Chapter Six Part II
Philip awoke with a start, some unknown noise in the bustling castle yanking him from a peaceful sleep. Actually, one wouldn't describe it as peaceful. No, he hadn't had a peaceful night's sleep since the night before that horrendous day over 13 years ago. But at least last night, he had not dreamt. He'd merely been in what one might call a blissfully unconscious state. Philip wiped the groggy sleep from his eyes, perhaps giving sign to his young age, as he looked almost like a little sleepy-eyed child, whirling his head around curiously to observe his surroundings. He had unintentionally fallen asleep at the desk last night, Chloe's drawing of their mother still lain out in front of him. Philip sighed as he surveyed the dreary, almost bare room. It had been Chloe's room, since she was old enough to not require constant supervision. There were three doors in the room, one of course leading to the hallway, one to the bathroom, and the other led to the room which had been his as a child. That room was as bare as Chloe's room now, containing only a desk and sofa. After Chloe's kidnaping, when it become obvious that they were never going to find her, Kate and Victor had the room completely cleared out, moving all of Chloe's few possessions into storage. Kate, who had finally begun to show signs of having a heart, had said it was far too painful to have any reminder of her child near her. It was one of the last things Queen Katherine had done before locking herself away into a room as far away from the room she shared with Victor as she could get. Katherine blamed Victor for the loss her of her daughter, and Victor had almost completely disowned Katherine for her public reactions to Chloe's capture. So tensions were relieved once Katherine locked herself away, allowing only servants and her son to visit her. The only time Kate and Victor were seen together after that was during public announcements and events, although it was obvious to all in attendance the couple now despised each other.
The room had remained bare for nearly ten years, but when Victor was killed in battle and Philip became king, Philip placed the desk and sofa there, so he could visit the room and remember his sister. After the short ceremony which is customary when a new King is crowned, Philip went off by himself, going down into a storage room that hadn't seen the light of day in ten years. He rummaged through many of the boxes, looking for things to remind him of his beloved sister. None of the furniture really meant anything to him, and was of course made for a young girl child. But he found lots of sheet music and sketches which he took with him and placed in the new desk in Chloe's room. He'd also found a portrait of himself and Chloe at age six, which had been painted by the daughter of Mucche's richest citizen, not to mention highest donator to the royal treasury. But seeing those haunting sapphire eyes had been too much for him, so he left that painting in storage. Philip often visited the room, to recall the happier times of carefree youth when he was feeling depressed or troubled, and the babbling of his mother's fears that Chloe would never visit her were too much for him. Only once or twice though had he actually fallen asleep in the room. In a way, though he found the place to be often calming, it almost pained him to be around the constant memory of his long lost sister. And yet, he always came, as if to pay tribute to his sister's memory. Or as if he felt he deserved to suffer, because everyone believed it should have been him to go missing and not her. Philip sighed heavily, sensing that today would be a very long, challenge-filled day. He was rudely awakened from his troubled thoughts by a loud knock on the door.
"Your Majesty? A word with you?" It was Michael. Michael had grown accustomed to finding his king in Princess Chloe's old room whenever he went missing. Philip shot up from his seat, enraged, and jerked the door open.
"I've told you not to disturb me here!" Philip boomed. Philip didn't really care what was going on in the world. When he was in this place, no one was to disturb him. Especially now, he truly believed he didn't care if the entire kingdom fell to ruin.
"Beg your pardon, Your Majesty. Forgive my intrusion, but it seemed urgent enough," Michael stated. Philip rolled his eyes in a very unkingly fashion, stepping out of the room into the hallway, firmly closing the door.
"Everything is urgent to you," Philip stated smugly, brushing past Michael to begin walking down the main hall to the Throne Room. "Well, what is this 'urgent' news you bring me?" Philip asked impatiently. Michael sighed, shaking his head as he followed after his King, walking beside him. Such immature behavior for one who held such power…
"The guards spotted a foreign carriage nearing the castle late last night. The driver and it's female passenger were seized and brought into custody," Michael started.
"What concern is this of mine? I do not handle civil cases. That is for my council to handle," Philip interrupted.
"If you would allow me to continue, Your Majesty," Michael said, rather frustrated and annoyed. He never had to put up with these kind of things when Victor was King. "They were both Neroean; neither would state their names, but one of our general's recognized the girl as Lady Cynthia Banks, the daughter of one of King Brady's most esteemed, wealthy council members. Yet they both bare the mark of the rebellion. The girl, Lady Cynthia, is requesting consultation with you personally. She says she has important information from within the Black castle security, but she refuses to speak to anyone but you."
"Are you so incompetent that you can't handle a mere woman? Are you so incapable that you have to summon me to deal with her?" Philip asked.
"With all due respect, Your Majesty, we are on the edge of what may be the largest battle Mucche has ever faced. Any information about our enemy we can obtain is of the highest importance. It could mean winning or losing the battle. If this girl traitor has any information that could be of use to us, then I believe the situation should be handled with extreme caution," Michael replied. Philip nodded in agreement.
"I do see your point, General. Alright, I will speak with her. Where is the girl now?"
"She and her male companion are awaiting your arrival in the Throne Room," Michael answered. Philip again nodded, and they continued on in silence towards the Throne Room. When they approached the Throne Room doors, two guards pulled open the double doors, bowing respectfully as their king passed. Since news of the alliance had reached Mucchean ears, security in the castle and around the city had doubled. Cynthia, her male driver, and the handful of guards all turned to watch as Philip entered the room soundlessly, silently swooping down into his throne as Michael took his place standing beside him. Philip stayed silent for a moment, his cold eyes boring into the intruders, surveying every inch of their stance, judging them with his eyes. Cynthia lowered her head, dropping her gaze to the floor and losing a bit of her 'no fear' attitude. She didn't like those eyes. They were so hollow and wild, like the eyes of a mad man. Above all, they were nerve-shattering. Even if Philip himself was a lousy King, he could probably intimidate weaker enemies just with those disturbing eyes.
"What business do you have here?" Philip finally asked, breaking the eerie silence which had enveloped the room.
"Your Majesty, forgive our rude intrusion. We… or rather I, wish to have a word with you, in private if you will," Cynthia replied, pushing back her slight nervousness and eyeing the guards disdainfully.
"Whatever you have to say to me, dear lady, can be said in front of these men," Philip said, adding a note of sarcasm to his voice at the 'dear lady' part. Cynthia nodded respectfully; it didn't really matter to her either way, as long as he was there to listen to what she had to say. "State your business and then be gone. I have no time for this. What exactly do you wish to accomplish, that you would risk your lives by coming into Mucchean territory when we know full well that you are Neroean?"
"I have some information which may be of interest to you, Your Majesty. It is of the utmost importance to you personally I believe, regarding a young woman who has recently been brought into King Brady's Palace," Cynthia replied. Philip sat up a bit straighter, his attention thoroughly grabbed by Cynthia's lure. He hadn't thought of Brady's mystery woman since he'd received word of the alliance, though she had so greatly caught his attention from the start. Cynthia noticed the change in his stance, and was pleased. "You seem intrigued, Your Majesty. Have you heard of the woman?"
"I have my source's. I know of the woman, just as I know you are Lady Cynthia Banks," Philip replied.
"Very perceptive of you. You know my name, although that really isn't too hard to figure out if you know your enemy well enough. But, do you know the slave girl's name?"
"I tire of this. Speak your case and leave me be. I have many more important things to attend to," Philip said wearily, growing both bored and annoyed. Why couldn't people just get to the bloody point?
"A King must also have patience, if I may say so Your Majesty," Cynthia stated with fake respect. "The girl, she is very important. Much more important then I first thought when I laid eyes on her. I believe she is a key factor in King Brady's plans against you. But I think it's only fair to you that you know about this girl. You should have known first, actually, I believe."
"What are you getting at?" Philip asked wearily.
"Patience m'lord, I will get to my point, rest assured," Cynthia promised. She loved stringing people along, but she knew her limits. And in this case, it would not be wise to beat around the bush too much. "But first, for you to understand, you must allow me to explain a bit about the girl. I promise you, I would not come to you with this information if I didn't think it was of importance to you. You must trust me. The girl is a slave, but has not always been so. About thirteen years ago, she was first sold into slavery… into a Neroean family by the name of Mendez. You see, the poor girl was stolen from her home and sold to the auctioneer's son." By now, there was a growing sense of dread forming in the pit of Philip's stomach, the wheels beginning to turn in his troubled mind. "She was…"
"Stop! I will hear no more of this. I will not fall for any Neroean trap. King Brady was a fool to send you. You of all people are not to be trusted. You belong to his council. Not a word that comes out of your mouth is of any truth! Guards, remove this snake from my sight!" Philip ordered. No, he wouldn't hear any more. Whatever she had wished to accomplish, he would not allow her. The guards stepped forward to seize Cynthia, but it was Michael who bid them wait with a wave of his hand.
"Wait. Your Majesty, I bid you listen to what this girl has to say. I have a feeling about her. I do not believe she was sent by King Brady." Michael stated.
"No. I will not have this girl in my court any longer," Philip insisted.
"Well if you will not, then I bid you allow me to have council with the girl," Michael insisted, stepping down from his place beside his king and advancing towards Cynthia.
"No!" Philip boomed. "Fine, Michael, I will listen to this wench's words. But mind you, General… if her words lead us into turmoil, it will be on your head." Michael bowed his head in agreement. He had a feeling what the girl had to say was of importance. Though he felt a bit of unease about her, he felt she had information they needed to hear. "You may continue, Lady Cynthia," Philip said, again stressing the word 'lady' as if to mock her title.
"Thank you, Your Majesty. And, thank you, sir," Cynthia said, addressing Michael, although she did not care that he had interceded and kept her from being thrown out. She would have just used her 'insurance' to keep Philip's attention. "As I was saying… the slave girl was released a year ago when her master died, only to be captured again a few days ago during a raid on Rubino. Luckily for her, she was taken in by King Brady and brought to the Palace. During her stay, I became suspicious of the girl. As you know, I do not truly support the Black family reign over Nero. I am on your side."
"The Rebels are on nobody's side but their own," Philip stated wearily.
"Perhaps you are right. Perhaps then should I be gone, and leave you totally in the dark, just waiting for the alliance to pounce on you like a wolf on its defenseless prey," Cynthia stated, now knowing that Michael wouldn't allow her to leave, turning away from Philip like she was making a move to escort herself out of the Palace.
"No, wait," Michael called. "Please, Your Majesty, humor the girl, I beg of you." Philip sighed heavily, wanting nothing more than for Michael to shut the hell up and this girl leave him be in his ignorance. For him, perhaps ignorance had been bliss.
"Please do not be offended, Lady Cynthia. I ask you to stay. Just do not assume that I am convinced you pledge any alliance to myself and my kingdom," Philip stated. Cynthia hid her delight inside, not showing any sign of her triumph on her face when she turned to face Philip once again.
"I do understand that, Your Majesty. After all, a man such as yourself is not at liberty to be completely trusting of a stranger. If I may continue, Your Majesty?" Cynthia asked. Philip waved his hand for her to continue, dreading every word that was to come out of her mouth. "One might think a mere slave girl to be of the least importance in these times, but I have an eye for significant details in every day life, as I believe you do also. You seemed so intrigued by the girl, yet you know nothing about her. I felt the same. I knew something wasn't right about her. So, I began to investigate the girl. I found out not only that she had been a Neroean slave in years past, I found her owners, and went to them personally to inquire more about the girl's life. Her Master's son, now Lord Brandon Mendez, gave her the name Arciana, but as you may have already guessed, that is by far not the girl's true name. Brandon was taken into her confidence, and was not at liberty to tell me anything about the girl, but his sister was more than happy to assist me in my journey for knowledge."
"Does this story have an end any time soon, Lady Cynthia?" Philip asked impatiently.
"It would have ended sooner if you would stop interrupting me," Cynthia replied, showing she really had no respect for those of higher status in life then she. "The short version is, this girl may have been raised in Nero since she was but a girl of eight, but she is definitely not Neroean. She is, in fact, from Mucche. She actually came from a very crucial family in Mucche. One might say, they are the single most important family within the entire country. Are you catching my drift, Your Majesty, or do I need to be completely blunt and spell it out for you?" Cynthia asked impudently. Philip shook his head, refusing to allow her words to sink in. He stood, still shaking his head, turning his back to her and to the side of his throne, almost behind it.
"No, Lady Cynthia, you have made yourself quite clear. Clear that you are a revolting charlatan and that your only purpose is to deceive and destroy. Guards, take this woman from my court. Dump her on the side of the road for all I care, but see to it she is not allowed near my Palace." Philip ordered. No. His sister was dead. She had been dead to his family for thirteen years, and there would be no resurrection for his departed twin. Even if Chloe was alive, he would never, ever accept that she would allow herself to be taken into the House of Black, under the control of the son of the very man who had torn her from her family so many dreadful years ago. The guards hustled forward to seize the offensive wench who had angered their king. Cynthia merely smiled, brushing them off as she pulled out a sheet of paper from her blouse which the guards had failed to notice.
"I feared you would have trouble accepting the information I bring you, Your Majesty. So, I brought this to back my claims. I believe it will bare all the proof you need," Cynthia stated. Philip refused to take the paper from the wretches hands, he would not even face her. He allowed the guards to take hold of Cynthia's arm and shoulder, her right arm still extended slightly, holding the folded paper that was just begging to be taken. Philip moved back to collapse in his throne, head down so as to still not see the vile temptress that had brought his entire world to ruin. But Michael, always with a desire to know beyond face value, came forward, snatching the paper from Cynthia's hand, nodding for the guards to hold her there. Michael unfolded the paper, viewing it curiously.
"It's a drawing, Your Majesty," Michael announced. Philip, who was slumped down in his seat, his two front fingers resting on the pressure point in his head as he now had an excruciating headache, perked up a bit. Not curiously or happily, mind you, but with a tormented recognition.
"Let me see that," Philip ordered. Michael obliged, bringing the drawing to his King's waiting hands. Before departing Nero, after she had arranged to give Faye the money for Nicole's promised release, Cynthia had asked her male companion, Kevin, to search Chloe's room for some physical evidence of her true identity. She knew Philip wouldn't believe her. Even if he was as laughable and thick as everyone made him out to be, he wouldn't believe such a seemingly impossible event, especially if he preferred living in denial. The only thing Kevin had found in the short amount of time he had to search the room freely besides her clothing and a few other trinkets was a couple of drawings. He'd left the drawing of Brady at the slave market, knowing it would not be of any help. Instead, he took the second one, an unfinished drawing of two children. Cynthia had been pleased; it didn't matter if the children were Chloe and Philip. Philip would believe they were. Cynthia knew of Chloe's reputation as a child prodigy artist. She'd researched Mucche well. She knew Philip, even after thirteen years, would recognize his sister's style, though there had been no signature on the piece. Philip surveyed the drawing with a certain sadness. The picture was obviously unfinished, and yet, even though it had been thirteen long years, he knew it was his beloved long lost sister's style; only the hands of his twin sister Chloe could have created this piece. The faces of the playing children were left blank, and the features of the land around them were sketchy, but he knew the scene well. He had played it over and over in his mind for thirteen years. The picture was of him and Chloe, playing together in the courtyard, perhaps just seconds before their lives were ripped apart by King John's Royal Guard. Philip ran his thumb lightly over the girl's dress… the dress Chloe had been wearing the last time he saw her. "Chloe," Philip whispered, though inaudible to those around him. "Release her," Philip commanded quietly.
"But Your Majesty, you said…"
"I said release her!" Philip roared angrily at his insolent guards. They complied immediately, releasing their grasp on both Cynthia and Kevin, who had not said a word since their arrival. "Your friend may go as he pleases. Stay here or go if you like. But you, Lady Cynthia, I wish to have a word with in private."
"I wouldn't have it any other way, Your Majesty," Cynthia stated, making no attempt to hide her pleasure.
"You are all dismissed. Michael, see that Lady Cynthia's male escort is attended to," Philip instructed, standing and approaching Cynthia, taking her arm to lead her away with him.
"Yes, Your Majesty." The guards and Michael bowed their heads respectfully, the guards quickly departing back to their posts as Philip led Cynthia away towards the courtyard.
"Tell me more," Philip asked of Cynthia once they had reached the courtyard, the bright early morning sun beating down gently on them.
"What do you wish to know, m'lord," Cynthia asked with an air of fake politeness.
"How is she? Is she safe, is she healthy? Do you know why she has not made contact with me?" Philip asked. "And most importantly… what is she doing with Brady Black? Has he harmed her, or is she there willingly?"
"Willingly, I'm afraid, Your Majesty. King Brady offered her her freedom, but she has stayed with him despite his offering to even supply escort out of Nero for her. I do not know anything about her motives for not contacting you, that only she knows I suppose. But as for her health, she is alive and well, completely unharmed… at least physically."
"What do you mean?" Philip asked curiously, though he was still floored from the news that his sister was not only alive, but willingly living under the roof of their sworn enemy.
"Well, of course she is emotionally scared, Your Majesty. The terror of what happened to her would frighten anyone, and she was just recently given reminder to that terror when she was captured again in the raid on Rubino. You can imagine the emotional trauma caused by newly acquired freedom being ripped away so quickly," Cynthia explained. Philip nodded slowly, processing her statements. They were both standing alone on the stone staircase of the Courtyard now. He turned away, gazing out over the empty, lonely Courtyard, remembering that this was the last place they had been together, before their world was shattered.
"Why do you bring me this news? You are a rebel from Nero, and yet I know full well the rebellion, though supportive, cares nothing for Mucche and her people. So, why have you come here?" Philip asked, still not facing Cynthia.
"Because, I hate the Black family as much as you do. Particularly Brady Black," Cynthia answered honestly. "I came, because I believe you of all people, Chloe's only living relative, should know the whereabouts of your own twin sister. You are right to say I care nothing for Mucche. What I care about, is seeing those who cross me pay for their infidelities. Bringing justice to wrong doers, if you will."
"And what exactly do you think you will accomplish here? Obviously you came with a specific purpose in mind. What exactly do you expect me to do?" Philip asked, his back still to Cynthia. Cynthia approached him, boldly placing her hands on his shoulder and around his neck from behind, much in a manner that Jan would, resting her chin on his shoulder.
"I believe I can help you seek your revenge as well," Cynthia cooed seductively. "I wish to advise you. It is no secret within the royalty of Nero that Brady has fallen in love with your beautiful sister Chloe. It is also no secret that Chloe returns his love." Philip closed his eyes, suppressing the rage of betrayal that was building up inside him. His own sister! Siding with him, though Philip had done nothing wrong to her, and yet Brady and his father had done so much to harm their family. "I do not think this should be allowed. Brady Black wronged you when he killed your father and your brothers. His father wronged you when he took your innocent sister from you. You've lived your whole life not knowing if she was alive, because of their family. Brady does not deserve this happiness. You and I both feel that way. I'm here to help you get the vengeance you so rightly deserve."
"What do you suggest I do?" Philip asked, falling under her seductive spell of deceit. Yes, he was as easy to rule as any other man.
"I believe they will come to you," Cynthia stated. As she had planned, she was certain that once Chloe knew that she knew her true identity, she would go to Brady. Chloe was far too in love with Brady to leave him, and he was too much in love with her to send her away. Cynthia had no doubt that the goody-goody King Brady would approach Philip, with Chloe happily and willingly at his side. "When they do, you must send them away. No matter what they say, you must send them both away. You must disown Chloe as your sister, claiming no sister of yours would have anything to do with a Black."
"I can't do that," Philip protested. He wasn't strong enough. Though he hated her for being the one their parents loved, though he hated her for betraying him, he still loved her dearly. She was all he had now; even if she would choose a Black over him. He still needed her.
"You must. It is the only way. I will be beside you to guide you. Do as I ask of you. Wait for them to come to you. Then we can go from there. I promise you, this is the best and only way." Philip sighed heavily, lowering his head sadly.
"I will do ask as you ask," Philip stated despairingly, detangling himself from Cynthia's arms. "I wish to be alone now with my thoughts. I have much which I have to consider. I will inform my servants to set you and your male companion up in rooms of your own and tend to your needs. I will call upon you when I am ready to talk more with you," Philip said, turning on his heels to trudge back into the Palace. And Cynthia watched as the defeated man made his sad, lonely way back inside, a satisfied grin on her beautiful, yet hauntingly evil face…….
Shawn's troops trudged along, making their way through the rocky mountain side. They'd left their camp at first light, and would soon be arriving at their next camp to await the battle that would take place the next morning. So many men had jumped at the chance to join the army when Shawn had made his public announcement concerning the alliance that the entire country's militia armory had been exhausted, and personal tools and weapons had to be brought in. Every available horse had been taken along, some even had to be donated by private owners, and yet still hundreds of men were on foot. A group of twenty-five men, known for their excellent hunting and tracking skills, had been sent ahead as a search party to scope the area for Mucchean troops, and would already be waiting for their fellow soldiers at the next campsite. The large army, which consisted of over one-hundred men on horseback and two-hundred men on foot, was spread out; twenty-five men as a search party far ahead, fifty-some-odd men on horseback and one-hundred-some-odd footmen with King Shawn's party, and then the rest a mile back, with the majority of the harder to transport artillery.
Shawn had been so impressed with the amount of people who had cried out in total support of the alliance at the public announcement yesterday. He believed that perhaps the citizens of Rubino were just so pleased their King was finally leading them again that they would follow him anywhere. Even some of the women had been recruited, though mostly as nurses. But a few would be fighting alongside their male companions.
Jason had sent word to Shawn that many of his people had extremely mixed feelings about the battle. So mixed, in fact, that many of those who had a choice whether they went to Mucche to fight actually refused. Jason's numbers were so low, Shawn had sent a number of his troops and resources to assist the Supervisore army, so there would be no weakness in their surrounding of Mucche. Shawn was not feeling particularly nervous about the impending battle. He had the fears any King would have. "How many men will be forced to give their lives tomorrow?" "Will this truly be the end of this bloody war?" "Will the Muccheans know of our attack and be prepared?" All these thoughts raced through Shawn's mind, but he didn't let them bother him. For starters, he was not concerned with his troops. Not a man among them wasn't willing to die for what they believed in, though Shawn did fear for their families back home should some ill fate befall their husbands, sons, and fathers. Like Brady had confided, he almost felt that there was… something out there, something that would see to it this unified attack on Mucche would not take place, at least not as any of them would have suspected. As much as he had always wanted to believe that many of Brady's tales of sensing his mother's spirit were totally imaginary, he knew such mystical happenings were possible. He himself had often heard his departed mother's soothing voice in his dreams, not in the dream, but as if she were really there beside him, tucking him in at night as she had done so many nights when he was young. In times of distress, he could almost swear he felt his father's comforting hand on his shoulder as he would assure him everything would be alright, so Shawn did believe in a sense beyond their understanding. And this time, Shawn sensed that there would be no battle between Mucche and Nero's allies; at least, not a physical pursuit of war. He almost felt as if, though it might have been wishful thinking, that that was all behind them now.
"Ho! King Shawn!" A loud cry from a distant hillside broke above the noises of men's feet and horse hooves hitting the mud and rocks as they trudged along. Shawn jerked his head up to see the lone rider, his horse sporting the colors of Nero, standing on a hill off to the army's right. The man began to descend the hill, and the large number of troops, all knowing the man was a friend and not a foe, began to split apart, giving the man passage to their King. The solider made his way through the crowd, stopping in front of the guards around King Shawn.
"What news do you bring us solider?" Shawn asked.
"A message from King Brady, Your Majesty," the solider replied respectfully, dismounting his horse. He withdrew the scroll tied with black ribbon that Brady had given to him from a satchel on his horse's back and handed it to Shawn's head guard, who promptly handed it up to Shawn on his horse. Shawn unrolled the scroll, reading over the message written by his friend quickly.
"What is the meaning of this, solider?" Shawn asked curiously.
"I do not know, Your Majesty. I know only that King Brady summoned his fastest riders to get a message to the three Kings of the Alliance. Our King has informed me to ask you to hold your troops. He wishes for you to call off the attack. King Brady asked that you station your troops in a secure location. Send them home or send them to the borders of Nero, just so long as you withdraw your camp from the mountains. King Brady wishes for you, King Jason, and King David to report to his castle as soon as possible, so that he can further explain the situation," the solider explained. Shawn still seemed questioning. Why would Brady call off the attack so suddenly? "I have been asked to tell you to trust in King Brady. I assure you, he would not do this if he did not have good reason. It takes time and effort to gather your troops, and King Brady would not wish that lost if not for a sound purpose."
"If Brady has found a way to resolve this war without physical conflict, then of course I trust him. Gabriel," Shawn regarded his Head Guard.
"Yes, Your Majesty," Gabriel, who was on horseback to Shawn's left.
"I want you to announce to the men here that the attack has been postponed. There is a cave formation up ahead, take the men there. The horses can be kept inside the caves, and the area around it is shielded from view from the mountain pass. Have the men set up camp there and await my commands. Send a rider to the troops to the rear and the fastest horse to the search party ahead. Have the search party come back around here to the caves, and station the others back in the mountains on the Mucchean border. You should have plenty of provisions to last until I return with further instructions," Shawn ordered.
"Yes, Your Majesty," Gabriel replied, bowing his head in acceptance of his orders.
"You, solider. I would like you to accompany me back to Nero."
"Of course, Your Majesty. It is my honor," the solider replied. As most Neroean people did, he had a high respect for King Shawn, as well as King Jason and King David, though they knew less of David. He mounted his horse again, waiting for Shawn to give him further order.
"Thank you, solider. Gabriel, you have my orders. I leave you in command of the men. I'll send word for further instruction as I learn more," Shawn stated. He nodded his head to the Neroean solider, grabbing the reins of his horse. He knew his council would not approve of his traveling with only one escort, but more men would slow them down. Shawn wanted to get to Nero as quickly as possible. He knew Brady wouldn't call off the battle without good reason, as it had been he who'd first called for the attack. Shawn had every intention of finding out that reason as soon as humanly possible. Shawn and the solider both started off at full gallop, breaking through the puzzled crowd to continue back up the hillside which the solider had come from. The many soldiers watched as their King disappeared out of sight, leaving only Gabriel and the men close enough to hear the messengers announcement to assure them that Shawn had not abandoned them again, and that their King was doing everything within his power to insure their safety.
Elsewhere, King David was receiving a similar visit from another Neroean solider. He too mounted his horse after leaving order for his men to turn back into neutral territory and camp in a secure location. He and his daughter Miriam, who had rebelled against her father's orders to remain home in Arcadia and had come along to serve as her father's escort, set out with the solider to return to Nero, so they too could be informed of Brady's purpose. Jason would also soon receive his notice, but would be the last to set off for Nero. Because of his vulnerable location on the riverside, Jason had to turn his troops around and backtrack to station them on the welcoming border of Rubino before he could set out for Nero. But, no matter how long it took, all three leaders would be in Nero by late that night……
Chloe finished the last stroke of her hair, placing the hairbrush down on her vanity next to the pink glass figurine and purple teddy bear, picking up a rose pin to put in her hair. She'd opted to leave her hair down, and was wearing another of the dresses Harold had picked out for her. It was a midnight blue dress that hugged the hips, unlike the majority of her other dresses, and flowed down evenly, stopping at her ankles in a manner that would not allow the dress to drag on the ground. She had hoped she would be wearing the dress she had made herself by now, but she had not had the time to finish the garment since so much had been happening to her. But, that didn't bother her, because every moment had been spent with Brady. And that's exactly where she wanted to spend every moment of her life thereafter.
Chloe smiled at her reflection in the mirror after she secured the matching blue rose pin in her hair. Her face had a certain glow about it, which she had never before seen. For one of the first times, Chloe no longer had to cringe when she looked in a mirror. She could gladly say she was proud to be who she was. It wouldn't even have mattered if her face was still as scarred and tarnished as it had once been. Brady loved her, no matter who she was, or what she looked like. There was a knock on the door, and without answering it, Chloe knew it was him. She stood from her vanity, opened the door, and immediately Brady had his arms wrapped around her, tasting her lips yet again. Such a surprising, out of the blue show of affection once would have frightened her. But now, she welcomed it with open arms, and could only pray the affections would continue.
"You look beautiful," Brady said when they finally broke apart. He too was now dressed in fresh clothing. He was dressed in a casual ensemble that consisted of a dark blue dress shirt similar to his favored white one with a black vest, and black leather pants. Both had summoned for a quick bath, each wanting to hurry back to the other's side. "Though, I must say… I rather preferred you without the dress." Chloe laughed, blushing slightly as she raised her arms to place them around his neck. Some things would take a little getting used to…
"If I recall, it was you who told me to get dressed," Chloe pointed out.
"Mmmm… my mistake," Brady returned, bending his head to place soft kisses on her neck. Chloe laughed, more of a light airy giggle, his lips tickling her flesh in a most sensuous way.
"Brady," Chloe laughed. Their playful teasing was interrupted by the sound of someone clearing their throat in the hall. Brady had stepped all the way inside the room now, but had forgotten to close the door… or merely had just not realized Harold would be back so soon.
"Ahem," Harold cleared his throat, though if it had been up to him, he would not have disturbed the two lovers, at least right away. After all, the entire country had been waiting years for Brady to fall in love, or at least find someone he could grow to love. "Forgive my intrusion, Your Majesty, but I have prepared for your morning as you have asked."
"Everything that I asked?" Brady asked. He'd turned his head to face Harold, but his arms were still wrapped around Chloe's waist.
"Yes, everything, Your Majesty," Harold replied with a knowing stress on the word everything.
"Good," Brady said, turning his head to face Chloe. "Shall we retire to breakfast then my love?" Chloe nodded. She would have been a little suspicious of Harold's tone had she not been too busy reeling from Brady referring to her as 'his love.'
"Sounds wonderful," Chloe replied.
"Let us be off then," Brady said, unwrapping his arms from Chloe and taking her by the hand, leading her into the hall. Chloe shut the door behind them as Brady clasped Harold's shoulder with his free hand. "Thank you for arranging every detail of our breakfast, my friend."
"Was my pleasure, Your Majesty," Harold replied, flashing a knowing smile in Chloe's direction, much to Chloe's confusion. When Chloe turned her head away from Harold's sight to gaze down towards the end of the hall, Harold gave Brady a wink.
"Wish me luck," Brady mouthed wordlessly.
"You don't need it," Harold mouthed in return with a proud smile. Brady turned to lead Chloe down the hallway, heading towards the courtyard entrance. The castle was returning back to its usual state, still bustling with activity, but not full of soldiers and with the certain tension that accompanied preparing for battle. The faces they met along the way were no longer unfamiliar, serious faces, but more welcoming signs of familiarity and contentment. About halfway between the royal chambers and the courtyard entrance, Brady abruptly pulled Chloe to a stop.
"Wait a moment," Brady said, pulling out a black handkerchief that would serve to be a blindfold.
"Brady, what are you…"
"It's a surprise," Brady replied. "Don't you trust me?"
"You know I do," Chloe replied with a small smile. Brady too smiled, reaching up to tie the handkerchief around Chloe's eyes, tying it behind her head over her long flowing hair.
"That too tight?" Brady asked. Chloe shook her head.
"No, it's fine. Although I still don't get…"
"Trust me, it'll be worth it. Just humor me," Brady interrupted, waving his hand in front of Chloe's face to ensure she couldn't see through the black material.
"Alright, Brady… just don't lead me into any bottomless pits or lead me in front of a huge crowd of people just so they can laugh at me," Chloe teased. Brady laughed, taking her by the hand and upper arm.
"I promise. King's honor," Brady replied, beginning to lead Chloe slowly down the hallways, beginning again towards the courtyard. They passed many servants and council members, all of whom greeted their King with cheerful smiles. Not just because they were all glad that their friends and relatives did not have to go off to war, but because even they could see that their King was happier then he'd ever been. They could all see that their King was in love. Brady and Chloe continued on down the hallways, Brady helping Chloe down the few stairways and down the courtyard steps. Brady first led Chloe around the entire courtyard, making her think they were going further then they actually were. He then turned towards the gardens, heading down a path which he had not gone down in over three years. He led her around rose bushes, extravagant trees and flower patches, towards a large area of the garden that was completely shrouded, at least from the sides, by beautiful wispy willow trees and muscadine and honey suckle bushes.
"Brady, where are we going? I'm tired of walking around blindly," Chloe complained.
"Just a few more steps," Brady assured. He walked her over to the naturally blocked off area, pulling back a branch to allow them entrance. "Watch your head," Brady advised, placing his hand over her head to keep her from bumping into a branch. Chloe ducked her head obediently, now hearing the slow rush of a stream. She'd known they were outside for quite some time, but she hadn't heard any water until just now. Brady led her into the fair sized clearing. It was naturally shrouded on one side, but a stone wall which curved into a large semi-circle had been built along the other side, and a few bushes and plants had to be planted to complete the alienation of the area from the rest of the garden. Queen Isabella had ordered it done, so she would have a place to bring her son to play that was away from all prying eyes, and a place where she could go with her husband where they were not a King and Queen, but just a man and his wife.
A man made stream which had been there even before Queen Isabella's orders to seclude the area, flowed along the wall. Anyone who knew the gardens knew that the stream had been made to irrigate the gardens, and that it flowed through key points in the garden, emptying into a ditch that carried all the castle waste water away. Flowers and roses, all of Queen Isabella's favorites, grew in the clearing, and there was a fair-sized patch of fresh cut grass that was perfect for wrestling with one's sister. Large clean-cut rocks which served as a place for one or two people to sit and survey the beautiful sight were also placed at one end of the clearing.
The wonderful scent of honey suckle filled the air, and a huge blanket had been lain out on the ground beside the stream. On the blanket, an extravagant display of fruits, grains, and breakfast meats, all laid out in open platters except one silvery platter which was covered with a dome-like lid, was spread out for their breakfast. Brady stood Chloe in the center of the clearing where she would have the fullest view of the entire surroundings, and reached up to remove her blindfold. When the blindfold was dropped, Chloe was allowed to survey the clearing which she had never noticed before since it was in the very back corner of the garden boundaries. She was in complete awe; she had thought nothing could top the many beautiful sights she had seen thus far in Brady's kingdom, but this one came quite close.
"Brady, this place is extraordinary. What a wonderful surprise!" Chloe exclaimed.
"This is only half the surprise," Brady promised. "Here, lets sit," Brady suggested, taking her hand and leading her over to the large blanket. Besides the array of varying foods was a clear spot on the patchwork blanket where they could sit without the stream splashing them. Brady helped Chloe settle down on the blanket, before settling down beside her, he on the side closest to the stream.
"This really is wonderful Brady. You never cease to amaze me," Chloe stated. Brady smiled slyly, nodding towards the trees and flowers.
"Its just fortunate enough for us that my ancestor's preferred to concentrate on keeping the lands of Nero fertile and prosperous rather than focus solely on war. Through everything, we always seemed to find time to focus on the smaller, more enjoyable attributes of life," Brady replied. "My father always taught me to be proud of my heritage, and to keep traditions alive. The original peoples of Nero concentrated much of their efforts on providing food and surrounding themselves with pleasing sights."
"And then we came along," Chloe sighed sadly, turning her eyes away from Brady. She hated that she always let her pessimistic "always looking for the catch" side get the best of her. Very rarely would anything good happen to her; and when something actually went right, her subconscious always pointed out the bad qualities of a good event rather then allowing her to just enjoy the happy time. Brady sighed, shaking his head. How long would it take for her to stop beating herself up for things she had nothing to do with?
"Chloe…" Brady started, wrapping an arm around her. He wanted this day, well all of her days from here on out, but especially this day, to be perfect for her. No bad thoughts, only positive emotions. "When are you going to realize that none of that has anything to do with you? Being born into a certain family does not make you who you are. You may have been born into a family who has a reputation for being… less than honorable. But, you are your own person. I don't know what you see when you look at yourself in the mirror, but do you know what I see when I look at you?" Brady asked.
"What do you see Brady?"
"I see… a beautiful, kind woman with enchanting blue eyes that anyone would be content to be lost in. A young woman who, despite how fate has treated her, cares for others more then she cares about herself. When I look at you, I thank God that I'm allowed to even be in your presence," Brady replied honestly. Chloe turned in his embrace to face him, a look of gratefulness and bewilderment in her eyes.
"What did I ever do to deserve you?" Chloe asked. Brady smiled slyly, causing Chloe to grin as well.
"I could ask the same question," Brady replied, leaning forward to capture her delicious lips in a soft, lingering kiss. Brady still had a devious smile on his face when they broke apart. "You know, if we don't eat this food soon, the birds and squirrels are going to find their way here and steal it from under our noses." Chloe smirked, unraveling herself from his arms and pretending to shy away from him a bit.
"Which would you rather have, the food, or me?" Chloe asked playfully. Brady laughed, pulling her back to him with a grin.
"You, my love, definitely you," Brady replied. "But if I do not have food, then I will not possess the energy to have you," Brady teased. Chloe giggled, squirming to get out of his grasp as he placed tickling kisses on her neck.
"Brady! Don't do that, I'm ticklish!" Chloe squealed. Brady grinned evilly, firming his grip on her so she couldn't get away from him.
"That, is very, very good to know," Brady stated with fake menace, placing more kisses on her sensitive neck and shoulders.
"Brady! You let go of me this instant!" Chloe demanded through her laughter, though she truly hadn't a care in the world if his arms never left from around her. She would be happy if they never did.
"Alright, alright. If you promise not to pout about me wanting to eat," Brady stated.
"I promise." Chloe replied like an obedient little child, who had a streak of sarcasm in them. Brady let her go, scooting back a bit on the blanket.
"Good. Now, let's eat." Brady said. He picked up a piece of toasted wheat bread, and a knife which Harold had placed along with the food, and began to put jam on the toast. "I hope you're a raspberry kind of person. All I could find at the market place yesterday was strawberry, but my all time favorite is raspberry."
"I've never had raspberry jam," Chloe confessed. A slave eats whatever they can manage to get hold of. And even as a free woman, she usually didn't have such luxuries on a seamstress' salary.
"What! That's sinful!" Brady replied, causing Chloe to laugh.
"Well, I'm sorry if I don't fit to your raspberry obsession, Brady, but I'm not that adventurous of a person." Chloe said.
"Now that's something we are going to have to remedy," Brady stated matter-of-factly. "Here. Try it," Brady said, holding up the jam covered toast to Chloe's lips. Chloe complied, allowing him to feed her; she took a huge bite, getting raspberry jam on her face, but was instantly in heaven.
"Mmmm… that is so good," Chloe muffled through her chewing. Brady chuckled, taking a bit out of the toast himself.
"Told ya," Brady returned through his own chewing. They both laughed as they locked eyes; they both looked like little messy kids at the dinner table. Chloe reached up to brush some crumbs off of Brady's shirt, while Brady wiped a bit of raspberry jam off the corner of Chloe's mouth. "You know, there's a better way to do this."
"And what's that?" Chloe asked. Brady grinned, bending down and planting his lips on hers, intending to kiss the jam off her face.
"Yum. Now that's delicious," Brady stated when he was done. He and Chloe both shared a laugh, each just so delighted to be with the other. They didn't feel like they had to be serious in any way with the other. It felt so good, to both of them, just to laugh, really truly laugh. Chloe picked up a plum to eat next, while Brady picked up a piece of peeled orange.
"So… where is the next half of the surprise you promised?" Chloe asked curiously.
"All in due time, love. All in due time," Brady replied.
"Brady, have you always been so…"
"Charmingly enigmatic?"
"I was going to say so much of a pain in the ass," Chloe teased.
"Oh, well in that case… yes. It's what I live for," Brady replied with a smile. Chloe elbowed him playfully, shaking her head. "What? A King doesn't get much normal life excitement. I have to have something to live for."
"Whatever you say," Chloe laughed. She finished her plum, and was looking for the knife to have another piece of the delicious toast with raspberry jam when she noticed the only covered bowl on the whole blanket. It had a decorative dome-like lid, and it stuck out ominously, like a sore thumb. All the other bowls had intentionally had their lids removed before they arrived. Why was this one different? "Brady, what's this?" Chloe asked, reaching for the bowl.
"No!" Brady panicked, grabbing for the bowl before she could get her hands on it. "Not this. You can't see this yet," Brady said, trying to calm his voice. He hadn't meant to over-react, but he'd panicked when he saw her reaching for it. If she were to open it… everything would be ruined. Chloe got a sly, devious look in her eyes seeing how he reacted to what she had thought was just a simple little bowl.
"Brady, is that your surprise for me?"
"I… no. No, it's not important," Brady lied. Damn it! He had had everything planned out perfectly. His worried, nervous mind couldn't handle a change in his plans.
"Then… you won't mind if I look at it!" Chloe exclaimed, grabbing the silver bowl from his hands. She jumped up from the blanket with a giggle of delight, keeping it out of reach for him to grab it away from her.
"Chloe, don't!" But before he could even stand, Chloe had lifted the lid off the little silver bowl, allowing her to see the contents. Brady sank back down in defeat as he watched her face, once filled with joy, take a full turn about, twisting into shock and bewilderment. At a quick glance, the contents would have seemed innocent enough. The bowl itself was filled with delicious ripe black and red raspberries, picked fresh early that morning. But it was not the raspberries of course that had stopped Chloe in her tracks. No, it was the small open wooden box situated in the middle of the bushel of raspberries. Or rather, not the box, but it's contents. The simple oak wood box had a tiny slit in the middle, and in the slit, sat an exquisite white gold ring. In the center of the ring, a beautiful sapphire was placed which shone brighter then the ocean as the light of day plays upon its waves. To each side of the ring a different color diamond was set; one was red, which was meant to symbolize "love", and the other was black, which was Nero's color to symbolize "eternal." A tiny dove was engraved on one side, which was meant to represent a symbol of peace and joy. Chloe slid back down besides Brady, sitting on her knees in front of him, as she picked the ring out of its box.
"Brady… what does this mean?" Chloe asked quietly. Brady sighed, taking the ring from her.
"It means… that I love you. And I want to spend every moment of the rest of my life with you. It means… that I…" Brady stammered, looking for the right words. He'd had everything planned before, but now that she had altered his plans, he was at a lose for words. "I mean… I was… I want to… ask you to marry me," Brady gushed out. He saw the look in her face change. Not a bad look, not a laughing face, but not the look he had wanted to see.
"Brady… I…" Brady didn't let her speak. He stood up abruptly, taking the ring with him. He stepped away from the blanket and the food, and began to pace.
"I know it's sudden. There's… God, there's so much I wanted to say to you. I… I… damn it! This wasn't how this was supposed to go," Brady rambled. Chloe merely watched him as he paced, noting that it seemed like he was getting lost in his own thoughts, like he barely remembered she was there now. "You just don't understand how this is making me feel Chloe. All my life, I believed that I was cursed, that I'd never find anyone who would return the feelings that I had for them. Never find anyone who wouldn't abandon me like all the others had. And I was beginning to believe it was best if I just kept myself locked away, never letting anyone close to me again. But then, then you come along. And everything changes!" Brady ranted. "Almost instantly, you had me throwing out every caution I had built up about, breaking down the wall I'd built around myself to protect my heart from getting broken again. Before I even knew your name, I loved you. I couldn't get you out of my mind. Every time I close my eyes, you're there. I've only known you for a few short days… but I have never, ever felt anything like this in my entire life. When I first met you as a child, I knew you'd be important to me, but I never understood why. Until now," Brady stated. Brady turned to face her, and stopped his pacing, getting down on his knees in front Chloe, who had settled back down on the blanket, watching him with a stoic expression.
"I always envisioned that I would meet the woman I was to spend my life with, and know in an instant that she was the one for me. I've always been a very cautious person, but in truth… I've always wanted a whirl-wind romance. I want a passion that just knocks me off my feet, and completely consumes me. I want a love that is formed from the start, one that will last. Call me crazy if you will, but I've always wanted an out of the blue, all consuming, love at first sight romance. And I have that with you," Brady stated. "From the moment I saw you, I knew. I knew you would be the only woman I would ever want to marry. The only woman who I would have a family with…"
"Yes."
"The only woman I'd want to grow old with."
"Yes."
"The only woman…" At this point, Brady wasn't even looking at her anymore. He was ranting, unseeing, and unhearing, and it took a moment for his brain to register that his beloved had spoken. "Wh… what?"
"Yes," Chloe repeated. It was obvious from the look on his face that Brady was beyond confused. Chloe smiled softly, taking the ring from him again and holding it up in front of both of them. "Brady… I love you. And I would be the happiest woman on earth to be your wife. If I can spend the rest of my life with you by my side, then I can finally be happy. Truly happy. So the answer to your unasked question, Brady… is yes."
"Yes?" Brady asked, as if he couldn't believe his ears. Chloe's grin widened, as she gave the ring to Brady to put on her finger.
"Yes," Chloe replied. Brady took her offered hand, lovingly placing the ring on her finger, and all his doubt and anxiety washed away, leaving only true contentment and joy. Brady smiled for the first time since Chloe had noticed the raspberry bowl. He scooped her up in his arms, standing up with her, and twirled her around, each now laughing joyously.
"Yes!" Brady exclaimed happily, allowing her feet to touch the ground again.
"Yes," Chloe laughed, as she stood on her tip toes, wrapping her arms around his neck, his around her waist, and they kissed for the first time as an engaged couple. The kiss seemed an eternity, an eternity of bliss neither wanted to ever be broken. But when the kiss did end, and Chloe lay her chin on Brady's shoulder, his arms wrapped protectively around her, and hers extended behind Brady, she surveyed the beautiful, amazing ring he had given her. "Brady?"
"Mmm?" Brady replied too happy to form actual words.
"Why raspberries?" Chloe asked. And they both laughed, Brady taking hold of Chloe's arms and putting her at arm's length, so that he could see every inch of her, from her joy filled face to her now shoeless feet.
"You said it best. I have an obsession," Brady answered.
"Ha. Ok, but just promise, no making love in a raspberry covered bed or anything like that," Chloe teased.
"I'll always have my fantasies," Brady returned slyly. Chloe laughed as he pulled her in for another passionate kiss, that was to be followed by many more passionate kisses. And all was right with the world……..