Chapter 3
Arciana slipped the elegant deep purple nightgown over her head, allowing it to slip over her form before adjusting the straps on her shoulders. It was a little tight, but not uncomfortably so. Arciana's only complaint would have been the amount of cleavage it exposed, but at least it wouldn't show her matching purple undergarments. Harold had left moments before without another word. She herself did not know what she could possibly say to him. So after she was dry she just allowed him to leave so she could have time to think. Arciana picked up the hair brush on her vanity, sitting down to face the mirror as she began to pull the brush through her freshly washed raven hair. Unlike most slaves, former or otherwise, Arciana was accustomed to counting strokes while brushing her hair. Probably because her eight years with her birth family had drilled a few small things into her head; Queen Katherine had been very strict when it came to beauty. She was already on her 769th stroke when there came a knock at her door.
"Come in," Arciana called, never looking away from the mirror. She could see the door opening in the mirror's reflection. Cautiously, Brady entered the room, closing the door behind him. "I was wondering when you'd come," Arciana said, finishing her 800th stroke. She put the brush down, promising herself to do 1200 strokes tomorrow to make up for it, although while with Lord Paul, she'd rarely had the time to even make it to 100 before someone called for her. Then again, she was usually lucky to be allowed something so simple as a hairbrush to begin with while under that horrid man's control.
"I wanted to give you plenty of time to finish your bath," Brady stated. "Mind if I have a seat?"
"Go for it. You're the King after all," Arciana replied with a slight smile, now sitting sideways in her chair so she could watch him. Brady smiled as well, taking the desk chair and turning it to face her before sitting down. "So, what did you want to talk about?"
"You," Brady answered bluntly. Arciana frowned, nervously turning back to her mirror. Perhaps she would finish those last 200 strokes after all...
"Me? What's there to know about me? I'm just a slave girl," Arciana stated, picking up her brush and resuming her counting. Brady sighed, fearing she was pulling further away. He noted her continuous brushing, remembering how Isabella had always been so careful to count out at least 1000 strokes even when she was little. Arciana did not present herself like a normal slave, but he could not press his luck.
"Well, I've told you much about me and my past. I just thought it would be nice for you to return the favor and tell me a bit about the person who knows more about me then some who've known me my whole life. But if you're not comfortable with that..."
"No, I'm not," Arciana said more sharply then intended. She had to stick to the plan. She couldn't grow any closer to Brady, least she shatter what was left of his soul. "Look, I really don't want to talk about me, or hear any more about you and your past, so..." Arciana paused when she saw his reflection in the mirror as he stood, a dark, deeply hurt and disappointed expression on his handsome face.
"You needn't say any more, I get the idea. I will leave you in peace now. You can have Harold arrange for your departure in the morning," Brady said coldly, trying so hard to conceal the pain he was feeling. What a fool he was to think this girl, a mere stranger whom he'd just met, would be his savior from his torturous life of solitude. She was no different then all the others, only she rejected willingly. As Brady moved swiftly to the door, Arciana panicked. She couldn't let him leave like that! Not when he looked so devastated; the point of her statement was to keep him from harm, not cause him harm.
"Brady wait!" Arciana called, turning to face the door before his hand reached the door knob. Brady turned to her, too disappointed and broken to feel any hope that maybe she did not mean what she spoke. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to upset you. I just... think it would be best if we not get to know one another so deeply. I'll be leaving in the morning, and I probably will never see you again." Arciana couldn't help but feel, and sound, disappointed that that was the way things had to be. Though she'd only known him a few short hours, she found herself desiring to never leave his side, to let him take away all the pain she felt inside. The emotion scared her, for she had grown wise enough to keep to herself and never trust in anyone. Yet this man, the son of the very man who was the cause for all her suffering, had within a few short hours somehow made her willing to throw all those beliefs and insecurities out the window.
"You don't have to leave in the morning you know," Brady stated slowly. Perhaps there was still hope. He'd known within an instant he wanted her. Not just her luscious body, but all of her, mind, body, heart, and soul. He had so many fears and doubts, but all of those melted away with the feeling of completion just being in her presence gave him.
"Yes, I do," Arciana said sadly. She had to, to protect both their hearts. This wasn't right. They couldn't be anything more then acquaintances. For starters, they had just met, and were total strangers to one another. But worst of all, she was the daughter of his greatest enemy. She couldn't be feeling such things about a man she could never be with; Brady's heart couldn't take one more blow, and neither could hers. She would rather feel like an empty, emotionless void then open herself up to more torment.
"Why? Am I honestly to think you really have anywhere to go?" Brady asked. Arciana paused. Where could she go? Not Rubino for sure, and most certainly not Mucche. Where did she have left to go? "Well, do you?"
"No, I don't have anywhere to go," Arciana replied, lowering her head.
"So why can't you stay here, with me?" Brady asked.
"Because... because I'm afraid," Arciana whispered. Brady stepped forward, crouching down on one knee in front of her, his hand unintentionally on her bare knee. With his right hand, Brady reached up, gently tipping her chin up to meet him at eye level.
"Afraid of me?" Brady asked softly.
"Afraid of getting hurt," Arciana replied.
"You've been hurt a lot, haven't you?" Arciana nodded sadly, a tear sliding down her cheek. Brady wiped it away gently with his thumb, giving her a reassuring smile. "Arciana, I am not like those who have hurt you in the past. I know first hand what it feels like to be betrayed. Some people who've gone through things like you and I have feel they have to take out their pain on others, make them feel as they do so they can feel better about themselves. I'm not like that Arciana. I could never willing hurt another as I've been hurt," Brady said honestly. "I would like for us to be friends, Arciana. Stay or leave, I would like you to keep in touch. A King doesn't often find a true friend who isn't obligated to be so," Brady stated with a sly grin. Arciana smiled as well, all anxiety gone at his gentle touch. "Come, let's sit on the couch. Much more relaxed and comfortable then these wooden chairs." Brady took her hand in his, leading her over to the small couch, made to seat 2 people. Brady situated himself on the right side of the comfortable black couch, next to the wall, while Arciana sat on the left side, closest to the bed, curling her legs underneath her while keeping the hem of her nightgown from riding up too far up her thighs.
"This couch really is so comfortable. The couches in Lo... in my master's house were all fairly hard, or were the kind you would completely sink into and be unable to get out," Arciana said. Brady decided not to press the near slip, though he couldn't help but wonder why she would not speak her former master's name.
"Well, they're coming out with some fabulous new inventions these days. And of course, only the best for the palace. You may have noticed that your bathroom has a lavatory, like in the public baths. Only now, the powers that be have come up with a plumbing system to take away waste and bring in water from any part of a building. We just have no fast way to bring in hot water since there are no hot springs near by. Hopefully, we'll be able to improve the plumbing system and introduce it into the entire city. My inventors are now talking of a way of lighting entire buildings without using candles or torches. I personally favor the new types of furniture they've come up with. One can't think up ideas such as plumbing if you're not comfortable," Brady said with a slight smile, running his hand over the arm of the sofa. "Harold calls these couches 'love seats'."
"Why?"
"I suppose because it seats two people. I don't know. I tend not to try to question Harold's way of thinking. Gets too confusing," Brady joked, getting comfortable in the 'love seat.' The bottom of Arciana's feet were against his legs, and try as he might he could not help but notice how breath-taking she was, or the way the hem of her nightgown occasionally crept higher up on her thighs. The night gown left just enough to the imagination to keep one forever intrigued. "So, are you alright with the idea of being my friend. I must warn you, my corny jokes do get quite annoying, not to mention I do have an entire country to run. I'd like to find someone with the patience to put up with me," Brady said with a grin. Arciana smiled too, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear.
"I think I can handle that. I'd like that very much," Arciana replied honestly. Brady's grinned broadened, obviously pleased.
"Good. So then... might I ask questions about you, or would you prefer to hear more of my boring life story?" Brady asked.
"You are anything but boring, Brady Black," Arciana stated.
"Yes... well... um... that doesn't answer my question," Brady stammered.
"Ok then, ask away," Arciana replied, though she chided herself for it. She knew she'd have to lie on most parts, or he'd hate her. She really wanted his friendship; she couldn't stand the thought of not having it, simply because she was Victor and Kate Kiriakis' daughter.
"Alright... let's start with... where are you from?" Brady asked. Arciana bit her bottom lip nervously, stalling for time. Technically, she was from Mucche, but she lived in Nero and Rubino most of her life. "I'm sorry, is that question off limits?"
"No... it's just... well, I don't remember much from the slave auction today. I was pretty out of it from shock, but I do remember the auctioneer claiming I was from the distant lands."
"You mean you're not?" Brady asked, concerned. Shawn had mentioned commoners being taken from Rubino to be sold as slaves. Could the DiMera's or their allies be selling Rubinoean's to Nero, claiming them to be imported from the distant lands?
"No, I'm not," Arciana replied.
"Then where are you from? If I may ask." Arciana silently decided to skip the part about growing up in the Kiriakis palace.
"Well, I spent most of my life in slavery here in Nero. A few years back, my master was killed in battle, so his wife and only son set me and the 2 male slaves free. I fled to the safety of Rubino, but obviously I was mistaken on the safety part," Arciana answered. Well, that did, in a way, help explain why she would not mention her master's name; he'd been Neroean, which meant more then likely Brady knew him or at least had heard of him.
"Rubino. Of course, I should have known," Brady cursed. "Damn those DiMera's. They are the ones that captured you, correct?"
"Yes, I believe so, and a small band of their allies. You knew about this?" Arciana asked, momentarily horrified at the thought of Brady knowing about the slave trade and doing nothing about it. Brady, understanding her fears, shook his head.
"No. At least, not until this afternoon. King Shawn of Rubino came to seek my help. He's been absent in his grief, but he wishes to do something to fix the problems his kingdom is facing. He informed me of the recent raids, and of an impending union which would take place to unite my kingdom with our 3 peaceful neighbors against Mucche. I will be accompanying Shawn to a meeting in Arcadia between the kings of Nero, Rubino, Arcadia and Supervisore. Tell me everything about what happened," Brady asked. Arciana looked troubled by the memories, so Brady reached for her hand, taking it gently in his. "Please Arciana? It may help to prevent others from going through what you did. I have made a promise to put a stop to this madness, but I will need help doing so." Arciana nodded slowly, taking a deep breath to calm her nerves before she began the tale, starting with the market place and ending with the slave auction.
"Then of course you came along and bought me," Arciana finished. Brady nodded, absorbing the information.
"So, I am led to assume the DiMera's sold you and the others to us under the impression you all were either Mucchean captures or natives from the distant lands?" Brady asked. Arciana shook her head sadly.
"No, Brady, they knew. They knew where we were from, they just didn't care."
"What! Why, this is an outrage!" Brady burst, bolting up from the couch. Arciana watched nervously as Brady feverently began to pace in front of her. "I can't believe this! Everyone in Nero knows how close the Black family has always been to the Brady family, since the very beginning, not to mention that Shawn has been one of my best, dearest friends since before I could crawl! Isabella despised slavery. I can't even imagine what she would say about her own people kidnapping innocents from a neutral country just to make money!"
"Brady, please sit and calm down. You're making me nervous with that pacing," Arciana pleaded. Brady stopped in his tracks, turning his gaze upon her. His nerves were almost instantly soothed just seeing her face, but he was still outraged.
"I'm sorry. Calm down, I will do. But sitting? No. I've done that far too long. Excuse me for a moment. Please, stay right there," Brady instructed. Arciana nodded, watching Brady go out her door, leaving it open. Brady stepped up to the door across the hallway, which led to Harold's room. Unlike the council members who only roomed in the palace only from time to time, Harold lived permanently in the palace, and next to the king's quarters. Harold's mother and father had disowned him when they found out about his alternative lifestyle, but they had unfortunately died in an accident while traveling by way of the river to the distant lands. The house was willed to charity, as was the family fortune. With nowhere else to go, Harold took Brady up on his kind offer to allow him to stay full time in the palace quarters, away from the hallway which all of the council bedrooms were located. Harold had no high social status by birth, which caused quite an uproar when the extremely important position of Royal Advisor was given to Harold, as that meant Harold would be in complete charge of the kingdom in Brady's absences. But Harold had proved his worth, skillfully helping Nero out of many crisis'. "Harold. Are you in there?" Brady called, knocking on the door. After a loud thud, which sounded like someone falling and hitting the floor, and a lot of rustling and commotion, Harold opened the door, looking disheveled and wearing only his leather pants, which Brady could have sworn must have been put on backwards in Harold's hast to get dressed. "Catch you at a bad time?" Brady asked knowingly. He was, however, too angry to be amused by the situation.
"No no, always have time for my favorite king. So, what is it that you need?" Harold asked, trying to act casual.
"Has King Shawn arrived? I told Hawk to invite him to stay, is he here?" Brady asked. Harold ran a hand through his hair, nervously throwing a half glance over his shoulder before facing Brady again.
"Ummmm... oh yes, he did arrive, shortly after you and Arciana got here. I told him he could stay in the room next to mine, but I don't think he's there yet. He wanted to get some fresh air and a bite to eat. Would you like me to look for him and tell him you wish to meet with him?" Harold asked.
"Would you please? I have something very urgent to discuss with him. Tell him to come meet me in Arciana's room as soon as you find him," Brady instructed.
"Will do. Just let me get dressed first, and I'll go find him," Harold said, too distracted to ask what the urgent matters were.
"Harold, you sure are extremely distracted. Who do you have hiding under the bed this time?" Brady asked curiously, pretending to try to push past Harold into the room. Harold quickly stopped him, unintentionally pushing him back a little.
"No one, honest. Go, I'll get King Shawn to you as soon as possible," Harold stated. Brady eyed him curiously, but he had far too many more important issues at hand to press the matter.
"Alright then, please hurry and get dressed. Send Shawn to the room across the hall when you find him," Brady said before turning back to Arciana's room. That man was a puzzle box, always ready and waiting to surprise you...
Arciana continued to watch Brady pace in front of her, having given up trying to get him to sit still.
"What's taking him so long?" Brady demanded.
"Brady, it's only been all of 90 seconds. Harold probably just now got dressed and out the door to look for King Shawn," Arciana reassured. Brady sighed, ceasing his feverish pacing and flopping down on the couch beside her.
"I suppose you're right. I'm sorry, I'm just so... frustrated. To think, my own people, selling the innocents of a neutral country, knowing how our honored Isabella felt, not only about slavery but the people of Rubino, just to make money! And right under my nose!" Brady boomed. Arciana reached out, laying a comforting hand on his upper arm.
"I'm so sorry Brady. I know this must be hard, especially because of your sister."
"Yeah... it is. If I only had her here..." Brady sighed, shaking his head. "I wish you could have met her. She would have liked you."
"I doubt that. You barely know me, Brady." Arciana reminded, removing her hand from his arm.
"That may be true, but Isabella had a way of reading people. She loved everyone she came across, but there were a lucky few who were held in her highest regard. You would have been one of them," Brady stated. Just then, a knock at the door alerted Shawn's presence. Brady stood, pulling open the door and practically dragging Shawn inside, shutting the door again. "Where were you?"
"I'm sorry Brady. I was just on my way back from taking a walk around the courtyard and the gardens when I ran into Harold. What is it, what's the urgent news?" Shawn asked.
"Have a seat," Brady instructed, nodding towards one of the desk chairs before he reclaimed his former place next to Arciana. Shawn complied, turning the chair to face Brady, and the woman he recognized from the slave auction. "This is Arciana."
"Yes, the woman from this afternoon. Pleased to meet you, Arciana," Shawn greeted, reaching out to grasp her hand.
"It's an honor, Your Highness," Arciana returned politely. So much so, she failed to remember her scant garments in the presence of two strangers who happened to be Kings. Shawn laughed at the title.
"Please, call me Shawn. I hate titles as much as Brady does, if not more so," Shawn said.
"Alright, greetings out of the way..." Brady interrupted. "Shawn, as you know Arciana is a slave. Or was, anyway. But, as it turns out, she was not imported from the distant lands as the auctioneer told us."
"Then where from?" Shawn asked.
"Rubino," Arciana answered. "I'd been living there for a few years when the raiders attacked the marketplace this morning, where I unfortunately was shopping." Shawn frowned, obviously distraught.
"I did not know the marketplace was hit. I've been here all day, and before that, I had to meet with Jason and Miriam in Supervisore," Shawn explained. Miriam, David's only daughter, had been there as a representative since her only brother, Connor Lockhart, was yet still too young for such matters though he would be the heir to his father's throne.
"But you knew people were being abducted?" Arciana asked. Shawn nodded sadly.
"Unfortunately, yes, I knew. That's why I finally sought out first Jason, then Brady, for help. I know it's been long over due, but my people need me, and I intend to come through for them no matter the consequences. Arciana, can you tell me who's behind the abductions? I have some ideas, but I have no proof of who's truly behind it." Shawn said.
"It was the DiMera's, Shawn," Brady answered. Shawn nodded, taking in the information.
"I was afraid so. Only one, maybe two other groups are large enough and powerful enough to pull something like this off," Shawn stated. "They'll be the hardest to take down, I'm afraid. They declare no loyalty to either country, but they live within the boundaries of Mucche, so I'm sure they can take refugee with them if need be."
"Damn dirty Muccheans. They're basically all a bunch of blood thirsty scoundrels. I bet even the poorest commoner would stand up and fight for the DiMera's just to spite us and keep us from having any peace," Brady cursed. Arciana flinched to hear him talk that way, without knowing he really didn't mean it. Would he think that way of her if he knew? The true answer was, of course, no, Brady had no hatred for the Mucchean population in general. Truth was, all his passion for anything--revenge, family, old dreams-- had all died with Belle as she took her last labored breath in his arms, giving him a faint smile before she too abandoned him for a greater existence. All he longed for now was peace. "The DiMera's aren't the worst part, I'm afraid, Shawn."
"What could be worse?"
"The slave traders that bought us... they knew we weren't imported from the distant lands, Shawn. They knew where we'd really been taken from," Arciana answered quietly.
"You mean..."
"Yes. My own people have become as money hungry as we've all accused the Muccheans for centuries. The traders, a larger branch of the Mendez family, didn't care where those people came from as long as they could make more money off their sale," Brady spat. Unnoticed to either Shawn or Brady, Arciana shuddered at the mention of the Mendez family. She had not realized... the two branches of the Mendez family were never really close. Most forgot all about Lord Paul's existence, even before his death during battle. Arciana had forgotten Paul's father ran the trade in Nero at the time she was sold. Paul and his father had never been close; she had been "a gift of peace." Paul's father had made sure no one else would bid on her so she would go to Paul, then he conveniently forgot to collect the money from her sale as Paul carted her off to her life of torturous hell. From then on, father and son remained peaceful, but rarely spoke. So Arciana never saw him again. After Paul's father died, the rest of the family took over the slave trade, leaving the widowed Faye and her children out of it, as she wanted nothing to do with her husband's family. Arciana should have sensed the familiarity; the auctioneer's dirty hands had felt just like those of Paul's, now that she had the time to think back on it.
"My God... I never thought... the Neroeans so worship Isabella's memory. I thought they knew how strongly she disapproved. I thought they knew to keep the slave trade under control in her honor," Shawn murmured more to himself then to Brady.
"I know. So did I. I believe they still do know, but it appears they no longer care," Brady replied. His blood boiled with rage to think his sweet Isabella could be so easily forgotten by the people she cared so much about. The people she gave her life fighting for. Her memory could not go so tainted any longer. "I am sorry, Shawn. Your people are innocents and I fully take the blame for what has happened to them," Brady said. He then turned his head to Arciana, who sat curled up against the arm of the couch beside him, and reached for her hand, gently taking it into his much larger hands. "And I must apologize to you as well, Arciana. I am so sorry for what has happened to you," Brady said honestly. Sorry didn't even begin to describe how tortured he felt believing he was responsible for her capture. Such a beautiful, pure soul as she should never have to go through any of this life. And some how, he felt twice as much guilt for her capture as he did for all the other many people who'd been taken from Rubino, like he'd wronged her twice in the same way. Arciana smiled reassuringly at him, involuntarily rubbing her thumb repeatedly against the palm of his hand.
"It's not your fault. You didn't know," Arciana replied quietly. Mere hours ago, she would have laughed at the statement. Now she knew better. Brady was not his father. To know John had raised such an amazing, caring son and daughter made her begin to believe John had once been as good a man as Brady was now. Perhaps he was just hurting too much, been put through too much to believe in the goodness of people any longer-- something all who knew him feared would happen to Brady should one more heartbreak cross his path.
"I should have," Brady replied quietly, more to himself. Shawn watched silently as Brady held Arciana's hand in his, seemingly pleading forgiveness with his eyes. Shawn had not noticed the spark between his friend and the young former slave, until now. Perhaps there was still hope for all Brady's hopes and dreams... "This ends now," Brady stated suddenly, finally breaking the intense hold Arciana's enchanting eyes held on him and standing from the couch, opening the door. "Harold?"
"Yes Your Majesty?" Harold called from his open doorway, still buttoning his shirt. Another reason why Harold roomed in these quarters, it was much easier for Brady to call to him when he needed him.
"I need you to write up a decree, forbidding any and all slavery within the borders of Nero. All currently owned slaves are to be freed immediately. Anyone caught either owning or selling slaves in any shape, way, or form, will be subject to life imprisonment or banishment. I need you to get all the councilmen's signatures on the decree. But, if any or all refuse to sign, then I will pass the law without their support. Bring the scroll to me for signing as soon as you alert the council. I will want to make a public announcement before I leave tomorrow morning for Arcadia," Brady instructed. Normally, Brady himself wrote out any decrees, then petitioned them to the council. By unwritten law, the council was to approve all laws by vote, but really the King had sole power to approve or deny laws. Generally, Brady would not pass a law if his self-appointed council did not approve. But in this case, Brady couldn't care less if they all approved or not. Harold nodded, grabbing a quill and ink well off the small stand beside his door.
"I'll grab an empty scroll from your chambers and write it in there. My desk... is kinda cluttered. Plus, I want to go ahead and add the royal seal for you. Will I need to bring it to Arciana's room when I've asked the council?" Harold asked. Brady nodded.
"Most likely. If not, I will be in the Great Hall. I'd like to talk more with her, but she may wish to get some sleep," Brady replied. Harold again nodded, shutting his door, more in the hopes of Brady not noticing that his writing desk was not just cluttered, but in at least 5 pieces, and moving out into the hallway. "Thank you, Harold."
"No, thank you," Harold replied, disappearing into Brady's room. Brady shook his head, smilingly slightly despite himself at Harold implied "about damn time" meaning. Brady walked back into Arciana's room, again shutting the door.
"Harold will be writing up a decree for me. Shawn, I'll be making a public announcement about the abolishing of slavery as well as the impending union in the morning. Will you speak as well, on both accounts?" Brady asked.
"Of course," Shawn answered, standing from his chair and replacing it back in it's place in front of the desk. "I believe I will retire to my room now. I have some papers and documents I need to go over in preparation for the meeting tomorrow. Please inform me should anything new arise," Shawn said. Brady nodded, moving aside to let Shawn exit the room. After Shawn left, Brady approached Arciana, still seated on the couch.
"Might I stay awhile, or would you like me to leave so you can get some sleep?" Brady asked.
"You can stay if you wish. I'm not really that tired," Arciana lied. Really, she was exhausted. But she just felt she didn't want him to leave quite yet. As if to prove her lie, she yawned. Brady smiled slightly, reclaiming his seat beside her.
"Oh really? If I didn't know better, Mistress Arciana, I'd say you just can't bare to part with me," Brady teased. Arciana returned his smile, shaking her head.
"Now why on earth would I want to keep an amazingly rich, handsome, powerful King around?" Arciana countered. Brady grinned deviously, eyebrows arched.
"Amazingly handsome, huh?" Brady asked, causing Arciana to blush slightly. Amazing how someone he'd known only a few hours could take away all his rage and frustration, merely by smiling. He felt completely at ease, almost at peace just to be near her. Almost. Brady's smile faded slightly as he leaned back, sighing heavily. "God, what a day."
"Tell me about it," Arciana murmured. Brady sat up straight, again taking her hands into his.
"I want to thank you," Brady said.
"What for?"
"For giving me the motivation I needed to finally put an end to slavery," Brady replied.
"Please, don't thank me. I didn't do anything, except get myself captured," Arciana stated. Again. Brady shook his head, releasing one of her hands to bring his hand up to her cheek.
"You'd be surprised... you'll never know just how much you've done already, in merely a few hours," Brady said in near whisper, his eyes trained on her luscious red lips. The sound of his soft voice and the look in his eyes sent a tingly bolt of electricity down her spine. If only... Brady sighed, standing up and moving over to the window. This corridor was on the outer wall because of the royal chambers; Brady had a large balcony which over looked the huge town square from which he could make public announcements to larger groups of people. A cool breeze ruffled the curtain as Brady looked out at the crystal clear night sky; not a single cloud tainted the amazing deep pool of black with it's bright twinkly lights and large silvery full moon. "Do you know who you remind me of?" Brady asked.
"Your sister?" Arciana guessed. She highly doubted it. Isabella was selfless, pure hearted, and loving, while she was dirty, tainted, and untrusting, not to mention Mucchean. But it was the only reason she had to explain Brady's kindness to her. Brady smiled slightly, thinking of his precious baby sister.
"In some ways, yes. You are very much like my Isabella, although you are also two very different people." Brady replied. To him, Arciana had many of Isabella's greatest qualities. But they were all locked deep inside, buried beneath a lifetime of suffering, whereas Isabella had displayed exactly who she was in every action, large or small. "But I was thinking of someone else. A girl I crossed paths with once, a very long time ago. I never knew her. Not really at least. Only her name. She was sold into slavery as well. I was just a boy, just barely 11," Brady explained, closing his eyes. Mention of the Mendez family had brought up a very painful memory, one he had thought long since buried. Brady never forgave Paul Mendez Senior for with-holding information about her. Brady could not even speak her name to this day.
"I have not thought of it for a long time. I don't know what has made me remember it now. But for years, I searched for her, like I was drawn to her. I suppose, even as a young child, I never forgave myself for not saving her from slavery. I couldn't see at that time that she was the one I should have helped. I almost gave up, until finally, on his death bed, old man Mendez told me who she was sold to. But... it was too late. She was already gone, to only God knows where," Brady said sadly. He'd given up then, realizing he was never meant to find her no matter how he was pulled towards her; he could be noone's savior. That he had spent so long, over a decade actually, searching for one lost girl was astounding in itself. Perhaps he'd been a fool to care so much for someone he never really met. She had been a Mucchean after all, captured for reasons unknown to Brady. But, as he'd told Arciana, he'd been drawn to her ever since he saw her raven hair. And he also believed no child was born evil, only raised to be so. And that's what she had been, an innocent child. Her cries for help still tortured him to this day. Brady realized at that instant why he had felt so compelled to buy Arciana's freedom no matter the cost when so many others were there that shouldn't have been. Arciana's cries for help were the same as those of the little girl he spent years searching for. Only they were unspoken pleas of a tortured soul, uttered only to him. She was his chance at righting the wrong he'd made so many years ago, just by choosing the wrong child to save. Brady felt her gentle hand on his shoulder, but had been aware of her nearness long before the physical contact.
"I'm very sorry Brady. You must feel so guilty for that, but you shouldn't. At least you tried. Many never find anyone who would even care enough to try and save them," Arciana said. Brady turned to face her, catching her hand in his own once more. God how he delighted in even that simple touch.
"You're referring to yourself, aren't you?" Arciana nodded.
"Yes. I never did. Until now," Arciana replied. Brady opened his mouth to speak, but whatever he would have said was silenced by a knock on the door.
"King Brady, the council wishes to call an emergency meeting. Everyone is waiting for you in the Conference Room," Harold called. He'd been lucky; only Lord Banks hadn't still been in the castle. Brady sighed.
"Thank you, Harold. I will meet you there in a moment," Brady replied.
"Yes, Your Majesty." With that, Harold hurried off, scroll in hand, to alert Shawn, whom he knew would wish to be present at the meeting. Brady turned his eyes back on Arciana, before silently pulling her hand up to his lips, planting a soft kiss on the back of her hand.
"I shall have to bid you good night now, Mistress Arciana. We can talk of your travel arrangements, should you still wish to leave, in the morning," Brady said, releasing her hand and moving towards the door, leaving her reeling from the sensation of his wondrous lips on her skin. Slowly, Arciana pulled herself out of the daze enough to turn towards him as he opened the door.
"Thank you, Brady," Arciana said softly. Brady simply nodded, not needing her spoken thank you. He could see her over-whelming gratitude in her eyes. It pained him to think no one had ever been kind to her. She deserved all the happiness in the world.
"Rest well, Arciana," Brady said before departing the room. Arciana watched him go, before walking over to the door to blow out the two large candles which rested on either side of it. She blew out the candles on the vanity, desk, and aside the bathroom door, before making her way to her huge, lonely bed. Wait... lonely? That was the way she wanted it, right? No man could be trusted enough to share a bed with without trying to take advantage of her. Arciana shook her head as she blew out the last candle on her bedside table and slipped under the covers. No, there was one man she knew would never take advantage of her in any situation; Brady Black...
Brady rested his elbows on the table, bringing his hands up to massage his temples. All around him, every member of his council was yelling, bickering and arguing so loudly that Brady would have thought the room itself would explode. Perhaps the only actual words that could be made out were "this is insane!" and "are you mad! it's about bloody time!" Brady had no idea his council was so split over the issue of slavery. Most times, the issue was ignored or overlooked.
"Alright already, everyone be quiet!" Brady yelled, but got no response. The men in the conference room continued to bicker. "Enough! That is a direct order from your King!" Brady boomed, finally catching their attention. The room went from chaotic zoo to deafly quiet in a split second. "Good. Now, just sit down, and stay calm," Brady ordered. Every member complied, though Lord Banks did so begrudgingly. Like his daughter, he loathed taking orders. Unlike his daughter, however, Lord Banks had respect for authority. He was a law abiding citizen, and he knew full well that Brady, though troubled, was a good and respectable King. "Alright. You may speak your concerns or support rationally and calmly. But any more outbursts and I will dismiss each and every one of you from this council," Brady warned. He rather wished Shawn were still there; they had been in the conference room for nearly an hour and had accomplished nothing except giving Shawn, Brady, and Harold one hell of a headache. Each time Brady got everyone settled down, another argument arose. "You may each speak, one at a time."
"Your Majesty, you can't really be considering abolishing slavery. What will the people say? And the Lords! We count on their generous donations to fund the war with the Kiriakis family!" protested one man, a Lord by the name of Thomas Blaney.
"Don't you mean bribes?" huffed another, Lord James Westermen, who was feverently against slavery.
"I'm not just thinking, Thomas, it will be done," Brady stated.
"But Your Majesty, surely you jest! Slavery is a part of our history, it's tradition," argued Lord Jacob Rately.
"I think not Jacob. If you will remember, it was the Kiriakis family who introduced slavery in Nero. This whole war started because our ancestors disagreed with the sale of human life," Brady pointed out.
"I agree with you, King Brady. This has to end. It's been far too long over due," stated Lord Andrew Winters.
"Though you may be right about the need to end slavery, King Brady, I must employ you to reconsider being so hasty about passing this law," said Lord Banks. "You all know where I stand with slavery. I loathe it. But, as much as I would love to see this law passed, much conflict could arise within Nero over this. We have enough trouble with the war against Mucche without having a civil war on our hands as well!"
"I see your point, but I will not reconsider my decision. I have considered the consequences, but that makes no difference now. Innocent people from a neutral country, a country run by one of my dearest and closest friends, are being abducted from their homes to be sold into a life of servitude. I can not allow this thievery of human life to continue! My people, and those of our peaceful neighbors, come first. And this has shown me that even Neroeans are not safe from the slave traders. This ends here and now. As Andrew, and many of you believe, the abolishing of slavery has been put off too long," Brady said. "I realize many of you are for slavery. Some of you even have a few slaves of your own I'm sure you don't want to lose. I do not wish to punish all for the crimes of a few, but it must be done. Slavery in itself is immoral and, in my opinion, inhuman. But this... this is just disgusting, and should be put to an end immediately. Innocent people are suffering."
"Have you even any proof Rubinoeans have been illegally sold here in Nero?" questioned Lord Banks.
"Yes, he does," Harold stated from his place by the door. Brady nodded; though he wished not to mention Arciana, she was his proof that Rubinoeans were being sold.
"Harold is right, I do," Brady stated. "This afternoon, I left the palace to meet with King Shawn, who traveled in from Supervisore to meet with me. Shawn informed me of his fears that his people were no longer safe. He also proposed a union between Nero, Rubino, Supervisore, and now Arcadia against Mucche. That I will discuss with you when I have more details; I will be making a public announcement concerning my departure in the morning."
"A union against Mucche would be superb, but what does that have to do with the issue of slavery?" Jacob demanded.
"If you would let me finish, Jacob, you'd get your answer," Brady returned, shutting Jacob up immediately and causing a few snickers from council members who disliked Jacob with a passion. "After my meeting with Shawn, Lord Hawk dragged Shawn and I to the weekly slave auction. You all know how against slavery all 3 of us are, but you also know that Hawk is... well, not your average person," Brady said. Many council members nodded their heads in agreement, one of which was Hawk's own father. "At Hawk's persistent insistence, Shawn and I attended the slave auction. While I was there, the last slave to be brought out caught my attention. So passionately so, that I bid on her and won. I..."
"You hypocrite! Preaching to us about how immoral and inhuman slavery is, when you're off buying your own slaves, female ones no less!" Jacob boomed.
"What right have you to speak to our King like that!" Andrew demanded, shooting up from his chair. But Brady waved his hand, bidding him to sit.
"Please Andrew, sit. I shall handle this," Brady stated. Andrew, having nothing but respect for his King, nodded, complying without question. Brady leaned forward towards Jacob, who was directly across the table from him. Brady got right in his face before speaking. "Have you ever let any of your many slaves go, Jacob? Paid for their freedom perhaps? No, you have not. You speak as if you are better, and yet, all but one of your slaves are female. I know now why you never let them out in public. On my way to meet Shawn, I bumped into a disoriented Mary, the whole of her right cheek bruised and purple. I didn't take the time to realize it then, but I think I understand now. You rape them, don't you Jacob?" Brady asked calmly, which was very unnerving to Jacob. The fact that the room had grown so still and quiet you could drop a pin and hear it didn't help. "Your King asked a question of you, Jacob. Answer it."
"It is my right! I own them, I may do as I wish with them!" Jacob boomed.
"Not any more," Brady said calmly. "My only regret is that I can not have you arrested under current law. But I can tell you this. You are a disgusting, thieving, lying, whoring and despicable little man. And if I catch you ever taking advantage of a woman, slave or otherwise, I will have you castrated and banished from Nero. Now get out of my sight. You sicken me," Brady ordered, leaning back into his seat. Jacob sat astonished, staring straight ahead yet unseeing at Brady. "Are you deaf, Jacob? I said you are dismissed. Harold, will you please escort Jacob out of the palace. Stick him in an inn somewhere. He is not to be within 100 yards of his home until every last one of his slaves are safely freed. Please alert his wife, and the town guard as well. If he's caught anywhere near any of those slaves, then I will have grounds to arrest and banish him," Brady said. Harold nodded, glad to follow his request as he hated Jacob, even more so then Hawk. Harold stepped forward, grabbing Jacob's arm.
"Come along, Jacob. You're lucky this time. You won't be again," Harold said, forcefully pulling a still stunned but now fuming Jacob up and out the door, unintentionally forgetting to close it. Harold was never a violent man, but men like Jacob got him so upset, appalled and disappointed that he couldn't help but be aggressive or angry. Brady shook his head sadly. There should be more he could do to avenge those people's suffering, but Brady was a fair, law abiding king. The laws, up until now, claimed slaves as property one could do with what they would. Brady now felt the sorrow of every Black King before him; slavery was another sacrifice the Blacks had endured for the sake of their people. But no more. The union would fund the war now. Brady only needed to deal with the reactions of the citizens.
"I want the Mendez family arrested on charges of knowingly selling free citizens from a neutral country Have Faye and her two children questioned, but I'm certain they had nothing to do with it," Brady said quietly. He'd met Faye Mendez, formerly Faye Walker, only once, but it was easy to tell though she loved her deceased husband, she hated his family.
"And it shall be done, Your Majesty. But, you still have not told us of your proof to these claims," Lord Banks stated.
"Oh, yes. I am sorry. Jacob's outburst got me off track," Brady apologized. "The girl I purchased, she is one of the citizens who've been abducted from Rubino. She, along with many others, were taking this morning."
"This girl told you this?" Andrew asked.
"Yes. She is here now, of her own free will I assure you. I offered her a place to stay, but she is now free. Her name is Arciana."
"I knew that girl was no princess," Cynthia stated from the doorway which Harold had accidentally left open.
"Daughter! You should know better then to easedrop!" Lord Banks scolded.
"It is quite alright, Lord Banks. Cynthia ran in to us in the hallway earlier. I am sorry that I had to lie. I felt the need to protect Arciana's true identity, since at the time all I knew about her was she was a slave," Brady stated.
"It's alright, Your Majesty. If my daughter were not so nosy, you would not have had to lie. Cynthia, you are to go home to your mother now. Close the door on your way out," Lord Banks instructed.
"Yes father," Cynthia said with fake politeness, obediently stepping out of the room and closing the door. As she had done earlier, Cynthia leaned against the closed conference door, this time with a sly smirk on her face. She'd over heard that Brady would be leaving in the morning from one of the 3 other rebels which had access to the palace. "I'm going to find out who that girl really is while you're gone Brady. And when I do, you're going down," Cynthia vowed, before she began her trek out of the palace to meet with another rebel she wanted to ask advice of.
"So, this girl, she's Rubinoean?" Andrew asked.
"As far as I know, not originally. She told me only that she was a slave here in Nero most of her life. But, when her master died, his wife and son freed her. She fled to Rubino, and has been there for the past few years," Brady answered.
"Will Arciana be speaking at your public announcement? Hearing from an actual victim of these crimes might help sway the crowd to support the end of slavery. Only a few like the Mendez family remain. They shouldn't be hard to deal with." Lord Banks stated.
"I agree. Not all of us have become greedy like the Mendez clan, or power crazed like Jacob. Arciana's word might help sway those that need to get a taste of reality," agreed Andrew.
"I will speak to her about it, though I'm not sure if she should. She's been through enough without having to deal with the watchful, judging eye of a crowd of strangers," Brady stated. "Does this mean you all support my decree? I'm signing it here and now, with or without support. But I would prefer to have your consent. Will you all sign?" Brady asked, picking up a quill and dipping it into the open ink well that sat beside the official decree in front of him. There was a pause while the 14 council members exchanged silent glances. Finally, Lord Banks stepped forward, taking the quill from Brady.
"I believe I speak for us all when I say, we would be honored to sign, Your Majesty," Lord Banks stated, scribbling his signature on the scroll in the large blank space left for signatures. Andrew was next, followed by each remaining member until only Thomas remained seated in his chair. Next to Jacob, Thomas supported slavery the most. But, unlike Jacob, Thomas truly cared for the rights and well being of the citizens.
"Thomas? Will you sign as well, or shall I assume you still do not support me?" Brady asked, holding up the quill. Thomas stood, going to the side of the table closest to the door, momentarily making Brady believe Thomas was leaving. Instead of heading out the door, Thomas came around the table to Brady's side, taking up the quill.
"You are a very persuasive man, Your Majesty," Thomas stated before he added his signature to the document. Brady smiled slightly as Thomas handed him the quill, which he dipped in the ink well before adding his own signature in large, bold handwriting at the very bottom right corner of the decree.
"Thank you very much, all of you. I invite you all to speak on behalf of this decree tomorrow morning. I would also appreciate hearing your opinions on the impending union, which I will give details about in the morning."
"You shall, Your Majesty. As you well know, we are all very opinionated, and most of us do so love to hear the sound of our own voices," Andrew joked, causing them all to share a good hearted laugh. Brady stood, checking to see that the ink was dry before rolling up the scroll.
"Then I shall bid you good evening. Rest well, my friends. Should any of you wish to stay, you know you're always welcome here. Good night, gentlemen," Brady said, bowing his head before excusing himself. He walked out the door, heading to his chambers. He would need to rest well himself. Brady had a long day ahead of him, which could very well lead to many more very long days...
"...And so, ladies and gentlemen, I bid you all a good day. I shall depart for Arcadia upon the hour, and when I return, Nero and it's new allies will rise above all the hardships we have endured to claim victory over our enemies," Brady finished his speech, which had started well over an hour before. The crowd, which now supported Brady completely and without doubt, cheered loudly at this, many "praise our mighty King"s being heard above the crowd. "I leave you now to Lord Banks and Lord Winters, who wish to speak more to you on both issues. Thank you all for your continuing support. Without a strong unity between every citizen and it's government, no order would prevail. Thank you, and may God be with you all." The crowd cheered loudly once more before Brady disappeared behind the curtain which separated his chambers from the balcony.
He smiled to himself when he heard Lord Banks begin what would most likely be a very long winded, drawn out speech. Brady had never felt so much relief, or peace, in his life. To tell the truth, he'd been rather nervous about the impending announcement. He knew in his heart it had to be done, and was too long over due, but he didn't want to cause rioting within his own kingdom. That is what almost happened. One big riot had nearly erupted from the crowd's initial reaction; just as in the conference room, arguments immediately arose between those that supported slavery and those that were against it. Two family groups were taken to be imprisoned alongside the Mendez family, which had been rounded up the previous night. Only two Mendez's remained out of custody- Faye and her only son Brandon. Nicole had recently become involved with her father's relatives, so she had been taken in as well. The two families taken during the short outbreak had both been against the new law, each unwilling to give up it's slaves. Just as last night, Brady took control of the situation, having the troublemakers arrested and calming the crowd as well as swaying them all the support him and band together. It hadn't taken much, with the 3 most prominent supporters of slavery out of the way. Brady managed to get the crowd's complete support; all slaves would be peacefully freed by midday.
Harold had campaigned for an addition to the law before it's signing, that would allow every slave in Nero protection; any former slave who wished to stay in Nero would be given a small plot of land to live and farm on, or would be provided with housing within the city and a good high paying job. Those that wanted out of Nero would be provided with free transportation and any family member they wished to find would be tracked down. A set amount of money would be provided for each slave whether they stayed or left, and the royal council would be in charge of getting those slaves who wished to leave on their feet. Many had opposed this, saying the law was far too generous considering money had to be conserved for use during the war. But Brady had persuaded them to see things different, to see it as Nero signaling it's return to it's roots. A few Neroean families would still no doubt appose when the guards came to escort the freed slaves away, but the situation was under control now. For the first time in centuries, Nero's future looked bright, peaceful, and prosperous. Brady had been unaware that many of his generation had finally returned to their original ancestors beliefs and were as disgusted with the actions of a few citizens as he was.
The announcement regarding the union went very well too. By that time the crowd had Brady's support no matter what. A union between Nero and it's peaceful neighbors against Mucche had been longed for for many years. The last time a union was proposed, ironically under King Brady Black nearly 125 years before Brady's time, the idea fell under when both Rubino and Supervisore's kings refused to "endanger the innocent citizens of their countries." Now, under Philip Kiriakis' rule, neither country would be safe from Mucche. 125 years ago, King Brady Black had worked his whole life to prove his worth, but had failed to bring peace for his country. The present King Brady had too worked his whole life to find peace, and within such a short life-time had already proved he was more then worthy.
"That was a wonderful speech," Arciana stated as Brady came up to her. She had been waiting inside in his chambers, seated on a large, comfortable sofa, for Brady to come inside. Although she hadn't wished to speak in the announcement, she had listened to the entire speech from her place inside Brady's chambers. Brady smiled at her as he sat down beside her on the sofa, careful not sit on the train of her beautiful purple dress. She looked simply stunning, with her hair pinned up, allowing a few stray curly ringlets to frame her perfect face and her new dress which fit as if it were made to conform to her body alone. She looked like a beautiful princess, only without the rich stuffed shirt air most princesses her age possessed. She presented a royal air like Belle-- strong, loving, and so caring she would sooner give up the clothing on her back and the food on her plate then see even a stranger go without proper clothes and food.
"Thank you. I must confess I was rather worried that things wouldn't go half as smoothly as they have," Brady returned.
"You did amazingly well. I know I wouldn't have been able to handle even that short outburst," Arciana said.
"I think you underestimate yourself far too much," Brady stated. "Would you like to go for a walk in the courtyard? I have time before Shawn and I must leave, and we'll have the place to ourselves. It's such a beautiful day, and I hear the roses are in full bloom." Arciana smiled at him, nodding her head.
"I'd love to," Arciana replied. Brady stood, offering her his hand.
"May I have the honor, dear lady?" Brady asked, a sly grin on his face that caused Arciana to be unable to suppress a giggle.
"Yes, you may," Arciana replied, taking his hand to stand. Upon standing, Arciana looped her arm in his, placing her hand on his lower arm. They walked out of his chambers together, not speaking except to cheerfully greet anyone they passed while walking through the palace hallways. Brady led her outside into the beautiful vast gardens of the courtyard. The most exquisite, exotic flowers bloomed there in the royal gardens. Roses, violets, baby's breath, orchids, lilies, carnations, any type of flower imaginable could be found in the most vibrant of colors. A large apple orchard was at the very back of the gardens, which housed the reddest red apples in the land as well as apples of the most glorious golden yellow and purest green. They walked through the garden path in the most comfortable of silence, until Arciana came to a very rare rose bush. "Oh my! How do you get them that color!" Arciana marveled, unraveling her arm from his and approaching the bush. She delicately cupped one of the rare roses in her gloved hands, bowing her head to smell the sweet scent the flower gave. The roses were a light purple shade, perfectly matching that of her dress and gloves which reached to her elbows.
"You have a very observant eye. Those roses are very rare. Actually, that is the only bush I know of in all of Salem. It is a crossbreed. The royal gardener does many experiments with cross-breeding flowers of all kinds and colors. He calls them hybrids. These roses are his favorite creation. They were Isabella's favorite as well," Brady stated. He stepped forward, reaching for the flower in her hands. Silently, he took out his boot dagger, cutting the rose right at the very base of the bulb, freeing it from it's green, thorny stem. After replacing his dagger in it's place, Brady reached for the base of Arciana's neck, pulling out one of the many pins in her hair; the particular one he chose must have been unnecessary for her hair stayed in place. Careful not to invade her.. personal regions, Brady carefully pinned the light purple rose to her strapless off the shoulder dress, pinning it at the very top of her dress on the right side. "There, now the dress is perfect. Almost heavenly. You can press the flower in a book later, if you wish to preserve it."
"Thank you," Arciana smiled, placing her hand on his. She seemed to be saying that a lot, but she even knew he didn't need to hear the words; he saw her true appreciation in her eyes. "The gardens are so beautiful. I've never seen any like them."
"The apple orchard is just as nice. Have you ever eaten a golden apple?" Brady asked, referring to the delicious golden yellow apples which grew in the orchard.
"Can't say I have," Arciana replied.
"Well, there's always a first time for everything," Brady stated, taking her hand and leading her through the rest of the garden to the apple orchards. He led her to the batch of yellow apple tress, reaching up and plucking a perfect golden apple from it's branches. "Here, try one."
"Only if you join me," Arciana replied, taking the apple in her hands. Brady smiled, plucking a second apple from the tree.
"As the lady wishes," Brady replied. They each took a bite of their apples, and Arciana was instantly in heaven.
"Mmmmm... this is soooo good!" Arciana said through a mouthful of apple. Brady laughed, swallowing his bite before wiping a bit of juice off the corner of Arciana's lips.
"The best in all of Salem. Isabella practically lived on these. They were often the only thing father and Marlena could get her to eat when she was a child," Brady said. "I don't come out here enough. I should come more often."
"It's a very beautiful place. Very peaceful," Arciana mumbled through her 2nd bite of apple.
"That it is," Brady agreed. They were both finished with their apples in no time, discarding the leftover cores. Silently, Brady reclaimed Arciana's hand, as if it was the most natural thing in the world. He did not feel like a King with her. He felt like an ordinary person, no different then the citizens of his country. That was a feeling he'd longed for, a feeling like he finally belonged somewhere. Like he wasn't alienated simply because he possessed a high title. Brady led Arciana to the edge of the gardens where there was a large, rounded hill. The hill had the richest, greenest grass, and at the top was a shady willow tree. Brady led her to the top of the hill, taking them over to the tree. He then took off his vest, laying it down for Arciana to sit on.
"Sure I should be sitting on the royal clothing?" Arciana joked. Brady smiled, helping her sit and giving her a moment to adjust her dress so as not to wrinkle it before he sat down on the grass beside her.
"Clothing's clothing," Brady replied, leaning his back against the huge tree trunk. Almost involuntarily, Arciana leaned into Brady, her eyes glancing out over the gardens. The view from the hill top was spectacular. Not only the view, but the sounds. Chirping birds, noisy bugs and bees going about their daily routine, the soothing trickle of water in a creek which ran behind the apple orchards, all created such a peaceful, harmonious background.
"This really is an amazing sight. I can't imagine there being anywhere more beautiful on the face of the earth," Arciana said.
"Well, I agree that this is a very amazing sight. But, I know of an even more beautiful spot, not tainted by the view of the palace. If you were to stay, I could show you sometime," Brady stated. Arciana tensed slightly, sighing sadly. If only she could stay...
"Brady, you know I can't..."
"Why not? You said yourself that you have no where else to go. You could stay here, in the palace. As you've seen, there's more then plenty of room," Brady stated. He was desperate to get her to stay. He couldn't let her leave, especially not understanding why she couldn't stay. But he was torn; he yearned for her to stay, but didn't want to push her to do something she didn't want to do.
"I know there's room, and I really appreciate the offer, but I just couldn't. It wouldn't be right. You've done so much for me already..." So that was it? She was just afraid she was taking advantage? For a moment, Brady felt a small glimmer of hope rise, but it died quickly. Somehow, he just sensed that wasn't the reason she wouldn't stay.
"I'm not doing anything I don't want to, Arciana. I was born into a very powerful, royal family with a lot of wealth. It's time I start putting my inheritance to good use to help people as a King should," Brady stated. Arciana silently wondered why she never felt humbled to be in the presence of royalty. True, she herself had royal blood coursing through her veins, though she never would admit that, to either him or herself. But she had felt somewhat uneasy with Shawn, like she didn't belong near someone of such ultimately high status. Brady had never given her such a feeling. With each passing moment, she regretted her initial reaction to his being a Black more and more.
"I should say you're doing a very good job of helping people, Brady. All those people... finally have freedom, because of you," Arciana said.
"No. Because of you," Brady corrected. "You opened my eyes, Arciana, to the suffering and hardships I need to put to an end. And I thank you for that. Won't you stay here with me? I feel this desire, this need, to offer you a home. I get this feeling... that no one has ever provided that for you, a real, true home."
"You're right. No one ever has," Arciana replied sadly, looking away from him. "But, you don't owe me anything Brady. If anything, I owe you. I don't want you to feel obligated to do these things for me."
"I don't feel any obligation when it comes to you Arciana. I could very well have just let you run off at the slave auction and be done with it, but that wouldn't have felt complete. I don't want to leave things unfinished. And as I said, I never do anything I don't want to," Brady replied. "Look, if you don't want to stay, I won't stop you. I always keep my promises, and I promised you safe passage to whereever you so desire. But... I would just feel better if you were to stay here. If not in the palace, then somewhere in Nero. This new law protects you from slavery here, but I can't protect you in other lands. Yes, you might be vulnerable to Mucchean attack here, but... at least you'd have an entire army and royal guard here on your side to keep you from harm. And me, when I return from Arcadia. Here, I can watch over you."
"Why do I matter so much to you?" Arciana asked quietly, turning her head to look him in the eye. Brady paused; did he have an answer for that? Yes; but could he make her understand?
"Do you remember, last night, I told you about a girl I searched for for years?" Brady asked. Arciana nodded. "That young girl caught my attention, after meeting her for only a few brief moments. At the time, I didn't see it, didn't know I should have helped her instead, but afterwards, I felt it. I was drawn to find her, save her from a life of terror I blamed myself for. I knew nothing about her, and yet everything she was, I was too. I feel this same feeling with you. You've never had anyone you could ever truly trust, and I want to be that. I failed with that girl over 13 years ago,. I don't want to fail with you as well," Brady said sincerely. Arciana looked away again, appearing to be in deep thought. His words aroused new emotions in her. No, not new. Just buried. All her life, she had felt a longing deep down inside her. An urge to find the source of the longing which pulled her to some unknown force. Only Arciana never knew what, or perhaps who, it was her heart longed for. She only knew that if she didn't find it soon, she would die. Brady now gave her a similar feeling, one she'd felt the moment they met but had refused to acknowledge. She wanted to let him in, let him be the one she could trust to take away her pain. She only prayed her next two words would not seal the fate she feared would become of her; she feared Brady would grow to hate her when he discovered her true identity.
"I'll stay," Arciana said, barely above a whisper.
"You'll stay?" Brady asked hopefully. Arciana turned her head to face him once more, a small smile on her face.
"I'll stay," Arciana answered. "As long as you promise not to spoil me with your over-protective kindness," Arciana teased. Brady grinned, shaking his head.
"I'll try. Can't make any promises though," Brady stated. He glanced off towards the palace, catching sight of the carriage which was being prepared for his and Shawn's departure. "Oh, I've got to be going. I have to inform Harold and the staff that you'll be staying with us. You can stay where you slept last night. Don't ask me not to provide new clothes for you, because Harold's a clothing freak and will insist upon picking out a whole new wardrobe for you," Brady stated. Arciana laughed, shaking her head; she already knew, though she felt somewhat uncomfortable around him, that she liked Harold. He was obviously a very good friend to Brady. "Would you like me to escort you back to your room now?"
"No, thank you. I'd like to stay out here awhile, if that's alright."
"Stay as long as you like," Brady replied, standing up and brushing himself off. He stood in front of her, reaching down and taking her hand, gently kissing the back of it as he had done the night before. "Good bye, Mistress Arciana. I hope to be gone no more then 2 days. Until then."
"Until then," Arciana whispered, as she was again reeling in the sensation of his lips on her skin. Brady flashed her one last smile before he turned to head down the hill, disappearing from sight in the grove of apple trees and exotic flowers. Arciana watched him leave, and when it was time for the carriage to leave, she descended the hill and watched as Shawn and Brady were carried out on the road leading towards the river. Arciana smiled to herself to see the cheering people waving at the side of the road; if one thought Brady was popular amongst his people before, they should see the townspeople now. Arciana sighed, lowering her head and beginning to walk back to her room. She only hoped her popularity with Brady didn't fall, once he found out who she really was...