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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 0:40:37 GMT -5
“Pallas. Why I didn’t think of you right away is a mystery to me.” Cally fumed. There was a flash of light, and a near colorless elementist with a star on his forehead stood in David’s place. “I’m sorry, Cally. I just wanted to cheer you up.” “Come here.” Caldria beckoned. Pallas jumped up next to her, curling his tail around his feet. She started to pet his head, but he pulled back. “I’m not your orphan puppy anymore, I’m a spy.” Pallas protested. It was almost as emotional hearing Pallas’s voice again as David’s. They’d found Pallas abandoned in the inn Cally worked at, and taken him in. The twins had raised him sort of like a dog, and he acted more like one than other elementists did. If it wasn’t for the wings, he’d look just like any old scruffy stray. “Lydrion put you in his army. What is the world coming to?” Caldria said. Pallas laughed. “I am a good shape-shifter, you know, now that I’ve figured out how to do it. It’s not like the two of you taught me.” “How could we teach you, dog boy?” She shook her head. “Why did Lydrion send you in here? I felt sure he just chose people that would torture me to check up on me.” “It’s been crazy out there today. Kenetari went off to kill some group of people, and I guess she didn’t actually go through with it. Apparently Sabbath’s army was pretty decimated too.” “Must be all those people he sent the fake letters to.” Cally said disinterestedly. “He’s not going to be happy with Kenetari; I know that much for sure.” “My lady Archer, her pain thrills the both of us.” “Its Catshadow now, remember? You were at my wedding.” “I’m still getting used to it.” Pallas said. Neither of them wanted to talk about Lydrion, or how he had changed since Kira had gone. The fact that both of them knew how different he was now was enough. Pallas put his paw on her hand, and she held Emma with her other arm. Sometimes there was nothing quite as eloquent as silence.
****
“Look at the stars.” Blade said with admiration. Never had he seemed so suited to his environment. He walked over to Dasher with almost exaggerated canine grace, his ears pressed back. Her gaze remained fixed on the sky. She knew, in his own way, he was asking for forgiveness. “What stories do the shadows tell of the stars?” Dasher asked, trying to be cordial. “The brightest one is the guide of the heavens. I’m sure you’ve got something very similar.” “We call that the palace of Vale. In the daytime, he lives in the sun.” “We have another legend, too.” “What is it?” Dasher replied, not moving. “That if you lose someone that you care about, someone who has sat with you beneath these stars, they will always come back to you.” “What, so I’m never going to lose you?” She stopped. “Logically, that has no basis.”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 0:40:59 GMT -5
“What, so now ancient myths have to be plausible?” “Everything is logical, to a degree.” “We don’t live in a world that makes sense.” “Then would you have me think with my heart, and not my head? My suitors tell me to do so all the time.” “Obviously they don’t know your heart,” Blade said. “Or they would never ask you that.” A star streaked across the sky, and they both turned their heads to watch it. “I wish for someone that can know my heart,” Dasher whispered, “Or that can learn to.”
****
“Ooo, everyone make a wish!” Saria said, bouncing excitedly. “See the long tailed shiny thing? You’re supposed to wish on it!” “Shooting star, Saria, shooting star,” Kaslon corrected mildly. “Well no one’s shooting it, are they? So it can’t be.” She told him primly. Kaslon just smiled, and pretended he knew what she was talking about. Saria added: “Well, I wish for fox-weed.” “There’s no such thing as…” Kaslon started, but stopped himself. “I wish that David would find Cally soon.” “I wish my wife is safe.” David said, running his fingers of the grass and sighing. “Even if I never see her again, I just hope that she’s all right.” “I wish for some real food.” Theo chimed in, to lighten up the mood. “I could really go for a bird, or something.” “Aren’t Earth’s supposed to be vegetarians?” Firelight laughed. “I wish my brother Sythe would lighten up a little.” “I wish we’d do something interesting.” Nightshade half growled. “What is the point of these stupid human’s quest?” “I wish this night could last forever…” Ketra whispered, so quietly that no one could hear her. Only she knew what tomorrow would bring.
****
She was running as fast as she could, pushing the branches away as she went. Laura kept glancing back over her shoulder, knowing that she was terribly afraid but not understanding why. The sword came down on her fast, as she was turning, burrowing deep into her flesh and staying there. As her vision dimmed and everything faded to gray, she saw Markus’s face staring down at her. When she awoke, she realized that her wrist was burning, just under the bracelet that Markus had given her. For the first time, the sight of it was not at all comforting. “You just screamed in your sleep. Loud.” Rose said irritably. There were bags under her eyes, and the crease of her frown mimicked their unhappiness perfectly. Laura realized Rose wasn’t the only one there; most of the Royalty of Everglade was standing around blinking at her. She wondered how late it was, she must have woken them all up.
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 0:41:14 GMT -5
“I’m so sorry I bothered all of you. I promise, I’ve never screamed in my sleep before. I’m sure it won’t happen again.” Laura apologized. She added another “So sorry” for good measure. Markus, who had been silently worrying, knelt and took her hand. “What did you dream about?” “Don’t make me say it.” She pleaded. “I don’t know if I could…” “Laura, it’s all right.” Markus soothed. “Nothing’s going to hurt you.” “You killed me.” Laura said, her jaw set. Rose raised an eyebrow. Markus went pale, but did his best not to show it. “Maybe it’s because you really are the vessel.” Anella jumped in haphazardly. “The portal or what ever it is could be giving you nightmares.” “It’s not a portal, its blood.” Saria said. “Elementist blood.” “My sister would have seen that, if it were true.” Blade argued. “What the hell does any of this have to do with Markus killing Laura?” Dione interjected. Rea frowned. “Dione, dear, I do believe that was the point.” “Oops.” “No, it’s fine. You don’t have to distract me. Markus is absolutely right, it was just a bad dream and I have nothing to worry about.” Laura said. “A disturbing one!” Markus said, before shutting his mouth and realizing he wasn’t helping. “Thank you, sir tact.” Rose said, glaring at him. He smiled sheepishly. Laura bit her lip, hard. “I’m going to take a walk, but I really am sorry to have disturbed all of you.” The maid said quickly. “Laura, you didn’t-” Markus began, but she ran off before he could finish. Rose shook her head. “Have I told you lately that you’re an idiot? Just follow her.” “You’ve told me that, but you may have missed Markus.” Raythor commented lightly. He was clearly still a little giddy about his innocence. “Shut up.” “What a comeback.” “As if I need a good comeback, to argue-” Soon, Markus could no longer hear the two intermingling voices. There was only the sound of his own feet against the grass, the sound of the forest creatures moving around… he had expected to hear sobs, but when he found Laura, she was eerily composed. “How much longer do you think it will be?” She asked softly. “Until what will be?” Markus asked. “Your wedding. It’ll be cold soon.” “Laura, that doesn’t matter. You know I’d never hurt you.” “We’re living on borrowed time. It can’t last much longer.” “Laura, please.” Markus took her hands. Reluctantly, but deliberately, she pulled her fingers back. Markus’s brow furrowed. “I promise you that we’ll still talk. It’s not as though we won’t be friends anymore after I get married. The world…. Our world won’t end.” “Maybe not for you. I know your father is going to get rid of me somehow.” “I’d refuse the crown before I’d let him do that.”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 0:41:34 GMT -5
“You couldn’t do that. You’re supposed to be a king, Markus. You’ve been training your entire life for it.” “It wouldn’t matter, not if it meant losing you.” Markus told her softly. She looked away. “Don’t say that. You can’t mean it.” “I could have a dog killed for walking funny, remember?” Laura laughed, hugging him quickly. “Am I helping at all?” Markus asked hopefully. “You’re being sweet.” “Was the wedding what was bothering you?” “Yes… I mean, I suppose so. It’s probably what caused my dream, anyway.” “I could whistle while I shadow fight, if you want. It’ll be ‘cute’.” “I’ll wait until we get home, so you’re new wife can enjoy it too.” Laura said coyly. Markus reddened slightly. “Yes… Princess Rose…”
Chapter Twenty Five
Time’s Up
Kenetari’s letters. Markus caught the stone. Mary’s handwriting. It went up in the air again. Laura’s dreams. Catch. David’s wife. Throw. Raythor’s sister. Catch. Elementist blood. Throw. His wedding. The stone hit the ground, and his fingers curled around nothing. His wedding. Every heir that was allied with Everglade would be at his wedding. That had to be when Archer planned to strike. Markus couldn’t afford to make another stupid, over confident mistake like he had last time. He got up and walked over to where Laura was sleeping, curled up into a ball. Markus became acutely aware of the sword at his hilt, the fact he was standing over her with the trees behind him. Just like her nightmare. This could definitely wait until the morning.
****
In the morning, the Royalty of Everglade was on the move again. It felt to Firelight that now the worst was over, and things would start looking up. Everyone was normal again, normal and happy. She liked it that way. Firelight stayed close to Theo, knowing that he was rarely, if ever, serious. “Firelight, my little dove,” Theo cooed sarcastically. “What brings your skipping paws my way?” “Tell me something happy, anything happy.” Firelight answered, ignoring his sarcasm as usual. “Well,” He leaned closer, whispering conspiratorially, “I’ve been playing a little game. I’m sure you wouldn’t be interested in that, though…”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 0:42:05 GMT -5
“But Theo, I adore games! Oh please let me play!” “I’ve been trying to guess who’s going to get together by the end of this.” “I suppose you already have some ideas, then?” “But of course, my dear. It’s your opinion that matters to me, though.” “Are you trying to corrupt my sweet sister?” Blade asked, trotting up. Gabriel walked behind him, hands in his pockets. “Goodness, no. We’re just playing a little game.” Theo said, smiling. “I know you a little too well to believe that.” “It might perhaps involve, at the most, some eavesdropping. No real harm.” “Don’t think I’m not on to you.” “You, Gabriel,” Theo said, shifting his attention, “need to work harder.” He didn’t elaborate. Gabriel just blinked back at him in confusion. Blade rolled his eyes, and strolled away, Firelight trailing after him.
****
Eclipse, Ranier and Violet trotted along neck and neck. Markus, Anella and Rose had been put in charge of hunting, but none of them were having much luck. It had been a month since Kenetari’s attack, and the group had settled into a more or less peaceful routine. “Why didn’t your shadow join us today, Markus?” Rose asked, with a small yawn. “She’s the best hunter, anyway. She’d have a basketful of small and furry things already.” “Laura did it yesterday.” Markus replied lazily. “I did ask her, but she and Dasher were in this conversation about weavings or something, and she didn’t want to leave.” “I’ve always loathed the whole weaving process myself.” “I’ve never had much time for it myself.” Anella said faintly. “Why bothering making the time? The end result is such a waste of space.” Rose argued. “Some of it is very beautiful.” “Much more so if you’re not making it,” Rose grumbled. Anella noticed that Markus was trying his hardest to be interested, and the expression on his face suggested that feeling was probably coupled with regret for bringing the subject up at all. “Kylara’s sulking alone and Raythor’s gone again.” Anella said, to change the subject. “I guess everything really is back to normal.” “Where do you think he goes, anyway?” Markus asked. “We all know he isn’t hunting. In fact, it never seems to be his turn.” “He obviously doesn’t have time for that, because he’s so busy visiting his secret girlfriend.” Rose said evilly. “A lot.” “Maybe it’s a secret bunny girlfriend.” Anella said, without really thinking. Rose laughed. “That’s about the only type of girl that would be dumb enough to love him, that’s for sure.” Rose agreed. Markus tried not to smile. “You argue with him even when he’s not here, Rose. I think you must worry about him.” She colored at the prince’s words, but more out of anger than embarrassment. “I do not.”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 0:42:23 GMT -5
“Worrying is a sign of carrying, you know.” Markus teased. Rose opened her mouth, about to tell him how obvious it was that Laura cared about him, but Anella shook her head. Rose’s teeth clicked back together, and she didn’t respond. There seemed to be a mute contract between them all, one that told them that, as far as Laura was concerned, the blue haired prince was on his own.
****
“Isn’t this beautiful, Theo? We don’t have this kind in Lakita.” Firelight gushed, poking at a little purple flower with her paw. “Strange. With such coloring, that flower should be the grass of the shadow kingdom.” Theo said uncaringly. “You must be an only child, Theo.” Ketra commented. “Younger brother, actually.” “How I pity your sibling.” “Lydria loves me.” “Lydria? Isn’t that the female form of…?” “Um… I never thought of that.” “That’s a violet, Firelight.” Gabriel explained, ignoring the other two. He knelt next to the flower. “What about the yellow one?” Firelight asked. “Dandelion. What sort of flowers do you have where you come from?” “Let’s see… I think you would call them Lupines. We have fields and fields of them. It’s simply marvelous when they all bloom.” She sighed with pleasure, just thinking of it. “What’s your favorite type of flower, Gabriel?” He sighed too, but for a different reason. “The rose.”
****
“Ketra, thank you for everything. Meeting him meant a lot to me.” Rose adjusted Violet’s saddle, checking over everything, “Tell Raythor that I’m going. He’s the only other one who knows.” “I knew you would leave today, somehow,” Ketra said sadly, “I’ll be seeing you again soon, though.” “We’ll meet again as princesses. Fresh clothes and beds to sleep in…” “Yes…” The older girl hesitated. “Rose, may I be honest with you?” “Of course, Ketra. You are my best friend.” “It’s just the thought of you and my brother…married…bothers me.” “What and it doesn’t bother me? I know I can make it work with him, somehow. I have to.” Rose swung up on her horse, trying not to let her hands shake on the reins. Bound together for so long, and now it was finally happening… She started Violet into a trot. “Wait!” Ketra called after her, “Do you love him?” There was no answer.
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 0:42:59 GMT -5
Chapter Twenty Six
Castle Imperia
Laura sat placidly as Saria braided her hair, staring into the fire. “You’ll be at least two shades lovelier when I’m done.” Saria told her confidently. “Really, you will.” “I’m sure of it.” Laura agreed, with a very faint smile. She had seen a lot of strange things today. Dasher had pretended to be Firelight to speak to Theo, while Blade watched and laughed. Ketra and Raythor whispered feverishly to each other every chance they could get. No one had seen Rose. “You know, Raythor, we’ve all been dying to learn,” Kylara spoke up suddenly, “Who was your first kiss?” “Oh,” The dark haired boy said flippantly, “Do you really want to know? I would think you people would want me to shut up every once and awhile.” “I sure want to know who was first in line.” Dione said, barring her teeth in a disturbing smile. “He doesn’t have to tell us if he doesn’t want to.” Laura put in peaceably. Anella pretended to be fascinated in the hem of her skirt, as though she wasn’t at all interested in what he was saying. “All right, all right I know when I’m licked.” Raythor said. At least this was drawing attention away from the mystery of Rose’s whereabouts, especially now that night had fallen. “When I was leaving Caltha, years ago, I had absolutely no money left. I could manage to find water, but not food. So, eventually, I stole some bread. Promptly, they threw me in the nearest dungeon.” “Pain and suffering we’ve heard enough of. You’re just putting it off.” Kylara interrupted. “To the point, then. There was a girl who brought all the prisoner’s food. Her name was Karen something. She was the jailer’s daughter.” “Her?” Kylara said, disgusted, “Why her?” “Karen thought I was handsome or some such nonsense. She promised to let me go if I kissed her. So I did.” “You are such a man slut.” Dione said, laughing. “You have the most pathetic love life I’ve ever heard of.” Kylara scoffed. Anella’s cheeks burned, Markus was wide-eyed and Dasher regarded Raythor gravely. “I suppose the situation required it.” The light princess said, tilting her head. “Human lips are so very inconvenient, it seems. Is kissing a bad thing?” “Not usually. Only for Raythor,” Markus explained, “It’s supposed to be a sign of affection. I don’t hold out much hope of that, myself.” “Did you like it?” Saria asked, finishing up Laura’s hair. “Slightly more than kissing Dione,” Raythor said, “With it, came freedom, instead of waves of nausea.” “I do my best,” Dione said coquettishly. “How old were you?” Anella asked, with her eyes still on the ground. “Twelve.” Raythor said with a shrug. “That’s a little gross, no offense or anything.” Kylara said.
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 0:49:02 GMT -5
“Oh, I know it is.” “Elementists lick each others necks when they’re in love. Is this the same thing?” Dasher asked, keeping her gaze fixed on Markus. “Yes, exactly,” The prince said with a nod. “Then what exactly is kissing?” “Lip contact, I guess.” “I could demonstrate on Raythor again, if you wanted me to.” Dione offered. “I barely lived through the first time.” Raythor said, nose wrinkling slightly. “Does anyone know where Rose is? She would love this.” Laura said. “Her sister is very ill. She had to leave, and she didn’t want to upset anybody.” Ketra said quickly. “She didn’t say goodbye?” Laura said, voice hurt. “She won’t be gone long.” Ketra said, relieved to have a few seconds of honesty. “Still, she really had become my friend,” Laura insisted. Ketra wondered how long that would last, come Markus’s wedding. Laura, however, wasn’t exactly the jealous type. “That’s too bad. I wanted to talk to her about something,” Markus said. His hand drifted to where Mary’s diary should be, and realized Rose still had it. “Oh well.” Then the subject passed onto dinner, and only Ketra still thought of hooves beating against stone somewhere far away.
****
They were all awakened next morning by a piercing, almost inhuman shriek. “There are more people here,” Saria, the one who had shrieked, said, “And I haven’t enough milkweeds to cover them!” “I hope Rose hasn’t been hurt.” Gabriel said, deeply concerned. It was difficult, however, to hear him over Thunder’s desperate barking. Blade, Theo, Firelight and Nightshade had all turned and run for cover. Dasher became human again “What’s going on?” Rea demanded, twisting all around but not actually managing to catch a glimpse of the strangers. “Those are my father’s soldiers,” Markus said, scrambling to appear as presentable as possible. He knew the fact they were here at all didn’t mean anything good for him, or for anyone else. “Prince Markus,” One soldier spoke, when Thunder had finally quieted, “It is requested by your father that you return home immediately. The Princess Rose has recently arrived, and preparations for your wedding have started.” “I shall depart shortly,” Markus said in a cool, perfectly even tone. “I thank you for the message.” “No need, prince.” Laura felt her heart sink within her chest. She had never felt so empty in all her life. Any traces of her resolve to finally let him go dissolved. “Markus, you can’t be leaving us.” Anella said, lacing her fingers together. “I have to. You’re all invited, if you should desire to go.” He replied formally. “The Royalty of Everglade should be delighted.” Rea said firmly. Markus nodded. There was no turning back now.
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 0:49:19 GMT -5
****
“Blade?” Nightshade called. She pressed her ears back as he glanced back at her. Firelight giggled at his side. “Silent Nightshade graces us with the sound of her voice? Oh, what a day for the Royalty of Everglade!” Theo exclaimed. Firelight giggled again. Blade sighed dramatically. “Sorry about him, Nightshade. What is it that you want?” The shadow prince questioned. “Could you come back here for a moment?” Nightshade replied. “You get all the ladies, Blade.” Theo said gleefully. “Be quiet, Theo.” Firelight scolded. Blade fell into step with Nightshade, who had the strangest expression on her face. “Do you know who I am?” She whispered. Blade narrowed his eyes. “What do you mean?” “I’m Nightshade Swallowsong.” “So what?” He responded. She laughed. “I suppose the name wouldn’t mean anything to you. I’ve always been hidden, and it’s always been hidden. Never mind. This name, you’ll recognize. I work for Lydrion Archer.” “What?” “Shush, not so loud, shadow prince. I’m not telling you this so that the whole world will know.” “Why are you telling me this?” Blade asked. He didn’t see it, but her symbol flashed. Nightshade smiled. “I’m a spy for Archer, you see, but I’m sick of it. He’s been using me for years, in order to control my parents, and Sabbath did the same before him.” “Who are they?” “Why the Swallowsongs, of course. If you can’t figure it out yourself, I’m not going to tell you. The point is I want you to trust me.” “What good would that do you?” “What good would a crown prince with more power and influence than I could ever imagine do for me? Gosh, I don’t know.” “Drop the act.” “In return, I’d give you information. I just want to set my parents free.” “What if I turn you in, right now?” “You can’t.” “Is that a threat?” “It’s the truth. There’s a silencing spell on your throat.” “That’s no way to make me trust you.” “I guess I’ll try harder next time.”
****
“They’re heading to Everglade’s castle.” Pallas ran in yelling, using the last of his breath. For a moment, the sound of his panting was the only one in the room. Kenetari
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 0:49:36 GMT -5
was sprawled in a chair, her black dress enveloping it like a veil. She fixed her blue eyes on Lydrion, playing with her engagement ring. “Why?” “For the Prince’s wedding. His bride came back from somewhere. The group is very near the border as it is. They’ll probably make it inside Imperia’s gates before night fall.” “There will be more guards than guests at the heir’s wedding.” She said. She stretched her fingers in front of her face studying them. “Perhaps we should do nothing. We already know when they’re all going to die.” “Perfect thought, my dear.” Lydrion agreed. He crossed his arms, taking a moment to think. Pallas quivered slightly. Lydrion looked at him so coldly, like he meant nothing to him. No wonder Caldria was so unhappy. “I believe we should send someone in, just to see what happens.” “We both know Nightshade can’t be trusted.” Kenetari agreed. “Pallas, maybe?” “I’ll take this one myself, Pallas can cover me.” “They might all know me, but David knows you.” “That can be dealt with.” “Anything else you want from me then?” She said, vaguely annoyed at the fact she wasn’t going to get to do anything. “Yes,” Lydrion said. He walked over, pulled her to her feet and kissed her. “I’m putting you in charge. Act as you see fit.” “Kill him, if you get the chance.” Kenetari whispered, putting her hand over his. Lydrion ran his fingers across her cheek. “I promise.”
****
“Who’d my brother send this time?” Caldria asked uncaringly. She was becoming numb, losing her resolve to fight anymore. The only thing that kept her going was Emma; she had to protect Emma, no matter what the cost. David was becoming nothing more than a set of pleasant memories. “Just me,” Benvolio said, pushing hair out of his face. Runner was draped lazily across his shoulders, whiskers twitching. “Resorting to using a little boy against me. My, how the mighty have fallen,” Caldria answered listlessly. The familiar weight of Emma in her arms made her feel a little stronger. “What’s your name? I don’t remember you.” “I’m Benvolio, Kenetari’s brother. This is Runner, my cat.” He stroked the cat. “Though he doesn’t run much.” “Then let’s hope we aren’t in-laws soon.” “I wouldn’t mind it. You’re the only one who bugs my sister.” “Nice to know I’m making some impression on that witc… on Kenetari.” Caldria smiled. Benvolio shuffled his feet. He could do this, he really could. Kenetari wanted him to. “I can get you out of here.” “Sure you can.”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 0:49:53 GMT -5
“No, really. I can’t watch my sister killing people anymore. I think if I help you escape, I can reason with her.” “That doesn’t make any…” Caldria started, and then trailed off. His face looked so earnest; she didn’t want to hurt him. “You have to promise me, though, that when you get out you’ll find out who Raythor is and… and tell me someday.” “I’ll do my best.” “Then I’ll start thinking of a way to get you out of here.”
****
The gates opened and a thousand different voices filled the air. Markus rode at the front of the party, flanked by three soldiers. The Royalty of Everglade trailed after him in a disorganized mass. “Look at all these unprotected souls.” Saria said, taking everything in. “Except for those ladies. They all seem to have pitchforks.” “Of course they do,” Dione said, rolling her eyes. “This is all so… big.” Anella said, running her fingers through Ranier’s mane. Something tugged at her dress, and she looked down to see a little girl with a handful of skirt clutched in her grasp. “Are you the bride?” The little girl asked. “No, sweetie. None of us are.” “It’s none of them!” The girl yelled. All the women with pitchforks groaned. “Then who is she?” One of them asked. “Some sort of prostitute?” “No,” Tallith said quickly. “She’s my wife.” “What about him, then? Is he single?” Another lady asked, indicating Raythor. The dark haired boy blinked. “Err…no. This is my wife uh… Laura. Yes, Laura. We have nine lovely children.” “What?” Laura asked, taken aback. He glanced over at her sadly. She sighed. “Yes, this is my charming husband Raythor.” Markus circled Eclipse back, to be with them. “Go on ahead, quickly. That’s the pitchfork gang. They all love me.” He whispered fiercely. “You’re kidding.” Dione said doubtfully. “You?” “If you don’t believe me, try telling them you’ve touched me. Ever. They’ll attack.” After that, it didn’t take much to spirit everyone safely into Imperia’s courtyard. Servants rushed over and took all the horses away, leaving everyone to stand there and wonder what to do next. A woman with a crown resting atop her bright, red hair rushed over to Markus, and hugged his tightly. “Oh, Markus, I’ve missed you so! My darling boy!” Attendants followed after the queen, stumbling to reach her. “My lady, please. You shouldn’t be walking around.” One attendant begged. “Bother what Audrion says. I’m not missing a second of my son’s wedding.”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 0:50:11 GMT -5
“Is something wrong, mother?” Markus asked, concerned. He put a hand on her shoulder, and really looked at her. “You aren’t-” “I am. Just starting to show,” Ivy said proudly. “My new little one can grow up right along side yours. You will give me grandchildren, won’t you?” “Of course mother, of course.” “Is your sister here?” The sound of an argument confirmed his suspicions. Ketra and her father were at it again. “Yeah, Ketra’s here all right.” Markus said. Ivy sighed. “I had hoped that they would make up. Well, never mind. Who are your friends, dear?” “You know Queen Rea, Dione, and Laura…” Markus started. His father marched over, glaring, with Ketra, also glaring, next to him. “Queen Rea, my apologies you have not been attended to yet.” Audrion said, still focused on giving death glares to his daughter. “Markus go and get ready. There isn’t much time. Ivy, why are you up?” “Oh, posh, you haven’t been able to order me around for eighteen years, and you won’t start now.” “Then would you mind taking your son to get ready for his wedding?” “Not at all,” Ivy said. She firmly grasped Markus’s hands and dragged him away. A group of maids descended on the prince’s abandoned friends. “Hi Laura. Anyway, I’m the head maid here. My name is Lynn. We’ll be providing you all with garments, all right?” As she spoke, the maids each took on person, and scattered the remaining group members in thirteen different directions. ****
“Mmm… no. No blue. You really shouldn’t own any blue.” Ivy paced as servant after servant brought Markus’s clothes for her to choose from. He realized how battered and sad the ones he had on were. “Mother, have you seen Rose? Ketra told me she was blonde.” “Really?” Ivy asked. “I can’t imagine why. Ketra has been friends with Princess Rose for ages.” “What?” “She must have hid it from you. I suppose I understand that.” “Then what does she really look like?” “I only saw her briefly. She has red hair, though less vibrant than mine. She’s short, and has the biggest pale green eyes. Not quite as pretty as I had hoped, but you two will still make a fine couple.” “Rose…” Everything slid into place. Raythor’s comment about the ring she had been wearing, her friendship with his sister, even the way she acted like a queen. Rose had left them yesterday. “It’s nice to hear you sound so excited.” Ivy smiled. She selected a garment that was a very dark gray, with circles of white around the shoulders. “This will bring out your eyes.” “Where is Rose?” “In Ketra’s room, for now. Why?”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 0:50:39 GMT -5
“Just curious…” “Markus,” She laid a hand lovingly on his cheek, “I know you’ll make me proud.”
Chapter Twenty Seven
Princess Rose
Rose felt very much in her element again. “My lady, I have missed you.” Rose’s handmaid, Lucy, gushed. She ran a brush through her mistress’s hair, pulling it up, and then gathering it in a golden net. “You are always good company, Lucy.” Rose said. “If I’m not imposing, I made you something.” Lucy said, holding up a circle of flowers. “For your wedding, miss.” “Ah, thank you. That will look so nice.” The handmaid placed in carefully on the princess’s head, and Rose stood before Ketra’s mirror. Her dress was lovely, and the skirt was a two layered mixture of whites. The top layer shimmered with many colors, and the bottom was a pure swan white. “You are a sight to behold, my lady. Your prince will be so happy.” “Rose?” Ketra strode in, not bothering to knock or even pretend to be formal. She was still riled up from seeing her father. “I want to talk to you. Now.” Lucy curtsied and scurried from the room. Rose turned from the mirror, to meet her friend’s eyes. “Who put you in such a state?” “Father. But today isn’t about my issues. It’s about you.” “I guess you aren’t here for a ‘good luck’ and a ‘you look lovely’ then?” Rose felt so light today, as though nothing could touch her. She reached to the table behind her, keeping her eyes locked on Ketra’s, and pushed Mary’s diary under a clump of hair ribbons, where Ketra wouldn’t see it. “I’m serious, Rose. You know how much I would love if you were my sister-in-law, and you know how much I love my brother, and want him to be happy, but I want you to be happy, too. Do not go through with this if you don’t want to.” “You know that Markus and I have no choice.” “Do you know why my father really sent me away?” “No, but why should that matter?” Rose said, raising an eyebrow. Ketra sighed, and melted onto her bed. “You’ll see.” “So let me.” “You know my friend Lord Samuel? I was in love with him, and he didn’t know it. I was just another friend to him.” “A hidden Laura, are we?” “Then he met someone that he loved with all his heart. His parents wouldn’t let them marry,” Ketra went on, in a daze, as though Rose hadn’t spoken. “So one night, he came to me, begging me to help him escape with her. They had everything with them, and no place to go.” “What did you do? You couldn’t have said nothing.” Rose took a step forward, her eyes green fire now.
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 0:50:55 GMT -5
“I got them two horses, gave them provisions, and sent them somewhere safe to be married. I’ve never seen or heard from him again, and I never told him how I felt.” “You let him go? How could you possibly do that?” “There are times that I have I wished I hadn’t done it, but I really can’t regret helping him… if you really love someone, you want to make them happy, even… even if it means letting them go.” “Ketra… I didn’t know.” “But you understand, don’t you?” “I’m not you, and I’m not Laura.” “You don’t have to be.” Ketra got up and left before Rose could say another word.
****
Laura felt as though every emotion she’d ever felt was pouring out her eyes. She had told herself…but it had meant nothing, not really. Hadn’t she been watching him then, admiring him? As she always had, as she probably always would. “What a fool I’ve been…” Laura whispered to herself. Her hair fell into her face, mingling with her tears, but that didn’t mean anything to her either. “He could never, never l-” “Laura, Princess Rose is…” Markus started, but trailed off. He walked over to her, attired for his wedding. Laura’s legs were folded to one side, her arms pushing away the ground in front of her, her eyes staring into nothing. In all the years he had known her, he had never seen her like this. Sure, he had seen her cry, but never this hard. Never with heart wrenching sobs and near puddles of tears. “Laura, what’s wrong? Are you hurt?” He put one knee against the ground, and a hand on her back. Normally, the sound of his voice was all it took. That was over, had to be. She put her arms around him, more for support than anything else. Laura was so exhausted that she wasn’t feeling much of anything. Markus stood slowly, helping her up and supporting almost all of her weight. “It’s all going to be all right.” He whispered, for his mouth was now almost against her ear. They stood like that for a long time, her arms draped loosely around his neck, his strongly holding her waist to keep her standing. “What… what about Princess Rose?” Laura asked. “Never mind that now.” Markus said. Laura pulled away slightly, moving her hands to his shoulders. She hadn’t thought how close that would make their faces, but she couldn’t really think. “You have to go. There isn’t much time.” “I’ll stay here as long as you need me.” “I’m fine now, really.” She assured him. His arms loosened, and she stepped back. He grasped her hand lightly. “You don’t look fine.” “But I am. It was nothing.” “You know, you look pretty when you cry, but please don’t.” He insisted. She smiled, a tiny smile. “Thank you.” She said quietly. Markus kissed her lightly on the cheek, like a brother would. So much salt...
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Post by Markus Everglade on Jun 19, 2009 0:52:10 GMT -5
“I’ll be in Ketra’s room, if you need me.” When he released her hand, Laura shut her eyes tight. She didn’t see him look back, see him hesitate. There was only blackness.
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The door barely made a sound as it closed. She saw his face reflected in the mirror before he spoke. “I’ve been waiting seventeen years to meet you,” Markus said softly, “Princess Rose.” “Markus… I should have said something, a long time ago.” Rose turned to face him, standing as straight as she could. “I figured it out.” “It wasn’t fair to you.” “Would you have really preferred meeting at the alter?” Markus asked. He wasn’t angry. “This is better.” “Is it? It’s going to be so weird, being your wife, now that I know you.” “We’re friends, aren’t we?” “Of course, but…” “Then it’s better than what I was expecting.” Markus gave a half-hearted smile, his gaze drifting to the engagement ring that had returned to her finger, the perfect twin to his own. “I just wanted you to know that I’m not walking in there blind.” “That’s good.” “I’d better go.” Markus said. He briefly raised his hand, and then dropped it as if he didn’t know what to do with it, before turning to leave. Rose watched the receding form carefully. Did she love him? If she had to ask, probably not. Yet there was that feeling she got whenever he touched her, the kindness in his eyes, the sound of his voice… Then there was Laura, and how much she loved him, and Ketra, who knew more about Markus than she could ever hope to. It was so strange, not to be in control. “Markus, wait.” Rose said. He stopped, turning his head to look at her. She took his arm, and leaned up to kiss him firmly on the mouth. Rose held it as long as she dared. Markus was so shocked he couldn’t move. “Did you… did you feel anything?” Rose asked, staring earnestly into those confused gray eyes. “Did you?” He said dumbly. “Nothing extraordinary.” “Honestly, same here, but don’t worry. We’ll manage.” Rose pursed her lips at that. Where did he get off, telling her not to worry about an inescapable wedding? Men. “Can’t you be just a little bothered about anything?” “I only want to make you feel better.” “Markus, would you meet me in the courtyard later?” “Before the wedding?” “Before the wedding.” “Fine, Rose.” This time she let him leave.
****
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