First and foremost, a special thank you to Mountain Cat who helped me sort out the last few chapters. Without her they would not have seen the light of day. I actually had a lot of fun writing these so a HUGE thank you. And, this story needed these last few chapters.
Thank you everyone who is still with me on this journey. As always, it's been a wonderful experience!
Richelieu cocked an eyebrow, stroked his chin, and listened while Treville told Athos' tale of survival. King Louis listened intently: he leaned forward, rested his left elbow on the table, his eyebrows furrowed, and watched Treville continue the story.
The sun's rays entered through the tall windows and cast light across the length of the oak table that was inlaid with mahogany in the shape of two keys crossed at the center. The unused high-backed chairs with spindled arms and carved backs rested against its edge. Two grand paintings hung on either side. The left portrayed the hunt of a wild boar, and the other of a bear. Long sideboards rested beneath each and showcased Venetian glass and decanters filled with varying wines and liqueurs.
Louis leaned back and shook his head as Treville finished. "Leave it to a musketeer to challenge nature and win, captain." He smiled and looked toward an unimpressed Richelieu. "If Count Charles is amenable, we should invite, Madame Eadan and her grandchildren to the chalet," he raised his eyebrows, "Perhaps the maestro will conduct the musicians in another performance." Louis clapped his hands together and stood. "Yes!" He looked toward Richelieu, who now stood. "We'll plan a hunt, with a celebration after in the gardens. We'll roast our prized catch over an open flame and there will be a special performance by our musicians."
Louis motioned to Treville with his hand. "Have your men escort this family — my queen and I would like to honor them for their kindness."
Treville's cheeks tightened as he fought the urge to smile and nodded. "I'll send d'Artagnan and Aramis."
"Good," Louis said. "Good… and I should like to meet with Athos when he is feeling better." He started to walk toward the door and paused. "Armond, we have much to plan — we need to meet with Charles right away — the celebrations will take place in his gardens and we'll roast the prize of the hunt over an open fire. Guests wanting to stay and attend, shall be invited to do so. We'll need wine, lots of wine… Charles has the best collection in all of France."
Richelieu took a deep breath, looked at Treville with a shake of his head, and followed the king.
"Come now, Cardinal, we have much to plan and little time to do it."
Treville chuckled.