her; she had been warned. Melisandra woke up suddenly, spitting out water and sputtering about who would dare wake the queen in such a manner, only to look up to see the sovereign holding the pail in question. The queen got up reluctantly, swallowed her pride, and retrieved a towel to dry herself off. She was dressed immediately and a weapon of the sovereign's choice was placed in her hand. It was not a sword and for that, she was grateful. However, that only meant she would not have any cuts. It was a long staff, a weapon she felt confident using but nowhere near as competent as the sovereign. She knew she would be sore for days, for weeks even. Seduction did not work the night before as she had hoped it would. She knew the sovereign would adore her in the lingerie that she bought. It was pointless now. The sovereign would hear about this. She would talk to her mother and tell her all about what happened.

Alarica's patience was thin at best and Melisandra always stretched it beyond its braking point. She knew the queen would talk to her mother and tell her mother a story worthy of folklore. She was prepared for this. It was a short match that ended with the queen on her back unable to regain her stance. Alarica put her weapon away, undressed herself, and lowered her body into the warm and inviting bathing waters, thinking only of Breanne. Alarica rose out of the water to be ready for the day noticing her body clear of any mark. Smiling with pride, she continued towards her study as she saw her queen enter the manor looking rather haggard after only a short match.

There was a knock at the door to the manor. Alarica left her study to find out who would be knocking on a weekend: no one as far as she knew, especially on a Sunday. It was Breanne with her daughters. Alarica stepped aside with a bright smile, "Breanne, it is good to see you. I hope you are well today. Please come inside and tell me how I may be of service to you."

Melisent approached Alarica "Good morning, Miss Alarica. I came back here to return the books. I am returning them just as you had given them to me. Thank you very much for letting me borrow them. They were very helpful and fun to read, not at all like the boring history books we have to read." Melisent held out the satchel that contained the books.

Alarica took the satchel and placed the strap around her shoulder. "Come with me back to the archives. We must return them back to their rightful place." They walked across the hall into the archives. Alarica had placed the books onto the table "Thank you for returning them. They may rest here until someone else is in need of them again. You are probably one of very few people who thinks of these books as fun to read." She motioned for everybody to leave the room and escorted them to her study so she could return Melisent's locket.

Melisandra had left the bathing room looking not much better, just clear of the debris. Melisandra noted the smile on the sovereign's face and thought that maybe she did have a chance. It was only a matter of time. Melisandra's maidens dressed her to appeal to the sovereign. She found her in the study. Turning towards Breanne, Melisandra said, "Leave us, you have no business here. Get out, barbarian." Melisandra then turned towards the sovereign with a smile on her face only to find that the sovereign's face no longer showed any signs of love but anger. Breanne started urging the girls to leave the room but there was a hand on her shoulder, stopping her.

"Breanne, Melisent, and Emily, please pardon Queen Melisandra. She has forgotten court etiquette. She has proven to me that she is unable to behave appropriately." Alarica explained as she looked at the eyes of her queen. Alarica shrugged her shoulders slightly as Melisandra left the room quite angry.

A large smile was forming on Alarica's face as she sat down beside Breanne on the floor. Breanne attempted to leave the cushions to stand in a more appropriate spot, only to find her hand grabbed suddenly. Breanne stopped to see who it was. Alarica was still seated, smiling up to Breanne and holding her hand. It worked once before, it might just work again.

This is it; this is the time to beat her for being among smart people, and to beat her for allowing the children to be among the adults. Panic was starting to take hold as it manifested itself with shaking and the empty eyes that Alarica wished would disappear, to be replaced with warm and happy eyes that would sparkle as bright as the northern star. The shaking could not be seen, only felt. Alarica felt the shaking and was growing concerned.

"Breanne, please be comfortable. I will return momentarily." Alarica said with hope to soothe and quiet the shaking. She rushed to her laboratory to make tea and bring back the robe Breanne liked so much. Returning as quickly as she could she found Breanne beside the entryway, standing as she did when they first met each other. "Breanne, this is tea. I put honey in the tea for a little sweetness. I have the robe that you liked. This will help to keep you warm."

Alarica had never lied to me before so why would she start now? Breanne told herself. It could be a lie. Instead of honey, it was a drug and the robe was meant to tie her up. It had to be a lie. Breanne pleaded as she saw the robe coming around her.

Alarica heard the pleas and they shattered her heart. A simple gesture of love and care was sounding like torture. Alarica continued to place the robe over Breanne very slowly and very carefully being sure to be very gentle. She started singing the lullaby that she sang for Breanne the day before. Slowly Breanne started to relax just enough to allow Alarica to wrap the robe around her. Alarica did not tighten the robe, however, leaving it to hang loosely around Breanne. Alarica picked up the cup of tea from the table. Properly trained healers would always test the temperature of the tea before giving the tea to a patient. This was done by holding the cup fully inside of their hands. The tea would be comfortable to drink, she thought. To further test the tea, she dipped the tip of her pinkie slightly inside the tea to be sure of the proper temperature. Alarica took this opportunity to be sure the tea would not drip from her finger. "The tea is just right, I think. Properly trained healers are able to make their own tea. The tea is tasted to be sure of the right ingredients and the temperature is tested to be sure that the tea is not too hot to drink. It looks poorly upon the healer to have their patient's tongue burned," she said.

Breanne saw Alarica put some in her mouth. Alarica would not drink something that she poisoned or drugged after all. "What? I do not understand. Drug the tea? Breanne, I am a healer. The tea is not drugged. Please, Breanne, drink the tea. It is honey that I used." Alarica continued to hold the cup at Breanne's eye level, waiting for Breanne to take it. Breanne's hand came up to its usual place with the other hand shaking to take the cup.

Alarica slowly reached for the offending hand to hold it within her own, smiling as she did so. Breanne was still waiting for the beating she was certain was coming when she was reminded about her hand. It never came. She slowly lowered her gaze to the cup of tea that was sitting on the table. Not sure about the reaction, she slowly moved her hand to pick up the cup of tea watching for any reaction. She saw a smile appear on the face that only showed love and concern. Breanne drank the tea, watching Alarica over the rim of the cup. After finishing, she replaced the teacup back on the table beside her.

"How was the tea? Not too bitter I hope." Seeing Breanne shake her head back and forth was a good sign. "That is good. It means the leaves are still young and full of flavor. Please, Breanne, come and sit on the cushions. It would really be more comfortable than standing here by the doorway." Alarica tugged lightly on Breanne's fingers as encouragement for her to follow. Breanne moved from the doorway to walk stiffly to the cushions. Alarica wondered why and started inspecting Breanne to see if there was anything wrong. Bells went off in Alarica's head as her hand found the wet spot on Breanne's seat. "Breanne, how would you like to take a bath? While you are bathing, I will find a dress for you to wear while your clothes are being laundered." Seeing embarrassment on Breanne's face, she wrapped her arms around Breanne, called the girls, and walked behind Breanne to avert any body's gaze as they moved towards the bathing chambers.

Alarica entered the pool after the girls, holding her arms out, encouraging Breanne to come in. The hand found its way again as Breanne stepped around to go into the tub. "Breanne," Alarica said, tapping Breanne's offending hand. Breanne immediately lowered her hand. She stood there looking around the room, Alarica started to make Breanne comfortable before leaving to find a dress. After seeing that Breanne was comfortable she left the bathing room after reminding Breanne that a dress had to be found. Hearing joy and laughter Alarica was certain that everything was going to be all right. Taking a last peak before leaving, she went into the bedchamber to head towards the wardrobe.

There they were: Odette's clothes. By tradition all that Odette wore or touched was burned. Alarica made sure to separate what Odette wore and what she did not wear. The clothes and everything else in Odette's possession that was touched by her was burned or destroyed. Odette did not touch these possessions. Odette and Breanne looked very similar but their nature was so vastly different. Finding the right dress, she put the rest away to be used later. Alarica left for the archives to see if her queen was indeed doing what she was supposed to do. Instead, she found her asleep on the table. Alarica poured herself a glass of water and, moving the scrolls away, she poured the glass over Melisandra. Melisandra woke up, suddenly screaming, to see her sovereign standing there with her eyebrow raised. Taking the hint that was presented to her, she continued studying the scrolls.

Alarica re-entered the bathing chambers to see everyone splashing and laughing. "My intention is not to interrupt. However, one of many lessons I learned was all good things must to come to an end."

"That was probably the easiest lesson you learned." Alarica heard the voice and knew to whom it belonged. She was delighted to hear her mother's voice and be in her presence again.

"Breanne, Melisent, and Emily this is my mother, Leonessa." Alarica said, full of joy. Alarica looked towards the tub to see the girls excited and happy, but Breanne had returned to that frightened state. "Mother, would you assist the girls please while I attend to Breanne? Claryvorra would be delighted to be with someone similar to herself and Emily would fit the baby clothes of Claryvorra." Alarica thanked her mother, hung the dress on a hook by the door, and walked over to the tub to assist Breanne in exiting the tub. Alarica held out the towel to wrap it tightly around Breanne as she moved towards her. Breanne looked at Alarica and just waited.

Reading Breanne's thoughts, Alarica replied, "It will be all right. She is my mother, who no doubt heard my mother-in-law complaining about how cruel her daughter's spouse is. Melisandra is my wife only by marriage. We do not follow the same customs as Americans in many ways, especially marriage. Melisandra has been . . . reluctant . . . in her duties and has been complaining to her mother about the cruelties she is suffering. You have to understand that Melisandra tells her mother the truth as only Melisandra sees it. This may or may not be agreeable to everyone." As Alarica was talking to Breanne about this, she was dressing Breanne at the same time. Height was similar as Odette and could use some alterations here and there but she believed that when Breanne was at proper weight she would fill the dress very nicely.

"I should tell you something. I need you to listen to me. I am Sovereign Cyan Alarica with Queen Melisandra and her Princess Claryvorra. We have come to America from Avalon to seek an alliance with the American President. My grandmother tried to form an alliance many years ago but failed. I am here to succeed where she had failed. The dress that you are wearing belonged to my consors, a consors that is no more; she is but a distant memory. Mother Leonessa was the queen and mate to mother Camilla who was the former Sovereign Cyan of Avalon. Mother Camilla has been dead for five years. She died of an illness for which there was no cure. Because I am the eldest, I am to hold the throne. All of which that I told you is true. Melisent has read only a small portion of our history. I only ask that you understand." Alarica finished with a pleading undertone directed at Breanne.