At the castle in Koiláda Chalkou Ofelia was troubled. She had just given birth to her second child, a girl, and her husband told her to give the newborn to the wet nurse, so that she could be ready for a third child.
- This will be your last chance to produce me a son, so I expect you in my bed again from next week.
- Right. If I can find room there. Ofelia said sarcastically. Your bed seems rather crowded.
Ofelia had realized over time that most of their female servants performed "duties" also after dark
- Excuse me? Have you not got everything you need? Why are you complaining? Who I choose to share my bed with is none of your business.
- It's not right. I'm your wife. It's disrespectful and illegal.
- Turunusemis laughed. Maybe in Manthos, but here it is very common, and legal.
- That's... not fair.
- Let me put it this way: Soon I will go on a trip. When I come back I expect to see a son in that baby crib. If not, I will send you back to Manthos. Or what is left of it.
- What do you mean "what is left of it"? Have there been a earthquake? What happened?
- Your brother has betrayed me, and I will crush his puny little army, and then Manthos will be mine. Turunusemis gave her a ice cold smile.
- My brother would never betray anyone, he is the most righteous man I know. You're lying!
- Maybe I am, or maybe not. What does it matter? The result will be the same. The war will come, and I will win.
- You are insane!
- You should be careful throwing out insults. Remember, you are here at my mercy.
Ofelia considered her options. They weren't many. She thought about escape, but with two small children it would be impossible on her own. She would have to get help from someone, and decided her best chance would be with be with Sibyla, the nursemaid.
- Look at your baby sister Larisa! She is smiling at you!
- She is very sweet, Sibyla commented. Your girls are both very pretty.
- Thank you Sibyla. I appreciate that. Sibyla, can you keep a secret?
- Of course, Your Majesty!
- I... I need to get away from here. But with the children ... I need help.
- That's very dangerous, Your Majesty. He will find you.
- Not if I can get back to Manthos. My brothers will help me, if I can get closer to the border. And I promise you, you will be richly awarded if you help me get there.
- It will be very difficult. I don't know if it's possible.
- I will have to try. I fear for my life. And for the life of my family and countrymen.
- You know, Ma'am, I was not born here. I was taken from my family in Strangepolis, after one of his raids there. It's dangerous to say out loud, but I hate that man. He is evil.
- And insane, Ofelia nodded.
- I will help you, if you help me to get home to Strangepolis after you are safely back in Manthos.
- I give you my word.
- We will need some days to prepare.
- Yes.
- Unless...
- Unless what?
- I have an idea...
.
Previous | Index | Character overview | Next
