Disclaimer: I do not own 'Sofia The First', nor do I own 'Story of Evil' The only thing I own are my characters Caiaphas and Jacob.
A/N: So here's the next chapter. By some miracle I managed to get two in a month :D. Please enjoy.
—-
...Our Futures Were Ripped In Two
The ride to Somerset Village was pretty uneventful. So it wasn't any surprise to Baileywick when James fell asleep during the trip. His dog Rex, resting his head in the boy's lap.
The man smiled kindly at the young prince. James had been awoken early that morning to allow for their departure. So he wasn't the least surprised that the boy would become rather sleepy. He was also pleased to see that his rambunctious canine companion had finally calmed down. The dog had been practically jumping all over the inside of the carriage, clearly excited to be taken on a ride. In all honesty, the steward had started to second guess taking him along. But now seeing the two so content he had to cast those doubts to the wayside. Besides, it would make things easier on James to have at least one of his pets with them.
—-
James was awoken from his slumber by a barking Rex. Who had left his spot on the boy's lap so he could once again stick his head out the window.
Rubbing the sleep from his eyes James followed suit with his dog. Looking around he saw that the carriage had left the village, and was now traveling down the path that would lead to Nigel's cottage.
Continuing for a few more miles, the coach men finally stopped the carriage at a modest looking house made partly of stone and partly of wood. Though it wasn't too impressive in terms of size especially in regards to what the prince was accustomed to. It was certainly more substantial than the dwellings in the nearby village.
"Well, this is it." Baileywick announced stepping out of the carriage. Almost falling out of it when Rex bolted right past him. James helped to steady him, and soon they had both safely exited the vehicle.
As Baileywick unpacked their belongings with the aid of the coach man. James, eager to stretch his legs again, quickly set off in the direction he had seen his dog go off.
The boy found him just on the other side of the cottage where a large open field lay. The energetic hound was bounding happily among the tall green grass. The dandelions bursting in puffs of white seed as he plowed through them.
James laughed at the sight, feeling a bit of ease. He spotted a stick on the ground, and soon the two were both heavily invested in a game of fetch.
As James and Rex busied themselves with play. Baileywick approached to their new abode and knocked upon the wooden doors. He blinked in surprise when there was no answer. He knocked again, a little harder this time, still nothing. Briefly he cast his eyes to the side of the building where Nigel's wagon usually resided. But it wasn't there.
The elder man began searching his person for his own key to the cottage. Although only Nigel had been using it, the cottage technically belonged to both brothers. Though Baileywick's employment had necessitated that he reside at the castle instead. Until today, that is...
Finding his key the man unlocked the door and entered the premises. He stiffened slightly when his eyes made contact with the scene before him.
"Oh dear..." he lamented.
The cottage was a complete mess! Clothes strewn around the room, dirty dishes piled next to the washtub, and several cobwebs hung in the upper corners. And that was to say nothing of the dirt on the floor...
He sighed deeply. Though he was a bit disappointed he certainly wasn't surprised. Nigel had never been as tidy as his brother, and it seemed that the man's bachelor lifestyle had only contributed to that.
Baileywick took in his surroundings once more. Looks like he'd have to get this place cleaned up... He immediately started to work gathering up the laundry.
James came into the cottage sometime after, having successfully exercised Rex to exhaustion. Seeing his guardian cleaning up, he figured he should probably help out a bit. Together the two of them swept, dusted, and did dishes. Baileywick being grateful that at least the task wasn't as monumental as cleaning an entire castle would have been. Finally, after a bit of work, the cottage was what the steward determined to be 'livable '.
Now that they were free from the messy distraction. James took a brief moment to observe the interior of their new dwelling. The entire house was one story, except, of course for the cellar, and a loft to the left of the main room. Which was only accessible via a ladder that was attached to the wall underneath it. Other than that the building boasted a total of just three rooms. There was the main room which served both the purpose of living room and kitchen. The fireplace being situated on the right just opposite of the loft. There were also two bedrooms, as well as the outhouse a distance away outside.
Well, it definitely wasn't home. But the boy wasn't displeased with the place.
As dusk descended upon them, Baileywick took a moment to search through Nigel's cellar for what they might have for supper. Eventually determining that they had enough ingredients for a simple vegetable soup. Ever diligent, the steward immediately started to work on that. While James played with some of the toys he had brought from the castle on the floor. Rex gnawing contentedly on a bone right alongside him.
As the steward began setting the table, they were surprised when Rex suddenly bolted up. Heading eagerly towards the front door. A brief feeling of apprehension passed through them, until the door opened to reveal Baileywick's elder brother.
"Well it's nice to meet you, ya little rascal!" Nigel greeted Rex. Taking a moment to bend down and rub the belly that the dog had offered him.
"Hey Nigel!" James beamed.
"Hello, Prince James. Haven't seen you since Wicky's birthday last year. " the man greeted, "I hope you'll enjoy your stay here."
"Thanks. " James replied, as the man rose to his feet again and made his way over to the fireplace, where the soup lay cooking in a cauldron above the fire.
"Mmm, smells good Wicky!" Nigel complimented as he took a big whiff of the delicious aroma wafting up from the pot. "You always were a better cook than me." he teased, giving his younger brother a nudge.
"Where were you?" Baileywick asked in mild irritation. His arms folded.
"Over at the castle to pick you guys up." the elder man explained casually, bending down once again to pet Rex.
Baileywick raised an eyebrow at that. "Nigel, James and I were supposed to meet you over here."
"That's not what I heard." Nigel shrugged, now rubbing Rex's belly, once again "It would have been nice if I had known though. Perhaps I could have gotten this place cleaned up before you guys showed up. Though it seems you already did a better job than I ever could " he noted looking around at the now tidy cottage.
"Well, I was always better at keeping things organized as well. " Baileywick quipped.
"Ha ha! You're certainly right about that!" Nigel agreed with a laugh.
Baileywick however, continued to stare sternly at his elder brother. The reasons for him and James retiring to Nigel's abode were particularly grave. And when they had arrived at the cottage with absolutely no sign of the other man for hours, the steward naturally had started worry. So to see Nigel brushing off the whole affair so casually actually annoyed the younger man quite a bit.
"Oh come on now Wicky!" Nigel protested, noticing how irritated his younger brother was. "I'm sorry. Can I help with supper?" he offered.
The other man's frown soon upturned into a small smile of forgiveness. Baileywick wasn't one that angered easily after all. Neither was he the type to hold grudges.
"Here, help me set the table. " he instructed, handing Nigel some bowls. The other man happily obliged, and James also offered his assistance.
After supper it was time for bed. It had been long day for each of them, and they were all eager to retire to their rooms for some much needed rest. Of course Baileywick had offered to give his own bedroom to James, opting to sleep in the main room instead. The boy declined it however, showing a greater interest in the loft above the main room...
After much convincing, from both Nigel and James, Baileywick agreed that the young prince could sleep in the loft. Searching around, the men found an extra mattress and carried it up to where the boy would be sleeping. After a little tidying up, and getting his belongings up there, it was now suitable to serve as James temporary bedroom.
James settled into his bed, Rex sleeping on the floor just below the loft. It was a little exciting to be sleeping up there he thought. A small window allowed him a view of the night sky. The whole situation almost putting him in mind of his tree house back at home. Though it certainly wasn't as grand.
As he gazed up at the clear sky, now twinkling with stars, his mind traveled back to the castle and his family. Amber in particular. James recalled how the girl had recently acquired an interest in Astronomy. Even discovering a new star.
The boy took a moment to locate the celestial body, which his twin had dubbed 'Amberina Major'. A small smile forming on his lips when he did.
A sense of peace the boy hadn't felt since his attack began to fall over him. The apprehension from earlier that day having almost dissipated. Though he still felt a bit homesick, and of course he missed his father and sister. He did feel that he would enjoy it here with both Baileywick and Nigel.
Slowly his eyes became heavy, and before long he drifted off into a deep nightmare-less slumber.
—
The summer months passed between the twins separation. Back at the castle things were mostly normal. Slickwell had certainly managed to get things running smoothly again. But the absence of both James and Baileywick was still felt quite keenly. Especially by Amber in regards to her twin. Of course Slickwell was always eager to help cheer her, and the girl soon began to grow rather fond of the man.
The castle staff however couldn't say the same for themselves. Unlike the firm yet understanding Baileywick, they found Slickwell to be a very unpleasant man to work under. And many of them longed for the day when their beloved Baileywick would return to the castle.
In the meantime Slickwell had been spending his time kissing up to Roland, as well as doting on Amber. Though he took a particular interest in the princess. Who slowly began to view him as a sort of confidant. The Enchancian king on the other hand took the flattery all in stride. While he certainly bore no ill feeling for his temporary steward, he still longed for the day when both his son, and old friend would return to the castle.
One day Slickwell insisted that he be the one to attend to an errand in Dunwiddie village. And although he did indeed accomplish what he was sent there to do. In reality he had a far more sinister reason for wanting to travel to there...
After taking a detour from the main road, the steward arrived at an old abandoned house just a little ways away from the outskirts of the village. Checking his surroundings to be sure there were no prying eyes, he very discreetly knocked upon the rotting door, in a very unusual pattern.
The door opened to reveal...darkness. That concealed quite well the figure that reached out to pull Slickwell into void. Ushering him forward and down stairs until they came to a cellar. Which unlike the floor above them was lit with a few candles.
Slickwell smiled as he saw the two men who were waiting for him in the cellar. The first was an older man, whose gray locks and small goatee had replaced the brown hair that had probably once matched his eyes in his younger days.
The other man was younger than Slickwell. With dark blonde hair, blue eyes, and a deceptively innocent looking face. Neither man was exceptionally distinguished in appearance. In fact, one would probably be hard pressed to locate either of them in a crowd. But truth be told...that suited their purposes just fine...
The only sign of notoriety that either of them possessed was that the younger of the two was actually the same man, whom Slickwell exchanged signs with during his first night of employ in the castle.
"It's good to see you again Slickwell. I take it things are going well for you over at the castle." the older man asked.
Slickwell's wicked grin returned to his face. "Very much so! What about you though? Are you pleased with your end of our bargain yet, Caiaphas?"
"Almost..." Caiaphas responded, "though it will take more than a few threats, and an attack to keep that prince from inheriting the throne... Though you did do an excellent job with that last part Jacob." he complimented turning to his younger companion.
"Thank you" Jacob accepted demurely.
Returning his attention back to Slickwell, Caiaphas continued "Still, we should be able to keep both the prince and steward at bay for a while longer.
"Ex steward you mean!" Slickwell corrected with a smirk.
Caiaphas chuckled "Yes, of course. At the end of all of this you'll have the stewardship, and we'll have the kingdom."
About a month before the Enchancian Jubilee Slickwell had expressed to a certain man his desire to be that country's castle steward. He had mentioned it only on a whim, yet he was intrigued when the man said he knew those that could help him achieve his goal. Provided he was willing to return the favor. And although the Rudistanian already had a plan in mind. One which involved bestowing Baileywick with the 'Pin of Klutzenheimer'. He nevertheless agreed to meet with these mystery men.
Thus Slickwell was introduced to Caiaphas, Jacob, and their band of conspirators. After discussing their plans together, they came to the conclusion that they could aid each other in their individual endeavors. Slickwell agreed to join their group and assist them in taking over Enchancia. Whilst they promised to help him achieve the stewardship.
And so they taught Slickwell their secret signs and key words. He promising to abide by the oaths and secrets of their band. Vowing to never reveal their group or the identity of any of its members, no matter the severity of their crime. And they in turn, would uphold him likewise in whatever wickedness he desired to commit.
They collaborated upon a joint plan to achieve both their desires. On the day of the Jubilee, Slickwell was to forego the cursed pin and instead set his sights on winning the favor of the man he wished to depose. Throughout the whole event he strived to appear as both a friend and admirer of Baileywick. Helping him eagerly, and being an all around pleasant person to be with. As well as showing the Enchancian steward his own skills. It wasn't a difficult task to do. After all, his experience with King Magnus had taught him much in the ways of flattery.
Then when his fellow conspirators commenced their attacks on the Enchancian Prince, he was to bide his time until just the right moment. When both the King and Steward had exhausted every other option...and were desperate for any other help...Before taking advantage of the good relation he had developed between that country's steward.
It wasn't hard to convince King Magnus to send a consolation gift to King Roland. The Rudistanian monarch was far too willing to show off the treasures of his kingdom at any given opportunity. And of course Slickwell volunteered to deliver the present himself.
Once he was alone with Baileywick he had been instructed to put the idea in the other man's head that James would be better off away from the castle. Slickwell was hesitant to take the gamble at first. After all, what if Baileywick suggested some one else for the job? His fellow schemers however assured him that everything would work out as they desired...
And indeed it did. Both Baileywick and James left the castle to seek shelter else where. Of course Slickwell still had one more obstacle in the form of Baileywicks favored understudy, Violet. But once Jacob took care of her, Slickwell was a shoe in for the stewards replacement. It seemed that attempting to build good relations with Baileywick during the Jubilee did pay off.
Now as for Caiaphas and the rest of his band. What exactly did they gain in this endeavor? What did it profit them to remove James from the throne line? Well, the simple answer was that they wanted Amber on the throne instead.
After years of observing the twins via the conspirators who worked undercover as servants in the castle. They had come to the conclusion that the Enchancian princess would suit their purposes much better. Although James tended be a goofball, there was a natural sense of justice and goodness in him. One he always fell back on, even if he wavered on occasion. They'd be hard pressed trying to manipulate him...
Amber on the other hand, was another story entirely. Although the girl certainly wasn't what one would call wicked. She was rather vain, as well as prone to flattery and bouts of selfishness. Why there was such a difference between her and her brother was hard to say. Perhaps she had taken the premature demise of her mother harder than her sibling had. Perhaps without the Queen's gentle guiding hand, the girl had taken into finding solace in the vain things of this world.
What ever the cause, it was clear to the conspirators that Amber would make a far better puppet than James. But since she was not next in line to the throne they would have to get her brother out of the way first.
Of course, what they had succeeded in doing up to now was only temporary. They would have to connive more if they wished for this arrangement to be permanent. So when ever opportunity afforded them, they met with Slickwell in secret to discuss how they might need to adjust their plans.
"Oh! I thought you should know. That King Roland's mother is coming over for a visit in a few days. Seems they want to discuss a few things concerning James." Slickwell added.
Caiaphas frowned a bit at that news, "Will the Duchess Matilda be accompanying her?" he asked.
"Not that I'm aware of. " the steward responded.
"Good" the older ma. sighed with relief. If there was one person he feared could put a stop to their scheme. It was the royal twins eccentric Aunt Tilly. Although the woman often gave the impression of being just a tad out of it, Caiaphas knew better. Having known others who were also skilled at feigning ignorance, he could tell that the Duchess was in reality quite observant and clever. If anyone had any hope of exposing their plans, it would surely be her...
Fortunately for them however, the Kings elder sister had been caught up in a few duties of her own that prevented her from returning to the castle for the time being. However, they were well aware she wouldn't be able to stay away indefinitely. Luckily they did have a few plans in mind if she ever did show up. But since subtly was their mission, they would have to be careful if it ever came to actually administering their plans...
"Still," Caiaphas continued on "I had better go to the palace myself during this visit. I think I'd prefer keeping tabs on this event personally."
"Of course," Slickwell said, taking a moment to check the time. "Well, I best be on my way back to the castle. We wouldn't want anyone getting suspicious." He joked lightly.
"Be aware of your surroundings when you leave here." Caiaphas admonished sternly. The steward responded with a quick nod and smile before climbing the stairs to the cellars exit. Leaving the other two conspirators alone once again.
There was a moment of silence between the two, before it was broken by the duos younger member.
"Caiaphas..." Jacob began hesitantly.
"Yes, "
"I was just wondering. I know it's against regulation...but that sorcerer Cedric...I've noticed that he does seem to have ambitions similar to our own. Perhaps we might consider..."
"No." Caiaphas answered firmly. "We'll not have that man involved to bungle up our plans. Magic is far to capricious as it is, even without someone less than competent in it's skill. That was why we insisted that Slickwell forego his plan with that cursed pin. Remember?"
"I know that!" Jacob exasperated, before calming down again. "It's just that...I really don't think he's all that bad in sorcery. Plus even we use a little magic ourselves from time to time."
"Only as much as is required to protect us from other magic." Caiaphas explained patting the sheath on his hip. In which lay his trusted dagger, the tool that has been used in Prince James assault. After cleaning it, he had refused to remove it from it's protective covering. One that was enchanted so as to prevent the weapon location spells Cedric had attempted from locating their target.
There were of course other tricks the conspirators had employed to screw up the Enchancian sorcerer's spells. Such as their method of writing the threatening notes. Each character of a letter being written by a different member of their group. And each note being planted by a different person to add to the charm. With so many different authors of the same message, it was no wonder that Cedric's location spell would go awry. The paper ripping in shreds as it tried, and failed to locate each person who had wrote it.
Of course the fact that the sorcerer was already deemed a bungler by the rest of the castle, meant that no suspicion was lent on this method. Which was all the more advantageous to them...
"As for Cedric, I really don't think that man has any taste for blood. So even if he wasn't a sorcerer, I still wouldn't recommend him for our group." Caiaphas said confidently.
"I suppose you're right." Jacob answered, rubbing the back of his neck. Knowing full well he wouldn't be able to persuade his elder any more on this matter. Though they were both Chief of their band, Caiaphas still ranked higher. And his word was the final one in all their decisions.
Caiaphas let out a heavy sigh, "Magic can't be avoided entirely in our case, unfortunately. Especially when we have potential enemies that make employ of the art. Sometimes we have to get our hands a little dirty. "
"Of course we're not exactly strangers to getting our hands dirty, are we Jacob?" he asked with a slight grin.
One corner of Jacob lips turned up in a crooked smile, "No Sir."
"You did do very well in my place " Caiaphas praised once again, caressing the sheath where his dagger lay hidden. Though it was true Caiaphas would have preferred to be the one to attack James, old age had prevented him. Jacob, in his youth, was a far better candidate. Plus the younger man using a borrowed weapon added an extra layer of protection from magical detection.
"Thank you, though I hope I won't have to do that again anytime soon" Jacob admitted. Truth be told he had barely managed to evade the guards that night.
"Not to worry. We'll be putting your true talents to use here very soon... " Caiaphas assured his younger companion.
—-
As for James, the months he had spent in Baileywick and Nigel's care passed by rather pleasantly. Though he missed his family, he seemed to be thriving under the guardianship of the two brothers. The elder of which often took him fishing throughout the summer. Now free from the threats on his life that had so terrified him, the boy had returned to his normal energetic self. He spent his days playing with Rex, exploring the woods near the cottage, and all around being a carefree child. Honestly, he didn't mind the less than glamorous life of the country. He had always been more of the outdoorsy type, unlike his elder twin.
At one time the thought came to him of their roles being reversed. Amber: living in a cottage, completely bereft of her precious gowns and tiaras. The reaction the princess would have to that, came so clearly to his mind, that he couldn't even suppress his laughter. No, Amber was much better suited to life in a castle.
Baileywick on the other hand was beginning to grow just a little bit antsy. Unlike his charge, he wasn't too taken with the lazy days of the summer. Being the workaholic that he was, he longed to return to his stewardship of the castle. Although he kept himself busy tending to the cottage, and under his meticulous care it had undergone a somewhat miraculous transformation. No longer did it resemble it's true form of a humble peasants home. But rather a suite that royals might use for a rustic yet luxurious vacation.
Still, the man often found himself with more free time than he cared for. But seeing James thriving, as well as remembering his promise to Roland encouraged him to press forward.
One day James was playing with his toy knights, when suddenly a movement out the window caught his attention. Looking out he could see a procession of Enchancian knights stopping in the field that lay beyond the backside of their cottage. Eager to investigate, the boy rushed outside.
"James what's going on?" Baileywick asked. But the boy continued on, ignoring his guardians question. Forcing the man to follow him out to the camp.
James arrived at the Knights encampment to see they had already set up their tents. The prince was impressed though not surprised. His experience temporarily being Sir Finnegans squire, had taught him that knights did their duty both well and efficiently.
Speaking of Sir Finnegan...
James scanned the area until his eyes finally fell upon the portly knight, tending to his horse.
"Hey, Sir Finnegan!" James called with a wave running over to greet the man.
The man turned, brightening a bit when he saw who it was. "Well, well, if it isn't the Little Prince! Haven't seen you since your father bequeathed the Shield of Valor to your aunt. Tell me, are you still set on becoming a knight? "
"You know it!" James said enthusiastically.
"Hmm, well I'm afraid you still have a lot to learn. You haven't even started..."
"Shining your armor!" the boy finished for him, hurrying over to start polishing. "I'll sharpen your swords too."
Sir Finnegan smiled impressed, by the boy's diligence "Well, that's more like it! And to think you'll be King some day as well."
The boy blushed at that as he continued to polish the armor, it's shiny surface seeming to be reflection of the bright future he had in store for him. Casually his eyes fell upon the swords that also required his tending...
It was at that time, for the briefest moment that something passed through him. The sight of the weapon triggered some sort of primordial fear in him as images of a figure holding a bloodied blade came unabated to his mind. A cold shiver ran through his spine, and he seemed frozen in place...
Somehow he managed to force himself to turn away and avert his gaze. Breathing deeply to regain his composure, he focused with all his might on perfecting the armor. He would...he would just get to the swords later!...
—
Back at the castle Grand mum arrived to greet her son and granddaughter. The day was spent pleasantly among the royal family, as they exchanged stories about what each had been doing during their abscence from each other. As well as enjoy a family dinner. The former queen especially took time to visit, with Amber.
However, as evening fell, and after the young princess had been ushered to bed. Roland and his mother took the time to talk about the more urgent matters that had fallen on the castle. The subject they had postponed to allow for a brief reprieve, during their visit. But which they couldn't ignore indefinitely. That of the continued threats on the Grand Queen's grandson...
"...and you still haven't found anything?" she asked Roland incredulously.
Roland sighed with a bit of frustration. One that had grown dull after experiencing it so many times. "I'm afraid not". Unfortunately they had still yet to apprehend anybody in relation to the threats they had been receiving . Plus each time Roland thought that perhaps the criminals had given up their wicked endeavors. They were met again by a barrage of notes, threatening James should he return to the castle. Some of them now written in what appeared to be blood. Indicating that rather than becoming more lenient, they had simply grown more malicious.
Grand mum took a moment to sip her tea, in an attempt to ease her nerves. Staring off a bit as her mind puzzled over the matter. "I just don't understand. Why would anyone want to hurt James? "
"Well Mother, James is going to be King one day. I imagine whoever is sending these letters doesn't want that to happen for some reason..." Roland explained, he stopped though when he saw questioning look his mother had suddenly offered him.
"King? James isn't going to be King." his mother stated, a slight lilt of confusion in her voice.
"Yes he is. He's my firstborn son." Roland insisted, beginning to feel a bit of concern for his elderly mother.
Grand mum continued to stare blankly at him for a moment. "Oh Roland..." she sighed, setting down her tea. "There's something you need to know. Come with me..."
Roland followed his mother until they arrived at the castle library. Once inside, the Grand Queen searched among the records and laws of Enchancia until she had located the phrase that would explain the truth to her son.
"There! It says that the crown is to be passed down from generation to generation. From first born child to first born child." Grand mum read from the book, indicating the passage with her finger so Roland could read it himself.
"Amber and James may be twins. But Amber is seven minutes older" the elderly woman explained, "Which means that she, not James, is heir to the throne."
"But...but that doesn't make sense! " Roland sputtered, stepping back a bit "If that were true, then Tilly would have been offered the crown! "
"Oh she was." the former queen assured. "But she refused and allowed it to pass on to you instead. You know how much of a free spirit she is. She certainly wouldn't have been content whilst tied down to a castle and the obligations of being a Queen." a small smile gracing her lips at the thought of her adventurous daughter.
"But, how come no one ever told me?!" Roland asked incredulously. Still shocked, and feeling just the tiniest bit of an existential crisis at this newfound revelation.
"Because we knew how much you wanted to be King." Grand mum explained gently, placing an assuring hand on her sons shoulder "And that it was the only thing you could do"
Roland rolled his eyes back in thought, "I guess that's true" he conceded. Though it was a lot to take in on such short notice. It didn't really change the way things were in regards to him at least.
As for his children on the other hand, everything had changed...
—-
Unbeknownst to the King and his mother, Slickwell stood without the library, listening to their every word. His teeth gritted in anger as he quickly stormed off to his room. Throwing the door open he glared at the man within.
"You promised me I would be the steward of Enchancia!" he seethed with an abominable energy, a complete transformation of the flattering smiling steward.
The man, who in reality was Caiaphas though in disguise, cringed at Slickwell's display. "Keep your voice down!" he hissed, checking the halls to be sure no one heard the stewards outburst. He quickly ushered the younger man inside, shutting the door behind them so they could continue their conversation in private.
"Now, what seems to be the problem?" Caiaphas asked his fellow conspirator.
"You promised me I would be able to be the steward if I helped you with your plan to keep James off the throne! Well guess what! You got your wish! Turns out the law says Amber is to be queen!" he explained.
Caiaphas blinked in confusion "It does?"
"Yes! Turns out the first born child; (not the son) is the rightful heir. Amber was going to be Queen whether you got James out of the way or not." Slickwell explained.
"I..I had no idea..." Caiaphas confessed, tapping his chin in thought. "Well, I suppose that does make things easier for us."
"Easier for you, you mean!" Slickwell grumbled "But what about me? Now that Prince James is out of danger, both he and Baileywick will return to the castle. And I'll be out of the job."
Caiaphas shot the steward a pointed look "Who said the boy was out of danger? We'll secure your position as Enchancian steward, so long as you keep up your end of the bargain. Have you been building up Princess Amber's trust like we instructed you?"
Slickwell took in a deep breath. "I have..." He said bringing his tone down to appropriate levels.
"Good. You keep that up, and don't worry about the Prince, or Baileywick. We'll take care of them."
—-
Back at the cottage James continued to aid Sir Finnegan with his armor and other equipment. Though he had yet to sharpen the swords, unable to overcome the great sense of apprehension he had around them.
Still, he was glad for the opportunity to practice even the less glamorous knight skills. He was grateful Aunt Tilly advised him that sometimes you needed to buckle down and do even the boring stuff if you wanted to accomplish great things. Even if he had thought she was boring before, the fact that she had tamed a dragon and earned the 'Shield of Valor' certainly elevated her in his eyes.
Besides, even if squire duties were hard and tedious, at least he was doing something he loved. Something that would lead him closer to one of his biggest dreams.
A message was sent to the cottage from the castle. A letter from King Roland, who had a habit of sending one nearly every week. As did Amber. When James returned from helping Sir Finnegan, Baileywick presented the envelope to the prince.
Eagerly the boy tore it open, and read the contents. His face slowly began to change from excited...to confused...to crestfallen as he allowed the hand clutching the note to fall to his side. Baileywick raised and eyebrow as he observed the boys change in demeanor.
"James?..." he questioned, concerned that something terrible had happened back at the castle. The prince handed the letter with lackluster to the man's awaiting hand. Quickly Baileywick pursued it's contents. It appeared to be just a typical letter updating them on their condition, as well as inquiring on James and Baileywick's well being. That was until he came to the part about Amber, who was to be future Queen according to the law.
Baileywick's eyes widened in surprise at the information, he had had no idea that the royal line fell to the eldest child. Mentally he kicked himself for not having known such a thing. But in his defense though, he had only started his employment in the castle during Tilly and Roland's childhood. And, had only been witness to the successions of Roland I and Roland II during his lifetime. The former of whom was a first born child.
The steward raised his eyes from the letter to look at the boy. Who still retained a somewhat forlorn look.
"Baileywick if I'm not going to be King. Then what am I supposed to do with my life?" James asked, searching the man's face for an answer.
The steward sighed, he didn't wish to be insensitive to the boy's feelings. After all, his future had completely changed in a matter of moments. But he also knew that being king, however noble a position it was, wasn't the only thing with the potential to bring much good to the kingdom. Nor was it the only occupation the boy could excel in.
"I'm sure you'll find something." He smiled encouragingly.
"Yeah..." the boy sighed, biting his lip a bit as he thought. His gaze returning once more to the knight's encampment, which had already been packed away as they started to continue on their journey.
James eyes lit up as a newfound determination came over him. Without saying a word the boy rushed out the door, his guardian calling out from behind him.
"Hey, Sir Finnegan!" James called. The knight stilled his horse as he turned to see the young prince running towards him, Baileywick following not far behind. The boy took a moment to catch his breath before facing the man.
"Would you make me your permanent squire?" ,he asked suddenly.
"What?" Sir Finnegan asked, confused by this sudden request.
"James!" Baileywick exclaimed in shock. He quickly tried to reason with the boy. "You can't just become a squire without your fathers consent. After all you still have your education to finish."
"What's the point of going to Royal Prep if I'm not even going to be King?" James asked, exasperated.
Finnegan raised an eyebrow at that statement and shot a questioning glance towards Baileywick. "It's true." the steward confirmed, "It seems the rule falls to the oldest child, who is Princess Amber."
"Ah," the knight uttered, nodding his head in understanding.
"So can I become your squire then?" James pressed once more.
"I'm afraid your guardian is right, little prince. You need to uphold your other schooling obligations first." he told the boy firmly.
James face fell at that statement, and the knight regarded the boy for a moment. A small smile breaking out on the man's face.
"But, if you're really set on becoming a knight. You need only study at 'Chivalry Hall' once you graduate from 'Royal Prep'" Finnegan told the boy.
James eyes lit up once more with a newfound sense of optimism. A fire of determination burning bright in them "Brilliant! I'll definitely go there."
"I look forward to seeing you." the man returned.
The duo bid their good byes to the knight before returning to the cottage. Nigel arrived home from work shortly after. When their usual evening routine had ended, the young prince/future knight was sent to bed.
Baileywick cast a smile in the direction of the loft where the boy lay sleeping. Honestly, he was pleased with the prince's ability to find a new calling in life so well. They had always assumed that James was to be King, so for the boy to make the most of the fact that that was no longer the case was rather impressive. After all, life rarely turns out the way one expects it to. The steward's current situation was certainly a testament to that fact.
The two brothers who inhabited the cottage and served as guardians for James visited with each other for awhile amidst the glow of the fireplace. Finally, Nigel decided to retire for bed himself, whilst Baileywick opted to stay up just a little longer. The younger man had a habit of being both the last to go to bed, as well as the first one up. So as to be able to tend to any last minute or early chores.
Having finished a final sweep of the floor, Baileywick took a moment to reread the letter that Roland had sent them. He frowned however when he came to the passage just below the announcement that Amber was to be queen. A portion he had neglected to read when he had taken to consoling James on the matter.
It appeared that the threats were still ongoing, and Roland had dispatched specific instructions that they were both to remain where they were. The corners of Baileywick's lips turned down at that, it seemed that there were still shadows of despair lurking over the King.
But perhaps he could alleviate them slightly by sharing some good news with his liege. He grabbed a quill and quickly began to pen a letter to Roland informing him of Prince James ambition to be a knight. Glad to at least be able to report some good news on their part.
—-
Roland was ecstatic to hear of James desire to become a knight. Having initially been worried that his son would have taken the news that he was not to be Enchancia's next King rather harshly. So to hear that James was already forging his own path filled him with a sense of pride as well as an assurance that both his children would be able to make the most of their respective futures.
He wished to discuss the matter with Baileywick further, and was beginning to grow a bit uneasy at his primary steward's continued absence. In his last letter he had instructed for Baileywick to return to the castle so they could converse on the matter of James in light of the newfound knowledge that he wasn't to be King. But for some strange reason, the elder man had yet to make an appearance back at the castle...
Perhaps Roland would have taken the oddity into greater consideration. Had not a more pressing matter abruptly consumed his attention.
The feared event that Enchancia had long managed to avoid up until now suddenly hit the Kingdom. Right in the village of Dunwiddie a severe plague of the vuxen disease broke out. Roland, being the beloved and compassionate king that he was, fearing for the well being of his subjects set off to help them personally. Which was probably why, not long after, that he also fell victim to the feared illness.
It started off innocently enough; a parched throat, mild difficulty breathing, and fatigue were the first signs of the ailment. But as time marched on and the chills and fevers began to set in. It became evident that the monarch had already reached the feared point of no return...
—
Roland lay in his bed, nearly too weak to move, already in the final stage of the vuxen disease. Slickwell and the other servants had attended to him faithfully as the illness had progressed . But now, as the king struggled to obtain air with each breath he took, it dawned on him that he was rapidly approaching his final moments.
A sudden bout of panic came over him. Not that he really feared death for himself. If it meant being reunited with his beloved wife, than perhaps it wasn't all that dreadful. But what about his children? What would happen to them after he departed this world?
Slickwell entered the Kings quarters, checking to assure that he was as comfortable as possible. He even made an offer of some warm mild soup. But Roland had long since lost the desire for either food or drink...
Instead, the king took a moment to regard the man before him. Although he was grateful Slickwell's service these past months, he had never really built up the same rapport with him that he had with Baileywick. However, he knew that Amber had grown rather fond of the steward and perhaps that was what really mattered. Especially now that he was prematurely leaving the Kingdom in his daughter's hands. The girl would need some one to look after her, and although he preferred Baileywick; for now he would trust Slickwell to the task whilst the elder steward cared for his son.
With the last vestiges of his strength Roland reached out and grasped the sleeve of the steward's green jacket "Slickwell..." He croaked weakly. The other man ceased his work and held the King's hand. Remaining still and listening intently for what the monarch was about to say.
Roland braced himself, knowing that with his waning vitality he would have to choose his words carefully "...thank you...please...watch Amber...safe...James..Baileywick..home " he managed to utter through raspy voice. Hoping that his request had been conveyed properly.
Slickwell noddedly soberly in understanding, before placing a hand on his heart. "I promise to watch over Amber in Baileywick's stead, until it is safe for James to return home." he swore.
The king nodded slightly, satisfied with that answer. He then took in one last breath, before the light drained from his still open eyes.
Slickwell took a brief moment to examine the newly deceased King. After checking for a pulse and confirming that Roland was indeed dead, he covered the man's face with a cloth and exited the room to inform the other servants.
After relaying the news to all whom he deemed necessary among the staff, he returned to his own private quarters. Where this time, both Caiaphas and Jacob had been waiting for him.
"Is it done?" Caiaphas asked,
"It is."Slickwell confirmed.
"Good, you both did very well" he said nodding to Jacob as well.
Of course Roland had never truly contracted the vuxen disease. In reality, he had been a victim of the men's scheme. Jacob, who had made a show of attacking with a blade so well, was, in reality, quite skilled in the art poisoning. Able to create toxins that could kill a man instantly, or so slowly and subtly that no one would suspect until it was too late. It was his handiwork in fact that had made Violet so ill, that Baileywick was forced to enlist Slickwell's help instead.
After much tinkering Jacob had managed to create a poison that would mimic the symptoms of the vuxen disease. And under his directions, Slickwell had administered the bane by degrees until Roland had succumbed to his demise.
Caiaphas stood up from his seat and paced the room for a few steps. "Well, there's no rest for the wicked, as they say. Jacob and I will discuss the next phase of our agenda with certain key members of our group. And as for you." he purred, turning his attention back to Slickwell. "I believe there's a little princess who will be in need of some consolation..."
—-
A/N: Things got pretty serious here, and they will continue to be so next chapter as well. Still, I hope you enjoyed it. Thank you for reading