A/N: I suppose technically it is now Wednesday but I haven't gone to sleep yet for Tuesday so I'm not too late in when I said I'd be updating. Anyways, here's the next part of the story and please review! :)
Crossroads
Ava stood under the arenberry tree in front of her easel, chalk in hand as she began sketching the scene before her. The water and the sky were both calm and she couldn't help thinking how surreal it all looked.
"Hey," Zan whispered in her ear as he wrapped his arms around her from behind. "You left early this morning firecracker. I missed you."
She turned back so he could kiss her softly. "Yeah, I woke up early; I guess I couldn't sleep."
"Are you okay?" He came around to stand beside her.
"I'm fine." She nodded. "So what did you do while missing me?"
"I just got done speaking to Rath and Viala," he replied.
"And how are things going on their end?" Ava placed the chalk down and dusted off her hands.
"Good," he continued. "But I'll need them there another day or so to work out the details."
"But the rally's tomorrow?" she looked at him with concerned eyes.
"I think Felino can handle it," he smiled at her. "Don't worry."
"I can't help it Zan," she shook her head. "If they handle this right our small rebel problem could turn into an actual rebellion. I need to go out into the cities and meet with the people."
"Ava," his voice was sterner than usual.
"I'm the Queen," she returned the same tone. "My job is to be the voice of the people; how can I do that if I don't even know what they're saying?" She grabbed at her stomach as she felt a tensing.
"What's wrong," he quickly led her to the nearby bench and knelled in front of her. "Avalena, what is it?"
"Here," she took his hand in hers and then placed across her stomach. "It's the baby, our baby."
Zan closed his eyes as his hand began to glow and he connected to the life inside of her. His mind began to flood with flashes of their unborn child steadily growing within her womb. When the flashes ceased, he pulled back to look at his wife. "Our baby. Why didn't you tell me?"
"With everything going on, I didn't want you to have to worry about anything else." Ava exhaled deeply. "I didn't know if you'd be happy about it; things have happened so fast."
"Why would you think I wouldn't be happy about it?" Zan questioned. "None of this has moved too fast for me. I love you so much."
"I love you too," she pressed her forehead against his.
"That's why I don't want you out in the cities, I don't want you to be in any danger," Zan cupped her face. "If something were to happen to you," he sighed deeply. "I couldn't bear it."
"Zan," Ava looked up at him. "I know that but would your mother just sit in the background out of fear or would she do what was best for her people? She chose me to succeed her because she had faith in me that I could be a queen. How can I sit back when Antar needs me?" She looked him directly in the eye. "You wouldn't."
The stubborn King shook his head at his even more stubborn wife. "You're right."
"I know I am," she smiled.
Vilandra stood alone in the stealic chamber, watching an array of cerulean, violet, and lavender lights dance across the walls and floor. She couldn't explain it but somehow she felt closer to those she'd lost when she visited The Granilith, even though they hadn't gotten there in time to save the three Royals' esentia.
"I wish you were here to guide me father," she spoke out loud. "I feel like I'm at a crossroads and I don't know which way to turn. Could Kivar be right; would I be a better queen than Zan's king or is he just using me?" She shook her head. "When he's around I'm not even sure who I am, what I feel." She ran her hands through her hair as her eyes began to fill with salty tears. "And this rally; shouldn't I go to at least hear what they're saying. I just feel so lost father. Please give me a sign."
Vilandra stood silent for a moment before wiping the stray tears that managed to escape in a stream down her face and took a deep breath before exiting the chamber. Vilandra quickly placed her hand on the outside wall and sealed it shut.
"Vilandra," Kivar watched her shocked expression as she spun around to look at him. "I'm glad you're here."
"You're ubiquitous," she shook her head and exhaled sharply. "Do you have some kind of tracking device on me?"
"Vilandra," he stepped closer to her. "I am not the one you're really upset with, am I?"
She said nothing as his icy blue eyes stared into hers.
"You're upset with yourself because you like that I'm drawn to you," he placed his palm against her cheek. "Because you are drawn to me too."
The minute she felt the touch of his hand, the tension in her face relaxed. She still said nothing but she secretly wondered if Kivar being here was the sign she'd asked her father for.
"I know you feel it too," his face was now a few inches from her own. "You want me as much as I want you Loni. Stop denying it; stop denying me."
"Please," she breathed out as he stroked her face. She felt so hopeless in that moment, like a shaking leaf that was suddenly being steadied by a firm branch. "I can't."
Kivar pulled The Princess closer and lifted her chin so he could stare deeply into her eyes once again. Vilandra could feel this force rush through her as he leaned in closer and gave just a hint on a smirk before he smothered her mouth with his own. As he deepened his kiss, she closed her eyes and wrapped her arms around his neck. Her mind began to flood with images and memories from his life and even as she felt a darkness cloud around her, Vilandra still kissed him. She knew part of it was attraction but it was more out of this curiosity and fascination she'd developed for him.
"Uh-um," a throat cleared behind them.
Kivar let go of her and turned to meet their company as Vilandra stood in shock.
"I think you should be going now," Zander slanted his eyes at the pale man.
Kivar nodded and then took a lurid glance at the stiff beauty. "Princess," he smirked before leaving The Hall.
"Z-Zander," she stammered.
"I don't care to know what happened just now or what may have happened before," The Chancellor said as he walked towards her. "All I care about is that it does not happen again."
Vilandra just nodded.
"I mean what I'm saying to you Princess Vilandra," he held her hands. "You are at a crossroad right now; I just hope that you go down the right path my child."
"I will," she replied. "This won't happen again." I hope.
Maya sat in the conference room listening to Zan and Ava speak about the capital tours The Queen wanted to take. After she and Ema had finished their research for the morning, Zan had asked his mother to meet them.
"I think it's an excellent idea," she said after Ava was done explaining her motives. "Although neither of you need my approval."
"But we both respect your opinion," Ava replied. "I thought I could start in the capital city of Alwan today. I think I can make it through four provinces today if I leave within the next hour."
"You're moving very quickly," Maya said thoughtfully.
"I am," she quickly added. "But with the rally tomorrow we really need to show people that we are here to serve them. And I'd really like my last meeting to be in Charis a half an hour before theirs starts."
"No," Zan shook his head. "That's not going to work."
"Zan," his wife turned to look at him. "We discussed this."
"We discussed you going out into a few cities to get public feedback and support," The King replied a bit sternly. "We did not discuss my pregnant wife targeting herself in a group of over anxious rebels."
"Pregnant?" Maya looked between her son and daughter-in-law.
"Zan," the petite blonde coaxed. "This is really something I want to do."
"I'm sorry Ava but the answer is no; it's too dangerous and this is the end of it," he stepped towards her and then kissed her on the forehead. "I have to go."
She flinched back slightly, annoyed at his lack of trust in her.
She sat nothing, only sent him an icy glare as he walked from the room.
"Pregnant?" Maya repeated.
"Yes," Ava smiled as she placed her hand over her slightly extended belly. "I am."
"That's wonderful," Maya stood up to embrace her, then pulled back. "I know you are upset with Zan but he just wants to keep you safe. He's lost so much," she shook her head. "We all have. He just doesn't want to lose you."
"He won't," Ava's voice sounded certain.
"You can't promise him that anymore than Zaid could promise me," Maya held her hand. "The simple truth is nothing is guaranteed in life, especially in the positions you and Zan are in."
"But that is the point," Ava countered. "I'm in no more danger out there than I am if someone stormed The Palace and attacked me here. Being a queen makes me a target but it also gives ma a responsibility to this planet and its people; my people. I can't cower just because it may be a little dangerous."
"I don't disagree with you and neither will Zan once he thinks about it," Maya added. "Your dedication and strength are part of the reasons I wanted you to be my successor but right now my son is thinking like a husband and it's understandable he wants to keep his wife and unborn child safe." She looked at her in the eye. "You know the limitations a pregnancy can have on a woman. He just loves you so much."
"And I love him but the time to diffuse this situation is now," a look of worry washed over her. "We're at a juncture and I fear if something isn't done soon, no one will be safe."
Vilandra entered her room quickly, still frazzled from her trip to The Granilith Hall. She hadn't expected to see Kivar there or to let things get that far out of hand, especially when Zander had caught her in the arms of Eca's number one suspect.
She sat on the bed and folder her legs underneath her as she began to slowly rock back and forth. It was something she did often as a child when she was upset. She couldn't remember the last time she'd felt so out of control and isolated. She couldn't stop the thoughts that raced through her mind.
Should I tell Zan or will that just make things worse? How can I tell Rath without losing him? Am I in love with Kivar; but how can I be when I know I'm in love with Rath? Have I lost my mind?
She inhaled deeply and tried to control her breathing as she saw the vase on the end table began to rattle.
"I'm sorry Your Highness," the maid came in from the adjourning room. "I didn't realize you'd returned."
"It's okay Aimie," Vilandra took a couple of deep breaths. "Please don't let me keep you from what you need to do."
"I could leave if you'd like to be left alone," Aimie placed her hand on the vase, steadying it.
"Alone," the blonde looked up at her. "I don't even know if that's what I really want."
A puzzled look crossed the other woman's face. "I don't mean to pry but are you okay Princess Vilandra?" She'd been Vilandra maid for quite a while and had gotten to read her matron's moods fairly well.
"I'm not sure," she answered honestly.
"Is there any way I can be of service?" the brunette asked.
"Have a seat," The princess motioned to the bench at the end of her bed and waited for her to comply before she sat down. Before they were old enough to know their social statures the two girls were friends and they still confided in each other from time to time. "Now I know I've never asked you this before but I have to make sure now more than ever that your loyalty is to me first."
"Of course Your Highness," Aimie continued. "As your Bedchamber Maid my loyalty is to you first. You have my word."
"Good," Vilandra replied. "Do you remember when I told you about Kivar?"
"That you had a little crush on him," she nodded. "I remember."
She returned the nod, "Well for the last couple months he's made it clear that he has feelings for me too."
"But you have decided to marry General Rath," there was a slight questioning in her voice. "This is not strictly an arranged marriage, is it Your Highness?"
"No Aimie," The Princess shook her head. "I do love Rath but I can't explain it; I feel so drawn to Kivar sometimes."
"I don't mean to alarm you but do you think he's playing some kind of mind game with you?" Aimie said inquisitively.
"I don't think so," she ran a hand through her hair as she contemplated that. "I hope not."
"So there is a part of you that doesn't trust him?" Aimie read the hesitation in the other woman's voice.
"Well my brother doesn't trust him," she continued after a brief pause. "I'm sure you've heard the rumors. Everyone thinks he had something to do with the attack on my father's ship but I just can't believe he'd do that to me. He's been such a great friend through all of this."
"Is he just a friend?" Aimie pressed.
"Yes," Vilandra answered then breathed out an exasperated breath. "Maybe not, I'm not really sure anymore." She ran a hand through her tresses. "The thing is; Zan fired him as Charis' ambassador."
"I heard," she continued after Vilandra raised an eyebrow at her. "When guards escort you from The Palace it gets around." Aimie smiled slightly. "Have you seen Kivar since?"
"Yes," she answered. "He told me about a rally that's being held in support of ideas against my brother's rule and I don't know what to do about it." She began rambling. "How can I tell Zan about this without him getting suspicious about Kivar when I told him there was nothing going on between us?" She stood up to pace. "I keep thinking that if we stop them from meeting the rebels will just have another reason to revolt and then there's Antar. Don't I at least have a responsibility to go, just to find out what they're saying? I mean, what would you do?"
"You mean would I go?' She stood up as well. "Should you?"
"Yes," she stopped pacing for the moment.
"Well of course you should go but that's not the real question," the maid continued. "The question is; are you going in support of Kivar or in defense of King Zan?"
"What if the answer is both?" she shrugged.
"I don't think it can be," Aimie relied softly.
"Then I have to choose my brother," she nodded but her statement almost sounded like a question.
Aimie shook her head. "Only you can make that decision Your Highness but if I were you, I would make it sooner rather than later. Only you can choose what path is best for you."
Vilandra gave a half smile. "Thank you for listening."
They both turned around to a knock on the adjourning door to the sitting room.
"Come in," Vilandra called.
"Good evening Your Highness," Jabari stood in the doorway. "His Majesty Zan would like to see you."
"Thank you Jabari," Vilandra nodded in his direction before he exited. "And thanks again Aimie, I think I know what I should do now." She gave another nod and then exited the same door Jabari used.
"Hello," Ava poked her head in her husband's office after he'd called for her to come in. "I just wanted to let you know U was back." She started to close the door back.
"Wait Ava," Zan called to her. "Come in," he continued after he saw the uncertainty on her face. "Just for a minute."
She stepped inside the room and closed the door behind her before walking to the front of his desk.
"Did you make it to all four provinces today?" Zan came around to sit at the edge of his desk.
"Yes," she answered. "I went to Alwar, Palayan, Trece, and Comoros. I was in each capital about an hour."
Zan nodded. "And it went well."
"Well I thought so but I suppose I could be wrong," Ava replied. "I can get Ema, Yawsik, or one of the many Royal Guards that accompanied me if you like so you don't have to worry."
"Ava," he shook his head at her, half amused and half annoyed at her attitude. "I will always worry about you when you're in a dangerous situation."
"I just wish you'd trust me to not put myself in a situation I couldn't handle," she countered.
"I do trust you," he ran a hand through his blue-black hair. "It's these people I don't trust and with you being pregnant, it's easier for them to attack you. Your energy is now dispersed between two and they will use that to their advantage to catch you off guard."
"No one knows we're expecting yet besides your mother and Lili," she retorted. "I," she touched her stomach, "We will be fine."
"Can't you understand how much you mean to me," he cupped her face. "I would give up everything, this whole planet if it meant keeping you safe." He gazed into her eyes. "I love you, okay?"
"Okay," she smiled. "I love you too Zan."
"Are you still upset with me," he pulled her into en embrace.
"Maybe," she pouted.
Zan bent down and kissed her softly on her lips and then pulled back to look at her again. "You and this baby are the most important things in my life."
"Baby," Vilandra closed the door behind her. "Are you pregnant Ava?"
"We just found out but we're keeping it quiet right now," she stood to the right of her husband. "With the province tour I'm doing right now, it's just safer."
"Province tours," The Princess raised her eyebrow.
"It seems there's a rally tomorrow to gain rebel support so Ava's holing her own rallies, one in Charis a half an hour before their starts." He looked to his wife, silently giving her his approval. "Provided she's up to it."
"That's actual a good idea," Vilandra replied. "Is that why you wanted to see me; I'd love to help."
"No," he walked around his desk and picked up a packet of papers. "I'm just making a few changes to the border of Antiman, just in case."
"Are you asking for my opinion or just telling me again," Vilandra flipped through the package.
"It's just a few changes to make our borders more secure," Zan didn't see the problem.
"You're talking about shielding the whole province off," the statuesque blonde looked at him incredulity. "People won't be able to get in or out; we'll be like prisoners."
"It's not for everyday; it's an extra precaution if a situation arises," he countered. "The council unanimously agreed."
"What ever you say Your Majesty," she had to stop herself from rolling her eyes.
"What exactly is the problem here Loni?" Zan looked at her a bit strangely.
"The problem is you never ask my opinion or input on anything little brother," Vilandra continued. "You used to talk to me about everything and now nothing I say matters to you at all, just like the executions."
"I already told you that wasn't forever Vilandra," he tried to continue but she didn't let him.
"Exactly, you just tell me!" her voice heightened. "I am so tired of everyone telling me what to do. It's like I don't even exist."
"Have you completely lost it?" Zan yelled back. "What is wrong with you?"
"Forget it," she tossed her arms to the side. They don't even see you. "You don't even see me. I can't believe I wanted to tell you that I'd be supporting you."
"Supporting me in what?" confusion spread across his face. "Loni."
"I think I should let you two finish this in private," Ava started toward the door.
"No," Vilandra said sternly. "Thank you Ava but my little brother and I have nothing else to say." Vilandra spun on her heels and stormed out.
Ema and Larek strolled through the gardens in the front of The Palace. They'd just returned from their dinner in Trece and decided to take a moonlight stroll before they said goodnight.
"Did I tell you how beautiful you look this evening Miss Emilia," Larek smiled at the petite brunette.
"Thank you," she returned the smile. "I had an amazing time tonight. This is one of the best dates I've ever been on."
"One of?" he inquired. Larek reached up and stroke her moonlit tresses as she tilted her head up to look into his eyes. Their gaze seemed to lock as she stepped closer to him and he bent over and placed his lips to hers in a slow, but poignant kiss. Ava laid her palms against his chest as his arms wrapped around her waist in an embrace.
It was the first time he'd really kissed her since they'd begun seeing each other and it was even more than either of them expected. When they finally parted, they stood locked in an affectionate gaze.
"Now it's the best date I've ever been on," she said softly.
"I hope I was not being too forward milady," the sienna man grinned.
"Not at all," Ema was still smiling. "It was perfect."
"I should be going," he said reluctantly and then stepped back. "I have some meetings tomorrow but perhaps you can join me for a late dinner at my palace."
"I'd love to," she happily agreed.
"Then I'll call tomorrow with the details," Larek took her hand and kissed it. "Goodnight Miss Emilia."
"Goodnight King Larek," she replied and then watched him meet two of his guards before walking to the glider that would take him to his ship.
She started to make her way up the stairs after the glider flew away but then turned as she heard a voice coming from the side of The Palace. She quickly followed the voice and found Vilandra in the distance speaking to someone on a mini-communicator.
"They said they were keeping it quiet; can you believe that?" Her back was turned. "You were right; he doesn't respect any of my opinions and if it weren't or this unfair law…"
Ema watched as the figure in the distance shook her head. She wondered who Vilandra could be talking to but the voice was to faint for her to make out anything.
"I will be there tomorrow but I really have to go," Vilandra ended the call and then turned around. "Ema," a shocked expression washed over her face.
"Good evening Princess Vilandra," her instincts told her it was best she not reveal she heard anything. "I just returned from an outing with King Larek," she looked up to the sky. "The moons are beautiful tonight."
"Yes they are," the blonde still had a pensive look on her face. "Did you hear who I was speaking to?"
"I actually just arrived," Ema replied. "Was it someone I know?"
"I suppose everyone knows of her," relief washed over her features. "Queen Kathana wanted me to meet her tomorrow but I made up an excuse; I still feel weird about the whole Sanaa thing."
"I can imagine," Ema replied. "Well I should get inside; I have a busy day tomorrow."
"I'll walk with you," Vilandra hooked her arm into the smaller woman's.
"Great," Ema said, wishing that she hadn't taken the detour.
Rath walked into the room and removed his jacket, tossing it on the chair next to the bed. He picked up the communication device on the table and let his energy flow through it as he concentrated on contacting Jareta.
Once the connection was established an iridescent blue light came up from the orb with a translucent image of a woman with silvery hair and deep mauve eyes.
"Mother," The General smiled as soon as she appeared. "How is everything there?"
"Same as yesterday," she laughed at his protectiveness. "There's a lot of talk about the rebels gaining support but nothing concrete that I can see. Most people just want the damage to their homes and crops to stop."
"When I return to Antar I am moving you out of there," Rath watched the hologram shake her head. "It's getting too dangerous for you to be there."
"This is my home," Jareta replied. "You grew up in this house."
"Then you can go back when we get this rebel situation under control but until then I need you in Antiman. I'd feel better about it," he paused for a moment. "Okay?"
"Okay Rath," she conceded.
"And you promise I won't have to fight you on this?" he knew well how his mother always found a way out of things.
"I promise," she replied. "Now get some rest and stop worrying; that's my job." Jareta gave a slight laugh. "I love you son."
"Me too," he returned the smiled and then the transmission ended.
Jareta quickly returned the communication device to its spot on the dresser and then picked up the frame with Rath's mimeograph in it. She returned the copper frame before opening up the top drawer in the chest and pulling out a small stealic box.
Jareta placed her hand on the cube as her hand began to glow and the lid popped open. She lifted up the folded sheet of parchment and retrieved a picture of a woman holding a baby as she let her mind drift back to the day it was taken.
"He's almost out ma'am," the mid wife said from the end of the bed where the woman in the picture was laying. "Just one more push."
"You can do this," Jareta said as she watched from a few feet away, silently hoping everything would go as planned.
The woman in the bed made a guttural moan before pushing one last time and then laid back down as Maya placed a cool towel on her head.
The midwife cleaned the baby boy off with a wave of her hand before wrapping him in a soft silk blanket and carrying him towards the now tired woman.
"No," she shook her head. "He's not mine; she should hold him first."
"Jareta," Maya motioned to her to come closer. "Take the baby."
The woman with the deep mauve eyes retrieved the tiny child from the midwife's arms. "He is beautiful." She looked down at the gray eyes that stared up at her and knew there was no going back from here. "Thank you."
"Jareta," the male voice in her home startled her from her memory.
"Who let you in her?" she rose her arm to protect herself as she stood in her bedroom doorway.
"I let myself in," he smirked. "There's no reason to be defensive."
"Aren't you Kivar's assistant or something?" Jareta squinted at the intruder.
"Yes," he continued. "Allow me to properly introduce myself; I'm Nikolas." He closed the front door behind him with a wave of his arm. "I thought you and I should talk a bit."
"About what?" annoyance spread across her face.
"Your son," Nikolas answered. "Let's sit down."
"Get out," Jareta stiffened her arm.
Nikolas waved his wrist and slammed her into the chair in the bedroom. "I tried to do this civilized but I see that won't work with you. Now we'll do this my way." He stepped into the bedroom and then raised his arm behind him, slamming the bedroom door shut.