Love Amidst the Darkness
Chapter 15: Time of Peace
Althea picked at the roses in her garden silently as her parents looked over some documents they missed while searching for her. It has been a quiet 48 hours between the royal family, but it was to be expected. Althea was thankful that Duran and Honora’s father had made it home safely. She didn’t have the chance to see Duran yet, but her mother told her she had sent him home to rest. Honora was probably still avoiding her, but Liam was still with her at least. Speaking of which, he was helping her tend her flowers and was sporting a flower crown that he had made. Althea giggled as he tried to balance the flower basket on his head.
“You have to keep smiling, princess...it’s breaking my fragile heart. I was beside myself in fear that something had happened to you. I think you could at least compensate me with more of your giggles.”
“Hehe of course Liam, “ she giggled into her hand as he continued his balancing act. “I will be sure to reward you with giggles from now on.”
“Excellent! What more could a man ask for?”
“You are hardly a man Liam…”
“Ow! Princess you wound me!” She laughed more as he clutched his heart and fell to his knees before he sprawled out on the ground. “I think I’m dying…”
“Oh shush! You are perfectly fine.” Althea knelt in the grass and tickled his nose with a flower petal. He laughed and she smiled as he propped himself up on his elbows. “Oh look at that...You aren’t dead…”
“I know...this is quite unprecedented-” She raised a brow as he cut himself off as he looked behind her. Althea turned and was surprised to see Honora walking towards them. She looked embarrassed as she moved in more casual wear. Althea was more surprised to see her parents following behind her towards them. Althea quickly stood up as they got closer to the family, her parents rose from their seats with smiles on their faces, which confused her greatly.
“You all are right on time, please come sit down.” Queen Hestia led the couple to their table, which they sat at with nervous expressions. Honora looked torn between joining her parents, or talking with Liam and Althea. Althea looked at the grass as an awkward tension filled the air around them. Liam excused himself from the situation altogether. Balling her fists into her dress, Althea figured it was best to make a move first.
“Honora-”
“Princess-”
Both girls stopped as they interrupted the other. Liam chuckled behind them and suddenly Althea was embarrassed as their parents stopped to watch their exchange. Honora rubbed her arm as she kicked at the grass. Althea bit her lip before she spoke up again.
“You can go first-”
“No I really-”
“Oh my...girls really? Someone just say something!”
“Shut up Liam before I cut your tongue out!” Althea couldn’t help the giggle that escaped from her mouth at their usual banter. Honora blushed and cleared her throat and Althea watched her with bated breath before she tumbled out all of her words at once.
“I am so sorry princess! I...I shouldn’t have said all of those awful things to you! Because of my temper, I caused you to be upset and leave the safety of the kingdom! I was being young, dumb and foolish! I just thought you were being rude to me and my family and it upset me. I know that you don’t really have experience with common people like us. I thought that you were just being a bitch and I have no experience with other girls...and I would like too...with you and I...I….”
“......” Honora finally stopped to catch her breath and Althea just stared at her as her face grew redder by the second. She looked Althea in the eyes finally, and Althea couldn’t help once again laughing. Honora looked ready to die from embarrassment and now the princess was laughing at her! Althea kept up her laughter as Honora looked away from her. Althea walked up to her and grasped her hands tightly. Honora bit her lip as she looked at her.
“Well...that’s the first time I’ve ever been called that, but I feel like I deserved that…”
“Huh? What did I-? Oh I said that part out loud….” Althea giggled again and tightened her grip on her hands.
“It’s quite alright...I think we both just needed...to talk things out. I...I would love to continue our friendship Honora. Just...if I say anything to offend you, please just let me know and I’ll do my best to keep my mouth shut. I think we can learn a lot about each other from each other. I’m sorry for the things I said to you Honora.”
“I...I forgive you princess…”
“I forgive you as well Honora.” Althea pulled the older girl into a hug and Honora smiled and held her tight. “Also, stop calling me princess…”
“I...I’ll try….”
“Aww my girls are finally back together!” Althea laughed as Liam engulfed them both in a hug and Honora retaliated by elbowing him in the ribs.
“Now that that is settled...Honora, Althea join us at the table please….” The girls parted as the king beckoned them over. Althea settled next to Honora with a happy little dance. Honora just smiled at her joy. Althea watched as her parents handed some documents over to Honora’s parents. “Now before you read and open those documents, we will tell you why we have summoned you here.”
“Alright…” Honora looked worried as her parents nervously sipped their drinks.
“My queen and I have been having recent issues with figuring out how to handle Lord Derrick's land. Many of the other nobles have been clamoring for it, and frankly we don’t have much faith in the nobles at the moment because of the situation with Lord Derrick. So we need your assistance in this matter.”
“Of course! Anything we can do to help, Your Majesties!” Honora looked worried and a bit apprehensive about whatever was going on. Althea patted her hand gently. “We just want to apologize once again for our daughter's behavior.”
“Yes! I want nothing more than to make up for what happened!” The king and queen smiled and laughed at her enthusiasm.
“It’s good to see you all eager to please….so let’s get down to the crux of this conversation. The king and I would like to thank you for rescuing our daughter Vincent. It is a debt that we feel can never truly be repaid, but we would like to start. As such, we would like to offer your family Derrick’s old land and new titles as thanks.”
“......” Althea giggled at the stunned looks of the Stark family. Honora’s mother looked about ready to faint. Honora seemed ready to cry and her father looked even worse. His hands shook as he looked down at the papers in his hands.
“I...we don’t deserve this, Your Majesties...we’re just a family of farmers…” Vincent looked at the royal couple with tears in his eyes. “I just don’t...this is too amazing….”
“Well...like we stated...we don’t have much trust in the other nobles in the kingdom after the incident. So, we thought it best to look a bit outward, but we could not find a good fit. Everyone just didn’t seem right in our eyes, but after saving Althea and our brief conversations we decided to take a chance on your family.” The king chuckled as he leaned back in his seat. “To be frank, we can build a better relationship with you and keep an eye on you. So forgive us if we intrude on you a bit.”
“That is of course if you want to take up the offer,” Queen Hestia quickly interjected. “We are not forcing this role onto you. We just want you all to know that you’re our first and only choice right now. Of course, we will be available to help you with anything that you might need. We are more than happy to have you come to the palace and we can help you out.”
Honora’s parents looked at each other in stunned shock for a bit, but they soon smiled and looked over the documents in silence. “I think that we will take you up on your offer.” Vincent and Jennifer signed the documents before the king and queen recited the oaths to them. Althea dragged Honora away from their parents, before she excitedly hugged her.
“This is so exciting, Honora!” Althea clasped their hands together. “I can’t wait to have you attend all the balls and we can try some dresses for you and then….” Althea cut herself off as she looked at Honora. “Oh….I mean if you want to do all of that…”
“Heh...that’s ok...maybe...maybe it could be fun to dress up and be all proper.” She smiled as Althea’s eyes sparkled and the princess giggled some more.
“We should let our parents continue their discussion. I think we should get you a head start on some things for you.”
“Oh ok…” Liam chuckled as he followed the girls to Althea’s bedroom and stood outside her room as Althea cycled through her clothes. “Princess...um...Althea what are you doing?”
“You’re going to need some clothes to wear until you get settled. The other nobles are going to be very critical and very judgmental. So it’s best to make good impressions and show them you mean business.”
“I don’t know...I’d feel weird taking your clothes.”
“We’re friends, Honora. This is what friends do! I share my clothes with Evelyn all of the time. You might have to get them altered though since...I’m not large in the breast area.”
“Althea really I couldn’t take this from you.”
“Honora please...do this for me?” Honora sighed as she went to look through the clothes with her. The pair went through the clothes for some time before Althea paused and looked at Honora. Feeling her eyes on her, Honora stopped to look at Althea.
“What’s wrong?”
“It’s nothing just...I hope I’m not overstepping if I ask you a question.”
“What’s the question?”
“Well...you have such pretty hair...and I was wondering if you ever thought about growing it out. I think you’d look even prettier with long hair.”
“Oh I don’t know…” Honora blushed as she fingered her hair gingerly. “I think it would just get in the way. Besides, it would make me look too girly.”
“I think you’ll look perfect, plus you can always braid it or put it into a ponytail! Please! Please think about it!”
“Alright alright, but no promises.”
“Yay!”
Althea felt her heart swell in happiness as her and Honora talked more and discussed what they would do for her new home and room. Her mind wandered to Duran throughout her time with Honora though, she was missing his company and she wanted to thank him again for saving her life. Pursing her lips, she thought of something she could do for him and for her parents. Having a genius thought, Althea quickly finished up with Honora before she left to the kitchens, excited to finally show off her new hobby.
♛
Kyros chuckled as his lovely wife tried to figure out what their young daughter was planning. He knew that she was not planning on leaving again, but he was getting curious too. His queen was currently stalking the halls for their daughter, with him close behind.
“Hestia.”
“.....”
“Hestia come now. I’m sure she is around here somewhere. She knows not to try and leave again.”
“Well then where is she Kyros?”
“Around. We have a very large castle.” She glared at him with a fire in her eyes and he chuckled and gave her a quick kiss as he held her hand. “Let’s look around the lower levels again, we might have missed her.”
“Fine…” He chuckled as she pouted and they descended the stairs to the main hall. Hearing some commotion by the kitchens, the royal pair made their way over. They shared a confused look as they heard the staff giggling and conversing happily. Stepping in the doorway, they were surprised to see their daughter covered in flour and a food stained apron. Her hair was in a messy bun and she was currently being scolded by the head chef.
“Now Althea, I’ve told you again and again to watch the pot carefully. Also, you have to cut the meat precisely, also make sure not to season it too much...understand?”
“Yes Mrs.Syka…” Liam was in the corner of the room nibbling on a sandwich as he chuckled at the display and flirted with the other chefs. Honora was across the kitchen cutting up vegetables, and sneaking pieces of food. They were surprised by this development to say the least. It wasn’t much longer until someone noticed the royal couple in the doorway. Everyone stopped what they were doing to bow and greet them. “Mother? Father? What are you doing here?”
“Well we were looking for you. Your mother was afraid you might have run off again.”
“Oh no! I have learned my lesson about that. I was um...I’ve taken up a new hobby the last few weeks. It was meant to be a surprise.”
“A surprise?” The young princess grew rosy cheeked as she messed with her apron.
“Well I wanted to make dinner for everyone, especially everyone that helped to make sure I got home safely. I’ve already sent invitations to all of the knights who helped and the family of those who lost their husbands because of my foolishness.”
“When did you even do all of that?” Queen Hestia folded her arms and raised a brow. “Your father and I would have heard about an invitation being sent out.”
“Well….it was a secret mother and I sent one out to you and father as well. I guess you might have missed it.” The queen furrowed her brow but the king laughed joyfully before he took a seat in one of the stools.
“Well I think this is a great idea! Although, this is very short notice Althea.” Queen Hestia sighed before she went to sit beside her husband.
“Oh well this is supposed to be a surprise! I don’t want you to see what I plan to make!” The princess fretted as her parents got comfortable to watch her.
“Now now, we won’t be here long. We just wanted to see where you had gotten off too.” King Kyros chuckled as the cooks handed him and the queen some wine to drink. “We just will watch silently right my queen?”
“Yes of course.” The kitchen staff looked concerned for a second, but they soon relaxed as they got back to work.
“Now Princess-”
“Mrs.Skya….I said that this was not a formal setting. You can just call me Althea, just because my parents are here means nothing. You are my teacher after all.” The head chef looked at the royal couple, but they just looked amused by the whole thing.
“Alright alright...come on then, we have to get this finished and wrapped up. Our guests will be here soon so Althea continue on with your work.”
“Yes ma’am!” Queen Hestia smiled and chuckled as their daughter went back to her duties. The pair watched their daughter for a bit longer before they went to get changed for their dinner. Deciding to dress themselves, the pair relished in their new silence. It was rare for them to have moment’s of peace anymore.
“Hestia?”
“Hmm? Yes, my love?”
“You have been distracted the last few days...I’m a great listener.” Queen Hestia chuckled at her husband as he held her hands and led her back to their bed. “Tell me what ails you, my queen.”
“That….that creature that attacked Althea and Duran...it was another one of those creatures. This just means that more and more will show up. They are getting closer and closer to our home. We have to send more patrols outside the kingdom as far as we can send them.”
“I agree with you Hestia, but perhaps we should speak with Zacharias and Ophelia...they might be able to offer some air support. We can also ask about that dragon in your painting after the baby shower.”
“Alright….Kyros...I just have the worst feeling and I want everything to be ok. I want our kingdom and most importantly our daughter to be ok.” Kyros kissed her gently on her temple and leaned his forehead against hers.
“I will make sure that nothing happens to you, Althea, or our people.” He kissed her knuckles as she let out a breath. “Come now, let’s have dinner and we can get ready to see our dear friends tomorrow.”
“Alright…” She took his hand and they slowly walked down to the dining hall, briefly pausing to glance out the windows at the arriving guests. “I wonder if this is something that she will be able to handle…”
“You mean the people who will undoubtedly be upset with her?”
“Our daughter is still so young....so innocent...and still very much not in control of her emotions yet. This might be too hard on her.”
“She has to learn someday, my queen. She learned from her mistake with Honora and she was better able to handle her when they spoke again.”
“I suppose you are right.”
“I’m always right Hestia.” He laughed at her displeased face but she smiled as she pulled on his collar to kiss him. He let out a happy moan as he wrapped his arms around her waist and kissed her back. She smiled against his lips, missing his affections terribly. He more than often made her feel like they were teenagers again. A happy moan escaped from her lips as he pressed her against the wall.
“Kyros…”
“Hmm?” He kissed down her neck and she bit her lips as he moved to her exposed collarbone. “Something wrong?”
“D-Dinner….we mustn't be late….” She trembled as his warm breath made goosebumps travel up her body. “Kyros...if you don’t stop...we’ll never make it down there.”
“I suppose that means that we will continue this later?”
“Yes...of course we will.” He kissed over her reddened face before they traveled down to the dining hall. They smiled and nodded at the few nobles and civilians that flocked the halls. Not seeing their daughter, Kyros waited until everyone was seated to address them in her stead.
“Welcome everyone, I apologize that this summoning was such short notice. The princess has called this gathering to speak with the families of our fallen knights. She herself has prepared the feast we will have on this fine night. I suspect that she will be here soon, so please...feel free to mingle and relax.”
Quiet murmurs ran throughout the room as the couple sat down. It wasn’t much longer that the kitchen staff came into the room, pushing carts of wondrous food in and setting the table. It was also at that moment that Althea rushed into the room, wearing a beautiful purple dress that matched her eyes, but her hair was still messy. Queen Hestia almost lost her nerve as she was about to stand, but King Kyros gently pulled her back into her seat. The collective people looked at the princess in surprise.
“I’m so sorry! I was finishing the last few dishes and lost track of time. I hurried to get dressed and ran right down! Forgive my tardiness!” Althea stood at her chair and weakly smiled at her guests.
“You are not late my daughter. You are right on time. Although, why don’t we let someone take a brush through your hair quickly?” Althea’s hands flew to her hair before her face grew red in embarrassment.
“That...that would be a good idea...thank you father.” Althea looked away from her mother because she still looked ready to have a heart attack. As a maid ran in with a brush, Althea took a deep breath before she looked over the gathered people. “First, thank you all for coming to this dinner. I called this together to apologize for the suffering I caused because of my foolish mind.”
Several of the families quickly began whispering between themselves, but a harsh look from the king and queen quickly put it to rest. Others, however, glared at the young princess in anger, and it was just like the queen feared. Before Althea could continue, one of the women spoke up angrily.
“You think that a dinner will replace the hurt and loss that we recently suffered? That this will bring back sons, fathers, husbands? I apologize princess, but this is bullshit!”
“Hey! Watch how you speak to the princess!” Honora’s family had also been invited to the dinner, and Honora was ready to tear the other young woman apart.
“Honora...it’s ok...really it is. She has every right to feel angry with me. They all do. I didn’t do this to try and rectify what has happened. I want to listen to all of your grievances. I made a horrible mistake and it had unfortunate consequences.” She nervously played with her hands as she looked over at her parents, and they nodded at her to continue. “I thought that I was being helpful to my friend, but instead I hurt her. She in turn hurt me with her words and I ran away, not able to deal with my emotions properly. If...if you all have anything that you would like to say to me...then I will be open to hearing it.”
The king and queen looked surprised at her declaration, especially knowing how sensitive she could be. Althea held a strong look on her face, and the pair couldn’t help but feel immense pride for their daughter.
“She’s growing up Kyros.”
“Yes...yes she is.”
“I would also like to pay for any funeral details for the families and provide an added pay from the deceased knights usual pay to the families for the next or two...if that is alright?” She looked to her parents who nodded in agreement. “Alright….well let’s eat shall we?”
The rest of the dinner went by peacefully and smoothly. The families and few nobles spoke with each other and conversed easily with the royal family. The gathering was also enamored with the cooking of the princess, her parents commented on the quality of the meal several times. True to her word, Althea listened to the complaints and some difficult words from the families. She held her own through most of them, but a stray tear came every so often. She held strong through the whole dinner much to the pride of her parents.
As the night drew to a close, and the families all left, Althea stood out on a balcony looking over the kingdom. Honora soon joined her side and the two of them looked over the kingdom in silence. Althea so desperately wanted to ask about Duran, but Honora chuckled and beat her to the punch.
“He is recovering well, Althea. I heard that the queen went to visit him herself. He should be back on active duty soon.”
“Really?!” Althea slammed her hands over her mouth quickly, embarrassed by her outburst. Honora chuckled as she leaned on the railing. “Oh...um thank you.”
“Of course...I have eyes you know…”
“Huh?” Althea tilted her head in confusion and Honora just laughed before she walked away. Althea pursed her lips before she looked back up at the night sky. The dinner was a success and that was all she could have really wanted. She only hoped that she could keep up this newfound confidence. Her parents had retired quite early, but she figured they had something important to do. Heading back to her room, a brief chill ran up her body. Turning around, she was met with silence and worried glances from the knights patrolling. Smiling weakly, she hurried along to her room, but she still felt like something was watching her.
Sitting on her bed, Althea began removing her shoes when she heard a tap at her window. Standing slowly, she reached around for her dagger before moving towards the window. Duran peeked his head around and she yelped in surprise, dropping her dagger.
“Princess! Are you alright?!” The guards outside her door burst in, and she held a hand against her rapidly beating heart.
“I-I’m fine...I thought I saw a mouse.” They nodded and she waved as they shut the door. Quickly rushing to the window, she opened it and Duran quietly climbed in. Once he was inside, she couldn’t help but rush into his arms. He chuckled and her heart warmed as his arms circled around her waist. “I’m so glad that you are ok. I thought you would be away for a long time.”
“Yes well…” Separating, Althea sat on her bed as he sat at her desk. “The queen well...she paid me a visit and um…” He blushed and cleared his throat. “Let’s just say that she made the healing process much faster. I thought I would come to see you. I’ll be joining you to Dragleic tomorrow.”
“Really?!”
“Yes. I’ve never been to the city of dragons...so this will be fun. Plus, I wanted to see you before tomorrow. I couldn’t wait another day to see you.”
“O-Oh…” The pair blushed deeply and Duran stood up and held her hands as he knelt in front of her. “I’m so sorry that you were so hurt.”
“Please don’t apologize Althea. I would gladly give my life and break my bones a thousand times if it meant you would be safe from harm.” He kissed her knuckles gently as he looked up into her eyes.
“Don’t...don’t say that…” Her voice was barely a whisper as she looked down at him. “It breaks my heart to see you in so much pain…”
He chuckled as he moved closer and kissed her hands again before he brushed her hair from her eyes. The two of them gazed at each other for what felt like forever, before the young knight stood up, realizing their statuses and clearing his throat. “I will see you in the morning, Althea.”
“Alright…” Walking back to the window, Duran opened it ready to leave, but Althea rushed over and grabbed the sleeve of his shirt. Pulling him in slightly, she placed a soft kiss on his cheek. Holding his cheek, he looked at her in surprise.
“Goodnight Duran.”
“G-Goodnight.” She smiled as he went through her window, and once she was sure that he was gone, she jumped onto her bed, burying her face into her pillow. Her face felt like it was on fire as she giggled and sighed happily. The joy that spread through her heart was like nothing she had ever felt before, and she never wanted it to stop.
♛
“She’s what?!”
Once arriving in Dragleic, the royal family was surprised to find that Queen Ophelia was in labor at the moment. Queen Hestia didn’t waste anymore time as she rushed to her friend's side. It would seem that there was no need to have the baby shower anymore. Althea spent much of the time with Evelyn and her sisters. Her parents were helping affairs around the palace since the king was by his queen’s side. Althea had expected to be busy doing infant related party games, but that was alright because she had missed Evelyn terribly.
“You seem different Althea.”
“Huh? What do you mean?” Althea stopped petting Perseus as Evelyn looked her over. “I think I’m still the same.”
“I’ve noticed that you seem especially bright around that new knight that you have around.”
“I-I’m sure that is not the case.” Althea looked away from her dear friend as a large smile spread across her face.
“I see...does that mean that you are over your feelings for Marina?”
“I…” Althea paused as she thought about the question. She had not thought about her growing feelings for Marina since Duran had entered her life. She still felt strongly for her, but Duran had all but consumed her heart. “He is my knight, but he is also my friend...that’s all.”
“Mmhmm….so it seems that you had an eventful few weeks since we last saw each other. I’m so sorry that you had to go through all of that.” Evelyn grasped Althea’s hands gently, and Althea sighed deeply remembering everything that had happened since they last spoke.
“My knights are so brave and I thank them endlessly for protecting me and keeping me safe. Enough about that, I’m guessing that there is going to be a ball to celebrate the birth of your sibling?”
“Yes of course, after my mother rests for a bit. Why?”
“I think that I will invite my knights. It could also help Honora get used to dealing with people in her new role. Plus, it’ll give me an excuse to dress her up.” Althea chuckled as she heard Honora groan from the doorway of Evelyn’s room.
The girls laughed but the sound of someone running down the hall made them stop. Honora talked with a frantic, but happy maid and once she left Honora entered the bedroom with a smile. “Princess Evelyn...your mother had a smooth delivery. Your new sibling is here...the maid has informed me that you have another sister.”
“Oh congratulations Evie!” Althea hugged her teary eyed friend tightly. “You must be so excited!”
“I had a feeling that it was another girl…” Evelyn left in a hurry to greet her new sibling and Perseus followed after her quickly.
“Have you ever wanted another sibling, Honora?”
“I’m content being an only child, but my parents wanted more children, but my mother’s pregnancy with me was difficult on her. I think they are just grateful that I’m here. How about you?”
“I’m surprised that my parents only have me. We live such long lives and I thought I would have had elder siblings at least, but I think a sibling would be nice.” Althea sighed as she fell back onto the bed. “I would have many children to fill up the castle. It is too large for only the three of us.”
“I’m sure that you will have many beautiful babies, Althea.”
“Will you have many beautiful babies Honora?” Althea rolled onto her stomach and looked at Honora, her eyes sparkling in excitement.
“Oh well...I haven’t really thought about it. I guess I would like children, but not anytime soon. I want to keep being a knight for a while.” Althea giggled before she left from Evelyn’s room to find her parents. Reaching the bedroom of King Zacharias and Queen Ophelia, Althea’s face lit up as she saw Duran talking with Liam. He turned and shared her smile before he straightened up as King Kyros opened the bedroom door.
“Oh...there you are Althea. I was just about to come and get you. Ophelia wants you to meet the baby.”
“Really?!” Giving Duran a final smile, she quickly entered the room. Princess Aileen and Fiona were cuddled in the large bed next to their mother fast asleep. King Zacharias was sitting on a couch with Evelyn under his arm conversing quietly with him. Althea looked next to the bed to find her mother holding the newest royal and gently humming to her.
“You had her so quickly Ophelia…”
“After three previous pregnancies, I think my body just wanted her out as fast as possible.” Queen Ophelia looked at Althea and smiled. “Go on and say hello Althea…”
“O-Ok….” Althea went to stand beside her mother and she smiled down at the bundle in her arms. The little princess had the same bright blue eyes as her mother and siblings, but she had jet black hair. Althea thought it was curious since the queen had blonde hair and the king had brown hair. “She has black hair…”
“That would be the work of her grandmother…” King Zacharias chuckled as he looked at them. “My mother had beautiful black hair. I would have liked to receive it, but my father’s genes were a bit stronger it would seem.”
“I think she looks perfect with her black hair.” Queen Ophelia pouted at her husband who laughed, which woke up his other daughters. “Now you’ve woken the girls with your laughing...hello my girls…”
“Come Althea, why don’t you try holding her?” Queen Hestia led her daughter to a chair where she carefully placed the baby into her arms. “Make sure to mind her head, and keep her close to your heart. Oh, you both haven’t told us what you named her.”
“Oh I suppose that we haven’t huh?” Queen Ophelia rolled her eyes at her jolly husband. “Oh Ophelia, you and your pouting.”
“I only pout because you are annoying.” She giggled as he gasped in mock hurt. “My dearest friends, I would like to introduce you to Princess Ula. Her name means “gem of the sea”. I think it fits with the beautiful color of her eyes.”
“It’s a perfect name Ophelia.” Queen Hestia brushed a gentle finger over the little princesses cheek, before she took her back into her arms. “A perfect little girl...she favors you a bit Zac…”
“I thought so too. She will be breaking many hearts, but then again all of my girls will.” He nodded his head proudly. “Although, that won’t be for a very long time.”
“Oh hush my king.” King Kyros went over to take his turn holding the little princess and he sighed.
“Something wrong, my love?”
“Just having some fond memories of Althea. I remember when she was this small. She was such a small and delicate little thing.”
“She most certainly was, but she has grown up into a beautiful young woman.” Queen Hestia smiled as she caressed her daughter’s cheek. “Although, she has gotten into her fair share of trouble.”
“Mother….” Althea blushed and looked away as everyone laughed. Althea smiled regardless, before she and the princesses left their parents alone. King Kyros handed little Ula back to her mother when she started to fuss. Once the children had left the room, Queen Hestia looked at her dear friends in worry. Sensing the worry of their friends, the couple settled together on their bed, as Hestia took a seat.
“I...I don’t wish to bring up such a topic during this time, but my paintings from before are bothering me. Like we discussed before, another creature was spotted in the forest outside our kingdom. It was far too close for comfort. I fear that something far worse is happening.”
“Tell us what we can do to help.” Queen Ophelia adjusted herself as she fed her daughter. “We will do whatever we can.”
“Yes, any information is good my friends.” Queen Hestia let out a breath as she pulled a paper from her dress and handed it to them.
“Oh! This is quite a large breed…” Queen Ophelia looked at her husband curiously, but he just shook his head.
“I haven’t seen a dragon that looks even close to this size. It would be hard to miss it with such white scales as well.” King Zacharias narrowed his eyes as he scanned it. “I will have some scouts look out for it.”
“Right…thank you…” Queen Hestia rubbed her temples as she buried her face in her hands. “Just…keep us in the loop…”
“Of course Hestia…” King Zacharias frowned as he continued looking at the picture. Glancing at his friends, his gaze turned harder. Queen Ophelia looked at him curiously. “My love?”
“Why do I get the sense that the two of you think we might be the cause of this “future”?” The other royal couple looked up at him in shock.
“Zacharias no! Never!” Queen Hestia cried out as she stood up. “I’m just worried and stressed!”
“Those looks on your face tell me enough! You’ve both considered the possibility!”
“Do not raise your voice at my wife Zac!” Both women gasped as their husbands got into each other’s faces. “If we really thought you capable, we would not be here having this conversation!”
“Is that a threat Kyros!?”
“Do you want it to be!?”
“Enough!” Queen Hestia got in between the two men and Ula started to cry as her mother tried to calm her. “Please you both mustn’t fight each other!”
“Zacharias! You’ve made your daughter upset! Come here this instant!” He grumbled before he went to his wife’s side and held his daughter. “If the thought even crossed their mind I can not blame them! We are the only kingdom in all of Edrion with dragons. As rulers and parents they are being cautious. As much as the insinuation hurts, I would like to reiterate to our dear friends that we would never.”
“Oh Ophelia…I know that…it’s just that so much has happened in such a short amount of time. Perhaps I am stressed more than I originally thought.” Queen Hestia walked over and grasped her friend's hands. “Please forgive us both…”
“Hmph!”
“Kyros…”
“Fine! I apologize my friend. I didn't mean to get violent.”
“I’m sorry for jumping to conclusions. Forgive me for raising my voice at you Hestia.”
“Think nothing of it Zac.” She smiled at her friends as everyone finally calmed down. “I think you all should be cautious. If you’ve never seen this dragon…it could be dangerous. We don’t need another incident like the Anecrat breed was…”
“It was such a shame to kill an entire species of dragon…” Queen Ophelia sighed as she held Ula close to her chest. “We will have some men scout out for this dragon as far out as our territory goes…”
“We will be careful and look out for ourselves too.”
“I just want all of this to blow over soon, and we can put all of these horrible events behind.” Queen Hestia sat beside her dear friend with a smile, but she just felt as if something was horribly wrong.
♛
“I look so silly…”
“You look so pretty!”
“I agree with Althea...you look very nice, Honora.” Honora sighed and fingered her bangs as she stood in front of a mirror. It had been a few days since Queen Ophelia had given birth, and the ball to celebrate Princess Ula’s birth was underway. Honora was not excited when Althea and Marina dragged her away to get ready. Her parents had arrived not too long ago and she was nervous for them to see her like this. Althea beamed from her seat and Marina fixed Honora’s flower in her hair. Althea thought she looked absolutely beautiful in a flowing red gown. Her short hair was pinned to the side and a single braid ran over her head. Honora sighed the entire time as Marina helped her get ready.
“How can I hope to stand with these other noble daughters and princesses. I look ridiculous.” She threw her arms up in frustration and Althea chuckled at her friend.
“I think that you look fine...you only have to remember what Marina and I have told you and you will be fine. Just dance and smile and you’ll do great, and if you have any trouble, just find me, Marina or Evelyn.”
“Alright….” Honora took several deep breaths as the trio went down to the ballroom. After being introduced, Honora was asked by many nobles to dance, before being saved by her parents. Marina was also swept up by the crowd before Althea went to have her few dances. She smiled as she broke away to catch her breath. Taking a step onto a balcony overlooking the kingdom, she pulled her hair loose and sighed as her long tresses fell down her back. Rubbing her head, she smiled at the dragons that flew over her head, and the smaller ones on the balcony that trilled at her. Hearing the door of the balcony open, Althea smiled as Duran walked through.
“I hope that I’m not interrupting you?”
“No never…” Clasping her hands in front of her, Althea smiled as he stopped in front of her. She looked him up and down and couldn’t stop thinking how handsome he looked. Not wearing his usual armor, but an elegant suit of a deep blue and his hair looked like it had been slicked back, but he might have messed with it as it was all dangling on one side.
“Were the pins too tight?”
“Hmm?”
“Your hair...it was styled earlier...and you have it loose now, and you were rubbing your head.” Her face warmed up as he chuckled and rubbed the back of his head. When he stepped closer, her heart skipped several beats as she looked up at him. He smiled down at her before his face grew red and he went to lean on the balcony, rubbing the chin of a small grey dragon. Fanning herself for a quick second, Althea went to stand beside him. If she moved her arm a bit, they would be touching, but she shook the thought, realizing how silly she sounded.
“Are you enjoying yourself, Duran?”
“It’s nice, but I would rather help myself to the food than entertain nobles.” He puffed out a deep exhale. “I don’t particularly care for these events. Nothing I really enjoy about these things.” Althea felt an embarrassing question start to form in her head, but before she could shake it off, it tumbled out.
“Do you not enjoy me?” She folded her lips quickly and turned to face the kingdom instead of him. She could feel his eyes on her, and she wanted nothing more than to throw herself over the balcony. Now she knew her face was bright red, and his continued silence did not make her feel any better. She could feel his eyes roaming her face and now she really wanted to jump over the edge.
“I always enjoy you Althea.” She looked at him quickly and he looked down at the kingdom red-faced. “I always will.”
“......” He looked at her finally and chuckled and she closed her gaping mouth. Her mother would kill her for having such an undignified expression on her face. “Can...can I have a dance with you?”
“Yes! I-I mean...yes of course.” He smiled despite her outburst and bowed as she curtsied. He stepped into her space once again, before he slowly and so gently held a hand against her waist. She sharply inhaled at his touch as he pulled her close. She placed her hand on his shoulder and was going to grasp his hand, but he held it up to his lips. She looked up into his eyes as he held contact as he kissed it. Her mind grew fuzzy as he moved her slowly across the balcony. His blue eyes shone deeply as he gazed upon her, and a happy smile spread over her face.
“Beautiful…” His voice was barely a whisper as he spoke, but she heard him all the same. It was like the sweetest sound as they danced together under the moonlight, never breaking eye contact. He held her hand tighter as they moved, before he twirled her around, making her giggle. Their laughter filled the air as he dipped her and lifted her up and she laughed. Bringing her back to her feet, she stepped back into his embrace easily. His gaze softened considerably as did hers as they spun in quick little circles. “Stunning.”
She giggled again as they finally stopped their dance, both knew they needed too before someone started to look for her, but neither wanted to leave the other. Duran slowly removed his hands from her person, but Althea could feel his reluctance. She held her breath as he brought his hand up and brushed a hair from her face, but his hand didn’t stop as he ran it through her hair, until he brought the ends of her hair up to his lips. He held her gaze before letting the strands fall and smiling broadly at her. “I will see you tomorrow Althea.”
“Y-Yes...I...I will see you tomorrow too, Duran.”
He left her side with a small bow before he disappeared back to the ball. Althea gripped the balcony behind her tightly as her heart thundered like a drum. She raised a shaky hand to her forehead before she fanned her flushed face. It was at that moment she felt like everything in her heart and mind changed. It was when she realized that although she liked Marina and cared for her deeply, it was just a crush. Duran was different...he made her heart soar. He made her feel as if she had a piece of heart missing, and it found its way back to her. Turning away from the windows of the palace, she shakily, but happily brought her hands up to her face as tears ran over her hands.
She had fallen in love with Duran. She was deeply in love with her knight and the thought couldn’t make her happier.
Little did she know, but her mother had witnessed the entire thing. Queen Hestia could only sigh deeply before she slipped back into the crowd. The display she saw was simple, but it held a level of intimacy and purity that made her heart ache for her daughter. It would seem that she wouldn’t have to just deal with a threat to her beloved kingdom, but also having to break her own daughter's heart.
♛
It was not long after the ball that winter fell over the kingdom of Melodia. The months had not been kind to Althea’s roses, but she had something better to keep her spirits up. Duran had constantly been leaving preserved roses in the pages of her diary. She looked forward to seeing him every morning and the same could be said for him. The pair often exchanged sweet glances and smiles at the other, and Althea relished the attention from him. She often found herself at the training grounds more and more to watch him practice. She enjoyed just watching him work, and she could tell that he was showing off. He recently started going on very early morning walks with her before her parents or Liam and Honora showed up. It made her wonder if this is what the young girls in novels felt like when having a secret love.
Although, they never actually discussed if there was something more, but it sure did feel like it was. She wondered if it was too early to talk about such things. She had never been in love before! She wondered if his heart ever raced for someone else before.
“Althea?” Althea jumped as she looked at Honora looking at her. “I was calling you for a bit now. Lost in your thoughts?”
“Oh yes...enjoying the beautiful snow.” Althea smiled as she pulled her fur coat tighter around her. “I see that you are still beating all of the men.”
“Yeah, but Duran is still leagues ahead of me. I wonder if I could ever beat him…” Honora huffed as she took a big swig of water.
“Hmm yes…” Althea’s gaze softened as she looked at Duran wrestle with Liam. They briefly caught the others eye before he kept sparring with Liam. Honora didn’t miss the looks the two shared, hell she hadn’t missed them since they started a few months ago. She was honestly waiting for either of them to admit there were mutual feelings brewing. “Your hair is getting long.”
“Oh yeah it is...I didn’t think it would grow this fast.” Honora released her bun and fingered her hair as it brushed her shoulders. “I think I actually like it like this.”
“Hehe I told you…” The two girls breathed in the cool air before Honora went back to keep training. She didn’t want to go, but she had to head to her lessons for the day. Her knights waved to her as she walked back into the palace with a happy bounce in her step. Despite not liking the cold, she enjoyed the snowfall and the pretty white blanket of snow. It was fun to ride Stardust around the grounds of the palace, and mostly because he looked beautiful. As she walked through the halls, she spotted her mother in the sun room. She made her way over and gently knocked on the doorframe.
“Althea…” Queen Hestia smiled and stopped as she looked at her daughter at the door. She waved her into the sun room and straightened up. Closing the door behind her, Althea sat with a curious look. Queen Hestia finished signing some papers and painting on her easel, before she focused on her daughter.
“How are you today, mother?”
“I’m doing alright my sweet. How about you? Are you heading to your lessons right now?”
“Yes I am.”
“Oh, that reminds me, I wanted to ask if there was anything that you wanted for your birthday. I know your birthday is in seven months, but I’d rather be prepared and get everything ready.”
“Oh...I’m sorry I haven’t really thought about what I want for my birthday.” She pushed her birthday far into the recesses of her mind. The less she thought about it the better. “I’ll be happy with anything that you get for me.”
“Alright darling…” Queen Hestia smiled before a thought crossed her mind. “Althea...is there something on your mind? Anything you wish to share with me?”
“No...I’ve just been worrying about my studies and cooking in the kitchens.” Althea smiled uneasily as her mother just narrowed her eyes. “Is that all mother?”
“Yes…” She sighed as she let her leave. “I will see you at dinner.” Giving her mother a quick curtsy, she left in a hurry, hoping her mother didn’t catch onto her feelings for Duran. Queen Hestia waited until her daughter left the room before she looked at her easel. She let out a shaky breath as she brought her brush up to it. All day she had sat and painted a grim picture. The proud flags of Melodia were prominent as its army left the kingdom. A single tear ran down her cheek as she saw her husband on the front lines of an unseen war. It was hard to tell when it was happening, but she easily spotted Duran, Liam and Honora in the army. She couldn’t see their faces, but she knew it was them all the same. They could still be teenagers or adults, but it scared her all the same.
She put her face in her hands and just sat in silence. All types of scenarios were running through her mind, but she couldn’t plan for it anymore than she already had. A war was coming, but the only question was when? Could it be prevented? Was this the catalyst that would start it all? The dragon attack on her kingdom? Her daughter fleeing into a tower? It was never clear and always so confusing.
“Hestia?” She looked up quickly and her husband knelt at her side. “What is it?” She said nothing as she looked at her painting. He followed her gaze and he frowned deeply.
“Kyros…”
“I’m going to tell the General to start recruiting more soldiers and train them more frequently. Hestia this will not come to pass, no matter what.”
“Kyros...I’m so scared. This feels different. All of it, this is nothing like the wars we faced in the past. We were fighting other human beings, and we could plan better, strategize, negotiate, talk! These creatures...these things...they can’t be reasoned with. It’s like they have no souls, no conscience, no anything. I fear for us all and not just our kingdom and daughter. I fear for our dear friends as well.”
“Hestia...I promise you that we will come out victorious. There is no guarantee that this will happen soon, and we can prepare for it everyday. I will protect you, our daughter, and our kingdom with every ounce of my strength.”
“I don’t want you too. I want this to be resolved and over with. I just want to continue this peace.” She leaned into his arms and he kissed her forehead as she shook in his arms. He wanted so badly to dispel her fear, but he knew that he could not. As king, he had to do what he could for his people and family, even if she didn’t agree with it. Kissing her again, he brought her to her feet and walked her outside so she could get some air.
“Have I been in the sun room that long?”
“Hmm?”
“The knights aren’t training in the courtyard anymore.” She gestured out the window and he rubbed her arms.
“Yes and Althea is already done with her lessons. You had a lot on your mind Hestia, it makes sense that you lost track of time.”
“Right...of course.” She weakly smiled at him as they walked toward the courtyard. A few maids handed them their winter coats and Kyros helped Hestia into hers. “Thank you Kyros, for trying to make me feel better.”
“Oh ? Does this mean that I didn’t succeed? I guess I should try harder-” Queen Hestia blinked in surprise as he was cut off by a snowball to the face. He stumbled back in surprise, before he looked around the courtyard and spotted Althea and her knights. They looked at the king in horror and Liam slowly dropped the snowball from his hands. Queen Hestia couldn’t help the snicker that eventually turned into a full fit of laughter. “Oh so you think that was funny?”
“I-I’m sorry my love! Your face is just so...you really should see your face-” She stumbled back as he threw some snow into her face. The teenagers laughed at the display and Hestia smiled at them and her husband. “Well then, I think I’m gonna have to get my revenge huh?”
It was not long before they all had snowballs in their hands and were attacking each other. Liam got practically abused by the king because he hit him first, and Althea and her mother were chased by the king. Liam had managed to tackle Duran into the snow before Honora attacked them. The snowball fight lasted for a good two hours before they all stopped and rested.
“Come along...you’re all going to catch colds. Inside everyone.” Queen Hestia ushered the children into the palace and had someone bring in something warm to drink. They all shuffled into the library and sat by the fire. Althea and Honora shared a blanket as they sat by the fire, and Liam and Duran sat beside the two girls. The king and queen settled on the couch as they watched the children laugh and talk to each other.
“Oh! Mother! Father! Could you please tell them how you both got trapped in the mountains with Aunt Ophelia and Uncle Zacharias?”
“The royals of Dragleic are your aunt and uncle?” Liam tilted his head in confusion. “Talk about a powerful family…”
“Oh not by blood...they are my godparents though. I only call them that in private.” Althea sipped her tea as she and Honora got comfortable.
“It is a long story though…” King Kyros chuckled as he looked over the teenagers. “It is quite a funny tale though.”
“Yes it is, but you usually leave out the parts where you make a fool of yourself~” Queen Hestia teased as his face grew red. “It’s a good thing I’m here to give you the parts that he will undoubtedly leave out.”
The teenagers laughed much to the dismay of the king, but they silenced themselves quickly as the king recounted the tale. Queen Hestia snuggled closer to her husband, happy to have these moments of peace. Her mind told her to be wary and prepare, but in her heart she had faith in her husband and his resolve to keep everyone safe. It was comforting and she hoped that his words would be enough.
For everyone’s sake.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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