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Post by Markus Everglade on Apr 9, 2010 17:37:00 GMT -5
them throwing up and he kind of hoped he’d never have to have the ‘pleasure’ of the experience himself. This day so far had justified that dream pretty completely. Markus managed to get dressed, fighting down waves of nausea the entire time, and retrieve his thin, gold prince crown from where it had found its way under the bed. He stopped to glance vaguely into Laura’s mirror. Other than his sickly, pallid color he actually wasn’t too unacceptable for the public. Markus took a deep breath. He was wearing the exact same decorative armor his father had worn at his coronation twenty years ago. It was slight and there was really only metal on his shoulders, elbows and over his chest. The rest was thick, reinforced gray cloth and a small amount of strong leather that attached it to the metal. It would be extremely useless in battle but it had never been meant for that. All it was so supposed to do was symbolize that they were a powerful, warrior nation and that the king who wore it could hold his own in battle. He didn’t feel like he was going to able to hold his own against the door out of his room at the moment, let alone the other countries. But there were things more important than the risk of continued retching and falling over and, unfortunately for his rebellious stomach, this was one of them. Markus would just have to make it through today feeling sick as a dog and acting like nothing was wrong. He could do that. He was about to head out of his room when he caught another look of his face in the mirror. Markus knew Dasher had instructed him specifically to not use magic. This was just a little spell, though… He raised his hand in front of face and called his blood up into his cheeks so that he looked a normal, healthy color. His nose started bleeding slightly afterwards and he wiped it off with the back of his hand determinedly before holding it back up to his own nostrils and using it to heal his nose. He swore aloud when his ear picked up the blood flow. Markus grabbed a handkerchief off the table and held it to his ear until the little red stream stopped naturally. It was about time he paid a price for his own vanity, Markus thought blankly. However, he didn’t regret making himself look normal at all. He was going to do what ever he needed to in order to gain Everglade’s trust, and they needed a healthy young king before them today to feel safe. He was going to be fine in a few days. A little bleeding had never hurt anyone before.
Chapter Six His father’s crown
Ivy expertly wound a silver-gilt thread through her daughter-in-law’s hair, humming as she did. Laura sat as still as possible, chewing her lip. She didn’t dare look down at her dress, even though Ivy kept insisting that she looked wonderful in it. Laura knew it was a queen’s dress, and she didn’t feel at all like a queen, especially after what she had just done to Everglade’s future king. “Almost done.” Ivy reassured with a smile. “Then you can have a look at yourself in the mirror.” “All right.” Laura said, hand sliding nervously over the wood of her chair. This was not right. How could Markus still make her regent after she had hurt him? How could he think Ketra wasn’t more qualified than she was? Ivy chuckled, thinking all the worry was about her daughter-in-law’s gown. “Don’t be nervous, dear. Dresses are my specialty.”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Apr 9, 2010 20:08:15 GMT -5
“I’m not nervous.” She lied. “I’m sure it’s a beautiful dress.” It probably was. Adding something true made the lie better, didn’t it? Laura swallowed. Should she tell Ivy what she had done? How would she react? Was that something she had any right to tell anyone on a day like this? Laura tried to steady her breathing. “There.” Ivy said. She took Laura’s hand and pulled her in front of the mirror. The princess gasped. It was green, but so many shades of it that she couldn’t count them all. The sleeves were translucent, flowing down to her hands and dangling off her wrists. It hung off her shoulders, the top encircled by a thin, gold band. The bodice was just a deep, beautiful green and another gold band around her waist separated it from the skirt. The skirt itself seemed to sparkle and her eyes watched the colors shift. She raised her head and her hair barely moved. All but two strands of hair on the side had been gathered into a bunch just below her neck. The strands themselves were braided with Ivy’s silver strings and tucked and pinned elegantly behind her ears. “All that’s missing is this.” Ivy said softly, tapping her own thin, golden crown. Unlike Laura’s own, which was silver, it was set with jewels. “You’re the queen, Ivy. Not me.” Laura said, turning away from her reflection with a shudder. “Not anymore. Not without Audrion.” “It would make him sick to see me now. I’ve tainted Everglade’s blood.” Laura put a hand over her stomach. “Your baby is a blessing.” Ivy insisted. Laura frowned. Then she held her hand above her stomach, calling up her black energy. The sound of two hearts beating swirled out of the blackness, quick and clear. “Are they even human?” Laura asked, somewhat darkly. Her children felt so connected to this shadow inside of her… Ivy’s eyes widened. “Markus told me that you were the… ‘Vessel’... that you could channel energy. I didn’t know you could make your own.” Ivy said. She put her hands over her mouth. “Are you…?” “They say I’m a reincarnation of a dead fire prince, an elementist. That his tragedy was sealed with the portal Raythor closed two years ago.” Laura shook her head and the energy faded. “I don’t know what to think.” “I always knew Markus was going to be different, because of the choice I made.” Ivy said, putting a comforting hand on her shoulder. “He had powers for a long time before he recognized them. He was always spilling glasses without touching them, making his soup spin… Audrion never saw it, he wasn’t looking… Just because you have this… extra control does not mean you aren’t human. That your children won’t be…” “Ivy,” Laura hugged her wanting quite desperately to cry, “Thank you…”
****
“It’s going to be all right.” Ivy said, smoothing back her son’s hair. “You are going to be a wonderful king, Markus. I know you are.” Markus gave her a weak smile, saying nothing. Laura, beside him, squeezed his hand. The prince nodded at John, his father’s most trusted servant, who nodded back. John walked out into the throne room. Markus waited a few moments before he started to follow. Laura grabbed his arm. “Wait. I just… I’m sorry for…”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Apr 9, 2010 20:10:24 GMT -5
“It’s really all right, Laura. Nothing has changed between us. Promise. I love you.” He raised their interlaced fingers to his mouth and brushed his lips along them. “All you’ve got to do right now is be by my side, just like you have been my entire life.” Laura took in a deep breath, hugging him quickly. “You need me. I’m here.” She very reluctantly released hold of both his body and his fingers and the two of them walked forward together. Markus caught John’s eye and the servant started the ceremony. “For hundreds of years, the Gladian crown has been worn by the eldest sons of this family…” John said, as Markus and Laura moved to stand in front of their respective thrones. “From the first king, they have led us well through both times of war and times of peace. Again our faith is to be put into both this family and their young prince, who this day becomes King Markus Audrion Everglade and brings Princess Elaura Aralia Everglade to us as our Queen. May our faith in the Everglades be rewarded again. The king is dead-” “Long live the king.” The assembled nobility chorused. John placed Audrion’s crown on Markus’s head. He closed his eyes for just at second, taking in the new weight of the crown, before he looked out at the crowd in front of him. The prince still felt sick and weak and unequal to the task he was about to undertake. But he also knew that he would not turn against everything he was and just give up now that this moment had finally come. He would do his best for Everglade and fight for the country and its people until he drew his very last breath. Markus promised himself that he would never stop trying no matter how bad it got. He owed himself, his father and his people that much. Markus watched with a slight lump in his throat when Ivy took off her crown and set it atop Laura’s head. His mother was losing the title she had had for most of her life with just that one single motion, and she knew it very well. Ivy stepped back serenely and without too much regret. Laura’s eyes flickered as soon as the queen’s crown touched her but she put on a generic smile that looked very much like her husband’s diplomatic expression. It was hard to accept that his mother’s reign was over but he was all ready proud of the new queen. She was outwardly showing absolutely no fear. That was his Laura… The four of them walked out onto the balcony. John repeated his words for the peasants below, but this time Markus didn’t listen to him. Laura had a death grip on his hand and her knuckles were as white as the snow around them. Markus just kept up his generic, princely smile. The Gladians had no choice but to put their faith in him and his wife. He would do everything not to fail them. “Long live the king,” The peasants responded below. Laura raised their hands in the air when Markus missed the cue and didn’t move, a real smile gracing her features. She looked up at him, beaming and excited, high off the cheers of their new subjects. Markus met her eyes and smiled for real too. They were together in this, they could do anything. Maybe this was something to be excited about, something to take head on and still enjoy. They were free from the difference of their social positions, from the whisperings of the court and his father’s scorn. He was the king, not the prince, not in anyone’s shadow and not waiting for someone to give him orders or for his chance to make a difference. They were free. “Long live King Markus,” Laura whispered as they turned away. “Long live my prince.”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Apr 9, 2010 20:10:43 GMT -5
****
“What were you planning to say about Raythor and Anella?” Laura asked. Markus just shook his head. Explaining putting two peasants in a position of power to his uncles was not going to be easy. “I’ll think of something, give me a minute.” Markus promised. He opened the door to the council room and took in a sharp breath. His Uncle Richard was kissing Anella’s hand and Raythor, trying to ignore this, was talking to the economic advisors Jane and her brother Warin. “Markus,” His youngest uncle, Elton, said brightly, “I have to say, I like the new Knife.” “We’ve decided not to do any trade with Caltha.” Raythor said, tilting his head toward Jane. “I’ve been saying that for months. Finally, someone with a say in this government agrees with me.” Jane looked him up and down. “Are you sure he’s not an aristocrat? He looks like one.” Anella bit her lip to keep from laughing. Markus barely resisted the urge himself. “No. He’s not an aristocrat.” Markus said, regaining his composure. He should have known the two of them would make a good impression. “Well, if the lovely Laura is any indication, our new king is partial to peasants.” Richard said. Laura let her eyes fall to the ground. Anella took this opportunity to free her hand from his grasp. “Richard, I want your army in Imperia as soon as possible.” Markus said, half pretending to himself that ordering his uncle around was not retaliation for the older man flirting with Laura. “We all know Ovidia’s going to come down hard on us as soon as they get the chance.” “Right away, sire.” Richard said with mild surprise. “Sound idea.” “Just think of me as the new Audrion rather than the new king.” Markus said jokingly. “Oh God.” Elton said, and the other council members laughed. “Raythor, Anella, did you meet everyone?” Laura asked, hoping talking would make her less nervous. It didn’t. “Only Jane and Warin.” Raythor said. Jane smiled in a calculating way. “Well, I’m the military advisor with my wife, Elena.” Richard said, smiling at Anella. She looked uncomfortable. Elena, who was the only person in the room sitting down, nodded and stared at her folded hands. “I’m Elton and this is Rhea.” Elton said, draping his arm around a brunette woman to his left. “We manage the court system.” “We’re the tax collectors.” A black haired woman said, looking at Markus’s last Uncle Darien. “I’m Ailith. The peasants generally don’t like us.” “Such is life.” Darien said. “So what does Ketra do?” Raythor asked curiously. “Peasant relations.” Ketra said, sounding very pleased. “Which is something I can actually do.” Geoffrey chimed in. Ketra rolled her eyes.
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Post by Markus Everglade on Apr 9, 2010 20:11:06 GMT -5
“All right. I’ll see you all at the black ball tonight. Our first meeting is tomorrow.” Markus said, as commandingly as he could. His relations stood there as though waiting for something. “Aren’t you going to kiss her?” Elton asked finally, glancing at Laura. “Um… what?” “Audrion always kissed Ivy on the cheek before he closed every meeting. It was sort of our good luck charm.” Elton shrugged. “All right.” Markus said, looking at all of them like they were crazy. He pecked Laura quickly on the cheek. The council looked satisfied and filed out, leaving behind the Royalty of Everglade members. “I apologize for my family’s weirdness.” “That’s all right. We all ready knew you.” Raythor said jokingly. Laura smiled and then put her arms around Markus happily. Markus put an arm around her waist and kissed her quickly on the lips. They drew back and just looked at each other for a minute. “You look beautiful, Laura.” He said, finally. “Your mother worked very hard to get me looking this way.” Laura replied, eyes dancing. “I… I feel good about this, Markus. I think we can do this.” “Should you be standing, Markus?” Anella asked. Markus shrugged. “I feel fine. I barely even remember it.” “You looked pretty weak this morning…” Laura said, brow furrowing. Before he could answer, and the general mood could get any darker, Raythor popped in with: “My biggest complaint is Richard, personally.” “I don’t want to be alone with him.” Anella agreed, shivering. “He flirts with me too.” Laura said knowingly. “But once you’re married, it’s all just for show. Boyfriends, he can handle, but he doesn’t want to incur the wrath of husbands.” “John’s phrase.” Markus noted lightly. “Keep your door locked.” Laura added seriously. “Oh, I will.” Anella said, nodding. “Congratulations, you two.” Raythor said, smiling. Laura hugged him, then Anella. “You’re both so good to be here with us…” “Where else would we be?” The dark haired boy said carelessly. “I was… wondering…” Anella said quickly. “Could we take some time off to get married? Maybe in a few weeks? I don’t want to leave until you’re settled in…” “Leave when ever you’re ready.” Markus said. “Laura and I can handle all if this for awhile by ourselves.” “I know.” Raythor said. “I mean, you’ve been leading us for years.” Markus looked grateful, as though he had almost been assuring himself. “Hey, Anella… I don’t suppose you’re ready to tell Markus what the Prince of Hell said to you?” “Prince of Hell?” Markus asked, glancing at his wife. “Your new Knife Anella went to talk to Roland when you couldn’t last night.” Laura explained, smiling. “Well everything exciting seems to happen when I’m unconscious.” “I know exactly how you feel.” Raythor said, shaking his head. Markus cracked a smile. “Let’s hear what the Hell Prince had to say, Anella.”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Apr 9, 2010 20:11:27 GMT -5
*****
Roland pressed his forehead into the cold stone of the castle wall. He’d grown up in step with Markus, every moment of their planned, controlled lives reflecting far more similarity than difference. Now their father’s were both dead, and it was time for their generation to take control. Markus was king, but Roland himself was probably never going to be. He had said rash things in his frustration, seen a helpless girl in the hallway and vented them to her. Roland had told Markus’s envoy as much, but he knew that his life depended on the word of a young king who should be his equal rather than his superior. He had never truly intended to kill Markus. That would have been like smashing his own reflection in the mirror; it would change nothing and result only in glass digging into his flesh. He needed Markus, if he were to have any chance of taking his rightful place on the throne. Caltha only had one ally, and for decades their wealth rested in the palm of Audrion’s hand. Now, one more time, the Nightspeakers had to rely on the Gladians to keep their delicate lives in balance. Roland heard footsteps down the hall, but he couldn’t be bothered to move. He bent his head, hair shielding his eyes, holding off seeing the person who would doubtlessly be responsible for his demise as long as possible. “R-Roland?” A soft voice said. He didn’t answer. Poetic, to find the girl he had abused, and have her take him to the dungeon. Markus certainly didn’t lack the flair for torture that his father had overflowed with. At the lack of response, a harsher voice broke in: “Roland!” “What do you want, Kylara?” He nearly snarled, lifting his head to lock eyes with a tall, Calthan woman. Her black, unruly hair almost seemed to spike and her green eyes narrowed considerably when she saw him fully. Only his deep dislike of his country woman could make him forget his melancholy and impending death long enough to be angry. “Lila has no one to dance with.” Kylara Waterwind said smoothly. “And, because you battered her yesterday, you are going to take her to the ball. She can’t have the prince she wants or deserves, so she’s getting you.” Lila blushed to the roots of her hair at that. Roland noted, with irritation, that it made her look more attractive. “And on whose authority is this being executed?” The Calthan prince demanded. “Mine.” “Peasant filth.” “You’re all talk, prince of nothing. You’re lucky to be breathing.” “Just because you don’t deserve to see the light of day does not mean I should continue to be discourteous to Miss Fairfax. I am sorry for what I did, Lila.” Roland said. “I would be delighted to accompany you tonight.” “T-thanks.” Lila said to the floor. All three of them started when Everglade’s new king and his queen stepped into the room. Roland, despite himself and everything he had promised, trembled.
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Post by Markus Everglade on Apr 9, 2010 20:11:51 GMT -5
“Prince Roland.” Markus said, with a formal smile. “Don’t worry. I’m not going to hurt you. Anella told me what you said and… I’m going to believe you. After all, we’re pretty much the same right?” “Pretty much.” Roland echoed, involuntarily smiling for real. Laura looked at him with distaste as the couple left. He buried his head in his hands and thanked God; the spirit of his father that he now believed his guardian and, most of all, Markus.
****
Kenetari reveled for a moment in her husband’s cleverness before heading up the stairs to their shared room. He had been the one to suggest putting the thought in Markus’s mind that the women surrounding him were murderers… “Go job, Ken.” Lydrion said, clapping with amusement. A dark bruise had formed on his face where she had hit him. “Two pawns with one sword.” He flicked an emerald stone into the air that matched the one they had delivered to Raythor, catching it easily. “Did you have any doubt?” Kenetari said, sitting next to him. She saw her daughter on the floor and decided to give her one of those rare moments of her affection. She picked Ava up and held her in her lap. The brunette two year old, with her big surprised blue eyes, nestled into her mother’s stomach happily. “Mother…” Ava said happily. “Mother is home…” “Yes, and what was she doing?” Kenetari asked, lifting Ava to her eye level. Ava beamed, thrilled to be answering something correctly. “Getting rid of Uncle Raythor.” Ava told her, reaching out to take a strand of black hair between her pudgy fingers. Kenetari replaced Ava on her lap. Her mother’s hair would keep Ava occupied and quiet. “Lydrion, there is something I must tell you.” “Oh?” Lydrion said, smiling at his daughter and not really paying much attention. “I’m pregnant.” She said bluntly. Lydrion started. “So we’re going to have to plan this around my uselessness, like we did before.” “Mostly it was my uselessness before.” Lydrion said. Then he shook himself, lips curling upward. “I know you hate this but… this is good news for me. I would love to have another kid. How about you, Ava?” “’Course, daddy.” Ava said cheerfully, not fully understanding what she was agreeing to but deciding it had to be a good thing. Kenetari just let her mouth set into a line. “Next time, we are asking the Calthan women…” She trailed off but Lydrion nodded. “Two is enough.” Lydrion said. He leaned back, staring up at the ceiling. Though he had spent so much time in their early relationship denying just how deeply he cared for her, denying her his warmth and affection, trying to be aloof and cold… the way she had cared for his burns made his wife seem human. And, because she was human, he openly showed that he loved her now. As a result, his ability to restrain her had lessened considerably. He hadn’t expected physical violence, but Lydrion knew it was brought on by Raythor. Once her brother was dead, Kenetari would be the person who had taken care of him so well permanently. Lydrion laced his fingers through hers. “I think we shall visit Jason next, Kenetari.”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Apr 9, 2010 20:12:09 GMT -5
“Jason.” Kenetari said, with an unquestioning nod. He still had a little sway over his untamed wife.
****
Laura looked down at the head stone, shivering in the cold. “Audrion Cassian Everglade…” Her eyes scanned the all ready weathering dates and she felt a pang in her chest. She looked away, only to be faced with rows and rows of gray stone. The real Royalty of Everglade lay buried beneath her feet, but not the one she loved… Laura couldn’t even imagine herself deserving to lie there among them, with hundreds of years of Everglade’s history… “You know I don’t belong here. You always knew.” Laura spoke aloud to her father in-laws grave. “I’m only queen because of your son, I was never meant to rule…” She felt strong, familiar arms go around her waist and familiar lips touch her neck. “The daughter of Evora’s greatest general wasn’t meant to rule?” Markus said. She could see his breath mingling with her own. “The whole continent?” She asked, putting her hands over his. “Not just Laina?” “I think he’s better than Jerrod or Davon…” Markus trailed off, eyes closed. It had started to snow and Laura could feel the energy flowing through him. “And you saved my life… you’ll be a wonderful queen…” “I almost ended your life last night.” “It’s not your fault. I’m going to keep telling you that until you believe it.” “Shouldn’t you be lying down?” “The snow is good for me.” He insisted. “As is being with you.” Laura turned her head, filled with frustration. He was so irritatingly kind sometimes. Couldn’t he just get mad at her, like he had in Caltha? It had been over nothing then and this still didn’t make him bat an eyelash. But he hadn’t been Markus then, not really. He had never yelled at her when he was truly himself. Not until last night, anyway, but that was anger against a dream. Not her. “You scared me last night.” Laura said, turning her head a little more to at least see some of his face. Markus laughed nervously. “I didn’t hurt you, did I?” His hold on her waist slackened considerably. Laura took her hands away and he backed up. “That wasn’t something I’d ever thought I’d do.” “No,” She sighed, “Of course not. I wasn’t trying to make you feel guilty, Markus.” “Hm,” Markus shrugged. He went to kneel before his father’s grave, brushing the snow off it. “Well I do.” “You should not feel at all bad after what I did to you. Can’t you get just a little mad at me, Markus? Please, I feel so guilty and you’re treating me like…” “Like I’m in love with you?” “That doesn’t mean I can’t do anything wrong.” “Where have I heard that before?” Markus said with forced lightness. He stood up, wiping the white powder off his knees. Laura balled her fists. “Why won’t you yell at me? I did something terrible; I deserve to be yelled at a little!”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Apr 9, 2010 20:12:25 GMT -5
“Because I don’t want to yell at you. You did nothing wrong.” Markus insisted, meeting her eyes. “I don’t want to go back to how it was between us before. Never again.” “Audrion would have.” Laura jabbed desperately. Markus winced, lowering his eyes. Her heart pounded. “Oh I’m… I’m sorry sweetheart.” “Well I’m never going to be my father.” He said quietly. The prince closed his eyes, shivering. He was looking paler than ever. “I should go lay down…” He started walking, not looking at her. “Markus, wait. Please.” She pleaded with his back. He stopped walking but he didn’t turn around. “Talk to me.” “Do you really want me to talk to you right now?” “Yes.” “All right.” Markus turned around, lowering his palm from where he was holding it to his nose. He was bleeding again. Laura’s hands flew over her mouth. She pulled a handkerchief out and went forward without thinking, trying to stop the blood. “I did this.” Laura said shakily. It wasn’t a question. Markus nodded anyway. They stood silently for awhile until she pulled the cloth away. “It stopped. Let me clean it off.” Markus nodded again, looking slightly embarrassed. Laura felt her heart clench in her chest. No wonder he didn’t want to yell at her. She ran her hand through his hair. “It’s just the two of us, Markus. You’re still the strong king to everyone else. To me.” She hugged him, face in his chest. Slowly, Markus hugged her back. “I’m sorry, Markus. I’m so, so sorry.” “You did nothing wrong.” “Hold still,” Laura said, kissing his closed eyes and the tip of his nose. “Laura…” Markus said unsurely. She pulled away, swallowing hard. “You… you didn’t try…” “I’m queen because you were the crown prince, no other reason. I didn’t spend a lifetime trying to seduce you for a title. I don’t love your money or your crown or your looks. I love how sweet you are, how much you care for other people, how easy it is to talk to you. I’m in love with my best friend.” She fought back her emotions. “Please believe me. You know me, Markus. I-” He pressed his lips against hers with relief and Laura melted against him. She knew that nightmare had shaken him; he had never treated her like he had when he woke up before. She contentedly kept kissing him until he drew back, the corners of his mouth turned up. “I do know you, Laura.” He ran his hand over her arm before letting her go. Laura kissed him one more time. “You should rest.” Chapter Seven Smoke
Oraia, arm on the window still, followed her wind stirred brown curls with her eyes. She loved Jason, but traveling with him had been the best part of her life. Rebuilding the castle had been almost as exciting. Tess, their daughter, had been a handful herself when she was an infant and had kept her up all night crying. But now
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Post by Markus Everglade on Apr 9, 2010 20:12:56 GMT -5
Tess was calm two year old, and she regarded the world with the same intense violet eyes that her father had. No hope that she would turn out as a problem child, sadly. Now that everything had settled, and peace reigned, Oraia felt like begging any god that would listen for something to happen again. She was bored out of her mind. “Oraia, do you see any smoke from that window?” Her husband leaned in, brown hair flopping over his face. “Smoke?” She said curiously, shaking her head. “No.” Jason frowned. “I see…” “What’s going on?” “There might be a fire on someone’s farm. There’s a lot of smoke, anyway…” “Where there’s smoke…” Oraia laughed her tinkling, practiced laugh. It always made Jason smile but right now his mouth was in a straight, impassive line. “Are you going to help?” “Yes, I have to. Here, take Tess. I’ll be right back,” Jason led the little girl who had him by the hand through the door. “Take Kira in case it’s dangerous.” Oraia said absently, picking up her daughter. “Hello sweetheart. Did you have fun patrolling the castle with your father?” “Yes, mother.” Tess giggled. “How did we have a perfect little lady instead of a brat, Jayce?” “I honestly have no idea.” Jason said, relaxing a fraction. He watched his daughter for a minute before he leaned into the hall again. “Kira!” “She’s not a dog, Jayce.” “He’s still adjusting to my ability to speak.” Kira said. She tucked a strand of white blonde hair behind her ear. Her brown eyes regarded Tess with affection as she fell asleep against her mother’s chest. “Have a second one. Maybe she’ll have clear eyes.” “We could have a boy.” Jason said, ignoring her first statement. He quickly kissed his wife’s cheek. “This shouldn’t take long.”
*****
“Whose farm do you think it is?” Kira asked, adjusting the sheath on her belt. It bore the same Softpetal crest, the black half circle within the white half circle framed with little lines, that adorned the clip in her hair. “It’s not a fire.” Jason said, eyes straight ahead. “Then why are we out here?” “My sister is visiting.” He said flatly. Kira stopped dead, freezing in place. Jason glanced back his mouth once again in a straight line. “I’m not going to let her hurt you.” “Does she know what Oraia looks like?” “No. She’s never been to the castle. I’ve mentioned Tess; she thinks I have no children.” “But did you have to tell her about Oraia?” “She found out.” “Then I’m Oraia.” Kira looked at her cousin confrontationally. “Fine.” Jason said flatly. “But Kenetari has no idea that…” “She knows that Lydrion and I were together. That’s enough for someone as irrational as your ‘sister’ to want me dead.”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Apr 9, 2010 20:13:26 GMT -5
“Kira… does Lydrion…?” “No. And he never will.” “All right. Wait here for me ‘Oraia’.” Jason said. He walked off, darting behind the squat house in front of them. Kira crossed her arms, standing perfectly still. Kenetari had been raised as Jason’s sister but Kira felt he should try to let that… go. Even if only for the sake if his family. Putting Tess in danger was much too high a cost. “Your wife?” Kenetari’s cold voice preceded her. She stepped out and they both looked each other over. Kira fought back the unwanted thoughts of comparison between her and the other women. She knew they were inevitable, but she didn’t want them. Kira felt nothing but disgust for Lydrion now. Kenetari’s gazed rested on her eyes. “Interesting.” “She’s Carinian.” Jason said calmly. “Most of them are blonde.” “Yes. I suppose they are. This family seems to have a fetish with Carinians.” “It’s so good to finally meet you.” Kira curtsied, trying to imitate Oraia’s imperious warmness. “I’ve been waiting just as long to meet you,” Her deep blue eyes became slits, “Kira.” “My name-” “Two years ago, my husband tried to convince a young woman to seduce the prince of Everglade. You are not that young woman.” “Always one step ahead.” Jason closed his eyes with frustration, swearing vehemently. “It was a very nice try.” Kenetari said with amusement. “Will you kill me?” Kira said without flinching. Kenetari laughed. “You sound so like my blood brother.” “All we need are the Catshadows and this is a family reunion.” Jason said with disbelief as Lydrion came up behind Kenetari. He was holding a little girl who looked like she was about the same age as Tess. He was followed by a group of soldiers surrounding Oraia, Tess, and what looked like a miniature Jason. “Kenetari!” The miniature said excitedly. “Let Benvolio free.” Kenetari ordered. The soldiers stepped back and closed more tightly around the other two prisoners. The boy ran over and threw his arms around her. “Sister! You came back!” Benvolio exclaimed. Around his soldiers, a brown and white cat hissed. “Runner, stop that.” He scolded. Jason had gone pale. “Let them go, Kenetari, or I swear-” He threatened. “You didn’t tell me about your daughter.” Kenetari said. “You didn’t tell me about yours.” Jason countered shakily. “I’m not surprised.” Lydrion muttered, holding Ava closer to him. The blue eyed child was acting as though nothing was happening. “Lydrion please let me take Tess home. Do what you will to me.” Oraia spoke up. “For… for old times. She’s not even three, don’t punish-” “Shut up.” Kenetari growled. “You’re not doing this without cause.” Jason said, trying to keep his calm. “Why are you here?” “Because I’m pregnant.” She said flatly. Her captives stared at her. “I need my brother’s protection for awhile.”
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Post by Markus Everglade on Apr 9, 2010 20:13:48 GMT -5
“No.” He said with hesitation. “Kill the brunette and the child-” “I’ll help you.” “I thought you’d say that.” “Take the child.” Lydrion commanded. “Do not hurt her.” “Take me.” Three voices protested. Jason and Kira drew their swords and Oraia gripped her daughter’s hand, raising her fist. “You always take the one who would cause the most damage with their death.” Lydrion said, shrugging. “And that is the child.” “What if we can give you a better reason to take one of us?” Jason interjected, trying not to panic. “That does sound amusing, doesn’t it Kenetari?” “Incredibly.” She agreed. “Jason?” “I betrayed both of you at different times, more than once.” The lord said carefully. “I know Kenetari’s secret and I know everything about Lydrion. If Oraia and Kira fail to protect you killing me would give you that much more satisfaction.” “Oraia?” “I’m her mother.” Oraia swallowed, still gripping Tess’s hand. The tiny girl looked upset, so Oraia was trying not to shake for her sake. “If you take me, Tess will keep asking for me. There’s nothing quite as heartbreaking as a child crying for their mother. If Jason and Kira make a mistake in protecting you and I died… it would destroy my daughter, destroy Jason.” Her husband bit down on his tongue to keep from saying anything. “Mother?” Tess said, almost pleadingly. “It’s going to be all right.” Oraia promised, wishing to every power that she knew that that wasn’t a lie. “I don’t see how you can beat that.” Kenetari said, rolling his eyes. “Kira?” “I’m very important to Jason.” Kira tried weakly. She would have stopped at that but she saw Oraia give in and start shaking, Tess’s outright terror, Jason’s pallid face. Kira gritted her teeth. “And I gave birth to Lydrion’s child.”
*****
“Sweetheart?” Laura smoothed back her husband’s hair, smiling down at him. Markus grabbed her wrist impulsively but loosened his grip as soon as he fully opened his eyes. Still, he was slightly relieved when she seemed to see it as affectionate rather than defensive. She kissed him. “I promised I’d wake you up like that more often.” He relaxed against the pillows. “I love you.” He told her, eyes running over her face. Markus knew what it was that had scared him so much about that nightmare: it wasn’t the fact that she had betrayed him, it was the fact he didn’t care. Their life together, even if it was fake, was worth it. That there was something he cared for more than Everglade was probably one of the many reasons his father had detested his wife so much. Everglade was supposed to come first, no matter what. “I think I’m cheating on my country, Laura.” She laughed, getting out of bed to lay out his clothes for him. The new queen had all ready changed into a
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Post by Markus Everglade on Apr 9, 2010 20:14:06 GMT -5
slightly lower cut than she was used to black dress, doubtlessly selected by his mother. A stand of pearls was around her neck but she still had on her necklace. “What are you talking about?” She asked, going to the mirror to touch up her hair. “Have you been seeing Carina on the side?” “No. You.” Markus said, slipping his tunic over his head and putting on the pure black one. “Even though you’re watching me take my shirt off in the mirror.” “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Laura said, extending her hand to help him. He took it, staggering slightly, and she put an arm around his waist supportively. “Are you all right?” “I’m fine. And all I have left to do today is dance and look nice, which is frankly what I’m good at. It’s why I was such a popular prince.” Markus said. She let go of him very carefully. He stood on his own two legs firmly this time and started for the door. “What do you think Ovidia’s going to do?” “Hm?” Laura said, too busy watching him walk. “I mean about my father’s death… King Brian hates Everglade and he’s going to see me as a weak link he can attack.” “I think bringing Richard’s soldiers here was a good idea. He has the best army and he intimidates the other five countries.” “See, you’re all ready good at this.” Markus said cheerfully. Laura shrugged. “I cleaned your parent’s room for years. They talked about a lot of stuff.” She looked up and down the hallway and then took his hand. “Markus… why are you worried about Ovidia? Do you think there’s going to be a war?” “I think there could be. Rea and I are both very young, inexperienced monarchs. Brian has been in power for years and years and the only war he ever lost was to Everglade. He holds a lot of resentment for my family… our family. I’m scared he’ll attack Carina again or attack us directly. I’m not sure I can win.” “Everglade doesn’t lose wars, Markus.” Laura said with a grin, quoting the former king. Markus kissed her cheek. “I liked that better coming from you.” “It was a little more aggressive when your father said it.” Ivy said. She smiled at both of them. Markus hugged her quickly. “You’re kind of wonderful to have done the entire black ball preparation for me, mother.” He said. Ivy shook her head, patting her son’s back. “You look very happy. I like that. But I have a small request.” “Anything,” The prince said. He realized that, despite everything, he was happy. It had been a long time since he had felt so free. It was as though he had been walking in darkness, with a cloud weighing down his shoulders, and he had finally stepped into the sunlight. “You said there was a spell that let you know Laura was pregnant. Could I see it?” Ivy said, clasping her hands hopefully. Markus looked back at his wife, who nodded enthusiastically. “Of course! I love doing this… you saw the energy before but that’s not the fantastic part.” Laura said, leaning against the wall. She started gathering the energy and Ivy watched with fascination. “This takes a minute.” “You’re going to find out our last little surprise.” Markus said, thinking of the two matching heart beats. Ivy’s eyes widened.
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Post by Markus Everglade on Apr 9, 2010 20:14:34 GMT -5
“Surprise?” “Just put your fingertips over the energy. It’s not going to hurt, promise.” Laura said, beaming. Ivy readily complied. Her eyes watered almost immediately. “Is that… is that a heart beat?” The dowager asked. Laura nodded, waiting. Markus crossed his arms, waiting too. He couldn’t wait to see her reaction when- “There’s another heartbeat here… are you… are you having twins?” “We’re almost one hundred per cent sure.” “The only uh… well news in that…” Markus trailed off. “Does one of them feel different to you?” “Yes… why?” Ivy looked a little worried. “We think it might be… well…” He pointed to his hair, almost wincing. His mother, to his surprise, looked even happier. “That’s wonderful!” She hugged him tightly. “Wonderful?” Markus said as she pulled away, clasping her hands. “Well I think so. I love your hair, honey. I know it’s been a little debilitating to you your entire life… but it’s a symbol of the trust between Audrion and I. He knew I wouldn’t commit adultery, I loved him. My choice… it saved your life in a lot of ways. It represents so many good things for me and to think that my grandchild is going to carry it on… it feels like a good omen.” Ivy said cheerfully. Markus stood there, his mouth hanging open slightly. The bane of his existence was a good omen to his mother? A symbol of fidelity? He made a mental note never to tell her that he’d try to pull it all out when he was little. “I think it’s wonderful too.” Laura said shyly. Markus turned his head to look at her, trying not to have any sort of betrayed expression on his face. He was, however, no stoic. “I’m sorry.” She said quickly. “I just think it makes you look more handsome and… I can’t imagine it any other color. It just… it’s just part of you.” She looked over at Ivy. “What color was it when he was born, Ivy?” “Every baby has black hair and big blue eyes when they’re born. The hair falls out and grows back in with its true shade and the eyes change color. It’s really quite… well, amazing to watch. But with him I only got the eyes. As soon as I gave him the blood, his hair turned that color and stayed that way.” Ivy smiled. Laura fell silent, leaning against the wall again. She shook her head, the corners of her mouth twitching. “I’m not surprised its twins. They run on Audrion’s side of the family, after all.” “They do?” Markus said, thinking back on the family tree he’d been forced to memorize. “I don’t remember any for generations…” “Oh dear. Well, I don’t see why you shouldn’t know this.” Ivy said. “Your Uncle Richard is granted a lot of leniency and he has the strongest army when Audrion is really supposed to… and there actually is a simple explanation why.” “I always thought he paid father off.” Markus admitted. His womanizing, whorish uncle was the black sheep of the family. Maids knew they were being punished for some terrible crime when they were sent to work for Prince Richard Everglade. “Audrion and Richard are… were… twins.” “I’m sorry?” “No one knows because Richard was actually born first and he should have been king… but Cassian picked Audrion. Legally, they had to pretend Richard was born a year later.” Ivy said, completely unbothered by relaying this information. “Everglade law is so
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Post by Markus Everglade on Apr 9, 2010 20:14:58 GMT -5
silly sometimes. But it’s their strong connection that made Audrion go so easy on his brother.” Markus just stared at her. Now he was even more closely related to Richard. Wonderful. “Mother… is there anything else about our family I need to know?” He managed finally, with a jokingly air. Oh well. It didn’t really make much of a difference, anyway. Richard had always been his uncle. This didn’t really change much. “No I think you know everything else.” Ivy said, thinking that over. Then she nodded. “Mm hm. That was it.” Markus felt relief wash over him. Probably the worst he had to fear now was another illegitimate cousin. “Wait Markus… I have a confession.” Laura said, shaking herself back into reality. Markus looked over at her warily. He was still happy but now he was pretty sure he was done with family secrets for the day. The prince hoped that Laura’s was nice, simple, and not particularly shocking. “You know how you never had a body guard growing up and Ketra did, even though you were the crown prince?” “Yeah… but father told me that was because Ketra was so rebellious.” “It was because I was your bodyguard.” She confessed. Markus thought that over for a second. His father had hated Laura, yet he had been allowed to spend time with her when ever she wasn’t working. It had never even been overly difficult to convince his father to let her stay. Not even the former king was so subject to his wife’s whims to keep on the daughter of her former boyfriend without a good reason. “That… actually explains most of my life.” “I thought it would.” Laura said, drifting off again. Ivy seemed pleased by that revelation. “I was wondering if you’d told him that.” “I love you both.” Markus said affectionately, putting one arm over each of their shoulders. “Thank you for telling me.”
*****
Rose found herself in her wedding dress in pure darkness. Slowly the blackness lifted and the walls of Imperia’s ball room sprung up around her. Nobles were dancing in pairs all across the floor. She recognized almost every face. She knew she’d been here before… Laura was leaning over a table, drunk beyond all reason, with Lydrion by her side steadily handing her more to drink. Markus was flanked by everything rich and in a gown, talking pleasantly and wearing a diplomatic expression. Anella was on a golden bench with an auburn haired girl next to her, looking embarrassed and a little scared. When she tried to find Raythor and Kylara dancing she couldn’t. Where they were supposed to be standing, and she was quite convinced they were supposed to be there, was Gabriel. He was staring up at the wedding alter, his face pale and his fists clenched. Rose didn’t ask any more questions. She ran forward and wrapped her arms around him. The princess cried desperately into his shoulder. When she pulled back, the blacksmith was looking at her with confusion. “What are you doing down here, Rose? You’re supposed to be up there.” Gabriel said, shaking his head very, very slowly. “You’re getting married. Go on up there.” “If it’s not to you then I really don’t give a damn.” Rose said, lip trembling. “Please, Gabriel, don’t leave me. Never again.”
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