(A/N – Sorry it's so short. Promise the next chapter will be longer!)
Amaya stood silently in their bedchambers… alone. She almost laughed to herself at the image. It was her wedding night and her new husband had snuck off to his realm for a few items that he had left behind.
A small shiver ran through her. What were these items, and why was he in such a haste to fetch them? The princess gently sipped the wine that she had poured a while ago. Wine she didn't doubt would make the reunion with her spouse a little easier.
At her side Cath purred a soft reassurance. He seemed content, laying on the deep red pillow near the doorway. He perked up as a floating eel slithered into the room. A deep, low growl escaped as he leapt playfully after Xerxes, much to the creature's discontent.
Giggling Amaya lifted the kitten into her arms, cuddling him close, "Where is Mozenrath?"
"Mozenrath coming."
"But where is he now," she asked, a hint of concern touching her words.
"Mozenrath is coming soon!" he snapped, floating just out of her reach.
"Xerxes!" she said, sternly stepping forward. "What is it my husband is seeking."
The eel felt a twinge of fear. The young woman before him was emitting a strong aura of power and darkness. He wanted to lie, wanted to protect his master…
"Just a potion…"
"A potion?" she asked, looking down. Something was wrong. She left the kitten slip to the floor as she moved to his chest.
"Stop!" Xerxes yelled diving to land before the latch. Cath took his tail between his feline fangs and began to run into the hall, a cry of pain following them.
Throwing the sorcerer's clothing on to the floor and then digging beneath his books she found it, a small collection of papers detailing potions which helped to preserve life. They seemed well used and worn. At the bottom of the stack was a spell… a spell that detailed a more permanent solution.
Gasping she dropped the papers stumbling back. Tears burned her eyes for a moment. He needed her to declare war, so there was some safety left for her. But soon, very soon, he may not have much use for his dear wife.
"What's this, Deathly Queen?" came a cool voice from behind as the papers floated back into the chest. "What did you see?"
"Is this all I am?" she asked, her voice icily calm.
"Of course not, you are also my way of getting revenge," he said with a laugh. Turning to face the man behind her she threw the dagger from his chest towards his face. It came within inches of him but stopped mid-air and fell to floor noisily. "Now now, control your temper…"
Her eyes grew cold, "Yes, husband. If you'll excuse me, I need to prepare for my wedding night and pleasing my husband."
She bowed, and slipped from the room. She had some time yet. And she knew just the person to teach her what she needed to know. As she passed her military advisor she stopped for a moment, "Those from Agrabah are to leave at sunrise... Make sure they feel like they have had a wonderful send off. I want it to be a shock when our flaming arrows light their bed chambers on fire."
A cold smile crossed over her lips as she left for the gardens.