"Breanne, child, it is mother. I have returned. We could start our lessons now." There was no reaction from Breanne. Breanne only painted. Leonessa heard her daughter's return and left Breanne.
This is what I'm good at, painting. I know I can't talk I shouldn't have tried, now I embarrassed Alarica. She'll hate me and throw me out. I know she will.
Alarica was told of their arrival, though she was happy for her mother's arrival, she was not in the mood for the in-laws. Alarica was worried that if Breanne continued to isolate herself it would kill her. She had a responsibility to care for her family and she was a part of her family. The problem was though how to care for someone that imprisons themselves in their own mind.
Melisandra arrived not long after Alarica had returned. She knew she would suffer the consequences for her disappearance but thought that maybe she could have a little fun tonight. Breanne was unresponsive and in self-isolation. The children were bedding themselves with her. So that left the sovereign all alone to give her the opportunity to have some delicious love and wake up with that feeling that can only come from good lovemaking. She had just the right implements to do that with.
Leonessa saw her daughter enter the study "Alarica, Claryvorra has told me about Breanne and what has happened. Breanne isolates herself now, she is unresponsive, and in self-isolation. The children bed down in that room to offer comfort but I am not certain Breanne is aware of this. Is there anything, something that I can do? There must be something to bring Breanne out of the self imposed trance." Leonessa was worried about Breanne. Breanne is not her daughter by blood but is her daughter by heart. This situation was worrying her.
"I do not know mother. I have tried everything I can to bring about the Breanne that I know and love. She tried so hard to speak a simple sentence correctly and I was sure that with a little work and practice we could accomplish that simple task. It is not to be. I do not know what to do. I feel helpless. I feel as if I am a lost child looking up to Melisent to find out what it is I am to do. Her thoughts are only of colors and lines nothing more." Alarica finished while looking out the window in the study. The meeting at the Senate did not go well, the in-laws are here, and Breanne is in a self-imposed isolation. Things were not going well.
Leonessa had an idea that might work. It was the only thing that nobody tried. Leonessa left the study and walked into Breanne's workroom. Leonessa thought that the most likely place for it to be was on Breanne's person. Leonessa saw a pocket, reached inside and there it was. Setting the alarm to go off immediately it created the desired reaction. It startled Breanne out of the trance. Breanne blinked continuously while looking at Leonessa. Who are you? Do I know you? Breanne tilted her head slightly confused as to what had happened. What happened? Leonessa held out her hand but Breanne did not take it. She only looked at the hand. Leonessa knew Breanne was confused and took her hand instead. Breanne did not move however, she just stood there. Leonessa called for Alarica and explained to her what had happened.
Alarica did the only thing that she knew would work to bring Breanne's attention back to her. She started to sing. Alarica could tell that Breanne was coming to her senses. Breanne gave Alarica a confused look Alarica, are we home? Breanne thought. Now Alarica was confused. She did not understand Breanne's question. Alarica took Breanne's hand and walked two steps before Breanne collapsed.
Breanne woke up a short time later in the laboratory. She did not see anybody around she rose from the table to go back to the workroom. My painting needs to be completed. It is not done. Leonessa returned to the laboratory with a tea for Breanne. She was gone. Leonessa knew where she would go. On the way to the workroom, Melisent stopped Leonessa to talk to her. "Grandmother, where are you going?
"I am going to see Breanne to be sure she is well. She left without me seeing her first and I am a little concerned. Alarica had placed Breanne in the laboratory to rest but her mother-in-law demanded our sovereign's attention. She asked me to see to Breanne's needs."
"You didn't do anything did you? You didn't try to take her away from her painting right?" Melisent was growing concerned not sure of the cause of her mama's collapse.
"We were concerned for Breanne's well being. She has not eaten or slept for at least a day. I needed to do something to bring about your mother's attention. I did not know that would happen." Leonessa was now regretting her actions. It was her actions she felt that caused Breanne's collapse, though neither Alarica nor Leonessa knew why.
"Grandmother, you have to understand that when mama paints she doesn't know or hear or see anything. It's just that painting so when you try to take her away from her painting she panics-of sorts. She doesn't know how to do anything else. She doesn't have anybody to talk to. When she paints, she forgets everything. Some people smoke, overeat, drink, or shop, or whatever, my mama paints. When she's ready she will come out I promise. Look, I don't like it when she does this either she's my mama. So I hand feed her when she's like this. There's grown up diapers at the house that I use. I get her to change into those, hand feed her, and leave her to do her painting. If you do anything else, I don't know if she can take it. Please be my grandmother? Please? Please be my grandmother and understand." Melisent was desperate for Leonessa to understand. She loved her mama and wanted her mama to have a family.
Leonessa embraced Melisent with tears streaming down her cheeks. The guilt and the explanation compounded itself on her already fragile ego. She did not feel like a mother right now, she only felt a failure. Looking into Melisent's eyes and with a shaky voice said "Then, that is what I will do. I will take care of her. She is a member of this family and it is my duty and honor to take care of her. I will send Elmira to the pharmacy to get these grown up diapers that you mentioned. I am trying to understand Melisent. I am trying. I will always be your grandmother." Leonessa embraced Melisent and let her go with a peck on the cheek.
"There is one more thing that I should mention. I over heard the conversation that mama had with Miss Alarica and I wrote the invitation. My grandmother doesn't know my writing so she would accept it. I asked Miss Elmira when would be the best time and she said it would be next Thursday at six o'clock so that's what I wrote on the invitation. I also asked Miss Elmira to take care of it for me because if she found out it was from us then she wouldn't accept it, so I asked Miss Elmira to take care of it for me and she said she would. I haven't heard anything yet." Melisent told Leonessa all at once in one breath while looking into her grandmother's eyes.
Leonessa could not help but laugh. "That is fine Melisent. I will be here then to meet your grandmother for reasons of my own, thank you Melisent." Leonessa told Elmira what was needed and for what reason. Leonessa was on her way to the kitchen until she heard a scream. Recognizing the scream Leonessa only shook her head and proceeded to the kitchen to fix a platter for Breanne. A platter in one hand and a tea in another Leonessa walked into the workroom to see Breanne painting again.
"Domino Leonessa, EGO requiro ut vos operor quispiam erga vestra filia."
"It seems as though my daughter's mother-in-law is demanding I do something about my daughter. However, which one I do not know. She would have to be a little more specific, speak English, and stop yelling. Open up Breanne, this is a farmer's bread rich in texture, the cheese is from the eastern territory of Avalon, and the meat is a cured meat similar to the American ham." Food, that smells good. I could use that color here. Breanne accepted the food and finished her tea. Elmira had returned with the requested item and handed it over to her mother. The mother-in-law stood there watching and waiting for a response.
"Puteus, es vos iens efficio quispiam?" The mother-in-law was angry now. Lady Leonessa was taking care of this woman instead of attending to her needs.
"What do you say Breanne, should I do something?" There, that's it the picture is almost done. Leonessa stood there thinking about the best solution. "Excuse me please it seems as though my attention is needed." Leonessa bowed to Breanne and walked backwards three steps before turning around.
"I am Lady Leonessa former queen of Avalon. You will speak English in this house. You are now in America. My daughters know what they can do and cannot do. If you wish for me to speak to some one you would have to be more specific." Leonessa finished in a calm tone though her thoughts were anything but calm.
"My precious and fragile daughter is being ignored and I demand that you do something about it. She is being brutalized and I will not stand for it." Is it possible for someone's ego to grow beyond the confines of a shelter?
"Queen Melisandra has not been brutalized though she has had to answer for being lax in her duties. Sovereign Cyan Alarica would not hurt anyone in her court. If there is nothing else there is something that I must attend to." Leonessa felt satisfaction at that moment.
Leonessa entered the laboratory closing the draperies behind her. Gathering the necessary items, she met Alarica in the hall. Leonessa explained everything that had been happening so far. Though Leonessa protested, Alarica took the items away from her mother to see to Breanne's needs. Alarica needed a chance to breathe and this would satisfy that need. Leonessa left to see to the children, the mother-in-law stomped her way back to her quarters, and Alarica entered the workroom to attend Breanne.
"Hello Breanne, mother tells me you had eaten already. This is an herbal bath and this will help to keep your skin fresh and supple. After that we will see about the diapers." Alarica did what was needed, taking her time as she soaped and lathered and rinsed Breanne of the fragrant soap. What's that smell? Breanne thought. Alarica's mind filled with thoughts of what her mother had told her as well as the events that occurred after the in-laws arrival. "Breanne, I need you. Things are not going well. My queen has mentioned the events that has occurred up to this point, from her point of view. Her version of the truth is far from the truth. I need a way for everyone to see what has happened so far." Alarica finished bathing Breanne and reached for the diapers. She had not seen anything like them before, but was aware of their purpose. Encouraging Breanne to pull up the diapers the deed was done. Oh, what . . . oh she needs my help, but how . . . how do I help her? My journal that would help I hope. Breanne placed her hand on Alarica's arm to get her attention. She did not say anything only showed a book to Alarica. Alarica opened the book and smiled as she found the answer to her current dilemma. Alarica did not feel it was necessary to justify her actions however, did so for her daughter's sake. Alarica stood behind Breanne to embrace her, whispered words of love, and left the room.
Alarica called everybody's attention to the front room. She had a story to tell. Using the pictures in the book, Alarica told everyone of the events that had happened up to that point. Melisandra was nervous now that her mother was aware of the events as they truly occurred. Alarica felt satisfaction finally ending the argument. It was a senseless argument, but it was something that needed to be dealt with. The in-laws found the events and the book to be a horrendous display.
"I want to know immediately who created this display this book of scribbles."
"The person that created the book of pictures is Consors Breanne. She is a valued member of this court and will be treated with respect."
"I do not see why you would choose a vagrant over someone of refined blood."
"I choose Breanne because she is truly my consors." Alarica felt that was explanation enough at the same refusing to acknowledge her sister-in-law as a possible candidate for her consors.
"My youngest would be a fine consors. She is well-educated, refined quality, and a very beautiful woman. I know everyone would agree with me."
Alarica left the family to encourage Breanne to follow her. She answered her needs before, maybe it will work again. Alarica returned with Breanne following behind her a little while later. "This is my Consors Breanne." The mother-in-law inspected Breanne from head to toe. Breanne was starting to feel nervous however, with a wink and smile from Leonessa she knew everything would be all right.
"You call this your consors, this vagrant your consors? I will see to it she is removed."
Melisent was getting angrier the more she listened to this woman. She did everything she knew how in order to stay calm. Count to 10 and think good thoughts were becoming a mantra. She did not realize she was not the only one that was angry.
"You have no right to have MY consors removed. I am Sovereign Cyan Alarica and I will not be denied. I warn you that if any harm comes to Consors Breanne, I will see to it that your family will be shunned." Alarica was very angry and found it even harder to control herself. The last words were spoken with a growl in her voice. A loud gulp and the ticking of the clock were the only things that were heard around the room.
"You cannot mean that! You would not dare do such a thing! My daughter is your queen and therefore your duty to take care of us!" The mother-in-law was shocked that such a thing would happen. She did not believe the sovereign would do such a thing.
"Madam, may I remind you that I am the sovereign." There was that feeling on her lower back again. She missed that. "I will see to all disciplinary measures. It is my duty." They stared at each other for a long while both challenging each other in a silent duel that neither would back down from.
Melisent heard enough "You will be nice to my mama."
"Who are you to speak to me that way? You insolent child."
"My name is Melisent and I am the oldest daughter of my mama."
"No wonder you do not have any manners. I guess that is to be expected from a vagrant's child . . ." Melisent launched herself at this point toward this woman that continued to insult her mama. Breanne reached out and grabbed Melisent before she had a chance to do anything. A quiet conversation later, Melisent offered an apology though it was not reciprocated. Melisent and Emily went to the sleeping chamber to be away from everyone.
Breanne slightly tugged Alarica's finger to get her attention. Alarica showed Breanne the warrior sign for forgiveness. The mother-in-law pretended not to know what Breanne was saying. Leonessa was not going to let her daughter be beaten by someone who had no morals, values, or empathy. She knew it was a mistake to let Camilla talk her into this union. Leonessa leaned over and spoke quietly to the mother-in-law. Now she had Breanne's full attention. Breanne offered forgiveness again and this time it was accepted-though not willingly.
Claryvorra tugged on Breanne's fingers and led her to the sleeping chamber. Claryvorra knew what was to come and thought that witnesses were not a good thing.
"I, Sovereign Cyan Alarica of Avalon do declare, by the power of the throne, Breanne to be my consors." Alarica was getting tired of this argument and voiced the declaration in her mother tongue rather than English. The mother-in-law had no choice but to accept her decision. Defeated, she rose from her place in the room to go to her quarters and remain there until the last meal is called.
Alarica made the declaration officially by using the power of the throne. Now the council did not have a choice but to sign and soon. Sovereign and council must work together as a union when a decision needs to be made. That is the first lesson that every sovereign learns. Alarica was desperate. She only hoped that she would not be recorded as the one that severed her comrades' head.
Everyone rose and went to their respective positions within the manor. Alarica stood there watching everyone leave the room. Breanne did not leave; she did what she only knew how to do. She embraced Alarica with all the love she could and rocked back and forth. She did not understand what was happening, but she saw the eyes of the one that had become her friend. That was all she needed to understand. The rest would come later.
Leonessa now knew why her daughter had come to love the little artist. The unconditional love and support that Breanne offered and gave to Alarica was something that had been missing in her court. Leonessa joined them and everyone embraced each other.
After they let go of each other, Breanne tugged on Leonessa's and Alarica's fingers. She had a painting to show them now that she was done. I hope they like it. The colors are just right and I think I captured everyone's personality perfectly. That's what a picture does. It records the personality of someone not just their looks. Well, here goes everything. Breanne turned the easel around to show them the picture she was painting. The canvas was large the size of a picture window over looking a garden. The background was of a glade in the spring. A tree spanned the entire portrait, on each of its branches, were four black panthers lazily lying down with their tails hanging below. At the very top, there was a black panther with mottled gray fur. The next branch was a panther with sky blue eyes watching for anything, just below a smaller version with brown eyes and a swishing tail, and the last branch a cub watching a squirrel climb the tree. Each resembling the personality of Alarica, Leonessa, Elmira, and Claryvorra it appeared as though the panthers were real, that one could touch them. Leonessa and Alarica were stunned as they viewed the painting. It was them.
"Panis, quo painting est profecto magnificus." Breanne, this painting is truly magnificent.
Leonessa did not think Alarica realized she was not speaking English "Speak English daughter so she may understand what you are saying."
Alarica stood there for a little bit before shaking her head. "This painting will be hung in the study for all to see. I have only one request, and that is for you to paint a representation of my queen."
Breanne stepped back and turned around to retrieve another canvas. I hope this works. I don't know what they would look like in their royal gown, so I guessed. I hoped I guessed right. Carefully putting away the first painting, she replaces it with another a true portrait of the sovereign, her queen, and the princess. The sovereign and her queen sitting on their throne and the princess sitting on the dais in between the sovereign and her queen it was a true representation of the royal family.
Alarica could only smile as she viewed this picture. She did not realize just how busy her consors had been. "It appears you have been busy painting minime uni. Both are splendid pictures. This painting will be hung in the public arena behind the dais so everyone may see the royal line and what they represent."
"These pictures are magnificent. You truly are a gift Breanne. I have never before seen anything like this before." Leonessa choked on the last words as she was speaking. Anyone could see the depth and beauty of the portraits as they displayed the family. Leonessa felt pride at that moment.
These pictures mean thank you. "You . . . are . . . my . . . friend." Breanne wanted to be sure that she could say the last part of her speech correctly; Alarica could only smile at that moment, a true smile that reached the ears and caused the eyes to sparkle with delight. She felt proud.
"It will be time for the last meal soon. We must prepare ourselves. Come minime uni; let us bathe before the meal. You will feel better after you bathe." Alarica reached out her hands waiting for Breanne to take them and take them she did walking side by side to the bathing chamber.
Breanne was a little reluctant to take off her clothes knowing that she had diapers underneath. Alarica assisted Breanne and just as she put the dress into the basket, Breanne's face turns red and covers the diaper with her hands squeezing her legs together as tightly as she could. No, my sovereign, please, I will do it myself. Alarica gently but firmly removes Breanne's hands from their position, and rippedoff the diaper. She returnedmoments later with a new pair of undergarments and a new nightdress. "Breanne, everything is fine. These are for you when you are done bathing." Leonessa followed with the girls close behind.
Breanne stayed in a corner of the bathing pool playing with the water. Knowing this, Leonessa stayed behind Breanne to be with her daughter. Alarica and the girls splashedand playedat one end of the pool while Leonessa and Breanne bathed and played with the water at the other end. Watching the water ripple always fascinated Breanne and took every opportunity she could to satisfy that fascination.
The in-laws followed close behind Melisandra as they entered the bathing chamber. Alarica nodded her head in acknowledgment as they entered. Leonessa greeted them as they entered the bathing pool. Emily watched as Melisandra bowed to Lady Leonessa walked back three steps then turn around. "Mama Rica, how come she did that? She bow then walk backwards how come?"
"The reason that Queen Melisandra did that is to show respect. It would not be respectful to immediately turn your back on someone. To do so is both an insult and a show of how one perceives the other." Alarica explained everything for more than just Emily's benefit but also her in-laws who were both within hearing range. Emily resumed her splashing as Claryvorra sighed and Melisent resumed her bathing.
"Scrub me!" The mother-in-law had seen Breanne in the corner doing what she always did. Only Alarica and Leonessa understood Breanne's love of the water. "I said scrub me! You are the servant!" Breanne did not respond because she simply did not hear her. Drip, drip, drip, watch the water go. Alarica needed to see what Breanne would do therefore only observed. The mother-in-law grabbed Breanne's hand and placed a sponge in the hand. Breanne only looked at the sponge before placing it alongside the bathing pool. What's that for? I'll put that here. This infuriated the mother-in-law who lunged her fist toward Breanne. Years of abuse taught Breanne how to duck and cover. Breanne ducked beneath the water and reappeared close to Alarica who by now was laughing. Leonessa led the mother-in-law to the laboratory who by now had a broken hand. Alarica whispered words of approval to Breanne smiling as a result.
Alarica, my sovereign, do I sit in the same place? Breanne did not want to embarrass Alarica by not being aware of the rules. All had exited the bath and were getting ready to sit at the table. It did feel good to be clean again.
"Yes Breanne, you will sit in the same place. I suggest to you though that you sit immediately upon entering the room. I know you enjoy the flora, but the guests would not understand."
"Kay, thire, are you mad at me for doing whatch I did?"
"So the imbecile does speak after all. What is that they say, oh yes, a timidus canis crusta magis violenter quam is morsus, but that is only true if they are able to speak." The mother-in-law needed to show everyone that the sovereign made a bad choice of consors by displaying her as an uneducated coward.
Breanne did not understand what was going on; she did not understand what the woman had said. She looked at Alarica confused.
"What she said was a timid dog barks more violently than it bites." Alarica finishing her explanation looks her mother-in-law in the eyes "Madam, I did not realize the educational system on Avalon needs to be improved. Perhaps I need to do some research as to the educational system. Although, I should not expect anything more than the intelligence for which my queen displays on a daily basis, but I should be happy that my queen is able to at least read." Alarica was not going to allow her mother-in-law to accomplish what she had planned. Not if she had anything to say about it.
"You apologize immediately to my mother. You are an animal. Mother does not think your choice of consors would be suitable for us." Melisandra heard the conversation and felt the need to intervene, not realizing she was making the situation worse.
"Queen Melisandra, do you remember anything at all that you read from the Scrolls of Protocol?" Alarica was angry and Melisandra was able to determine that by the tone of her voice.
"Yes my dear sovereign. I do remember, it is just that mother is only protecting what she feels is necessary."
"Who has a right to appoint a consors? Who is the one that has the power to dissolve that appointment? What is the queen's role in the appointment of a consors?"
Melisandra had forgotten all that she read in the scrolls. She only concentrated on the duties of the queen not bothering with the rest of the scrolls. It would just take too long and she missed her shopping.
Alarica stood there waiting for the answer as a piece of paper was slipped into her hand. Here you go. The answers are you, you, and none. She smiled as she looked at the paper. "It seems as though someone knows the answer. Let us see if you do." Rolling the paper to be put away later.
"I . . . do not . . . remember . . . my sovereign. It has been so long since I had read them." Melisandra was nervous now that her mother was witnessing the reality.
"That short of a memory, well then, you will be spending more time in the archives relearning everything, I will test you at the end of seven days and I expect an answer before bedding down. I also ordered you to see to the preparations of the Harvest Festival and Celebration. I am assuming you have them completed since you had spent time doing something else other than your duties. Go get the reports and bring them to me immediately."
"Yes my sovereign. I will do as ordered." Melisandra fully bowed hoping her mother has a short memory.
Emily was heard crying in the background. Breanne left to see what happened.
"You do not expect my daughter to remember everything in those dusty old scrolls do you? Surely, you would allow her some margin of forgetfulness."
"Yes, I have expectations of my court with no margin of error. You are dismissed" Alarica immediately left to see what had happened worrying about the baby.
Breanne ran out of the kitchen with a bag full of ice wrapped in a towel. Breanne gently placed the ice pack on Emily's head. Both were seated on the floor holding each other in comfort as they rocked back and forth. Leonessa had returned from her session outside with the girls. Alarica and Leonessa both ran towards them seeing them on the floor.
"Breanne, child, what happened to the baby? Is she all right? May I take her to the laboratory to see to her injuries?" Leonessa held out her arms waiting for Emily. Emily willingly crawled into her gamma's arms feeling safe and loved.
"Breanne, what happened? Do you know what happened? I must know so I may see that the person responsible for hurting a member of my family is disciplined properly." Alarica held Breanne as she cried in her arms. After Breanne stopped crying, she explained that she did not ask Emily what happened. She only wanted to help take the pain away. Alarica understood and left for the laboratory.
"Hi Emily, did you tell grandmother where it hurts?"
Emily nodded her head yes as fresh tears rolled down her cheeks. Alarica felt the need to swallow hard to suppress the tears in her eyes. The baby was hurt in her court. She was not the one to strike the blow, but it happened in her court.
"Mother, did she tell you what happened?"
"No, she has not. I think she is a bit shaken up right now. There is a significant bump on the top of her head. Her left cheek is bruised and a binding ring on her right wrist indicating she was roughly pulled and tightly squeezed. She holds that wrist close to her. I do not believe the wrist was injured however there is still pain." Leonessa did not like it that someone beat her granddaughter. When I find out who did this, they will receive the same treatment by my hand whatever the consequences.
Alarica silently agreed. "Emily honey, what happened? Will you tell me who did this?" Alarica reached for a pad and a pencil. "Emily, I want you to draw a picture of the person that did this to you." Emily nodded her head and started to draw. She gave the picture to Alarica when she was done. Noticing that Leonessa was nearly done with Emily, she waited holding Emily's hand. Emily stayed close to Leonessa. She did not leave to explore which worried both Leonessa and Alarica. This was not at all like Emily. Alarica showed the picture to Leonessa who growled in response. Leonessa would see to the children and Alarica would seek the one responsible.
Everyone was present at the table in their proper seats. It was a very quiet meal. Emily stayed close to her mama and gamma not eating anything. Even her favorite after meal treat was denied. Leonessa explained to the girls what had happened. Melisent was angry; she wanted to know who beat her sister. Claryvorra had similar thoughts only with a staff-the long staff.
The meal was finished in silence and everyone left the table. Breanne saw to the girls and left the others to work out what happened to Emily. Though Emily's picture was rough, Alarica had a good idea who it was that beat up Emily.
Melisandra presented the reports as ordered. Alarica did not like what she saw-the reports were incomplete. She made sure Melisandra understood her displeasure in what was presented. Melisandra left with the reports in hand and tears in her eyes.
"Dear sister-in-law what have you been doing lately? There is a nice mall in the city that the queen frequents. There is also a movie theater not far from here. They are playing Harry Potter right now. Princess Claryvorra enjoys those stories. She likes the idea of flying on a broomstick I believe. There is also a boxing ring a half-turn east of the manor. Have you been there?"
"I have been busy seeing to my mother's needs and spending time with my sister. I would not have time for such things. I am a busy lady of the court." She was nervous that maybe they knew what happened.
"A busy lady of the court, very interesting description of yourself I must say. Where did you learn that a lady of the court busies herself by beating up other members of the court? Especially those that cannot defend themselves?" Alarica wanted to make her sweat a bit before doing onto others what had been done to a member of her family.
"I don't know what you are talking about? That imbecile told you a story. I told mother I would be a better consors than she ever could." Is it getting hot in here?
"You do not know what I am talking about. Yet, you blame someone else for lying about something which you have no knowledge of am I right?" This is fun.
"I only said that the imbecile told you that I beat up that brat when it didn't really happen."
"Elmira, did you hear everything?" I am really enjoying this.
"I heard every word my sovereign. I have just received a note from Emily that shows who had beaten her." Elmira hands over the paper to Alarica and takes a look at it smiling. It would not be convincing if the note had come from a family member. Therefore, a member of the guard wrote the note.
Alarica called for a guard to place both her sister-in-law and mother-in-law under house arrest. Neither one would be able to see any liberties for a very long while. Melisandra was upset to hear the news and protested against the sovereign and her decision. Due to the seriousness of the crimes, they had to pay the consequences. The only thing the queen could do is to bow her head down in shame.
Alarica called for Breanne from her study. Two things needed to be accomplished. The first was to see that Breanne understood all the events that had happened. Once that is done, then the second task may be accomplished, and that is for Breanne to decide how the prisoners should be disciplined due to the nature of the crimes. Alarica took as much time as needed for Breanne to understand everything. She sent Breanne away with orders to write in detail how Breanne would like the prisoners to be disciplined, to bring back the document, and then to follow through with the judgment. While discussing the events, she found out that Lady Leonessa had been tutoring Breanne.
"Lady Leonessa, I must speak with you regarding the training of Breanne." Alarica found Leonessa in Breanne's workroom and led her to the study.
"Yes your eminence, I am here as requested. Why the formality?" Leonessa was confused and did not know if she had done something wrong.
Alarica closed the draperies behind her indicating privacy. This might be a while. "As you know, it is the responsibility of the sovereign to see to the training of her consors. I have been informed that Lady Leonessa has been doing much more than physical training. She has also been training her sovereign's consors the responsibilities to be taken at such a position. While I am proud and flattered that she has taken this responsibility, I must know why this is happening?"
"My sovereign, I not only have two daughters I have three. I am proud of each of them. I realize the responsibilities and roles each is to take; however, I fear that Breanne would not understand the Scrolls of Protocol. I fear that she would give up because of lack of understanding and the fear of asking for assistance. I know the scrolls and the words written within. It is my duty to not only love but also understand each of my children. Breanne is the most complex of all. There is one thing I do know though, that is the waters of the bathing pool center her and relax her. I use that time to teach Breanne the scrolls. I do not reiterate the scrolls word for word, instead, I retell the scrolls in such a manner that Breanne would understand. That is what I have been doing."
Alarica stood up from behind the desk that she had been sitting behind to turn around and stare out the window thinking. Turning around to face her mother "Mother, I thank you for your patience. This will make her training easier. I believe that between the both of us if we work together, she would truly be the most valuable treasure in my kingdom. I took the time to explain the events that have just occurred and the responsibility that she is to play. I wait for her to complete the necessary documents to describe the disciplinary action that I am to take with the prisoners. I will give the documents to Ernestine to review and give back to me for final signature. I fear though that I will be recorded as the sovereign without family values. I pray the people would understand." Alarica and Leonessa embrace each other wishing for everything to be done.
Breanne returned to the study to describe in detail what she would like to do to be sure this does not happen again. Beating rarely solves a problem; therefore, a more effective approach was needed. It would be humiliating for them and at the same time educational, but Breanne thought it would at least give them the chance to think about what they had done.
Breanne found Alarica in her study peering out the window. Breanne rubbed that spot on Alarica's back just as she had many times before. Alarica enjoyed that feeling especially now as evidenced by the smile on her face. There was work to be done however; reluctantly she turned around to receive the documents. She did not look at them though; she passed them to Elmira to give them to Ernestine for review and signature. Two official signatures were needed-one of a high-ranking official and one from a lower position within the structure as well the author's. Alarica did not read the document, but was interested in knowing what disciplinary action her minime uni would take in this matter.
"Sovereign, I demand entrance, this document is atrocious. The disciplinary action that is described in this document for the current prisoners would not be viewed as being fair your eminence." Ernestine was surprised to see the document and those that were involved. She did not have a high opinion of the sovereign's choice for consors therefore did not feel that any action should be taken against them. They are her majesty's family after all.
"Permission granted, please describe to me why the disciplinary action that Consors Breanne describes in that document would not be viewed as being fair." Alarica was always ready for an argument.
"The prisoners are her majesty's family your eminence. Surely, you do not expect them to be disciplined for an indiscretion. I am sure they had good reason for doing what they did."
"I will hear their reasons when they are presented before the court Councilor Ernestine. If that is all, place your signature in the appropriate place. Alert the guards to prepare the prisoners for presentation. You are dismissed."
"Yes your eminence." Ernestine was able to speak through clenched teeth was amazing and keep her head even more remarkable. Ernestine left to do as she was told.
Alarica finally took the time to read the document to find out what her consors had in mind. Interesting selection of disciplinary actions however, they resembled Breanne very much so. Alarica called everyone to the front room. Her Royal Majesty Melisandra, Sovereign Cyan Alarica, Princess Claryvorra, Consors Breanne, and Lady Leonessa took their respective positions on the floor. The audience consisted of Councilor Ernestine, Melisent, Emily, and Elmira. The guards were called to present the prisoners to the floor.
The prisoners were unshackled and ordered to take a bow of humiliation before everyone. They were to stay in that position until told to do otherwise. Alarica had pleasure in seeing them on the floor. Sometimes, it was good to be the sovereign.
"This session was called to address the mistreatment of my consors, Breanne, and her toddler Emily. The charges against them are mistreatment of members of the aristocracy and perfidy. It is my decision, as Sovereign Cyan Alarica of Avalon, order Consors Breanne to decide on the disciplinary measures to be taken. She has documented these measures and requests that Her Royal Majesty Melisandra read the document."
Melisandra reluctantly opens the document "On this the 16th day of October in the year 1996, it has been recorded that Sovereign Cyan Alarica of Avalon, appointed consors Breanne, records that she, Consors Breanne, had not been shown any respect by the family of Her Royal Majesty Melisandra. Queen Melisandra's mother used the phrase a timid dog barks more violently than it bites to describe me as I was speaking with the sovereign. I am not a dog, therefore, how am I able to bark? Another word includes imbecile, which the dictionary defines as a stupid or silly person; a dolt. I may be silly at times but I am not stupid nor am I a dolt. She further describes me as a vagrant, which the dictionary defines as one who lives on the streets and constitutes a public nuisance. I do not live on the streets nor do I believe I constitute a public nuisance. She describes my eldest daughter as an insolent child. The dictionary defines insolent as presumptuous and insulting in manner or speech; arrogant. My daughter is young and is still learning proper etiquette however; I do not believe my eldest daughter, Melisent, to be an arrogant child. I have recorded the events since my arrival in a journal for my own use and understanding. My sovereign had requested assistance in the matter of her mother-in-law, not believing the events as was told to her by her daughter-in-law, Sovereign Cyan Alarica, because Queen Melisandra had relayed to her mother a different set of events. Upon description of the journal, it was noted that it was described as a book of scribbles. I am sorry you feel that way however, I do not scribble neither do my daughters.
On a separate occasion during the discussion that Sovereign Cyan Alarica and Queen Melisandra were discussing responsibilities, my youngest daughter, Emily, was found with a bump on her head, a bruise on her cheek and a ring on her left wrist. It was found later that Queen Melisandra's sister had beaten Emily as a consequence of being curious about a document that was found in the possession of said person. It should be noted that Emily is three years old and curiosity is second nature.
I do not excuse Emily for what she had done, I would however expect that someone who is much older than Emily be able to think of a different solution than beating my daughter.
It is my decision, as Consors Breanne to Sovereign Cyan Alarica, that the following disciplinary actions be taken.
1) Parenting and anger management classes to be taken by both. Proof of completion must be presented to the court upon completion.
2) Volunteer at a nursing home and/or children's home for a period of three months. Proof of volunteering for either or both must be presented to the court.
3) The guilty party must apologize with sincerity to all those involved in this matter. Those that must apologize include but are not limited to the mother-in-law, sister-in-law, and Queen Melisandra. Those that are involved include but are not limited to Sovereign Cyan Alarica, Consors Breanne, Melisent, Emily, and Lady Leonessa.
4) Consors Breanne will write a letter of apology to her sovereign at a later date.
With United Powers and By Common Consent"
Sovereign Cyan Alarica
Councilor Ernestine
Consors Breanne.
"Prisoners, rise and be heard before this court. What is your view mother-in-law?"
"My view sire, as I heard the events is true. I will adhere to the decision of my sovereign."
"What say you sister-in-law? What is your view?"
"My view sire, as I heard the events is true. I will adhere to the decision of my sovereign."
"You both have agreed that you are guilty of the charges as presented before you. Make note that the entire document was written by my consors. I would not have been so lenient in the disciplinary measures if I had prepared the documents. The measures will be carried out immediately after the last meal and upon sunrise on the morrow respectively. You are both confined to quarters. The only time you will not be confined is for meal times only. You will be kept under close guard until completion." Alarica signaled to the guards to escort them to the dining chamber. Pride filled her heart as the document was read. The document proved Breanne to be worthy of the appointment.
The meal was eaten in silence. Everyone at the table kept their head down except Emily wondering what was for dessert. "There is a matter that needs to be dealt with immediately. All those involved present yourselves and do as you have been ordered."
The mother-in-law, sister-in-law, and Queen Melisandra rose from the table. Queen Melisandra bowed first "I, Her Royal Majesty Queen Melisandra, say to Sovereign Cyan Alarica, Consors Breanne, Melisent, Emily, and Lady Leonessa I apologize for my lack of judgment, responsibility, and mistreatment that I am responsible for. I request that you all forgive me in these matters as I promise to do better by my court." Melisandra fully bowed and remained standing in that position.
"What say you mother-in-law?"
" I apologize for any harm that I have caused this court." She was willing to apologize, but promising something was another matter entirely.
"Apology not accepted by Sovereign Alarica. What say you Lady Leonessa?"
"Apology not accepted by Lady Leonessa. What say you Melisent?"
"I won't accept the apology. What about you Emily?"
"She not say sorry. 'Bout you mama?"
"I, Lady Leonessa, speak for Consors Breanne as she has said to me that she will not accept the apology."
"What say you sister-in-law?"
The sister-in-law did not want the same thing to happen to her so following in her sister's footsteps "I, the sister-in-law to Sovereign Cyan Alarica, ask that the court accept my apology for any wrong doings that I have caused. I promise to accept the lessons that this court and the disciplinary measures will teach me to do better in the future."
"Does the court accept Queen Melisandra's apology? Indicate by raise of hand." Everyone raised her hand. "Therefore, Queen Melisandra, you are excused to remember and fulfill your promise. You will be expected to fulfill your promise to this court. You do not; you will be denounced from the throne. Do you understand as this has been explained to you?"
"I thank the court for accepting my apology. I fully understand my obligation as has been explained to me."
"Rise, you are dismissed." Alarica's eyes followed the queen's departure.
"Does the court accept my sister-in-law's apology? Indicate by raise of hand." Everyone raised her hand. "Therefore, sister-in-law, you are excused to remember and fulfill your promise. You will be expected to fulfill your promise. You will report directly to me to assign proper placement for you in the matters of anger management classes, parenting classes, nursing home, and children's home. I, your sovereign, will discipline you if you should fail to fulfill your obligations. Rise, you are dismissed." Alarica's eyes followed her sister-in-law's departure only to fall back to her mother-in-law who was crouching in an attempt to not be seen.
"Does the court accept my mother-in-law's apology? Indicate by raise of hand." Nobody raised her hand. "Therefore, mother-in-law, the court does not accept your apology. You will have only one other chance to apologize properly. You do not properly apology, you will be shunned from society. You will no longer be recognized or remembered. Your property and wealth will be taken and distributed, your name will be erased from the archives, and your children will be remembered as vagrants that you had described the children of this court. You will present your apology on the morrow before deciding placement of your disciplinary measures. Keep in mind, if we had not progressed to this point in our society, you would have been thrown in prison. Rise, you are dismissed."