Chapter Nine: Enigma

Dimitri

In the car, I couldn't stop thinking about Lord Dashkov. He was more dangerous than I had imagined. He had spoken with the King about declaring war on the witches previous to the Parliament session. I never fathomed a man, who looked so weak, could have many supporters in the council. I didn't think anyone would listen to him, but I saw how many lords and ladies nodded in agreement at his words during the meeting. It made me wonder how much of his weak façade was fabricated and how much was true. Then something strange happened in his office with Rose. She looked unlike herself. Her eyes seemed glazed over, and I would think she was under a spell but how could that be? How did the witches get past us? No. It wasn't witches or Lord Dashkov. I couldn't imagine someone with so much hatred for the witches could be in cahoots with them. None of it made sense. Rose was simply displeased with the turn of events. It was hard to let her go in her own car with Lissa, Mason, and Grant, but I could see she needed the time away from me.

We both seemed ready to put distance between us and our forbidden attraction, but something had changed. I wasn't as strong as I thought to keep Rose out of my head and heart. I needed time as well to compose myself and find my resolve to be just an ally, a friend, to her. She couldn't know how I felt. Despite hating her situation, the arranged marriage, I knew she was right. She had to take the throne and wouldn't be able to do so without Adrian. I couldn't make things harder for her. I didn't want to make such an impact on her life. Leaving was supposed to be easy instead I dreaded the day I had to depart leaving my whole heart with her. Nothing would ever be the same without her. I knew everywhere I would go I would see her. I would see her smile radiant like the breaking sun over the ocean. Her eyes and voice would haunt my dreams. The smell of her, flowers and mint, seemed to follow me like seeped into my very skin.

I had to find the strength to forget her. I had to let her go before I even had her. It was for the best. That didn't make me feel any better. I looked out the window at the scenery blurring past. Eddie was driving ahead of Rose's car. We were taking the same side road Christian and I took when we arrived in Turkey. I sighed. It seemed a lifetime ago we arrived, and I met the most beautiful and kindest woman. How had I lived all my years without knowing her? How could I live without her now? You don't have to.

"Did you say something?" I turned to Christian.

"What? No." Christian frowned.

"I must be tired," I shook my head and turned away before Christian could see the concern on my face.

A voice spoke to me. I was sure of it. It wasn't my thoughts, Christian, or even Eddie. Where did it come from? Whose voice was it? It was familiar. It was Rose's. Was she so deeply engraved in my heart that I could hear her voice in my head? It was very possible. I shook my head again as if I could shake her, but she had left her mark in me. I cursed softly in Russian. Thoughts of her were running rampant in my mind like she was the very air I breathed. I had to focus. I couldn't let my feelings distract from the main goal: keeping her safe and help her save her country. The rest would fall into place. No one told me to fall in love with her, so I would have to deal with the pain on my own. That pain would remind me that she was well, and I had done my part leaving her to rule a country better than anyone. I would carry the pain and her memories proudly being better for knowing her. The strength with which she carried her destiny would inspire me in difficult times even though each time I thought of her the dagger went in deeper. It would all be worth it when she's Queen. I could even one day return to visit her disguised as a diplomat once more.

I smiled to myself. What a fool I was. There was no guarantee my cover wouldn't be blown, and she would hate me for deceiving her, nor would she forgive me for or coming into her home with nefarious intentions if things didn't go the way the czar wanted. I couldn't face her again. And even if I kept my ruse, why would I torture myself returning to see her happy with Adrian? I didn't want to see them fall in love and start a family. While I would be happy that the arranged marriage worked out for her, I would be a masochist. No, the only option would be leaving as soon as the mission was completed. Besides, I could be on the run after this. I had yet to inform my superiors of the recent turn of events. I had to do it and soon, and there was no guarantee they would support my decision to work with the King ensuring the safety of the Turkish Princess. I couldn't put the conversation off any longer, but it would be helpful to have contact with our spy. He was able to relay messages secretly and safely to our czar. I needed to be sure the information wouldn't fall into the wrong hands.

I glanced at Eddie briefly, but he seemed concentrated in driving. I turned to Christian and began speaking in our native tongue. "We need to send a message home."

"Agreed," Christian responded in Russian. "Will you tell him about your task with the Princess as well?"

"Only after I am sure he will allow us to stay," I said after a moment of thought. "Now that the plan has changed, I'm not sure how much he will be willing to look past. He might think we are actually conspiring with the enemy."

"Rose is not the enemy," Eddie responded in perfect Russian taking Christian and me by surprise. Eddie glanced at me in the rearview mirror. His face stoic as ever as if we were simply discussing the weather. "General Belikov." He saluted in respect of my rank then turned his eyes back to the road.

I shared a brief look with Christian, who mirrored my surprise on his wide eyes and mouth agape, before continuing our conversation with Eddie in Russian. "How do you know me?"

"Only way I can," Eddie said simply as the gates came into view. "You should be more careful, General. We will be arriving soon. There's no time to continue our conversation. I will say this: Rose is not the enemy. The czar must know. She must be protected from all threats."

Eddie said no more, and I dared not speak as we stopped at the gate. The usual guards peeked into the cars and, upon seeing who we were, they waved us through. We said hasty goodbyes to the Princess and Lissa with promises of speaking more later. Thoughts of her momentarily were pushed aside though I still wanted to speak to her and soon. But she had much to do, and I had to wrap my mind around the possibility, no, the fact that Eddie was the spy. A close guard to the Princess of Turkey was our spy. How did Arthur and the czar manage to accomplish this? How did Eddie remain hidden for so long, and I nearly blew my cover within minutes? I could learn a thing or two from the quiet young man. I tried to get his attention as he followed the Princess, but he averted his eyes acting like nothing had happened which was the best we could do.

Christian and I took to strolling the gardens away from prying eyes and listening ears. We walked in silence until we reached the rose garden where we met the princess. It was the only place I knew was far enough and hidden from most of the palace towers. I could also see if anyone tried sneaking up on us. Regardless of the small precautions I was taking, I heeded Eddie's advice and was more cautious sticking to hushed whispers and our language to carry on the conversation we were having in the car.

"I can't believe he's our spy," Christian began with eyes wide in shock. "How did he manage to hide from the King and his guards?"

"Good question," I sighed sitting down next to him on the steps of the gazebo. "One we will ask him when he decides to make contact. It's dangerous to attempt to speak to him. He has to come on his own terms when he feels safest."

Christian nodded. "You think he's already told the czar?"

"No," I said perfectly sure in my answer. "If the czar knew, he would have already sent word commanding us to return."

"Why do you think he's holding information back then?"

"He said Rose is not the enemy," I said slowly trying to piece it all together. "He doesn't want us to leave her unprotected…" I trailed off as everything became clear. I cursed under my breath and turned to Christian. "He doesn't want us to leave her unprotected."

"I know. You said that already," Christian frowned watching me worriedly like I had lost my mind.

"Listen, Eddie doesn't want us to leave her unprotected just like the King," I could tell I wasn't making any sense to him as he continued to frown. "The King needs our help to smooth things over with the witches and protect Rose. He advised me against telling the czar that Turkey is aware of our presence. We know the czar will think the worst, and there's a chance we will have to leave. So if Eddie is aware of our agreement with the King, he wouldn't inform the czar for fear he will make us return. Eddie has to be a double agent. He must be spying for the Turkish monarchy."

Christian's eyes widened followed by a curse. "Are you saying we're here on our own? Without means of protection? If things go south, how will we get out?"

"The King gave me a letter to give us safe passage home," I tried to sound calm and certain that we would be just fine, but now that Christian mentioned it, we could be in a heap of trouble. I couldn't tell Christian that. He trusted me with his life; if he didn't, he wouldn't follow me into war. I looked over at him with apprehension in his piercing blue eyes; eyes that were so familiar as they reminded me of someone who wrongfully trusted me with his life as well. I felt the guilt settling in my stomach. Visions of blood and screams of pain ran quickly through my mind. I couldn't let anything happen to Christian.

"If the King and his family are overthrown, hurt by his own people, by witches, or by the czar that letter will be null and void." Christian stood up and began to pace tapping his chin as the wheels in his mind quickly turned. "We must flee. Take the Princess and Lissa. We'll keep them as wards of the czar until tensions settle here."

"That is the clear and definite path to war," I wanted to shake him to erase those radical thoughts from his mind. "Remain calm. We've been in more perilous situations than this, and we always make it out. The letter will hold because nothing will happen to the King or his family. That's why we're here." I stepped in his path to stop him from making a hole in the ground with his incessant pacing. I placed my hands on his shoulder. "Nothing bad will happen. We will make it through this."

"I know," Christian sighed and his shoulders felt less tense under my hand. He looked up sheepishly at me. "I can handle war. I can handle battle and having people try to kill me. Don't think less of me, but I'm not concerned about my safety. I'm more worried about Lissa. What will happen if our plans are thwarted, and we have to leave? I can't leave her behind, Dimitri. I can't imagine living without her now."

Words failed me for the first time. I could command my unit; I could uplift their spirits before the war, and I've been the voice of reason many times. However, there was nothing I could say to settle Christian's mind on this matter. The heart was an enigma to me. My own grandmother advised me to listen to my heart, and I had yet to figure out what she meant. Feelings were foreign as I tried hard not to feel much because often times the feeling I felt the strongest was anger, wrath, and hatred. All of those feelings aimed towards a man who was no man. A person who left my mother broken many times. A person who left my family broken. So how could I reassure Christian that Lissa would be fine? How could I convince him to leave her behind because it would be best for her? She had no future in Russia, not with men like us ready to charge into war at any second. How could I tell him to forget her when I couldn't find the strength to forget Rose? I had no words, and I was a hypocrite because if shit hit the fan, I wouldn't hesitate to take Rose with me.

I opened and closed my mouth hoping inspiration would strike, and I could somehow ease his fears. Nothing came. I was, however, saved from the situation by an unlikely hero. Someone Christian and I had been waiting for. Eddie stood at the top of the gazebo eyes darting everywhere making sure there were no threats nearby. Once he was reassured, he began to descend the stairs with hands behind his back. Christian and I shared a look both of us communicating in that brief exchange. We parted ways surrounding the young spy in case he tried anything. Eddie stopped a few feet away from us no doubt catching to our strategy. For a few seconds, he just stared and stood motionless.

"We should stick to Russian," he said fluently as if he had grown up knowing the language.

"Agreed," I responded simply and shared another look with Christian. "Are you our liaison to Arthur?" I asked cryptically.

"I ask the questions here," Eddie pulled out two knives from behind him, and we tensed ready for a fight. Had I gotten this wrong? Was Eddie here to dispose of us? "You have no weapons, correct? This is not much, but I assume you are both skilled enough to escape any situation with a simple knife."

Eddie extended both hands out to us offering a knife to each. I took mine and nodded my thanks hiding the knife in my belt and covered it with my duster. "I suppose this answers my question."

He gave no reassurance. "Have you spoken to Arthur? Does he know His Majesty is aware of your identity?"

"This can't go only one way," I shook my head. "You have to give in order to receive."

"I believe I already gave," Eddie jerked his chin pointing towards the knife tucked away. "I gave you the means to defend yourself."

I sighed. This wasn't going to go any faster or smoother if we didn't stop comparing sizes. "Fine. No. I have not spoken to Arthur. I was hoping you could procure a safe way to communicate."

"I will do so only if what you have to say goes in accordance with the plan," he turned to Christian. "Which so far is not. You two were supposed to sneak in and out. You weren't supposed to make an impression on the Princess or her lady in waiting. You are all Lady Lissa speaks of. It's dangerous for her to be infatuated with a Russian spy who is not here in the noblest of intentions."

"You know nothing about me or what my intentions are with Lissa," Christian growled as his hand reached for his new knife. "That is between Lady Lissa and me."

"Wrong," Eddie snorted showing the first signs of emotions on his otherwise stoic face. "What will happen if you take her with you? Do you think the Mazurs will simply let it go? Lady Lissa is like a daughter to them, and she is the most trusted companion of the Princess."

"So what?" Christian's face was turning red in anger. "If I love her, and she loves me, they wouldn't get in the way."

"You have nothing to offer her. Their Majesties will make sure Lady Lissa has an advantageous marriage."

"This conversation is moot," I intervened before Christian said or did anything else. "We're not here to fall in love or cause trouble. We simply want to complete our mission and return home. You can be reassured no one is running away to elope. We will respect Lady Lissa." At the last part, I shot a look at Christian. It was a command to let it be, at least for now.

"And the Princess? She's what matters the most," Eddie dropped the subject and returned to business. "If you tell Arthur, he will command you to return. The mission has been compromised, and it's no longer safe for you. The Princess is searching for your identity with Lord Ivashkov's help. It's only a matter of time before he discovers you and so does she."

"Damn it," I ran my hands through my hair. "I knew Adrian was dangerous."

"Very dangerous," Eddie said as I finally saw the worry in his eyes, and I tensed waiting for more. Would he hurt Rose? "Or at least his family is. The Ivashkovs have been trying to control the monarchy for a long time, and they will get what they want, finally. As you know, the Princess is set to marry him, and Lady Tatiana couldn't have planned this better. The control of the monarchy will be in her hands. This is what I mean when I say the Princess must be protected from all threats. The witches, the Ivashkovs, and the Russian monarchy." His eyes met mine. "Your czar didn't tell you. He wants the Princess dead too if His Majesty is unfit to rule. He wants to eradicate the whole bloodline. One bad apple spoils the rest. Those were his words if I recall correctly."

"No," I shook my head for emphasis unable to believe what I was hearing. "You're saying that because you want me to keep quiet. You don't want me to tell Arthur and the czar."

"Of course I don't want you to tell them," Eddie stepped closer and whispered. "Rose is in danger. Everywhere you look, they seek to destroy her. I know. I spied for your czar for a long time. I was like you two only supposed to observe and not get involved, but the more time I spent as her guard, I grew to love and admire her. I chose her over my life, and that is why I recommend you do not get attached. Loving the Princess is a curse and a blessing. She is just and kind. She is wise and wild. A Queen like her is what this country needs. Do you want peace between your country and ours? Help her become Queen."

"I will," I promised stepping closer to him as well. "That's why I'm here."

"Then don't tell Arthur," he stood up straight. "I won't tell him either. We must report to him that all is well and going according to plan. We will tell him the King suspects nothing, but you are still uncertain if he's fit to rule. You will tell him the Princess is a perfect candidate if the King is to fail. If you don't do this, he will send assassins for her and her family."

"I refuse to believe he will murder an innocent woman such as Rose," I pleaded still refusing to believe the czar, and Arthur sent me here under false pretenses. They had worked out a contingency plan behind my back with Eddie. They sent me to overthrow King Abe, and they sent Eddie to end the Mazur bloodline once and for all.

"Think," Eddie chuckled bitterly. "Think carefully. I think you know what your czar is capable of doing. I only tell you what my instructions were. I refuse to do his bidding in this matter. I could feed him information, but I will not shed Rose's blood. I will not have her life in my hands."

"What are we to do with Adrian?" Christian interrupted with a valid question. "None of this matters if he finds out who we are and tells the Princess. Once she knows who we are, she will want nothing to do with us."

"As I said, the Princess is kind," Eddie shrugged then began to step away from us. "I suggest you beat Adrian to it and tell the Princess the truth." He smiled sadly. "If you chose to do so, do it quickly before it's too late. Before she trusts you with her life only to reveal betrayal. She's kind but not forgiving."

With those confusing and foreboding words, Eddie retired leaving Christian and me stunned. We said nothing for a few minutes as we gathered our thoughts and found words to express what transpired. There were still many questions left. Eddie was a mystery. How did he end up under the service of the czar? How did he know the czar could be cruel? Absentmindedly, I touched the scars on my back left behind by the czar when I disobeyed. It was at the beginning when I was still so angry and unable to control my emotions. I was far from home, and I was angry I didn't have enough discipline, so I was always being chastised in front of the others. I ran away and tried to return home. I was caught and brought back to the czar.

"You belong to me know," he had said. "You belong to Russia. You can't see your family until I make you into a man. A soldier."

I was whipped as punishment. It wasn't the only time either or the only one who was punished. We all were when we didn't do well. When we disobeyed or fought amongst ourselves. The czar could be cruel, and I convinced myself he had to be in order to rule Russia and create a prosperous country for all. But the thought of him killing Rose when he didn't even know her, well, I couldn't allow it. Despite my feelings for Rose, murdering her was wrong. She was innocent and would make a good ruler if only she was given the chance. While I had made up my mind, I had yet to hear Christian's thoughts on the matter as well as decide how we were going to deal with the threat with the name of Adrian Ivashkov.

"As much as I dislike him," Christian said before I could ask for his thoughts. "I agree with him. On some of it. We can't tell Arthur or anyone that the King knows about us. We must protect them."

"Yes, but how will we stay?" I sighed as the answer was clear but hoped Christian would have more options. "Rose will know soon enough, and she might have her father throw us out."

"I don't think it matters what she wants, and before you kill me, let me explain," Christian chuckled at the dirty look I sent his way. "If the King demands we stay to protect her and help them deal with the witches, there's not much she can do. Ibrahim is the reigning monarch and his decision is final."

"Maybe so," I looked up at the heavens for divine intervention, which it never came. "I need time to think about this one. I know we may not have a lot of that, but I can't face her. I can't tell her I lied. Perhaps I can discuss with Pavel or the King about Lord Ivashkov. Maybe they can stop him from snooping around." I patted Christian on the shoulder. "For now, we carry on like usual. I will send a letter to Arthur reporting all is well, as planned."

Christian and I returned to our rooms to get some rest after the long day. With all the surprises and unexpected turns, I should have been exhausted and able to at least rest in bed. There was no fighting the anxiety growing inside me. The threats against Rose and her family were growing each day. I should have expected it after all Turkey was a mighty country with extraordinary military power and a growing economy. Anyone would want to take control of the country. If the czar removed the Mazurs, he could help an ally rise to power and therefore benefit from the situation. The witches wanted retribution for the mistakes of the late King and would stop at nothing to obtain it. The Ivashkovs were hungry for power and would destroy Rose in the process. They wouldn't kill her not with Adrian around, but whatever made Rose herself, would be destroyed by Lady Tatiana.

I gave up trying to reconcile sleep or any time of rest, so I decided to get some work done. I picked up my notepad and pen heading towards the tulip garden as I had found peace there. As I moved through the palace, I found there was a lot of activity. Several servants moved hurriedly towards Rose's room carrying various trays of food, velvet boxes, and fabrics. Others were busy cleaning and gushing about important guests coming for dinner. As I stepped outside, I prayed the esteemed guests wouldn't be the Ivashkovs. I picked the same spot from the previous day and set to work.

"Arthur, I hope this letter finds you well. Christian and I are enjoying our stay with the Turkish monarchy. Our hosts are very amiable and accommodating, however, it is only day three of our indefinite stay in Turkey. Perhaps they will grow tired of feeding Christian and send us back on our way. We very much look forward to the Princess' celebration. Her Highness has been nothing but gracious. She is very beautiful and wise for her young age, and I know she will grow to be a magnificent Queen when her time comes."

I stopped pondering if this letter was cryptic enough that if it were intercepted people would simply assume I was writing to a friend back home about how friendly the royal family was. However, I knew Arthur would read between the lines, and he would know the Mazurs are safe for now, and Rose was a friend, not a foe. I hoped I was giving Eddie away either by mentioning Rose, and my support for her claim to the throne. After all, I had been tasked with aiding in a coup if King Abe was unfit. Rose was going to be my only choice whether I knew or not about the order to murder her along with her family.

Sighing, I put the pen down and looked up at the splendor of the Mazur palace. The gardens were exquisite, and I could picture myself staying here indefinitely. Though I missed home and my family, I knew they would be fine. Babushka promised so, and I had yet to see her break a promise. Still, I was worried about the repercussions of my actions. Whether the czar or Rose found out about my lies and deceit, I would be the loser here. I wouldn't be able to return home, and I couldn't stay here either. Would my family survive without me? The Belikovs have endured far worse, my grandmother had said. I didn't know what she meant. Stories of our family were limited. Rarely, Babushka would share anecdotes of our ancestors. She was probably afraid of speaking of our power out loud. She was like me unafraid of death but worried about those we loved. Those who would suffer for our defiance. I had much to lose, and I wondered if it was worth risking my family's life. I could use the letter the King gave me. I could take Christian with me and return home. I could grab my family and take them to Budapest or America. We could get lost in the crowds, start over.

I scoffed. Christian wouldn't go anywhere without Lissa or Tasha. Neither would I. I wasn't one to run away from danger. I sighed again praying for divine guidance or any type of sign that I was doing the right thing. I closed my eyes and breathed evenly. My grandmother had said to listen to my heart, so I would do just that. I tried to tune out the birds, the sound of the ocean nearby, the chatter of the servants and focused only on my heartbeat steady against my eardrums. Suddenly, everything faded like the sound had been turned off except for the beating of drums. I opened my eyes and found the world around me the same except everything seemed at a standstill.

I rose to my feet slowly and looked around. My eyes rested on the fountain of the naked woman covered in snakes. Her head slowly turned to me, and I nearly jumped away, but there was anger in her eyes. Paralyzing anger as if I had committed a great crime. She was going to punish me for it. The snakes began to slither and hiss not at me but something else. There was no way this was real. This was another vision. The woman turned away from me, and her anger hadn't faded as she raised her hand and pointed a finger though not at me. I followed where she pointed but saw nothing until a shadow appeared. I felt the shadows evil as it grew closer, and I knew the statute wasn't angry at me. It was angry at this evil force. The snakes hissed and coiled around the woman tighter as if to protect her. Instinctively, I moved to do to the same and position myself between the statue and the shadow.

"Hello?" A shrill voice pierced through the moment, and I opened my eyes. "Oh, sorry. I did not mean to startle you. I am Lady Natalie Dashkov, and you are Mr. Dimitri Belikov, correct? I saw you earlier, but we never had the chance to be introduced. My papa, Lord Dashkov, has spoken about you extensively. I was so curious to meet you, and I came to see the Princess, but she is busy. I saw you sitting here alone, but I realize you probably need to be alone. I am sorry."

"No need to apologize," I wasn't sure if I felt out of breath because of how fast the young woman spoke or if the vision had me agitated. I had no time to ponder on the vision, for I had a role to play. "I am honored to meet you, Lady Natalie."

I took her hand and pressed a kiss to it causing her to blush and giggle. "Oh, please you can call me Natalie. I hate going by my mother's title. The only reason I have it is because she died when I was young. She was ill, you see. Always ill until she could not fight it anymore. That is how titles work here, you know? Or how they should. Once a senior member of each family passes away or decides to drop the title it goes to the next one in line."

"Fascinating," I said politely standing up and pointing the spot next to me. "If you take a seat, I would love to hear more."

"Oh thank you but I have been sitting all day in school," she pointed towards the garden. "I would much prefer if you stroll with me. The Mazur gardens are my absolute favorite. We have gardens at home too but nothing like this."

"I am sure they are as beautiful," I complimented half-heartedly. "Please lead the way."

"You are such a gentleman," Natalie blushed some more but that didn't stop her from claiming my arm. It was nothing like Rose did. Rose rested her hand gently on my arm; she was like a feather though I felt her presence deep in my heart. Sometimes she held tight when she was stressed or annoyed as if to draw strength from my presence. Natalie clung almost pulling my weight down on her, for I was not prepared for this small woman's strength.

"So titles," I pressed before she got distracted speaking of gardens or my chivalry. Besides, this was my opportunity to hear more of the workings of the Turkish government. "If titles are passed down to eldest members, how does the Ivashkov family have so many members with a title?"

"Oh," Natalie waved her hand in the air. "The Ivashkovs are an exception, to everything. Or so it seems. They are immensely wealthy as much as the monarchs I would say. They are a large family proud of their numbers spread throughout the world from Spain to Russia and UK to Turkey. Lady Tatiana is the eldest daughter of Lord Paramount Constantine Ivashkov. He lives here in Turkey but does not do much anymore except keeping the title warm for Lady Tatiana. Then there is Lord Nathan Ivashkov, Lord Adrian's father."

"So they don't really follow the rules," I interrupted before she gave me the entire Ivashkov family tree, which I didn't really need. I needed to know how much power they had.

"No," Natalie paused. "I guess not. I mean, there is no real rule or law about passing titles, but it has been the common practice for a long time. As I said, the Ivashkovs believe in the power of their bloodline and want to parade it around." Her eyes went wide. "I am not saying they are terrible people. I love Adrian. He has always been kind to me…"

"I understand," I patted her hand trying to soothe her nerves as she looked about to burst into tears for speaking so harshly of the Ivashkovs. I did detect a hint of disdain for the family, but I understood. It sounded like the Dashkovs weren't respected not like the Ivashkovs at least. "This is between us anyway. I will not tell a soul."

"Thank you," Natalie sighed in relief. "Sometimes I do not like playing the proper lady. I want to be more vocal, but papa says we must always be polite especially to a family so close to the monarchs."

"Yes, I hear the Mazurs and Ivashkovs are closely intertwined," I tried to follow in Natalie's footsteps and sound as polite as possible. But hinting at Rose's engagement to Adrian wasn't something I was exactly happy about mostly because she dreaded the arranged marriage.

"You have no idea," Natalie stopped and looked around to verify there was no one listening. "Lady Tatiana is always saying the union between Mazur and Ivashkov is written in the stars. Lord Paramount and His Majesty, the late King Idris, were friends since their youth. They had the same governess and were hunting partners. I think there was talk of marrying Lady Tatiana to the then Crown Prince Ibrahim. However, the Duchess of Scotland became a better match. If you were King, would you rather forge a lasting friendship with another mighty country or with a lifelong friend? Lady Tatiana was cast aside for Her Majesty the Queen. Since then, Lady Tatiana has not married and instead has been fighting tooth and nail to push Adrian as the only candidate for the Princess." Natalie took a deep breath. "Very scandalous!"

"Indeed," I agreed. "So Lady Tatiana will support the King in anything?"

"If she wants her nephew to become King? Absolutely!"

"Even if it's the wrong thing to do?"

"I am not sure I follow," Natalie frowned genuinely confused. I knew then all I would get from Natalie would be gossip. However, she was helpful in providing insight into just how power hungry the Ivashkovs could be. Rose was certainly in danger from becoming a puppet, and I was in danger of losing my friendship to her. If the Ivashkovs thought I would get in the way of getting what they wanted, they would not hesitate to expose me in front of the Princess.

"I was just wondering how supportive the King is on the matter of the engagement." The words were hard to come out. I wanted to forget the pending nuptials, but I needed to know if there was anything I could do to help Rose out of the arrangement. "If the King were to change his mind, and he ended the engagement, would the Ivashkovs accept or would they stop supporting him?"

"You mean to change a law?" Natalie chewed on the inside of her cheek deep in thought. "A Princess cannot take the throne without a husband. Considering how badly the Ivashkovs have wanted to be part of the monarchy, I do not think they will support the King. Not when they are so close to getting what they want. As for His Majesty? He cannot be pleased with thrusting his only daughter into an arranged marriage, but it is necessary. Even if he wanted to, the Queen is in charge of engagements. She is the one who arranges friendships with other countries." Natalie's face lit up for some reason then. "I suppose we have her to thank that you are here. She spoke on your behalf with the King, I am sure!"

I chuckled. "Long live the Queen then."

"Indeed!" Natalie pulled on my arm dragging me along walking in circles around the tulip garden and the statue. As we went around, I kept glancing at the statue waiting for it to come alive again. I should have known better. The visions came whenever they pleased. I didn't know what caused them or what they meant, but considering how often they were becoming, I knew I would have to speak with my grandmother upon my return. Lady Natalie demanded my attention.

She spoke highly of the Queen and how kind she was. Queen Janine often acted as a mother figure to the young woman. Somehow the conversation steered towards my own mother and home. I tried to be vague about my life, but Natalie apparently had been to Russia and had details of her own. I saw her then as Natalie and I made our hundredth turn around the tulips, I was beginning to become nauseous. Until a welcome sight appeared. Rose descended the steps like a hurricane eradicating everything in its path. She didn't acknowledge the few servants bowing to her. Mason and Eddie seemed to struggle to keep up with her too. It took all of me to stay put and not rush towards her and find out what had her so upset.

However, it didn't take long to see what had her this way. She kept her eyes on Natalie's hand on my arm, and her tone, though soft and motherly at first, was harsh towards the young Lady Dashkov. If I wasn't so worried for her, I might revel in the knowledge that Rose seemed jealous of Natalie. I knew it was jealousy the moment Adrian Ivashkov appeared like summoned from the pits of Hell as my personal demon of who I wanted to be. I wanted to be the man to comfort Rose, to place my hand on her back and show my support and love. I wanted to be the one to put a ring on her finger and call her mine.

I wished so desperately to be enough for her. I had always been proud of how far I had come in my military career. Despite all the grief, the scars, the sweat, and blood, I was proud of my rank. Never had I wished I had been born someone else. I could have been a lord, and I could have met her. We could be the perfect match. I would protect her from all threats so that she could rule justly. I would jump in front of evil shadows for her. But more importantly, I would give her the love she dreams of. Rose would never suffer; she would have it all. Her crown and love. There would be no tears glistening in her eyes as she met mine. I almost forgot for a second that I wasn't any of that. I almost reached for her, but I remembered that I wasn't of noble blood. I was a General in the Russian Army who had come to hurt her father if needed. I was a man built in lies and bloodied hands. There was nothing I could offer her, and she had to know. As soon as I had time alone, I would tell her who I was. I would tell her, so she could forget me. So that the love and hope in her eyes would turn into hatred, and I would still do my part in keeping her safe.

However, Adrian might beat me to the punch. With a threatening look in my direction, Adrian took Rose away to discuss something more than likely me. I couldn't play any longer. I had to get away from Natalie as the anger started to bubble inside me threatening to spill like boiling water scorching everything in its path. I excused myself from Natalie with the excuse of cleaning up before dinner. She looked crushed as I turned to leave, but I wasn't worried about a little girl's crush. I was worried about my Princess receiving false information. Rose had to know I never meant to hurt her. She had to hear the truth, yes, but it had to come from me. Once inside, I inquired about the King, and I was told he wasn't back yet. I knew if the King wasn't home, Pavel would be with him. I had no one to talk to about this emergency. The King had to know Adrian was about to ruin our plan.

"As soon as the King returns, please let him know I must have a word with him," I told the servant. "It's important."

"If it is so important perhaps I could be of assistance," Lady Tatiana appeared as if conjured. She wore an elbow-length black dress with gray gloves. On her head was a feathered fascinator, and her hair fell in delicate waves. Next to her was a couple. The man in his later forties with silver hair, bushy mustache, and emerald eyes; the signature of the Ivashkovs, it seemed. The woman was stunning with dark hair pulled back in a pristine bun. Her eyes were emerald as well but hers were softer, curious unlike her companions filled with disdain. "What is so important, Mr. Belikov?"

"Lady Tatiana," I bowed. "I apologize but I'm afraid that is between the King and me."

"There is nothing just between the King and you," Lady Tatiana narrowed her eyes on me. "You are here representing Russia, so anything important will be about politics. Politics concerns me as I am a member of the King's council."

"Of course," I hid my fisted hands behind my back. I was very close to losing the sliver of control, and if I didn't get away soon, I could say something disastrous. "I wanted to discuss the task he entrusted on the Princess and myself. I am not quite sure I can be of any help."

"Agreed," Lady Tatiana sighed. "I cannot presume to know the King's mind. The man is a true enigma even to us who have served him and his family for generations. Simply does not make sense to have a foreigner meddle in our problems. You are here to procure friendship between our countries, nothing more and nothing less." She turned to her companions. "Apologies. How rude of me? Mr. Belikov, allow me to introduce my brother, Lord Nathan Ivashkov, and his wife, Lady Daniella Ivashkov. Nathan, Daniella, this is the Russian ambassador, Dimitri Belikov."

"Pleasure to meet you, Mr. Belikov," Lady Daniella extended her hand out to me, and I laid a gentle kiss on it. "I hope your stay in Istanbul has been pleasant so far."

"Thank you, Lady Daniella, it has," I responded with a smile before turning to her husband.

"Belikov, huh?" Nathan pursed his lips as he shook my hands. "Say, are you…"

"Stan Alto's replacement?" Tatiana interrupted shooting a look at her brother. "Yes, he is."

"Of course," Nathan cleared his throat and fussed with the sleeves of his tuxedo coat. "I hope you are as good as Stan at chess otherwise you are just as bad at politics."

"I am afraid I know nothing of chess, but I am very good at politics," I smiled tightly. "A pleasure to meet you, Lord Nathan, Lady Daniella, and as always, charming to see you again Lady Tatiana. If you excuse me, I must get ready for dinner."

"You will be joining us?" Nathan asked looking me up and down.

"Yes. Her Highness kindly extended an invitation to my companion and me." I bowed my head hastily and muttered a goodbye. I didn't care anymore if they considered me rude. Clearly, they didn't think much of me so why even try? Besides, my cover would be blown soon by one of their own. Perhaps by this time tomorrow, I would be on a plane back to Russia.

I dared not mention what transpired since our meeting with Eddie to Christian. I couldn't face him knowing I had failed. Looking in the mirror, I wondered at what moment had I lost my touch. In what moment did I become a fool? Was it the moment I laid eyes on Rose? Was it the sight of her with the crossbow looking like a Greek Goddess of war? Was it the moment she turned her eyes on me? Those damn eyes that saw right through me and my stomach uneasy. How could I let her occupy every waking moment? None of it mattered. I just knew I had to find a way to stay. I couldn't let defeat stop me. Not this time.

"I will not fail," I told my reflection. "I will succeed. Rose will be safe, and she will be Queen. Even if I lose my life trying."

Christian and I made our way to the dining hall where a crowd had already gathered. The King, the Queen, and the Princess seemed to be missing. Lady Tatiana sat with Lady Daniella and Natalie talking them to death, or so it seemed as Tatiana kept sipping on her champagne flute and rolling her eyes every once in a while. Lord Nathan and Lord Dashkov spoke animatedly while Adrian and Lissa did the same in a corner of the room. I couldn't detect an ounce of disdain in Lissa's face as she waved at us to join her and Adrian. Christian, lovestruck as he was, didn't acknowledge the people in the room. Pissed off as I was, I didn't either. I wanted nothing to do with Adrian considering he must have blown my cover sky high, but I couldn't be rude to Lissa. Besides, she could give me insight into how badly the situation with the Princess was.

"Good evening," Lissa greeted us the same with a polite and genuine smile. "You both look dashing."

"Thank you," Christian and I said at the same time. He lowered his head and allowed me to speak first as this was supposed to be a formal setting, as ambassador, I had more reason to speak than he did. I wished for once, he wouldn't care about protocol.

"You look stunning, Lady Lissa," I meant it. It was easy speaking to Lissa, and I could tell why the Royal Family adored her. As for the young man next to her, I knew after what Natalie told me, there was no way someone so pretentious like him would be in favor with Rose if it wasn't because of the power the Ivashkovs possessed. Nevertheless, I had a role to play. "Lord Adrian."

"Mr. Belikov," Adrian smiled slyly as he raised his own glass of champagne towards me. "I must agree with Lissa. You both clean up well, for your status."

"Adrian," Lissa clicked her tongue in disapproval. "Be kind. Dimitri and Christian are honored guest of the Royal Family."

"On first name basis too, huh, Liss?" Adrian shook his head and dawned whatever was left on his glass. "I was only referring to their profession."

"What profession is that?" Lissa scoffed. "Same as yours."

"Nothing at all like mine, Lissa," Adrian looked at his glass. "Well, would you look at that? I am out of refreshment. Excuse me. I will need more than this to get me through the evening."

Without another word, Adrian sauntered off to find more liquor perhaps some of that Lion's Milk. I wanted nothing more than grabbing him in a choke hold until his eyes rolled to the back of his head, and his smug smile disappeared once and for all. The man was taking everything from me. My mission and my Princess. There were only a few people I hated with such fervor, and this young party boy was quickly rising to the top of the list. I left Christian and Lissa to their own world and walked off to search for my own refreshment. I had to agree with Adrian on something. I would need to be a little buzzed to get through the night especially when Natalie finally found me.

"Oh, how great to see you again, Mr. Belikov," she practically clapped her hands. "I was speaking to father, and we would love for you to stay with us once your assignment is complete. No need for you to return home when there is so much to see here in Turkey."

"That is very kind of you," I dawned two glasses of champagne before I continued. "But I am here until the King and my czar decide. Upon completing my assignment, I might need to return home for my next task."

"So hardworking," Natalie sighed dreamily. "Your significant other must be one lucky girl to have you."

Before I could tell her it was none of her business, as he had touched a sore subject, the double doors opened with a thunderous thud to claim the attention of the room. The King waltzed in with the Queen at his side. The Queen was stunning, but I could tell her illness wasn't going away any time soon. She held onto her husband tightly only time I saw her do such was when the King spun her around on the dance floor during my first night here. The Queen wore a light blue dress with short sleeves that fell to her knees and white gloves on her hands. Everyone in the room rose to their feet bowing and curtsying in unison as the monarchs entered the room. Behind them was the reason I drew breath, and then I stopped breathing.

Rose wore a yellow dress similar to her mother's except for the butterflies sewn into the skirt of her dress. On her neck was an emerald necklace in the shape of a teardrop surrounded by a halo of diamonds with matching earrings. Her hair was held back in a low bun with soft tendrils of curls framing her face. And at her side was Adrian Ivashkov. I quickly searched for her left hand for the tale-tell sign of a formal proposal. I saw nothing, for she wore white gloves like the Queen. Her face gave nothing away. There was no sign of hatred towards me or despair for her future nuptials. For once, since coming here, I felt like a true outsider. I felt farther away from her than ever, and I knew my time near her was over. However, Rose met my eyes, and she smiled politely. That meant nothing. She was for all instances and purposes, an enigma. She was simply playing the game like everyone in the room. Though the anger remained there, I was more saddened but determined to follow their lead. If these people wanted to play, I could be game. I grabbed two more glasses of champagne and took them like water before joining the rest at the table. Sitting down, I prayed the King would order Lion's Milk. Heavens knew I would need it.